Things To Do
in Ban Ho Mae Salong
Ban Ho Mae Salong is a highland village cluster in Chiang Rai Province known for its misty tea terraces and hill-tribe hospitality. The area blends Chinese-influenced shophouses with Akha and Yao villages, offering a unique cultural mosaic. Tea estates crown the hills, producing some of northern Thailand’s finest oolong and black teas.
The climate here is refreshingly cool year-round, making it a welcoming escape from the lowland heat.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arriving in Ban Ho Mae Salong, take in the breathtaking mountain views that greet you. Enjoy a traditional Thai breakfast at a local eatery, where you can savor fresh fruits and rice dishes. After breakfast, settle into your accommodation and prepare for a day of exploration.
Spend your afternoon wandering through the charming tea plantations, where you can learn about the tea production process and sample various local brews. Visit the Hall of Opium, which offers insights into the region's history with opium cultivation. Capture stunning photographs of the lush green landscapes as you meander through the hills.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant to experience authentic northern Thai cuisine. Engage with friendly locals and share stories over dinner, enjoying dishes like Khao Soi and spicy salads. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll, appreciating the serene ambiance of Mae Salong.
Begin your day with a visit to Wat Santikhiri, a stunning temple that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the area. The morning light illuminates the intricate architecture, making it an ideal time for photography. Take a moment for meditation, embracing the peaceful atmosphere of the temple.
After lunch, explore nearby hill tribe villages, immersing yourself in their distinct cultures and traditions. Engage with local artisans, and perhaps try your hand at some traditional crafts. Delve into the stories of the hill tribe people, enriching your understanding of their way of life.
Return to Ban Ho Mae Salong for a relaxed dinner under the stars, where you can reflect on your day's adventures. Sample local teas and snacks, enjoying the cool evening breeze that sweeps through the mountains. End your night with a warm cup of herbal tea, perfect for winding down.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range cafe | $4-10 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $1-4 |
| 🧭Local transport (short ride) | $1-4 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or guesthouse (per night) | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning highland scenery and extensive tea terraces
- Rich hill-tribe culture and welcoming locals
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Some rural facilities may be basic or intermittent
- "Sawasdee ka" - Hello
- "Khop khun ka" - Thank you
- "Taam-rai-tee" - How much is this?
- "Hong nam yoo tee nai?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Khoi mao nam na? (To be used with caution)" - Could I have water, please?
Places to Visit in Ban Ho Mae Salong
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light ignites the orderly rows of tea bushes, with smoky hills in the background and a tranquil mood perfect for wide-angle shots.
Elevated lookout over town and tea plantations, ideal for sunset silhouettes and drone-friendly landscape shots (where permitted).
Colorful markets and weaving looms offer vibrant portrait opportunities and cultural context.
Photograph the blend of Chinese-influenced architecture along narrow streets that run through the hillside village.
Food in Ban Ho Mae Salong
Ban Ho Mae Salong Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy curry noodle soup with crispy noodles on top, widely available in hillside eateries and cafes.
Must-Try!
A tomato-chili dip with minced pork, served with fresh vegetables and sticky rice—popular in Northern Thai households.
Herb-filled grilled sausage with a smoky finish, great with sticky rice or in quick street meals.
Burmese-influenced pork curry with ginger, tamarind, and spices; pairs well with steamed rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling morning and evening stalls selling fresh produce, dried tea leaves, herbs, and quick noodle dishes.
Small roadside stalls selling roasted tea seeds, tea eggs, and local snacks with views over terraced fields.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes where required, and speak softly in sacred spaces.
A polite wai (pressing palms together) with a slight bow is common when greeting locals and elders.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in private villages or homes.
Safety
Tipping in Ban Ho Mae Salong
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is voluntary and appreciated in tourist-oriented spots; 20–50 THB for service in casual cafes, more for guided tours or fine dining.
Cash is widely used in markets and small eateries. Some larger cafes accept cards; ATMs are available in Mae Salong town. Carry Thai baht for daily purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with cooler evenings; bring light layers. Afternoon showers are possible; carry a compact rain jacket and quick-dry clothing.
Expect frequent rain, lush green landscapes, and muddier trails. Pack waterproof footwear, a lightweight rain shell, and a dry bag for gear.
November to February brings crisp mornings and chilly nights. Layered clothing, a warm jacket, and sun protection for daytime hikes are recommended.
Ban Ho Mae Salong at Night
Hiking in Ban Ho Mae Salong
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle ridge hike offering panoramic tea terrace views and opportunities to observe harvest cycles.
Short loop through an Akha settlement with village gardens and traditional weaving workshops.
Early-morning trail to a high vantage point ideal for sunrise photography over the highlands.
Airports
How to reach Ban Ho Mae Salong by plane.
Main international gateway for the area; approximately a 2–3 hour drive to Mae Salong depending on road conditions.
Larger regional hub for connections to Bangkok and international flights; longer drive from Mae Salong but offers more flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A prominent hill-tribe in the area known for distinct textiles and welcoming village life.
Another hill-tribe with unique clothing, crafts, and agricultural practices.
Less common but present in some nearby settlements; contribute to cultural crafts and market stalls.
The majority language in public life and administration, with a blend of Sino-Thai influences in architecture and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among visitors who want to explore tea terraces and hill-tribe villages on foot.
Scenic, quiet routes through forests and terraced slopes suitable for casual riders and enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ban Ho Mae Salong.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Northern Thai dishes can be made vegetarian; request no fish sauce and ask for tofu, mushrooms, orExtra vegetables to brighten dishes.