Tucked away in the serene Mae On District, east of Chiang Mai, Mae Kampong is a gem waiting to be discovered. Established over a hundred years ago, the village is well-known for its agricultural goods, which include rice, coffee, and tea. This is a place where you can easily picture a slow living lifestyle. Home to a friendly population of around 500 and surrounded by nature, your one-hour drive from Chiang Mai’s city centre will be all worth it.
What to see & do: Walk through nature
1. Mae Kampong Waterfall
The best thing about Mae Kampong is that no matter where you look, it is beautiful and serene. Mae Kampong Waterfall is less than one kilometre away and walkable from the main village. However, here’s a heads up—you’ll have to walk on and share the same mountain road as incoming vehicles. If you are up for seeing wildlife, follow the trails and hike up to see all seven tiers of the waterfall. If you’re lucky, you’ll see the great hornbill, gibbons and more.
2. Kew Fin Viewpoint
About a 15-minute drive from Mae Kampong village, Kew Fin Viewpoint offers beautiful views overlooking the Lampang border. If you are planning to stay the night in Mae Kampong (which I recommend), be ready to set your alarm for as early as 4am to witness the sunrise at Kew Fin Viewpoint while enjoying the breezes of fresh air.
Hiking up early will be an advantage in securing a good viewing spot, as it is one of the top attractions in the area. Looking for more adventure? Why not hike here from Mae Kampong Waterfall? This slightly challenging route will take just over an hour to complete.
What to eat & drink: Munch on street food and stroll around the village
Locally brewed coffee from Mae Kampong is a must-try, as it is the best place to grow premium coffee beans. This peaceful Thai village’s distinct charm, its mild climate, right altitude, and rich soil justify it all.
The main village of Mae Kampong offers you some northern snacks like grilled sausages, eggs, and bananas. Don’t miss out on northern Thai cuisine too, like the Khao Soi noodles and grilled Black Glutinous Rice Dessert (or Pulut Hitam) with condensed milk. Besides the food stalls, visit nearby cafes to experience Mae Kampong’s authenticity.
1. Rabeing View Cafe Mae Kampong
You don’t need a drone to witness a bird’s eye view of the village if you are at Rabeing View Cafe. This small and cosy restaurant sits at the top of the hill of Mae Kampong and a distance away from the waterfall. Local cuisine, coffee, and desserts are what you should try while enjoying the view.
2. Lung Pud Pa Peng Coffee
One of the most photographed cafes on social media is the iconic Lung Pud Pa Peng Coffee. Due to its charming and antique entrance, the cafe has instantly become the most visited cafe in the area by tourists. In addition to local food, walnut waffles, and drinks, they also offer a guesthouse next to the stream, which is worth exploring.
3. Teddu Coffee Cafe
Teddu Cafe is a soothing and scenic place in Mae Kampong. Located next to a small waterfall and sporting a rope suspension bridge, it has become travellers’ favourite. Imagine listening to the calming sounds of a flowing stream as you savour a honeycomb cheesecake—how dreamy!
Where to stay: Enjoy the warm hospitality
Luxury comes in many ways in Mae Kampong; the eco-lodges, guest houses, and homestays offer unique experiences that money can’t buy. It’s the only way to get a taste of authentic Mae Kampong life. You may need help with translation when booking local stays as most of the guesthouses are managed by Thai locals and hardly found on OTAs (Online Travel Agency).
1. Mi Pa Ai (Mii Paa Aii)
One of the most recommended luxury stays is the Mi Pa Ai. This homestay is perfectly curated with warm hospitality, from breakfast to a Shabu-Shabu dinner. Its spacious modern Japanese design with views of the surrounding greenery from the balcony will have you falling in love with the property. Best of all, if you’re Muslim, they will source halal meat just for you! You’ll love the owner too; friendly and accommodating.
2. Puradise Private Residence
An enchanting stay at Puradise Private Residence is an experience money can’t buy. Reminiscent of a hobbit home, the residence includes a beautifully decorated compound for a lovely tea party next to a stream. At night, enjoy grilled marshmallows with your companion as you sit and bond through a campfire session. You won’t feel like leaving the residence once you’re checked in.
3. HUG Mae Kampong 1982
HUG Mae Kampong 1982 is a cosy house that fits up to four people. The modern studio concept, views of the village, and sleeping with the calming sounds of the river make this a perfectly serene stay. For meals, you can request home-cooked meals throughout your stay!
Most of the local guesthouses would offer to serve you Shabu-Shabu for dinner as the local restaurants and food stalls around the village close early. You may need to bring along your own snacks if you’re a night owl in need of the occasional midnight snack.
