Mae Kampong Travel Guide: Top Attractions, Routes, and Tips

What To Do In Mae Kampong

Wat Khantha Pruksa

This is not the first attraction you encounter as you enter the village, but it is the first place you will most likely have to stop. The reason is simple enough – there is a large parking lot for 20 cars, which you won’t find anywhere else in the village. So the first thing to do is to go there, leave your motorcycle or car in the parking lot and then explore the town and its surroundings on foot, slowly enjoying nature and the clean air.

Wat Mae Kampong (also known as Wat Khantha Pruksa), a Buddhist temple built more than 90 years ago in 1930, is the only temple in Mae Kampong. The temple’s viharn is made of golden teak wood with exquisite patterns created by local architects. The roof of the viharn is also made of teak but is covered with green moss, indicating the high humidity of the local climate and cool temperatures throughout the year.

The temple’s highlight is a Buddhist Ubosot located in the middle of the Mae Kampong stream running through the village. There are only two Buddhist Wats in Chiang Mai Province whose Ubosots are situated in the middle of the water. Wat Mae Kampong and Wat Phutta En at Mae Chaem sub-district (Mae Chaem is a part of the Mae Hong Son loop)

Mae Kampong Waterfall

After spending time at the cafe, you can walk about 400 meters up the road to Mae Kampong Waterfall (Thai: น้ำตกแม่กำปอง, náam dtòk mâe-gam-bpong, namtok mae kampong). You can see this little waterfall right from the road. You don’t have to go off the main road or up somewhere very long like the falls of Doi Intanon or Khun Korn waterfall in Chiang Rai, where you have to walk about half an hour on a narrow path among the jungle.

From the temple to the waterfall is only a short walk. Also, there is a parking lot for seven cars. You can try to get to this place by car, but if you come to the village on days when it is crowded, these parking spaces may be occupied by other travelers.

If you decide to wander around, there is a wildlife exploration trail next to the waterfall. You can also hike up to the top to see all seven tiers of the falls. On your way up, you’ll discover a bush of different varieties of ferns, and at the top there’s a small natural pool where you can swim.

Kew Fin Viewpoint

When you get to this viewpoint, you will find yourself on a beautiful mountain top with a magnificent view of the surroundings of Chiang Mai province, where you can take photos for your Instagram.

Legend has it that in the old days, when the opium trade flourished in the region, this was a meeting place for opium sellers and buyers.

It’s a beautiful view over the surrounding mountains. Don’t forget your sweater; this place is windy and breeze. If you stay overnight at Mae Kampong, coming here to see the sunrise is a Must Do. Ask your homestay hosts about transport up to here from the village the day before as we had to wake early at 4.30 am! It gets crowded during the incredible high season so that photography enthusiasts may choose their strategic spots in advance. Otherwise, relax and enjoy the million-dollar views here! Recommended!

By the way, don’t forget to read our article about the best Muay Thai gyms in Chiang Mai.

Flight Of The Gibbon

The Flight of the Gibbon was created in 2007 by New Zealand adventure sports enthusiast David Allardice. This attraction is Thailand’s first zip-line ride through the jungle, with bases located at the tops of giant trees, some up to 60-70 meters high.

Have you ever tried walking over a swinging narrow suspension bridge at this height? It is breathtaking and unforgettable! It also takes courage to get over all the base stations by sliding on the zip line. Fear not – there are safety ropes.

Ensure you have a helmet, leather/suede gloves (if you use your hand for braking), and that the track has a good safety record. Professional zip-lines often have double ropes, ensuring that the other will continue to hold the visitor if one cord is compromised. It is also essential to follow all safety instructions given during training and report any health problems to the guides.

Some travel insurers may consider zip-lining a dangerous activity and may require special coverage at an additional cost. However, zip-lining is generally considered a safe activity. Injuries are rare and fatal accidents are even more infrequent.

In addition to being a recreational activity, Flight of the Gibbon also focuses on wildlife and gibbon conservation, mangrove reforestation, community outreach, and eco-tourism to help villagers and support underprivileged families in the area.

Exploring Mae Kampong’s Culinary Delights

Mae Kampong is not just about breathtaking views and cool mountain breezes; it’s also a place that invites you to slow down and savor life through its charming café culture. From panoramic vistas to treehouse escapes, each café here offers something unique — a sense of connection to nature, a taste of local flavors, and an opportunity to relax in serene settings. Whether you are looking to start your morning with a stunning sunrise over the hills, enjoy a relaxing afternoon by a waterfall, or take in a picturesque sunset, Mae Kampong’s cafes provide the perfect backdrop for each moment. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best spots to grab a bite, have a drink, and experience the enchanting atmosphere of this beautiful mountain village.

