Things To Do
in Ban Tha Mai I
Ban Tha Mai I is a small rural village in Northern Thailand, set among green hills and rice paddies. It sits along quiet, winding roads that offer a glimpse of everyday village life and lush countryside. Visitors can experience authentic local culture, friendly hospitality, and slow-paced days away from crowded tourist hubs.
The surrounding area provides easy access to nature, markets, and traditional temples that illustrate the region’s heritage.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arriving in Ban Tha Mai I, settle into your cozy accommodation and freshen up after your journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Thai dishes that energize you for the day ahead. Take your time to explore the quaint surrounding streets and the vibrant local culture waiting to be uncovered.
After lunch, head to the picturesque waterways that this region is famous for. Rent a kayak or join a guided boat tour to experience the nature and wildlife that thrives around you. The gentle paddling will allow you to soak in the scenery while enjoying the peacefulness of Ban Tha Mai I.
As evening falls, dine at a charming riverside restaurant, where you can sample fresh seafood and other local specialties. The sunset over the water creates a magical backdrop, perfect for relaxation. End your day by participating in a local cultural performance or simply enjoying the ambiance of the quiet town.
Start your day with a visit to the bustling local market, where farmers sell fresh produce and artisans showcase handmade goods. Engage with the friendly vendors and sample delicious street food, such as mango sticky rice and savory spring rolls. This vibrant atmosphere sets the tone for a day filled with unique experiences.
Continue your exploration by joining a cooking class, where you'll learn to prepare traditional Thai dishes using fresh market ingredients. Under the guidance of a skilled chef, the hands-on experience will deepen your appreciation for the local cuisine. After class, enjoy the fruits of your labor in a delightful lunch surrounded by fellow culinary enthusiasts.
As twilight approaches, unwind with a stroll along the riverbank, where the soft glow of lanterns lights your path. Enjoy the serene sound of the water and the laughter of locals enjoying their evening. Choose a nearby spot for dinner, relishing your newfound cooking skills by ordering dishes you’ve learned to make.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $0.5-2 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $4-12 |
| 🛵Scooter rental (1 day) | $6-15 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room (per night) | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful village atmosphere with authentic northern Thai culture
- Close-knit communities and personal hospitality
- Delicious local cuisine and access to nature
- Limited nightlife and occasional limited medical facilities in the village
- Travel time to Chiang Mai for major sights and international flights
- Less English commonly spoken than in bigger tourist hubs
- "Sawasdee krub/ka" - Hello (male/female)
- "Khop khun krub/ka" - Thank you
- "Khun poot pasa angkrit dai mai?" - Do you speak English?
- "Hong nam yoo thi nai?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Ra-haa tao rai?" - How much is this?
- "Aroi mak" - Delicious
- "Chuai dai mai?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Ban Tha Mai I
Visit one of these nice places.
Fields rolling towards the hills with warm light at sunrise or sunset.
Colorful temple architecture and lotus ponds ideal for detail shots.
Calm river scenes with reflections and local life along the bank.
A vantage point over the valley with distant villages and mountains.
Carved wood details and Thai craftsmanship.
Food in Ban Tha Mai I
Ban Tha Mai I Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy coconut curry noodle soup with crispy fried noodles, typically served with pickled mustard greens and shallots.
Must-Try!
A grilled herbal sausage with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaf, chili, and garlic.
A tomato-chili dip served with fresh vegetables and steamed rice or sticky rice.
Burmese-influenced pork curry with ginger, garlic, and tamarind.
Green chili dip with herbs, served with vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market in Chiang Mai city offering fresh produce, snacks, and prepared dishes.
A lively weekend market with food stalls, crafts, and live music.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, cover shoulders and knees, remove shoes before entering buildings, and show respect when monks are present.
A wai (palms together) is used to greet and show respect; smile and maintain a calm demeanor.
Avoid touching others’ heads and pointing feet at people or religious objects.
Safety
Tipping in Ban Tha Mai I
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not mandatory; round up bills or leave 10% in nicer establishments or for exceptional service.
Cash is widely used; card payments accepted in larger hotels and some restaurants; carry Thai Baht for markets and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry climate with temperatures often above 30°C (86°F); carry sun protection and stay hydrated.
Frequent rain showers, humidity high; pack a light rain jacket and quick-dry clothing.
Cooler mornings and evenings; comfortable daytime temperatures; light layers recommended.
Ban Tha Mai I at Night
Hiking in Ban Tha Mai I
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Several trails accessible from Chiang Mai region with forest scenery and temple views.
Northern Thailand's highest peak; offers scenic hikes through forests and waterfalls.
Gentle trails through farmland and forest edges suitable for easy hikes.
Airports
How to reach Ban Tha Mai I by plane.
Main gateway for Northern Thailand; frequent domestic and international flights; ~1–2 hours by car from Ban Tha Mai I depending on road conditions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Thai nationals, with nearby hill-tribe communities such as Hmong and Karen in the broader region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Thailand’s national sport; local gyms and events in region; watch or participate with a trainer.
Popular on rural roads and hills; scenic routes through rice fields and forests.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ban Tha Mai I.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared without meat or fish sauce; ask for 'jai' (vegetarian) options and request no fish sauce or shrimp paste.