Thailand
To escape urban stress and immerse yourself in natural beauty, head to Mae Rim. Just 30 minutes from Chiang Mai, leave behind concrete buildings for lush forests and picturesque mountains. Mae Rim is also home to animal sanctuaries and hill tribes, offering a cultural experience alongside its natural wonders.
History
The Mae Rim region boasts a rich tribal history. Hmong, Karen, Akha, Lisu, and Lahu have inhabited these lands for centuries, and their descendants fiercely preserve their heritage to this day. The official creation of the Khwaeng Mae Rim locality dates back to 1874, a few years after Thailand opened to international trade following the Bowring Treaty. Initially under the authority of Chiang Mai, Mae Rim became an autonomous district in 1914, when this region was annexed by Siam to form a province.
Exploring Mae Rim
Mae Rim resembles a vast open-air garden. Lush forests and rice fields blanket the landscape in vibrant green, while Doi Suthep Mountain looms majestically in the background. This exceptional natural setting allows for a variety of outdoor activities and hosts fascinating attractions that leave lasting memories for visitors of all ages.
Stroll through Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden
Plant enthusiasts will find paradise in this Thai Eden. Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden boasts an impressive collection of plants and enchanting views of the surrounding mountains. Wander through greenhouses and gardens, admiring exotic and indigenous varieties. Walk the canopy walkway for a bird's-eye view of the jungle.
Unique encounters with elephants and tigers
During your visit to Mae Rim, stop by the Maesa Elephant Camp Zoo for an encounter with elephants. Enjoy entertaining shows featuring these majestic animals and take a jungle trek on their backs. Don't miss the Tiger Kingdom, where you can take unique photos with these big cats. Safely approach, pet, and play with them in their enclosures.
Visit Huay Tung Tao Lake
A favorite weekend destination for locals, Huay Tung Tao Lake is perfect for picnicking by the water. Art enthusiasts can enjoy a collection of straw sculptures along the lake's shore. Amidst rice fields, three giant King Kong replicas offer unique photo opportunities. Interested in sports? Besides swimming in the designated area, bicycles, pedal boats, kayaks, and ATVs are available for rent. Bring a tent and camp by the lakeside for a night under the stars.
How to get there?
The most common way to reach Mae Rim is by flying to Chiang Mai International Airport. Flights are available from major Thai cities, including Bangkok, as well as international destinations (Singapore, Hong Kong, Seoul, Beijing, Taiwan, etc.). After landing, take a taxi or shuttle for the 30-minute journey to Mae Rim, covering approximately 20 kilometers.
From Bangkok, another option is taking a train to Chiang Mai Railway Station, then continuing with local transportation. Long-distance buses also serve Chiang Mai for those seeking a rural experience among countryside locals. Alternatively, if you prefer independence in travel, you can rent a car in Bangkok or Chiang Mai and drive using GPS to Mae Rim. The road to the village is in good condition.
The best time to visit
From November to February, Mae Rim experiences a cool season with pleasant conditions for outdoor activities, hiking, and sightseeing. Generally, the weather is cool and dry, but pack light, warm clothing for evenings.
The hot season spans from March to May. Temperatures gradually rise during this period. While March still offers pleasant weather, April and May become extremely hot, especially in the afternoon. Plan activities early in the morning or late in the day.
The rainy season begins in June and lasts until October. Showers are frequent, usually occurring in the late afternoon and evening. The rainfall benefits vegetation but can complicate outdoor activities.
