Things To Do
in Ban Phru
Ban Phru is a small suburban area just north of Chiang Mai, Thailand, with winding lanes and riverside scenes. It blends traditional northern Thai life with convenient access to major city amenities. Visitors can explore local temples, markets, and countryside scenery that feel authentic and unhurried.
The area sits near Chiang Mai at roughly 6.95°N, 100.48°E, making it a relaxed base for day trips and easy city access.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Ban Phru and settle into your accommodations, taking a moment to relax and soak in the serene atmosphere. Enjoy a Thai breakfast at a local café, sampling fresh fruits and coconut sticky rice. Stroll along the scenic waterways to get your bearings and admire the traditional wooden houses lining the banks.
Explore the vibrant local market and try your hand at bargaining for handmade crafts and local delicacies. Visit the nearby rice fields for an immersive experience in the agricultural lifestyle of the region, where you can observe farmers using traditional practices. Stop for lunch at a family-run restaurant serving authentic Thai cuisine, featuring dishes like Pad Thai and Som Tum.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely boat ride along the river, enjoying the tranquil scenery and watching the local wildlife. Return to the village for a sunset dinner at a riverside eatery, relishing the sounds of nature around you. Conclude your day with a casual stroll through the village to admire the stunning night sky.
Begin your day with a guided tour of the local temples, such as Wat Ban Phru, to learn about the fascinating history and religious significance of the area. Participate in a morning almsgiving ceremony, where you can offer food to the monks and gain insight into the Buddhist culture. Enjoy breakfast at a local spot, feasting on khanom jeen, a traditional Thai rice noodle dish.
Return to the village for a workshop on traditional Thai crafts, like silk weaving or pottery, allowing you to create your own souvenirs. Afterward, enjoy a hearty Thai lunch before venturing out to visit nearby historical sites or natural parks. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty around the area while hiking or cycling.
Savor a relaxing evening by attending a cultural show featuring traditional music and dance, showcasing the rich heritage of the Thai people. Dine at a local restaurant, where you can sample regional favorites. Afterwards, unwind at a night market, browsing vibrant stalls and enjoying local street food.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🛵Renting a scooter for a day | $10-20 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $20-40 |
| 🛒Groceries or snacks | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Good value for money and easy access to Chiang Mai
- Authentic northern Thai experience away from crowds
- Limited nightlife within Ban Phru itself
- Public transport options are limited
- Language barrier for non-Thai speakers in rural spots
- "สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ" - Hello (male/female)
- "ขอบคุณ" - Thank you
- "ช่วยด้วยครับ/ค่ะ" - Help please
- "ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน" - Where is the bathroom?
- "คิดเงินหน่อยครับ/ค่ะ" - Check/bill please
Places to Visit in Ban Phru
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light over the Ping River with boats and reed beds.
Traditional temple with carved wood, gold stupa, and peaceful courtyards.
Vibrant market scenes with lanterns, steam, and colorful produce.
Food in Ban Phru
Ban Phru Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy coconut curry noodles served with crispy noodles, pickled vegetables, lime, and shallots.
Must-Try!
Herby, spicy grilled sausage often sold at markets and street stalls.
Tomato-chili dip with minced pork, served with fresh vegetables and sticky rice.
Burmese-influenced pork curry with ginger, spices, and potatoes.
Seasonal dessert of warm sticky rice topped with ripe mango and coconut cream.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning stalls offering fresh produce, grilled meats, and quick bites.
Evening market along the river with a variety of street food snacks and ambiance.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a wai (palms together) and a slight bow; return the gesture when offered.
Dress modestly, shoulders and knees covered, remove shoes, and avoid pointing feet at people or sacred objects.
Safety
Tipping in Ban Phru
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory; small tips (about 20–50 THB) for good service in cafes or with guides are appreciated.
Cash (Thai Baht) is widely used; many places accept cards and QR payments (PromptPay) in tourist areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days (often 32–38°C); stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and seek shade.
Frequent rain, high humidity; carry rain gear and plan indoor activities.
Cooler mornings and pleasant days; evenings can be cooler; outdoor activities are comfortable.
Ban Phru at Night
Hiking in Ban Phru
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with viewpoints overlooking Chiang Mai; suitable for half-day hikes.
Easy, scenic routes among paddies and small farming plots.
Lush trails best explored in the dry to early wet seasons.
Airports
How to reach Ban Phru by plane.
Main gateway to the region; frequent flights to Bangkok and other destinations; reachable by about 15–20 minutes by car from the city center.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Thai-speaking, with Northern Thai cultural traits and dialects.
People commuting to Chiang Mai for education or jobs in the city.
A small but growing community drawn to the relaxed pace and close proximity to Chiang Mai.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional Thai boxing; gyms and clinics offer training for all levels.
Popular on rural roads with scenic views of fields and mountains nearby.
Local matches and pickup games played on community fields.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ban Phru.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be made vegetarian by requesting no fish sauce or shrimp paste; look for vegetable-focused plates or tofu options.