Mae Kampong Village Chiang Mai
A serene mountain village near Chiang Mai, offering traditional wooden houses, lush nature, and breathtaking misty views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tranquil atmosphere, easy parking
Mae Kampong Village Chiang Mai
Best Time
Tranquil atmosphere, easy parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene mountain village near Chiang Mai, offering traditional wooden houses, lush nature, and breathtaking misty views.
"Mae Kampong is a hidden gem in the mountains near Chiang Mai, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat."
🚗 Park at the Temple
If driving, park at the temple just inside the village entrance for easier access and to avoid congestion.
☕️ Cafe Views are Worth It
Hike or take a vehicle to higher cafes for the most stunning panoramic views of the village and mountains.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Charming Village Streets
Main village road
Wander through traditional wooden houses, quaint cafes, and artisan shops. Perfect for photos and soaking in the local charm.
Misty Mountain Views
Cafes at higher elevations
Sip coffee and enjoy local snacks with breathtaking panoramic views of the misty mountains and the village below.
Huay Kaew Waterfall
Top of the village road
A refreshing natural spot for a short hike and a cool dip, offering a peaceful escape amidst lush greenery.
Riverside Homestays
Along the stream
Experience authentic Thai hospitality in cozy accommodations nestled by the gentle sound of the flowing stream.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Weekday Mornings are Key
Getting There: Consider Your Transport Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Park at the Temple
If driving, park at the temple just inside the village entrance for easier access and to avoid congestion.
☕️ Cafe Views are Worth It
Hike or take a vehicle to higher cafes for the most stunning panoramic views of the village and mountains.
🛵 Rent a Motorbike
A motorbike offers flexibility for exploring the village and surrounding areas at your own pace.
🍜 Try Local Mookata
Enjoy a delicious grilled meat feast (mookata) by the stream, especially recommended during the rainy season.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Park at the Temple
If driving, park at the temple just inside the village entrance for easier access and to avoid congestion.
☕️ Cafe Views are Worth It
Hike or take a vehicle to higher cafes for the most stunning panoramic views of the village and mountains.
🛵 Rent a Motorbike
A motorbike offers flexibility for exploring the village and surrounding areas at your own pace.
🍜 Try Local Mookata
Enjoy a delicious grilled meat feast (mookata) by the stream, especially recommended during the rainy season.
🛏️ Overnight Stay Option
Consider an overnight stay to fully immerse in the peaceful mountain ambiance and enjoy the evening.
💧 Bring Insect Repellent
The natural surroundings are beautiful but can attract insects, so pack repellent for comfort.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mae Kampong Village is a highly recommended peaceful mountain retreat near Chiang Mai, praised for its traditional charm, lush nature, and refreshing atmosphere. Visitors love the scenic views from cafes, the tranquil riverside homestays, and the opportunity to disconnect. Some find the roads challenging and parking difficult, and overnight stays can be on the pricier side.
"Mae Village, Chiang Mai – A Hidden Gem in Northern Thailand
When people visit Chiang Mai, they think of two things: i.e., old traditional Lanna Thai temples (over 300 of them) and beautiful, fairy-like Thai girls. In addition to these two mentioned attractions, there are also food, beautiful natural sceneries, and plenty of shopping.
Nestled in the lush mountains of Chiang Mai, there is a traditional Thai village called Mae Kampong Village, a tranquil escape where nature is the foundation of the visit. Don't worry about lodging; you can settle down in a hotel, motel, or guesthouse.
This charming village offers a rare glimpse into authentic northern Thai life style, untouched by heavy tourism, often sharing their crafts, cuisine, and stories passed down through generations.
Surrounded by rice fields and misty hills, Mae Kampong Village is perfect for those seeking serenity and cultural richness—a place to relax away from the bustling city life.
You can do lots of activities like hiking the many hilly trails, enjoying homemade herbal teas, or staying in cozy wooden huts with stunning sunrise views.
What sets Mae Village apart is its peaceful rhythm and genuine hospitality — it feels like stepping into a simpler, more soulful world. Whether you're a cultural traveler, a nature lover, or simply looking to disconnect, there is plenty to do in Mae Village. Here, you'll enjoy simplicity at its best. You can also opt for a limited electricity supply, no Wi-Fi or Internet, no AC, and no water heater.
Set a date and experience this once-in-a-lifetime experience."
Maddoc
"Was quite busy on Sunday in the late afternoon but had an excellent time. If you are wary of extremely tiny, curvy two-way roads, getting here may be a challenge. If you can make the crazy drive up the mountain, the town is spectacular. There were easily 10 various unique hotels on the drive up that I wanted to check out and inquire about more info. The restaurants have great food, many stalls have excellent treats and various Thai cuisine. Parking is absolutely atrocious and you may have to walk several kilometers after parking. Fortunately I got lucky and found a spot. Excellent place to visit, highly recommend."
J Ryan
"The place is charming mountain village surrounded by nature. The air is cool and fresh, and the wooden houses give it a very traditional feel. It's a peaceful place to walk around, enjoy local food, and experience the slow lifestyle of the the villagers. A great for those who love nature and culture."
Flowers Be
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most recommended ways are hiring a private driver for the day (around 3500 THB for a full trip with detours) or taking a round-trip minivan ticket from near Warorot Market for about 300 baht. +1 The road is steep and winding, so self-driving can be challenging. Grab may take you there, but getting a return ride is difficult.
