Mae Kampong

Where is it? 

Out beyond Saket, Mae Kampong is 50km northeast of central Chiang Mai and one of the north’s most popular picturesque villages. Drive yourself or, for the non-drivers among us, minivans depart Kad Farang four times a day, bookable through 12goAsia.

Why we love it: Mae Kampong is Studio Ghibli levels of cute. Little wooden gabelled shops, quaint cafes, balconied shabu restaurants and traditional Thai houses line the one high street, which draws many a visitor in for photo opps. But the beauty of Mae Kampong must be its waterfalls, ravines and hilltop location. The views are a total knock out from the highest climbs of this village but sitting in one of the many river- and waterfall-nestled cafes (Proudproudproud is our fave) is just as impactful. At the furthest end of its thoroughfare hides the almost ethereal, tiny temple Wat Khantha Pruksa. This dinky temple sits on a tiny islet in the middle of the flowing Mae Kampong River, the ideal spot to say your prayers and make your wishes, soundtracked by the river rushing past.

Time Out tip: Staying overnight isn’t cheap but it's worthwhile for the early morning peace and quiet. Or leave home at 6am. Your call.