A culinary highlight of Mae Kampong is its local delicacy — fermented Miang tea leaves (ใบเมี่ยง), made from the Assam tea tree (Camellia sinensis var. assamica), commonly grown in northern Thailand. Miang has been part of the traditional culture of northern Thailand for centuries. The tea leaves are picked in bunches and then steamed in bamboo baskets to soften them. After steaming, the leaves are left to ferment for one to three weeks, depending on the desired flavor and texture. The resulting product has a slightly sour and tangy taste, which is both unique and refreshing.

Miang is typically enjoyed as a fermented tea leaf snack, often paired with condiments like pickled garlic or eaten with salt to enhance its tangy flavor. However, there is also a popular dish called Miang Kham, which uses chaplu leaves (Piper sarmentosum), distinct from the fermented tea leaves used in Miang. Miang Kham is a traditional Thai snack involving various flavorful fillings wrapped in chaplu leaves. In Miang Kham, ingredients like ginger, shallots, lime, toasted coconut, peanuts, and sometimes chili are wrapped in these leaves. This combination delivers a mix of flavors — tangy, spicy, sweet, and salty — creating a burst of textures in every bite. Miang can also be enjoyed in simpler forms, paired with pickled garlic or other local кcondiments.

Even though there is only one main road that winds through the center of Mae Kampong, walking along it is an experience in itself. Stroll along and soak up the sights of nature and traditional wooden houses, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and taste local street food that’s cooked right in front of you. Stop by Rabeing View Cafe for an unmatched view of the village, or relax by one of the many small cafes scattered along the mountain stream. It’s a place where every moment feels like a postcard, and spending a full day here will leave you with memories of a simpler, quieter Thailand that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Well, enough about the local culinary quirks for now. Let’s put those aside and get right into what the village cafes have to offer =)

Local Cafes and Coffee Shops

Ing Dao Mae Kampong

Best time: Early morning, 6:00 – 8:00

Ing Dao Mae Kampong is one of those places that feels like a secret tucked away in the mountains — a small, unassuming café that offers sweeping panoramic views of the entire Mae Kampong village. Perched up on a hill, this café invites you to sit on the edge of the terrace, sipping freshly squeezed juice while the morning mist slowly dissolves, revealing the lush green slopes. Imagine the tranquility — the world waking up around you, the chill morning breeze, and that sense of magic that only early hours in a mountain village can provide. Come early, and you’ll be rewarded with silence, broken only by the rustle of leaves and distant birdsong.

Traveler Tips: Bring a warm jacket, as early mornings in Mae Kampong can be quite chilly, especially up in the hills. Don’t forget your camera — the views are simply stunning, especially in the morning light. Winter mornings come with a magical mist, making this an ideal spot for a warm tea or hot chocolate. In summer, fresh juices are perfect for cooling down.

Café In The Doi

Best time: Early morning, 6:30 – 9:00
Café In The Doi location 

Café In The Doi is a scenic haven, filled with whimsical photo opportunities. There’s a white staircase leading to the sky, a cozy bird’s nest that fits two, and plenty of other picturesque spots that make it a favorite for Instagram enthusiasts. The café serves food, drinks, coffee, and pastries — and they have a signature dessert: sweet, juicy mango topped with bingsu and drizzled with condensed milk. Sure, mango and condensed milk might sound unusual, but trust me, the combination is worth the indulgence. The early morning light makes everything here look even more magical. Grab a cup of tea, sit on the white staircase that seems to reach into the clouds, and enjoy the cool morning breeze and a sense of freedom that only a place like this can offer.

Traveler Tips: It’s best to visit Café In The Doi by motorcycle, as parking for cars can be limited. Mae Kampong has small parking areas that fill up quickly, especially in the morning when people arrive for the Instagram-worthy views. Bring a bottle of water and sunscreen — the morning sun can be deceivingly bright. In summer, go for their icy drinks like bingsu to stay cool, while winter is perfect for a hot cup of tea.

