One Day Tour Mae kampong and San Kamphaeng Hot
Springs Thailand
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Theres a new attraction north of Chiang Mai that only locals
seem to know about. Fortunately, I am blessed to have wonderful
Thai friends who invite me along on day trips around northern
Thailand. Most recently they introduced me to Dantewada Land of
Angels Waterfall Park, a man made attraction with two massive
waterfalls, caves, exquisitely planted flower gardens, a coffee
shop, and a cafe with delicious food.
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Baan Mae Kampong is a peaceful place to calm yourself down from
busy town. Chiang Mai is an enviable city; you just have to
drive out the west end a few miles and you are in the middle of
the jungle at Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, nestled among a
plethora of natural and cultural sights. If you choose to drive
east, you ll encounter the quaint crafts village of San
Kamphaeng, explore Muang On Cave and its relaxing at Sankampang
hot springs. And if you head a little further, a small village
in the woods awaits you. Yes, this is where you can rappel along
a line like a shot from a sling. It is an exciting and
spectacular interaction with nature and should be one of the
most satisfying experiences of your life. Ban Mae Kampong is
located in Mae On sub-district, adjacent to San Kamphaeng. This
village is a popular natural tourist attraction and also hosts
an interesting Community Learning Center. Just an hour?s drive
from the city, Mae Kampong village is abundant in natural
resources; it has a stream running through it, and a tea-tree
forest surrounding it.
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Mae Kampong takes its name from the beautiful yellow and red
kampong flowers that grow along the creek. Most people in this
community cultivate tea, coffee and grow crops. Baan Mae Kampong
is in fact the first model homestay in Thailand where tourists
can stay overnight with residents in their homes, a fantastic
opportunity to learn their lifestyles and culture, and
participate with them in
their daily activities. Things to do in Baan Mae Kampong
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Kanta Prueksa Temple (Wat Mae Kampong) Wat Khantha Phueksa, also
known as Wat Mae Kampong, is a serene temple located in the
heart of the village. Built nearly a century ago, the temple is
a prime example of Lanna-style architecture, with intricate
carvings and wooden structures that reflect the region?s
cultural heritage. The most unique feature of Wat Khantha
Phueksa is its small chapel, or ubosot,? which is situated on a
pond, giving the illusion that it is floating on water. This
picturesque setting is surrounded by lush greenery, providing a
peaceful environment for meditation and reflection. Visitors
often find solace in the temples serene atmosphere, where they
can listen to the soothing sounds of the nearby stream and
observe the gentle sway of the trees
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Mae Kampong takes its name from the beautiful yellow and red kampong
flowers that grow along the creek. Most people in this community
cultivate tea, coffee and grow crops. Baan Mae Kampong is in
fact the first model homestay in Thailand where tourists can
stay overnight with residents in their homes, a fantastic
opportunity to learn their lifestyles and culture, and
participate with them in their daily activities. Things to do in
Baan Mae Kampong
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Kanta Prueksa Temple (Wat Mae Kampong) Wat Khantha Phueksa, also known
as Wat Mae Kampong, is a serene temple located in the heart of
the village. Built nearly a century ago, the temple is a prime
example of Lanna-style architecture, with intricate carvings and
wooden structures that reflect the region?s cultural heritage.
The most unique feature of Wat Khantha Phueksa is its small
chapel, or ?ubosot, which is situated on a pond, giving the
illusion that it is floating on water. This picturesque setting
is surrounded by lush greenery, providing a peaceful environment
for meditation and reflection. Visitors often find solace in the
temple?s serene atmosphere, where they can listen to the
soothing sounds of the nearby stream and observe the gentle sway
of the trees.
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Admiring the local lifestyles at a homestay One of the
highlights of visiting Baan Mae Kampong is staying in one of the
many homestays that the village offers. These homestays are
typically traditional wooden houses that have been converted to
accommodate guests, providing a unique opportunity to experience
local life firsthand. Staying in a homestay allows visitors to
immerse themselves in the local culture, as they can participate
in daily activities such as cooking traditional Thai meals,
learning about local crafts, and even farming. The hospitality
of the villagers is unmatched; guests are often treated like
family, with home-cooked meals and warm, friendly interactions
that make the experience truly memorable. This authentic
experience is a fantastic way to connect with the local
community and learn about their traditions and way of life.
Mae Kampong Waterfall Just a short walk from the village is Mae
Kampong Waterfall, a popular attraction for both locals and
tourists. The waterfall cascades down seven tiers, each offering
a different view and experience. The water flows steadily
throughout the year, fed by the abundant rainfall that the
region receives. The surrounding area is lush with tropical
plants and trees, creating a cool and refreshing environment
that is perfect for a leisurely hike or a relaxing picnic. Many
visitors enjoy taking a dip in the natural pools formed by the
waterfalls cascades, especially during the hot summer months.
The cool, clear water is invigorating and provides a refreshing
escape from the heat. The waterfall is also a great spot for
photography, with its scenic views and tranquil surroundings.
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Flight of the Gibbon : Satisfaction on a sling Please, please, please
do not miss what is arguably the most popular activity in the
country for nature lovers and adventure seekers the amazing
Flight of the Gibbon. Zip-lining through the canopy of the
rainforest, rappelling at speed like a slingshot along a washing
line, this is the longest zip-line adventure in Asia some five
kilometres, and with single zips of about 800 metres. Flight
of the Gibbon offers you a new experience, and its one that is
high in the sky. You can hike, observe the wildlife (including
of course the gibbons, who are the mascots of this place), and
learn the ways of nature. Embark on a never to be forgotten
adventure with professional guides who will help steer you from
tree to tree via all 33 stations, three- suspension bridges and
two vertical- rappelling points. All of this activity takes
place under the supervision of Sky Rangers and local guides,
guaranteeing your safety with their knowledge and experience, as
well as the latest in rappelling equipment and protective gear.
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Although this activity is not suitable for travelers with
heart conditions, it is not a problem for anyone else,
regardless of your fitness level or body weight. If you are
keen to face new challenges, if you are fascinated with
nature, if you love adventure you will adore this great
day out. Lunch and drinks are included in the program price;
they are provided at the site restaurant situated (back on
Earth) along the creek in the middle of Kampong village. You
can even listen to some nice indigenous music while you are
eating. The program also includes exploring Mae Kampong
village, visiting the residents and observing their
life-styles, shopping for handicrafts, and sipping hot local
tea.
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