Things To Do
in Ban Mae Chedi

Ban Mae Chedi is a small rural village in northern Thailand where rice paddies and forested hills cradle daily life. The locals are known for their hospitality, traditional crafts, and a slow pace that invites you to observe. Temples, a gentle river, and a village market create a rhythmic backdrop for everyday life that feels timeless.

This area offers a window into northern Thai culture, cuisine, and rural landscapes away from the crowds.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival at Ban Mae Chedi
morning
:

Upon arrival in Ban Mae Chedi, take a moment to soak in the lush surroundings and the gentle sounds of nature. Settle into your accommodation, where you can enjoy a traditional Thai breakfast made with fresh local ingredients. Spend some time exploring the small village and its charming local shops.

afternoon
:

After lunch, embark on a guided tour of local farms, where you can learn about traditional Thai agricultural practices. Meet the friendly farmers and participate in hands-on activities, such as fruit picking or rice planting. This is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the local culture and understand the community's way of life.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, gather around a community bonfire where locals share stories and traditional Thai folk songs. Enjoy a delicious home-cooked dinner composed of local ingredients and flavors from the region. Wrap up your first day relaxing under the stars, surrounded by the serene mountain landscape.

day 2
Exploring Nature Trails
morning
:

Start your day with an energizing breakfast before heading out to explore the stunning nature trails around Ban Mae Chedi. Witness the beautiful flora and fauna as you hike through the dense forests, taking plenty of photos along the way. Be on the lookout for local wildlife and listen to the symphony of birds in the morning air.

afternoon
:

After a rewarding morning of hiking, enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, surrounded by the tranquility of the mountains. Continue your trek to a picturesque waterfall, where you can take a refreshing dip and relax by the water's edge. Take time to appreciate the serene beauty and perhaps meditate for a moment.

evening
:

In the evening, return to the village for a cooking class, where you'll learn to make authentic Thai dishes with fresh ingredients. Enjoy a communal dinner with fellow travelers and locals as you taste the meals created during the class. Share laughter and conversation about the day's adventures over a warm meal.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$3-6
🚌Local transport (bus/taxi within town)$1-4
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$25-60
🧭Souvenirs$3-15
Coffee/Tea$1-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, authentic rural experience
  • Warm, welcoming locals
  • Low crowds and affordable prices
  • Scenic landscapes and cultural richness
  • Limited nightlife and urban amenities
  • Sparse public transport within the village
  • Language barrier in more remote spots
  • "Sawasdee ka" - Hello
  • "Khob khun ka" - Thank you
  • "Tao rai ka?" - How much is this?
  • "Chai dai mai?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Ban Mae Chedi

Visit one of these nice places.

Wat Ban Mae Chedi Temple

A tranquil temple complex along a quiet canal, ideal for dawn photography and reflections.

Paddy Fields at Sunrise

Golden fields reflecting the early light with rural lanes as foreground.

Riverside Village Street

Old wooden homes and a gentle riverfront for atmospheric portraits.

Hill Viewpoint Over the Valley

Sweeping panorama of hills and farmland; best at sunset for soft light.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ban Mae Chedi

Northern Thai cuisine centers on fragrant herbs, sticky rice, and river fish; expect bold flavors with a balance of spicy, sour, and herbal notes.

Ban Mae Chedi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Khao Soi

Curry noodle soup with a coconut milk broth and crispy fried noodles on top.

Must-Try!

Sai Ua (Northern Thai sausage)

Herb-spiked grilled sausage often flavored with lemongrass and chili.

Nam Prik Ong

Tomato-chili dip with minced pork served with fresh vegetables and sticky rice.

Nam Prik Noom

Green chili dip served with sliced vegetables and sticky rice.

Khao Niao Mamuang

Mango sticky rice dessert with sweet coconut milk.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ban Mae Chedi Local Market

Morning and late-afternoon market with fresh produce, herbs, and ready-to-eat snacks.

Riverside Street Food Lane

Evening stalls along the river offering grilled fish, skewers, and seasonal specialties.

Climate Guide

Weather

The region has a tropical monsoon climate with a hot dry season (roughly March–May), a rainy season (June–October), and a cool season (November–February). Expect warm days, with higher humidity in the wet months; evenings can be cool in winter.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Temple etiquette

Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered); remove shoes before entering sacred spaces; speak softly.

Greetings and respect

A polite wai is appreciated; address elders with respect and avoid touching heads.

Safety Guide

Safety

Follow standard travel safety practices: watch for traffic on rural roads, protect belongings in crowded areas, use reputable transport providers, and stay hydrated during heat and monsoon seasons.

Tipping in Ban Mae Chedi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; leave small tips for guides and housekeeping.

Payment methods

Cash is widely accepted in smaller places; some shops and guesthouses accept credit cards or mobile payments in towns.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Dry and hot days; temperatures often in the 30s C. Hydrate, wear a hat, and seek shade.

Rainy

Frequent afternoon showers; lush green landscapes and mud on trails. Carry a light rain jacket.

Winter

Cool to mild days with cooler evenings; comfortable for outdoor activities; bring light layering.

Nightlife Guide

Ban Mae Chedi at Night

Ban Mae Chedi has a quiet vibe with limited nightlife. In nearby towns you can find markets, riverside eateries, occasional live music, and cultural performances, but it remains low-key and relaxed.

Hiking in Ban Mae Chedi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hill trails near Ban Mae Chedi

Short-to-moderate hikes offering forest scenery and valley views.

Airports

How to reach Ban Mae Chedi by plane.

Chiang Rai International Airport (Mae Fah Luang) - CEI

Nearest major airport in the region, commonly 2-3 hours away by car.

Phitsanulok Airport (PHS)

Regional airport with domestic connections via Bangkok.

Sukhothai Airport (THS)

Small regional airport serving domestic flights; useful for a northern circuit.

Getting Around

Walkability

The village is compact and walkable with most sights reachable on foot. Some roads are narrow and uneven; you may need a scooter or bike for longer trips.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ethnic Thai

Predominant in the village with farming livelihoods.

Hill tribes nearby

Communities in neighboring provinces with diverse crafts and traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Muay Thai

Popular spectator and training activity in nearby towns.

Badminton

Common recreational sport in community centers and guesthouses.

Transportation

Traffic

In-town traffic is light; rural roads can be narrow. Public transport is limited; scooters or shared rides are common for longer trips.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ban Mae Chedi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many dishes can be made vegetarian by asking to omit fish sauce; look for tofu, mushrooms, and vegetable dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic clinics serve routine care locally; for more advanced facilities, residents travel to larger towns with hospitals. Carry travel insurance and keep list of medications.

Discover Thailand

Read more in our Thailand 2025 Travel Guide.

Thailand Travel Guide