Lung Pud Pa Peng Coffee

Best time: Morning, 8:00 – 10:00
Lung Pud Pa Peng Coffee location

Lung Pud Pa Peng Coffee is arguably the most popular café in Ban Mae Kampong, and for good reason. It’s located right in the heart of the village, offering a colorful backdrop that seems tailor-made for Instagram. The café itself is a two-story wooden house, nestled beside a stream where you can sit and enjoy the gentle flow of water while savoring a slice of cake or a local dish. If you’re lucky enough to grab one of the creekside tables, you’ll be greeted with the soothing sounds of the water and the fragrance of blooming flowers.

Morning is the perfect time to visit, when the sun begins to rise and the village awakens, the soft mist mixing with the aroma of fresh coffee. This is the kind of place where you can taste the local culture — quite literally. Don’t miss their sai ua — the Northern Thai sausage — grilled right in front of you, infused with fresh herbs like lemongrass, kaffir lime, galangal, and chilies. The result? A burst of flavors that hits every note from spicy to aromatic.

Next door, at Sai-ua Mae Nim (Mom Nim’s sai-ua sausage), you’ll find spicy sausages prepared with authentic northern Thai spices, grilled to perfection right in front of you. These sausages are made with fresh local ingredients like lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal, giving them a rich and aromatic flavor. Don’t miss the chance to try them — they’re a true taste of the region, and absolutely delicious!

Traveler Tips: Parking in the center of Mae Kampong can be tricky, especially on weekends and holidays when tourists flock to the village. Arrive early to secure a spot. The best parking options are on the outskirts of the village, from where you can easily walk to all the main attractions. Keep in mind that the roads into the village are narrow and winding, so caution is advised when driving. Also, bring cash as most cafés do not accept credit cards. In winter, a hot herbal tea is a must, while in summer, a cold fresh juice or iced tea will hit the spot.

Pirunya Coffee

Best time: Mid-morning, 9:00 – 11:00
Pirunya Coffee location

Pirunya Coffee is the only place in Mae Kampong where you can enjoy freshly brewed specialty coffees from around the world. This quaint little café offers beans from Brazil, Colombia, Honduras, Guatemala, Indonesia, Vietnam, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Jamaica, Panama, Rwanda, and Bolivia, among others. Set in a rustic house made of simple building blocks, Pirunya surprises you with a wide range of brewing methods, from geyser coffee makers to Viennese siphons, creating a true homebrew lab experience. The atmosphere here is relaxed, perfect for those looking to savor a quality cup of coffee amidst the lush surroundings of Mae Kampong.

Traveler Tips: If you’re a coffee lover, this is a must-visit. Arrive mid-morning to avoid the early rush and have your pick of the best seats. Parking might be limited, so consider leaving your car in the village center and taking a short walk. Try different brewing methods to explore the variety of flavors from various coffee-growing regions.

The Giant Chiangmai

Best time: Daytime, 10:00 – 15:00
The Giant Chiangmai location

The Giant Chiangmai is probably the most famous treehouse café not just in Mae Kampong but in all of Chiang Mai. With its incredible setting high among the trees, it offers a sense of seclusion and connection to nature that’s hard to match. Picture climbing up the wooden stairs to reach a terrace suspended in the canopy, where the fresh forest air fills your lungs. The café serves aromatic coffee and traditional Thai snacks — simple but perfectly suited for the surroundings. Sit back, take in the panoramic views of the forested hills, and feel the peace that only such a setting can provide.

The best time to visit is during the day when the sun is high, casting dappled light through the leaves and creating a warm and comfortable atmosphere.

Traveler Tips: Parking near The Giant Chiangmai can be challenging due to the narrow road leading up to it. It’s best to park near the entrance to the village and either walk or ride a rented scooter up to the café, enjoying the views of the surrounding forest on the way. Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll need to climb up to the treehouse. Bring a bottle of water since the climb can be a bit tiring. Summer days call for cold drinks, while winter mornings are perfect for a cup of hot coffee or tea to warm up.

Teen Tok Royal Project Coffee Shop

Best time: Early or late afternoon, 11:00 – 13:00 or 15:00 – 17:00

The Teen Tok Royal Project Coffee Shop combines the pleasure of freshly brewed coffee with the opportunity to learn about local culture and sustainable agriculture. Set by a serene creek, this open-air café offers a peaceful retreat where you can sit surrounded by greenery, sipping on a cup of aromatic local Arabica while listening to the gentle trickle of the stream. Here, you can try fresh produce from the Royal Project, like salads made with avocado and passion fruit, or traditional dishes featuring locally grown shiitake mushrooms. It’s a perfect spot for those interested in sustainable tourism and wanting to support community initiatives.

