Things To Do
in Mae Rim
Mae Rim sits just north of Chiang Mai in northern Thailand, framed by forested hills, coffee farms, and tranquil countryside. It is known for botanical gardens, waterfalls, and hill-tribe villages that provide a peaceful contrast to city life. The area serves as a gateway to northern adventures, from hiking and ziplining to farmers’ markets and scenic viewpoints.
With easy access to Chiang Mai, Mae Rim offers a slower pace while staying within reach of urban amenities and excellent northern cuisine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Chiang Mai International Airport and take a scenic drive to Mae Rim, surrounded by mountains and lush greenery. Check into your cozy accommodation, where you can unwind before exploring the area. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Thai snacks while soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Visit the Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, where you can stroll through vibrant floral displays and exotic plant collections. Opt for a guided tour to learn about native species and the importance of conservation efforts in Thailand. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the garden's café, trying local dishes and refreshing beverages.
As the sun sets, head to the famous Mae Rim Night Market, where you can browse a variety of handicrafts and street food. Engage with local artisans and taste various delicacies from the food stalls, enjoying the lively atmosphere. Return to your accommodation to relax and prepare for the adventures ahead.
Spend the day at an ethical elephant sanctuary, starting with an early breakfast and a short ride to the location. Enjoy a briefing about the elephants' history and care while preparing to interact with these gentle giants. Feed, bathe, and even walk with the elephants in their natural habitat, creating unforgettable memories.
After lunch at the sanctuary, participate in educational activities that highlight conservation efforts and the importance of protecting these magnificent creatures. Learn from trainers and caretakers about the elephants' behaviors and welfare. Enjoy the breathtaking natural surroundings while observing the elephants interact.
Return to your accommodation for a delicious dinner, featuring locally sourced ingredients. Reflect on the day's experiences and consider the impact of wildlife tourism on conservation efforts. Wind down by enjoying a relaxed evening under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🥟Street food snack | $0.50-2 |
| 🚗Short taxi/Grab ride | $2-6 |
| 🛍️Souvenir or craft | $5-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and easy access to Chiang Mai
- Wide range of outdoor activities and nature-focused attractions
- Rich Northern Thai cuisine and friendly local markets
- Varied accommodations from hillside cafes to eco-resorts
- Nightlife is limited; most entertainment is in Chiang Mai city
- Some attractions can feel touristy in peak season
- Roads can be winding; travel by car or guide is often best
- Smaller towns may have limited healthcare facilities; plan trips to Chiang Mai for major care
- "Sawasdee kha" - Hello (female polite)
- "Sawasdee khrap" - Hello (male polite)
- "Khop khun kha" - Thank you (female polite)
- "Khop khun khrap" - Thank you (male polite)
- "Kor toht" - Sorry / Excuse me
- "Tao rai" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Mae Rim
Visit one of these nice places.
A lush, expansive garden with glass houses, tropical flora, and scenic paths—the perfect place for botanical photography and bright landscapes.
Tiered waterfalls set in a forested area; capture flowing cascades and turquoise pools against a backdrop of green hills.
High viewpoints and forest trails offering sweeping vistas over Chiang Mai’s plains and the surrounding mountains.
Terraced hills and tea plantations with panoramic valley views—exceptional at sunrise or sunset.
Food in Mae Rim
Mae Rim Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy Northern Thai curry noodle soup with either chicken or beef, topped with crispy fried noodles; widely available at local eateries and market stalls.
Must-Try!
Northern Thai grilled sausage flavored with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chili, and garlic; commonly found at markets and street stalls.
Tomato-chili dip with minced pork, served with fresh vegetables and sticky rice; a staple at home-style Northern meals.
Mango sticky rice; a popular dessert or snack offered at markets and casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small-town market offering fresh produce, herbs, grilled meats, fried snacks, and local sweets—great for sampling everyday Thai fare.
Along main routes around Mae Rim, offering grilled pork skewers, fried rice, papaya salad, and seasonal fruit—easy to try handmade Northern dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering temple buildings, and speak softly. Avoid pointing feet at people or sacred objects.
A slight bow with hands pressed together is a customary greeting; use 'khrap' (male) or 'kha' (female) to end sentences politely.
Show reverence toward the Thai monarchy in public spaces; avoid negative commentary about the royal family.
Safety
Tipping in Mae Rim
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Leave small tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff (roughly 20–50 THB for small services; 50–200 THB for guides on a full-day excursion). In larger restaurants, a service charge may be included.
Cash in Thai Baht is widely accepted, especially at markets and small eateries. Credit/debit cards are common in hotels, larger restaurants, and tour operators. For rides and smaller shops, cash is recommended.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with bright sunshine; carry water, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat.
June to October brings frequent showers and high humidity; trails can be muddy; carry rain gear and waterproof footwear, but landscapes are lush and vibrant.
November to February offers cooler, more comfortable temperatures; ideal for hiking and outdoor photography, though evenings can be chilly.
Mae Rim at Night
Hiking in Mae Rim
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails near Doi Suthep-Pui National Park with viewpoints and temple stops.
Easy to moderate hikes with opportunities to swim near the falls.
Gentle hillside paths through tea fields and viewpoints; ideal for photography.
More ambitious hikes offering panoramic views over Chiang Mai and the surrounding valleys.
Airports
How to reach Mae Rim by plane.
Major gateway to northern Thailand; about a 40–60 minute drive from Mae Rim depending on traffic and routes. Served by domestic and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Thai families and farmers in rural Mae Rim, with a growing number of expats and seasonal visitors drawn to resorts and gardens.
Small communities such as Lahu, Hmong, and Karen residents contribute to the cultural mosaic of the region.
Visitors seeking nature escapes, northern cuisine, and gateway access to Chiang Mai.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Thailand’s national sport; local gyms and training camps are common in the Chiang Mai region.
Scenic routes through hills, orchards, and rural villages make for popular day trips.
Several hillside and resort courses are reachable from Mae Rim for a scenic round.
Hilly terrain lends itself to day treks and nature walks in national parks and forested areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mae Rim.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Northern Thai dishes can be prepared without meat; ask for no fish sauce or shrimp paste, and request tofu or extra vegetables. In larger restaurants, look for vegetarian menu items or ask for customized dishes.