My recent trip to Chiang Mai was primarily focused on relaxation and experiencing the rainy season's atmosphere, which is less crowded than the peak winter season. I enjoyed leisurely drives along mountain roads and sought accommodations amidst nature, offering tranquility, simplicity, and proximity to local life. This time, I chose to explore the Mae Chaem-Chiang Dao route. Before visiting the various attractions along this route, let me introduce you to the accommodation where I stayed. In Mae Chaem district, I stayed at Govit Hut at the End of the Rice Field, which boasts stunning views of the rice fields in the valley. Check out the review here.

The section of Chiang Dao that I am going to take you to is right here.


Tree House Hideaway

Mae Maeh Treehouse is located in Chiang Dao District, just 90 kilometers from Chiang Mai city.

Transportation

Public transportation:

  • Bus: You can take a bus or a red truck from Chiang Mai to Chiang Dao at the Chang Phuak Bus Terminal. The journey takes about 60 kilometers.
  • Minibus: Alternatively, you can take a direct bus from Bangkok to Ban Tha Ton that passes through Chiang Dao. Get off at the Ban Mae Ma turnoff and arrange for a pick-up from your homestay in advance. This option incurs an additional fee of approximately 600 baht.

Private car:

  • Directions: Follow the 107 Chiang Mai-Mae Rim-Chiang Dao road using Google Maps.
  • Route: About 4-5 kilometers before reaching Chiang Dao town, you will see a sign on the left indicating the way to Ban Mae Ma. The road to Ban Mae Ma is a winding asphalt road that follows the mountainside.
  • Caution: The road is narrow and winding, so drive carefully and use your horn to signal your presence around blind corners.

Departing from Mae Chaem, I made several stops along the way, arriving in Chiang Dao as dusk approached. Following the road signs from Mae Rim to Chiang Dao, I continued for approximately 10 kilometers until I reached the entrance to Mae Mae (Sai Kham) village. This village serves as a model community for fire prevention, acting as a voice for government agencies and promoting their strategies for preventing and mitigating smoke and haze issues in Chiang Mai to other communities.

The Mae Ma Treehouse is located less than 300 meters from the entrance. From the entrance, you can see the house standing prominently above the treetops. Upon arrival, you can park your car at Wat Sai Kham in front of the accommodation.

The Mae Mae Treehouse: A Rustic Retreat in the Thai Jungle

The Mae Mae Treehouse, resembling a large, thatched-roof house perched on a hillside, offers a unique and immersive experience for nature enthusiasts. Supported by sturdy pillars, the structure extends out into the open air, allowing guests to fully embrace the surrounding jungle atmosphere.

The treehouse boasts four guest rooms: one shared room and three private rooms. Shared bathroom facilities are available, and a versatile common area in the center of the house provides ample space for relaxation, dining, or simply lounging in the hammocks suspended from the pillars. The interior evokes a rustic charm, reminiscent of a traditional Chinese inn.

Adding to the authentic experience, the evenings offer the opportunity to indulge in traditional Thai massages provided by local villagers.

The room I stayed in was a single room attached to a forest view. The room was open-air with no insect screens, and the only barrier between the room and the view was a curtain. The room was equipped with a mosquito net, a fan, and 2-3 bottles of drinking water.

Dinner will be a buffet of 3-4 northern Thai dishes, which were quite delicious. However, I didn't take any pictures because it was already dark when I arrived. After taking a shower, I sat down to enjoy a beer and the atmosphere for a while before going to my room. The air was cool and comfortable, almost chilly. I fell asleep listening to the sounds of the forest and woke up around dawn. The morning air was fresh and there was a thin mist floating through the treetops. I washed my face and brushed my teeth to chase away the drowsiness, then went downstairs to enjoy a cup of coffee and a steaming hot bowl of rice porridge.

After breakfast, I took a walk around the accommodation. In addition to the treehouse, there are other accommodations in the same area, located within the fence of the treehouse. Starting from the treehouse at the top, followed by Aiyarat Chomchan, Chersiwa, and Baan Rabeang Nam at the bottom. I walked around randomly, looking for angles to take pictures. I came across the Chersiwa accommodation, so I looked for a popular angle to take a picture. I had to cross the stream to take a picture on the opposite side.

The "Rabeang Nam" house is located on the same level as the "Chersiwa" house, but on the opposite side. Both houses offer views of the stream, but the "Rabeang Nam" house has a more spacious area and separate rooms. The water in the stream is suitable for swimming, although it may be a bit cloudy during the rainy season.


After experiencing the atmosphere of the accommodation by the stream, it can be considered a good option for those who come to stay in the Mae Mae community. During the visit, there was additional construction underway, suggesting that there may be more options in the future. Upon returning, it was time to pack up and return to city life as usual. Next year, Chiang Mai is expected to have new and popular accommodations ready to welcome tourists for relaxation, as always... Farewell.


  • Thank you to all my friends who have visited, liked, and shared. Your support means a lot to me.

- Follow old articles here All travel trips


Comments