Things To Do
in Mae Ai
Mae Ai is a charming district located in the Chiang Mai Province of northern Thailand, known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It features lush green hills, coffee plantations, and a variety of ethnic groups that call the area home. Mae Ai is a gateway to outdoor adventures, including trekking and exploring waterfalls, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
The district offers a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist hotspots, with a unique blend of Thai and ethnic minority cultures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the local market to sample fresh produce and local snacks. Explore the Wat Phra That Doi Kham, a beautiful temple with stunning views.
Head to the Mae Ai Coffee Plantation for a tour, learning about the coffee-making process and enjoying tastings of locally grown coffee.
Dine at a local restaurant serving traditional northern Thai cuisine, followed by a stroll through the village for an authentic cultural experience.
Embark on a guided trek through the surrounding hills, immersing yourself in the lush landscapes and visiting local hill tribe villages.
After the trek, unwind at a local hot spring, soaking in the warm mineral water and enjoying the scenic views.
Wrap up your day with a visit to a night market, sampling street food and shopping for local handicrafts.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Street Food Meal | $1-$3 |
| 🍵Local Coffee | $1-$2 |
| 🏨Budget Hotel per Night | $10-$25 |
| 🚗Tuk-Tuk Ride | $2-$5 |
| 🚌Bus Ticket | $0.50-$1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
- Rich cultural experiences with local ethnic groups.
- Delicious and unique northern Thai cuisine.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Public transport may be scarce, requiring private transport.
- Weather can be hot and humid during summer months.
- "Sawasdee krub/ka" - Hello (male/female)
- "Khob khun krub/ka" - Thank you (male/female)
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai" - No
- "Suk san wan keu" - Happy birthday
Places to Visit in Mae Ai
Visit one of these nice places.
This temple provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, perfect for capturing stunning sunrise or sunset photos.
The scenic coffee fields set against the backdrop of rolling hills make for picturesque shots throughout the year.
Several waterfalls in the area, such as Huay Kaew, offer great opportunities for nature photography, especially during the rainy season.
Food in Mae Ai
Mae Ai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich and creamy coconut curry noodle soup, typically served with chicken or beef, pickled mustard greens, and crispy noodles.
Must-Try!
A spicy northern Thai sausage made with minced pork, herbs, and spices, often enjoyed with sticky rice.
A flavorful tomato and minced pork dip, served with fresh vegetables and crispy fried rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant night market offering a variety of street food, local snacks, and handmade crafts.
Small markets scattered throughout the district where locals sell fresh produce, snacks, and traditional foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly and avoid physical contact with monks, especially for women.
A traditional Thai greeting where palms are pressed together; it's polite to return the gesture.
Always remove shoes before entering homes and temples as a sign of respect.
Safety
Tipping in Mae Ai
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; leaving small change at restaurants is common.
Cash is widely accepted; however, credit cards are becoming more common in larger establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cool and dry weather makes this the best time for outdoor activities and exploring the countryside.
Hot temperatures can be expected, making early mornings or late afternoons ideal for hikes and outdoor excursions.
Frequent showers can create lush landscapes but may limit outdoor activities; however, it's a great time for photography.
Songkran (Thai New Year) in April brings lively celebrations and cultural events, providing unique photo opportunities.
Mae Ai at Night
Hiking in Mae Ai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Offers a variety of trails with stunning views, including the highest peak in Thailand outside of the Himalayas.
A popular hiking trail leading to a beautiful waterfall, suitable for a half-day trip and great for photography.
Airports
How to reach Mae Ai by plane.
Located about 80 km from Mae Ai, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it the primary gateway for travelers visiting the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous ethnic group known for their rich cultural heritage, including traditional crafts and cuisine.
One of the many hill tribes in the area, known for their distinctive clothing and crafts, contributing to the cultural diversity of Mae Ai.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional Thai boxing is popular in the region, with local gyms offering classes and events.
Football (soccer) is widely played among locals, with several fields available for casual play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mae Ai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check if meals contain fish sauce or other animal products.
While traditional Thai cuisine is often gluten-free, confirm with restaurant staff about cross-contamination.