This agricultural project was created by His Majesty King Rama 9 in 1981 when His Majesty donated about 300,000 baht of his personal funds to build the Teen Tok Agro-Cultural Research Centre.

In 1981, the average wage for a worker in Thailand was 47 baht a day (USD 2), or 1100 to 1300 baht a month. So the 300,000 baht donated in 1981 is equivalent to about $100,000 today.

In addition to eating or relaxing in nature, you can also explore the local orchid garden. And just a few minutes away, you can enjoy authentic Vietnamese coffee grown and roasted according to Vietnamese tradition at Mon Teen Tok Café.

Traveler Tips: Parking at Teen Tok Royal Project Coffee Shop can be scarce, particularly on weekends. It’s best to visit early or in the late afternoon to avoid the crowds. Consider leaving your car a bit farther away and walking in to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. This is also a great time to explore the nearby plantations and see how coffee and other crops are cultivated.

Teddu Cafe

Best time: Afternoon, 13:00 – 16:00
Teddu Cafe location

Teddu Cafe is nestled in lush greenery right next to a small waterfall. To get there, you’ll need to descend a set of stairs, and just beside the stairs is a bridge that crosses the creek and leads directly to the café. As you cross the bridge, the sound of cascading water grows louder, and soon you’re enveloped by the cool mist from the waterfall.

The café is all about relaxation — picture yourself on the wooden terrace, savoring a piece of honeycomb cheesecake and a freshly brewed coffee, while the calming sound of the waterfall fills the background. The cheesecake is made using local ingredients, and the honeycomb gives it a delightful sweetness and texture that makes it truly unique. Teddu Cafe is a great place to escape the afternoon heat, finding shade under the trees and coolness by the waterfall.

Traveler Tips: Parking near Teddu Cafe is limited, so it’s best to leave your car in the village center and walk. This way, you can also enjoy the natural beauty on the way to the café. Keep in mind that the bridge and stairs can be slippery, especially when wet, so wear appropriate shoes. Insect repellent is also a good idea, as mosquitoes can be present in the shaded areas. On hot summer days, cooling off by the waterfall with a cold drink is a treat, while winter calls for a hot herbal tea as you listen to the soothing water.

Rabeing View Cafe

Best time: Afternoon, 16:00 – 18:00
Location of Rabeing View Cafe

Rabeing View Cafe is the kind of place that makes you slow down and savor every moment — a hidden gem in Mae Kampong that offers an authentic slice of northern Thailand. Perched on a terrace overlooking the village, this café is all about the view. Late afternoon is the best time to visit; the golden light bathes the village below, creating a serene atmosphere that invites you to sit back, relax, and take it all in.

The real star of the menu here is Miang — fermented tea leaves served with ginger, tamarind, toasted coconut, sugar, and peanuts. This traditional Northern Thai delicacy is a burst of flavor that combines tangy, sweet, and savory notes in every bite. It’s not just food; it’s an experience that takes you deeper into the region’s culinary culture. Pair it with a cup of freshly brewed herbal tea to fully embrace the moment. There’s something magical about sitting on the rustic wooden terrace, feeling the breeze, and savoring these local tastes as the sun sets.

The café itself is rustic and charming, with a wooden design that fits perfectly into the natural surroundings. It feels like a place untouched by time, where nature and simplicity come together. Whether you’re here for the food, the view, or just to unwind, Rabeing View Cafe has a way of connecting you to the tranquil spirit of Mae Kampong.

Traveler Tips: Visiting Rabeing View Cafe between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM gives you the perfect light for photos and a relaxing vibe as the day winds down. Parking in Mae Kampong can be challenging, especially on weekends, so consider parking on the outskirts and taking a short walk through the village — it’s a great way to absorb the local atmosphere. Bring cash, as credit cards are not widely accepted. And above all, don’t leave without trying the Miang. It’s a taste of Mae Kampong you won’t find anywhere else, and it’s best enjoyed slowly, with a view that makes you forget about the rest of the world.

Shopping

Cat Hill Gallery

This charming gallery offers locally crafted souvenirs and artworks that capture the spirit of Mae Kampong. You can find unique pieces inspired by the natural beauty of the village and its surroundings. The gallery also features local artists, making it an ideal place to pick up a one-of-a-kind memento of your trip.

Cat Hill Gallery location

Look out for cat illustrations and cards, cute neckerchiefs, souvenirs, money boxes, key chains, and more! Also, the store is located in a traditional Thai style house, don’t miss it while walking through the village.

