Things To Do
in Mae Rim

Mae Rim is a picturesque district located just north of Chiang Mai, Thailand, known for its stunning natural landscapes, lush mountains, and tranquil countryside. The area is rich in cultural heritage, with numerous temples, local markets, and traditional villages. Mae Rim serves as a gateway to various outdoor activities, including elephant sanctuaries, waterfalls, and adventure sports.

It attracts both nature lovers and adventure seekers looking for a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden, where you can explore diverse plant species and beautiful landscapes.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Elephant POOPOOPAPER Park to learn about elephant conservation and enjoy a fun workshop on making paper from elephant dung.

evening
:

Conclude your day with dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying traditional Northern Thai dishes while watching the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with a thrilling zip-lining experience through the lush canopy at the Flight of the Gibbon.

afternoon
:

Relax at the Huay Tung Tao Lake, where you can enjoy a meal at a lakeside restaurant and take a leisurely stroll around the area.

evening
:

Experience the vibrant night market in Mae Rim, sampling street food and shopping for local crafts.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$3-$5
🍺Local beer$2-$4
🛵Motorbike rental (per day)$5-$10
🚕Taxi fare within town$2-$5
🎟️Entry fee to attractions$1-$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Less crowded than nearby Chiang Mai.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation can be less convenient.
  • Some attractions require travel by car or motorbike.
  • "Sawasdee krub/ka" - Hello
  • "Khop khun krub/ka" - Thank you
  • "Chan chue... (your name)" - My name is...
  • "Pom/Chan mai kao jai" - I don't understand
  • "Nai khun jao?" - Where are you going?

Places to Visit in Mae Rim

Visit one of these nice places.

Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden

This expansive garden features a variety of exotic plants and beautiful landscapes, perfect for capturing nature's beauty.

Huay Tung Tao Lake

A serene lake surrounded by mountains, offering picturesque views ideal for sunset photography.

Elephant POOPOOPAPER Park

Capture unique moments with elephants and the creative process of making paper, providing a one-of-a-kind photo opportunity.

Culinary Guide

Food in Mae Rim

Mae Rim offers a delightful culinary experience with its unique Northern Thai flavors, featuring a variety of local dishes that are a must-try.

Mae Rim Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Khao Soi

A creamy coconut milk curry noodle soup, topped with crispy noodles and served with pickled mustard greens.

Must-Try!

Sai Oua

A flavorful Northern Thai sausage made from minced pork, herbs, and spices, grilled to perfection.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mae Rim Night Market

A bustling market featuring a variety of street food stalls offering everything from grilled meats to traditional desserts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Mae Rim enjoys a tropical climate with three main seasons: the dry season from November to February, which is cool and pleasant; the hot season from March to May, characterized by high temperatures; and the rainy season from June to October, featuring frequent rainfall and humidity. Average temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) in winter to 35°C (95°F) in summer. Rainfall peaks in August and September, making it the wettest months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Monks

When encountering monks, particularly in temples, dress modestly and avoid physical contact.

Wai Greeting

A traditional Thai greeting that involves placing your hands together in a prayer gesture and bowing slightly.

Shoes Off in Homes

Always remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or certain traditional establishments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Mae Rim is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in secluded areas and be cautious of your belongings in crowded places. Always stay informed about local wildlife when engaging in outdoor activities, particularly around elephants.

Tipping in Mae Rim

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in Thailand but appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards can be used in larger establishments; ATMs are readily available.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November - February)

Expect cool and pleasant weather, making it the best time for outdoor activities and exploration.

Hot Season (March - May)

Temperatures can be quite high, so plan activities for early morning or late afternoon, and stay hydrated.

Rainy Season (June - October)

Frequent rains can lead to muddy trails but also result in lush landscapes; be prepared for occasional downpours.

Festival Season

Visiting during Thai festivals like Yi Peng (Lantern Festival) in November offers a vibrant cultural experience.

Nightlife Guide

Mae Rim at Night

Mae Rim offers a relaxed nightlife scene compared to Chiang Mai, with local bars and night markets. Visitors can enjoy live music at some venues or unwind at riverside restaurants. The night market is a great place to experience local culture, where you can try street food and shop for handmade crafts.

Hiking in Mae Rim

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Doi Suthep-Pui National Park Trail

A scenic trail leading to the famous Doi Suthep temple, offering beautiful views and a chance to experience the local flora and fauna.

Mon Cham Trail

This trail offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and is popular for its panoramic scenery and cooler temperatures.

Airports

How to reach Mae Rim by plane.

Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)

Located approximately 30 kilometers south of Mae Rim, this is the nearest major airport, offering both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Mae Rim is not as walkable as urban areas, with many attractions spread out. Renting a motorbike or car is recommended for easier access to various sites. However, some areas, like local markets and cafes, can be explored on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Thai Locals

The majority of the population consists of ethnic Thai people, who maintain traditional customs and lifestyles.

Expat Community

A growing community of expatriates, particularly retirees and digital nomads, attracted by the natural beauty and affordable living.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Muay Thai

A traditional Thai martial art that is popular throughout the region, with local gyms offering classes and training.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely played in Mae Rim, with local teams and schools often engaging in friendly matches.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Mae Rim is generally light compared to urban areas, but roads leading to popular attractions can get busy, especially on weekends. Public transportation options are limited, so renting a motorbike or using taxis is recommended for getting around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Mae Rim.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to specify that you do not want meat or fish.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Mae Rim are limited, with small clinics available for basic needs. For more serious medical issues, traveling to Chiang Mai is advisable, where there are larger hospitals and specialized care. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Thailand

Read more in our Thailand 2025 Travel Guide.

Thailand Travel Guide