Grab may be able to take you to Mae Kampong, but it's highly unlikely you'll find a Grab to take you back to Chiang Mai. Some users have successfully pre-booked Grab rides back to the city, but it's not guaranteed.
The drive from Chiang Mai to Mae Kampong Village typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Yes, you can rent a car, which costs around 800 THB per day. However, parking within the village can be very difficult, especially on weekends. +1
Many tour operators in Chiang Mai offer day trips or overnight packages to Mae Kampong, which often include transportation and guided activities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no specific entrance fee to Mae Kampong Village itself. However, some attractions within the village, like certain cafes or homestays, may have their own charges or minimum spending requirements.
Mae Kampong Village is generally accessible throughout the day. However, individual shops, cafes, and homestays will have their own operating hours, typically from morning until early evening.
While there isn't a formal parking fee, parking can be extremely limited and challenging, especially on weekends. Parking at the temple upon arrival is a recommended strategy.
The Huay Kaew Waterfall, located at the top of the village road, is generally accessible without a fee, though donations are sometimes appreciated.
Accommodation prices in Mae Kampong can vary, with some homestays being quite expensive, especially for overnight stays. It's advisable to book in advance, particularly during peak seasons.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the charming village streets with traditional wooden houses, the scenic cafes offering mountain views, and the refreshing Huay Kaew Waterfall.
Yes, there are opportunities for light hiking, particularly to the Huay Kaew Waterfall. Some trails can be steep, but the scenery is rewarding.
Activities include exploring the village, enjoying coffee at scenic cafes, visiting waterfalls, hiking, and experiencing local homestays.
Absolutely! The traditional architecture, lush nature, misty mountains, and charming cafes make Mae Kampong a photographer's paradise.
Mornings are ideal for a peaceful experience with fewer crowds. Late afternoons offer beautiful sunset views.
🍽️ ☕️ Food & Dining
Mae Kampong is known for its local Northern Thai dishes and the popular 'mookata' (Thai BBQ hot pot), especially enjoyable by the stream.
Yes, Mae Kampong has numerous charming cafes, many offering stunning mountain views and delicious coffee. Some popular ones include Jungle De Cafe and Coffee Hill. 
While specific vegetarian menus might be limited, many local restaurants can prepare dishes without meat upon request. It's best to communicate your dietary needs clearly.
Many homestays include breakfast, and some offer lunch and dinner, often featuring local specialties. Romantic candlelit dinners are also available.
Food prices are generally reasonable, reflecting local village costs. Cafes with prime views might be slightly more expensive.
📸 📸 Photography
The main village road with traditional wooden houses, the winding mountain roads leading up, cafes with panoramic views, and the Huay Kaew Waterfall are all highly photogenic.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons provide golden hour light and stunning sunset views.
Look out for the colorful chairs at elevated viewpoints, the misty mountain landscapes, and the charming details of the traditional village architecture.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and respect the privacy of residents before flying a drone in the village.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the landscapes and village scenes. A telephoto lens can be useful for details in the mountains. A tripod can help with low-light conditions in cafes or during misty mornings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider hiring a private driver for the day to make the journey less stressful, especially with younger children who might be prone to car sickness on the winding roads. 💰 Budget Travelers
🚗 Self-Drivers & Motorcyclists
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Winding Roads
For those opting for public transport, minivans are available from Chiang Mai, offering a budget-friendly option.
Consider the time of day for your travel. Arriving early in the morning allows you to experience the village before it gets too crowded and makes finding parking easier.
Experiencing Mae Kampong's Tranquil Charm
The village is characterized by its traditional wooden houses, many of which have been converted into cozy homestays, cafes, and small shops. Walking through the main village road, you'll find yourself immersed in a peaceful environment, with the gentle sound of the nearby stream providing a natural soundtrack. The village's elevated location contributes to its cool, fresh air and often misty mornings, creating a picturesque setting that feels like stepping into a different world.
Many visitors highlight the opportunity to simply relax, enjoy a cup of local coffee, and soak in the natural beauty. The friendly locals and the authentic village experience are frequently praised, making it a popular choice for those seeking a slower pace of travel. While the village itself is compact, the surrounding nature offers opportunities for light exploration. The Huay Kaew Waterfall is a popular spot for a short hike and a refreshing dip.
For those looking for a more immersive experience, consider an overnight stay in one of the riverside homestays to fully appreciate the tranquility and the unique ambiance of Mae Kampong. Culinary Delights and Coffee Culture
A must-try experience is 'mookata,' a popular Thai barbecue hot pot, often enjoyed outdoors by the stream, especially during the cooler, rainy season. The village also boasts a vibrant coffee culture, with numerous charming cafes scattered throughout. These cafes are not just about the coffee; they offer breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding misty mountains and the village below.
+1 Popular spots like Jungle De Cafe and Coffee Hill are frequently mentioned for their ambiance and quality brews. Many of these cafes are located at higher elevations, requiring a bit of a climb or a short drive, but the views are considered well worth the effort. For those staying overnight, many homestays offer inclusive meal packages, providing a convenient way to sample local flavors. Some accommodations even offer special experiences like romantic candlelit dinners, adding a touch of luxury to the rustic setting.
While vegetarian options might require specific requests, the general consensus is that the food is simple, tasty, and reasonably priced. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit