1. Discover Picturesque Rice Terraces:
If you have limited time in Chiang Mai and would like to see real rice terraces, then a visit to Mae Klang Luang is your best option.
Ban Mae Klang Luang is on the third basin level of Doi Inthanon, in Chom Thong district. It is divided into four villages, all from the Karen tribe of Pga-gan Yaw from Burma.
This village is about one hour and half from the city centre. It is famous for its inspiring views of terraced paddy fields. During the rainy season, particularly from September to mid-October, the whole landscape of Mae Klang Luang is magnificently covered by a thin layer of fog and verdant rice terraces in descending order.
This village is also well known for its local coffee plantations. Located at the foot hill of Doi Suthep National Park, it can be part of a day trip including a visit of the highest point of Thailand, where you will experience amazing waterfalls, taste locally produced fresh coffee and view rice terraces at Mae Klan Luang Village.
Check with your hotel's travel agency for this remarkable day trip or rent a car and head to Doi Inthanon mountain. When arriving in Ban Mae Klang Luang village, you can walk around and explore immediate vicinity of the village. However, if you wish to venture further out on the trails, you should take a local guide along.
Mae Klan Luang Ecotourism
Information Center: Tel. 089-952 0983 and 086-311 1791
2. Sleep in Picturesque Rice Terraces:
Pa Pong Piang Village, in the district of Mae Chaem, is a bit further out than Mae Klang Luang, and that is the reason why visitors usually plan a night over in this very picturesque village.
Situated off the beaten path, the village of Pa Pong Piang has become very popular among Thai tourists in search of uniqueness and a laid- back atmosphere. Once you arrive you will see dozens of small wooden and bamboo bungalows amongst the rice fields. These are all very basic accommodations, but just imagine waking up alone in the world, in a verdant green rice field: this is a unique experience that can only be discover at Pa Pong Piang Village. During peak periods, roughly from June to November, these places fill up quickly, so booking in advance is advisable, and weekdays are quieter. Please note that most places are very local, so you may need a Thai speaker to make a reservation. Also, the road to Pa Pong Piang is mountainous and a pick up with an experienced driver is required.
Pabong Piang Homestay: 081-020 1691
Ban Ra-Piang Na: 080-794 6883
Somjai Homestay: 093-972 2575
3. Plant Rice like a Thai Farmer:
Experience hands-on rice planting and spend the day at Ginger Farm, where you will discover the local lifestyle. Ginger Farm is a wonderful organic farm situated less than 15km from downtown Chiang Mai. They offer half day initiation to rice cultivation with an English- speaking guide and lots of activities in the fields.
At Ginger Farm, your day will start with a visit around the farm, where you will learn all about rice production in Thailand: how many kinds of rice there are, how to plant it, how to cook it, and so on. After changing to the traditional "mor hom" farmer clothes, your guide will introduce you to the farm's buffalo and take you to the organic garden to collect anchan blue flowers. He will then teach you how to cook anchan "blue" rice (which you will eat for lunch later).
While your rice is cooking you will experience rice planting in an authentic and traditional manner. The view from this field is just unforgettable and both adults and children will have lots of fun undertaking this activity. Your day will end with a slide through the mud to the restaurant for a delicious Thai organic meal.
Activities at Ginger Farm start at 10am and 2pm, and the price is THB 1,250 per person, including activities, a change of clothes, meal, soap and shampoo for the shower after going into the mud. It is advise to reserve one or two days prior to your visit.
Ginger Farm:
Tel. 052-004 473 and 088-137 0425
Email: [email protected]
4. Taste Many Different Kinds of Rice:
Meena Rice Based Cuisine is a traditional wooden house restaurant tucked away Sankam-paeng's old road, near the colourful Chamcha Market. Don't be alarmed when you pass through a rice field driving there; it is part of the experience.
As its name suggest, this alfresco restaurant specialises in rice, and one of their most pictured dish is the five-coloured rice balls, which should be order along with northern-style spicy minced fish salad. Vegans will also enjoy their many options, including the spicy stir-fried eryngii mushrooms. From traditional curries to new fusion and lots of vegan-friendly options, Meena Rice Based Cuisine is a must-visit for any food lovers out there.
Meena Rice Based Cuisine:
13/5 Moo2, Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Tel. 087-177 0523
5. Sip Cocktails while Enjoying the Rice Fields View at Four Seasons Resort:
Enjoy an evening sundowner at Ratree Bar and Lounge-Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, where the selection of cocktails, from renowned mixologist Javier de las Muelas, adds a layer of sophistication to the menu!
Nestled among emerald rice fields, Ratree Bar offers a stunning al fresco setting. This sanctuary of relaxation is perfect for unwinding and recharching after a day of discovery and overlooks the resort's beautiful rice fields.
Ratree Bar at Four Season Resort:
502 Moo1, Mae Rim-Samoeng Old Rd. Chiang Mai.
Tel. 053 298 181
September 2023.