Mae Sa Valley Chiang Mai
A tranquil valley escape near Chiang Mai, offering lush gardens, serene resorts, and scenic mountain views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful nature
Mae Sa Valley Chiang Mai
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful nature

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil valley escape near Chiang Mai, offering lush gardens, serene resorts, and scenic mountain views.
"Absolutely beautiful and serene, it feels like camping but more comfortable.
"🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Having your own vehicle is highly recommended for exploring Mae Sa Valley's attractions.
🌿 Embrace Nature's Beauty
The valley is renowned for its stunning gardens and natural landscapes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mae Sa Valley Resort Gardens
Mae Sa Valley Resort
Stunning, picturesque tiered flower beds and lush greenery create a serene and beautiful atmosphere.

Scenic Outdoor Pool
Mae Sa Valley Resort
An unbelievably beautiful pool setting nestled amidst nature, offering a perfect spot to relax and cool off.

Romantic Eatery
Mae Sa Valley Resort
Enjoy delicious meals, including BBQ pork and fresh garden vegetables, in a pleasant dining atmosphere.

Jungle Cafe Vibes
Jungle Cafe, Mae Rim
A charming cafe with a jungle theme, offering a unique ambiance amidst nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity
Plan for Nature's Embrace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Having your own vehicle is highly recommended for exploring Mae Sa Valley's attractions.
🌿 Embrace Nature's Beauty
The valley is renowned for its stunning gardens and natural landscapes.
📸 Capture Breathtaking Views
The picturesque views are a major highlight; don't forget your camera!
🛏️ Consider a Resort Stay
Opt for a resort stay for a truly immersive nature experience, rather than just a day trip.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Having your own vehicle is highly recommended for exploring Mae Sa Valley's attractions.
🌿 Embrace Nature's Beauty
The valley is renowned for its stunning gardens and natural landscapes.
📸 Capture Breathtaking Views
The picturesque views are a major highlight; don't forget your camera!
🛏️ Consider a Resort Stay
Opt for a resort stay for a truly immersive nature experience, rather than just a day trip.
🚶♀️ Be Prepared for Steps
Some accommodations may involve stairs, so pack comfortable shoes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Mae Sa Valley for its breathtaking natural beauty, serene atmosphere, and well-maintained resorts. The stunning gardens and picturesque pool settings are frequently highlighted as major draws. While some mention that food service can be slow, the delicious quality and the overall tranquil experience make it a highly recommended destination for a peaceful escape.
"Absolutely beautiful and serene. Visited during the off-season and it felt like we had the entire place to ourselves. It’s like camping—only more comfortable—surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature. The host was lovely, and the grounds were stunning. Each cabin has its own private deck, perfect for relaxing. Can’t wait to come back!"
Peace Lee
"Lovely stay at a beautiful resort. The location is unbelievable. You wouldn't believe you are 20 minutes from Chiang mai. Absolutely recommend if you love nature. Beautifully kept gardens.
Would recommend staying here either as a separate part of a trip to Chiang mai or if you prefer nature staying here rather than In the city. Pool is the most unbelievable setting, the pictures do not do it justice.
Would definitely recommend the restaurant as well for evening meals. Although the food took a while it was delicious and worth the wait
.
Will be staying again... Thanks"
Alexander Dowson
"Beautiful well maintained resort with sweeping mountain views.
Comfortable rooms, nice pool, good food & service in the dining room.
The stunning views are made possible because the hotel is nestled on both sides of a gorge. The only downside is the up and down steps between the main building and the rooms. Helpful staff can help with your luggage."
Dean H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way to reach Mae Sa Valley is by renting a car or hiring a private driver, as it allows for easy exploration of the various attractions.
The valley is located about 20-40 km from Chiang Mai city center.Public transportation options are limited within Mae Sa Valley itself. Renting a vehicle or using ride-sharing services is generally recommended for getting around.
Exploring Mae Sa Valley is best done with your own transport, like a rented car or scooter, to visit multiple spots like cafes and resorts at your own pace.
Mae Sa Valley is situated approximately 20-40 kilometers north of Chiang Mai city, making it an accessible destination for a day trip or a longer stay.
The main road through Mae Sa Valley leads to various attractions. Many visitors follow routes that include cafes, resorts, and natural sights.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees vary depending on the specific attraction within Mae Sa Valley. For example, Mae Sa Elephant Camp has an entry fee of 130 THB for adults and 80 THB for children.
Opening hours differ for each location. For instance, Mae Sa Elephant Camp is open for service from 07:00 to 17:00.
It's advisable to check the specific hours for any place you plan to visit.For popular attractions like Mae Sa Elephant Camp, booking in advance might be beneficial, especially during peak seasons.
