Mon Jam

Where is it? Just a 45 minutes drive northwest of the old city, past Mae Rim and up, up, up the winding mountain road, Mon Jam (or Moncham) is a cute mountainside village some 2,300m above sea level. A sea of flower and strawberry fields cover the valleys below, and from the top the views are resplendent, no matter which side of the mountain you are looking out from. 

Why we love it: Mon Jam worked its way into our hearts and minds as it’s a particularly cool break from the balmy heat of Chiang Mai – the elevation makes the temperatures a fair few degrees lower, and we’re all into that. Ideal for a romantic, less sweaty get away. The sweeping views of the terraced hillsides make our jaws drop every time. It could be said that there’s a few too many glamping spots and geodesic tents built on those hills these days, but to be fair, they’re pretty sympathetic to the landscape and don’t diminish from the wow factor. Make a beeline for Rao Dok Lom Nhao community garden, where tall blooms of purple and pinks surround a viewing platform with a simply sublime view of the rolling mountains beyond. Thrill seekers and big kids (like us) love Pong Yang Jungle Coaster & Zipline, a small theme park that has ‘rollercoasters’ whizzing through the lush forest. Mon Jam is also awash with little cafes and strawberry farms to dive into for refreshments.

Time Out tip: If you love a little wellness,  the Japan themed hotel Onsen @ Moncham is home to a cluster of hot pools – and you don’t have to be a guest to use them. Drop them a line, book here or just show up and choose from day-pass to overnight stay.. Their lux, naturally heated onsen is totally worth it.