Detour

Mueang On Cave

Muang On Cave, formerly known as Tham Doi Sila, is located in Mae On District, Chiang Mai province, and is an easily accessible place. It is about 1 km from the main road (1317) and is a large cave in a limestone mountain surrounded by a mountain range with many stone structures. At the top, a winding staircase leads up to the cave entrance, which then goes down, guiding you to the lower chamber.

You have to go down about 4-5 floors of cement stairs with handrails (children are allowed, but the elderly or people with bad knees are not allowed). The stairs are pretty steep, and you have to dodge two rocks hanging over your head as you descend. The cave climate is cool and very humid, with water dripping from the vaults in some places. The place is well lit, which is enough to explore the cave about halfway through.

Inside, there are beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. You will find some imaginary figures here, such as seals, five-headed elephants, and dinosaurs. In the center of the cave, there is a Buddhist relic “Phra That Nom Pha” and statues of Buddha.

More than 100 years ago, this was the meditation site of the famous monk Kruba Srivichai, who refurbished the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and Wat Suan Dok temples in Chiang Mai.

It takes about 30 minutes to walk inside the cave. The exit is where the entrance is.

Crazy Horse Buttress

For adventure enthusiasts, Crazy Horse Buttress is a must-visit destination located near Mae Kampong. It is one of Northern Thailand’s premier rock climbing locations, known for its impressive limestone cliffs and well-maintained climbing routes that cater to all skill levels. Whether you’re an experienced climber or a beginner looking to try something new, Crazy Horse Buttress offers a range of climbing experiences, from easy climbs to challenging overhangs. The area is also popular for caving and rappelling, making it a versatile adventure spot for thrill-seekers.

The natural beauty of Crazy Horse Buttress is breathtaking, with lush greenery surrounding the cliffs and providing a serene backdrop. Climbing here is not just about the adrenaline rush; it’s also about connecting with nature and enjoying the spectacular views from the top. Local guides and climbing schools are available if you need assistance or training, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Traveler Tips: If you plan to visit Crazy Horse Buttress, make sure to bring appropriate climbing gear or check with local climbing schools for rentals. Start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat, and bring plenty of water, as the climb can be physically demanding. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must, and insect repellent will come in handy. Even if you’re not into climbing, the area around Crazy Horse Buttress is beautiful for hiking and exploring.

You can climb the rocks on your own (if you have the necessary equipment) or hire a guide to help you during the journey. The difficulty of the routes is from 5a to 8b+.

If you want to spend time climbing rocks, check out the 212-page PDF climber’s guide published by Chiang Mai Rock Climbing Adventures.

Hot Springs

On the way to Mae Kampong, you can visit the natural hot springs at San Kampaeng. This place is well equipped, and here you can boil chicken or quail eggs in natural boiling water, relax and warm your feet in a thermal basin, swim in the covered pool with water from hot springs, and rent a bungalow with a private bath filled with mineral water, and watch the geyser coming out of the ground.

Be careful not to fall into the boiling water. It can be crowded on weekends.

How To Get To Mae Kampong

By car

1. The route from Chiang Mai towards Doi Saket.

If you prefer to rent a car, including the option to return the rental car to a rental location in another city, we recommend that you compare car rental rates in Chiang Mai. Prices may differ by half or more.

Leave the city via Kaew Nawarat road. Then, go straight ahead on road number 118 towards Doi Saket. At the Ban Pong Din checkpoint, turn right onto road number 3005. Then go straight ahead without turning until you come to a rural T-crossroad. At this point, turn left onto road 5080, and in a few minutes, you will be in Mae Kampong. There’s a road sign. You won’t get lost.

2. Route through San Kamphaeng. Is it the most straightforward way if you don’t have a map or GPS. Just keep following the new road to San Kamphaeng (1317) and go to the end until you reach Mae Kampong.

By bus

You can hop on a bus either at the Chang Phueak bus station or at the stop at Wararot Market. It is best to leave Chiang Mai on the first bus at 7:30 am. You will then arrive in Mae Kampong at about 9:20 am, and you will have a full day to rest and see the local sights. The one-way fare (2 hours) is only 150 baht.

The departure time from Mae Kampong is 09:20, 13:20, and 16:10. The departure stop is right in the schoolyard (Google Map).

Mae Kampong Weather

In our opinion and from our observations, Meteoblue gives the most correct weather forecast for this place.