While many attractions have fees, simply driving through the valley offers beautiful scenery. Some cafes might have a minimum spend rather than an entry fee.
Pre-wedding photoshoots at Mae Sa Elephant Camp are priced at 1000 THB.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Mae Sa Valley offers a range of activities including visiting elephant camps, exploring beautiful gardens, enjoying cafes, and relaxing at resorts.
Absolutely! The valley is filled with stunning natural beauty, picturesque gardens, and scenic viewpoints perfect for photography.
Yes, Mae Sa Valley can be family-friendly. Mae Sa Elephant Camp has specific rates for children, and resorts often offer amenities like play areas.
The atmosphere is generally serene and peaceful, with lush nature, mountain views, and the sounds of flowing streams contributing to a tranquil experience.
Yes, a day trip is possible, but many visitors recommend staying overnight to fully appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty of the valley.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can find a variety of dining options, from cafes serving coffee and light bites
to resort restaurants offering local dishes like BBQ pork and fresh vegetables.Yes, many resorts and cafes in Mae Sa Valley offer delicious food. The restaurant at Mae Sa Valley Resort is recommended for evening meals, though service can be a bit slow.
While specific menus vary, many places offer fresh vegetable dishes that can cater to vegetarian preferences.
The resort's restaurant offers a pleasant dining atmosphere with dishes like BBQ pork and vegetables.
They also have homemade sauces to complement the meals.Some resorts, like Mae Sa Valley Resort, include breakfast as part of the room booking, offering set meals or an 'all you can eat' option for tea, coffee, and toast.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire Mae Sa Valley is a photographer's dream, with its lush gardens, mountain vistas, and charming cafes.
Early mornings often offer softer light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour lighting.
Nature photography, landscape shots, and romantic couple photoshoots are very popular due to the scenic beauty.
Yes, you can take photos at Mae Sa Elephant Camp, and it's a popular spot for pre-wedding and MV photoshoots.
Generally, photography is welcomed at most attractions. However, it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Activities like visiting Mae Sa Elephant Camp can be engaging for children, with specific rates available for younger visitors. While some resorts might involve steps, the overall experience of being surrounded by nature can be a wonderful educational and relaxing getaway for the whole family.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts
Consider staying at a resort that emphasizes its natural setting, like Mae Sa Valley Resort, which boasts stunning gardens and is located near a stream. Exploring local cafes with jungle themes also adds to the immersive nature experience.
📸 Couples & Romantics
Many resorts offer private verandahs or balconies with stunning views, perfect for enjoying quiet evenings together. The romantic eatery at Mae Sa Valley Resort is also a highlight for couples looking for a special dining experience. Pre-wedding photoshoots are also popular here, showcasing the valley's picturesque charm.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Mae Sa Valley by Car
When driving, be prepared for winding roads and potentially some uphill sections, especially as you venture further into the valley. Parking is generally available at most resorts and attractions, though it might be more limited during peak times. Having a GPS or navigation app is helpful for locating specific spots within the valley.
Consider planning your route to group nearby attractions together to maximize your time. For instance, you might visit a cafe in the morning, followed by a resort or natural site in the afternoon. This approach ensures you experience the diverse offerings of Mae Sa Valley without excessive travel time between locations.
The Tranquil Retreats of Mae Sa Valley
Many resorts, like Mae Sa Valley Resort, are praised for their well-maintained gardens, comfortable rooms, and excellent service. Visitors often highlight the private decks or verandahs as perfect spots for relaxation, enjoying the sounds of nature, and stargazing at night. The proximity to nature, with some resorts located near streams or gorges, adds to the tranquil ambiance.
When choosing a resort, consider what amenities are important to you. Some offer outdoor pools, on-site restaurants with delicious local cuisine, and even family-friendly facilities. The experience of staying in Mae Sa Valley is often described as a comfortable camping-like experience, but with added luxury and convenience.
Capturing the Beauty of Mae Sa Valley
Popular subjects include the vibrant flora, sweeping mountain vistas, and the unique architecture of cafes and resorts. Many visitors also capture moments at Mae Sa Elephant Camp, which is a popular spot for pre-wedding and MV photoshoots, highlighting the bond between elephants and Thai culture.
To get the best shots, consider visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for soft, flattering light. Be mindful of the weather, as rain can add a dramatic element to your photos, especially in the lush, green environment. Remember to respect the privacy of other visitors and any specific photography guidelines at each location.
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