Chiang Mai’s ancient villages offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s traditional Lanna culture. On this full-day tour, visitors explore over 100-year-old wooden houses, witness ancestral customs, and enjoy the serene beauty of the Mae Kampong Waterfall. Beyond the natural wonders, the tour also delves into local craftsmanship, from hand-painting wooden dolls to savoring the flavors of artisanal coffee. Whether you’re captivated by Lanna heritage or drawn to unique cultural experiences, this tour promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of northern Thailand.
Key Points
- Explore the traditional Lanna-style wooden houses and ancient temples in the 100-year-old Ban Mae Kampong village.
- Witness the cascading waters and serene beauty of the Mae Kampong Waterfall, and enjoy a refreshing dip in the cool, crystal-clear pools.
- Indulge in authentic regional Lanna-style cuisine and locally grown coffee during the tour.
- Learn the art of hand-painting traditional Tai Lue wooden dolls from skilled artisans in the Ban Luang Nua village.
- Take home a unique, handmade wooden doll as a personalized souvenir from the tour.
Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Chiang Mai takes visitors to the charming villages of Ban Mae Kampong and Ban Luang Nua, offering a glimpse into the traditional Lanna lifestyle and local craftsmanship.
The 8-hour private tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel.
In Ban Mae Kampong, you’ll explore over 100-year-old wooden houses, visit ancient temples, and see the optional Mae Kampong Waterfall. Enjoy a delicious local lunch and coffee tasting during the tour.
In Ban Luang Nua, you’ll learn how to hand-paint traditional wooden dolls.
The tour includes an English-speaking driver and guide, all entrance fees, bottled water, and one coffee or bubble milk tea, plus a painted wooden doll.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Mae Kampong Village.
Ban Mae Kampong Village

In Ban Mae Kampong, visitors explore over 100-year-old wooden houses and witness the ancient Lanna traditions still practiced by the locals.
They’ll see how the villagers live and experience the beauty of the area’s ancient temples.
For those interested, there’s an optional visit to the stunning Mae Kampong Waterfall.
Guests will also enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by a local family, providing an authentic taste of the region’s cuisine.
Throughout the village exploration, travelers can expect to learn about the Lanna way of life and appreciate the preservation of this unique cultural heritage.
Mae Kampong Waterfall

The Mae Kampong Waterfall, a natural gem nestled within the lush greenery of Ban Mae Kampong, beckons visitors to witness its cascading waters and serene beauty.
An optional visit to this waterfall is included in the tour, allowing guests to enjoy the tranquility of the natural surroundings.
Visitors can expect a refreshing dip in the cool, crystal-clear pools at the base of the waterfall.
Breathtaking views of the cascading water as it flows over the rocky terrain can be witnessed.
An opportunity to explore the hiking trails that lead to various vantage points for stunning photographs is available.
A chance to connect with nature and recharge in the peaceful ambiance of the waterfall is offered.
Local Dining and Refreshments

Visitors’ taste buds delight in a delicious lunch prepared by a local family, where they savor authentic regional cuisine.
Following the meal, they indulge in a coffee tasting at a hidden local cafe, allowing them to sample the rich flavors and aromas of the region’s prized coffee beans.
The tour provides a unique opportunity to experience the local culinary traditions, with the lunch showcasing the diversity of Lanna-style dishes.
The coffee tasting offers a chance to discover the distinct characteristics of the locally grown beans, providing a flavorful and refreshing interlude during the day’s exploration of the ancient villages and cultural heritage.
More Great Tours NearbyBan Luang Nua Village

After exploring the traditional Lanna wooden houses and temples in Ban Mae Kampong, the tour moves on to the Tai Lue village of Ban Luang Nua, where visitors can learn the art of hand-painting traditional wooden dolls.
Visitors will have the opportunity to:
- Witness the intricate process of crafting these iconic wooden figurines.
- Receive hands-on instruction from skilled local artisans.
- Personalize their own wooden doll with vibrant colors and patterns.
- Take home their unique, handmade creation as a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
This cultural experience offers a glimpse into the rich traditions and artistry that have been passed down through generations in this charming Tai Lue community.
Tai Lue Traditional Dolls

Tai Lue wooden dolls are intricate, hand-painted figurines that exemplify the rich cultural heritage of this northern Thai community.
During the visit to Ban Luang Nua village, travelers have the opportunity to learn firsthand about this age-old craft.
Under the guidance of skilled artisans, they’ll discover the meticulous process of creating these dolls, from shaping the wooden bodies to meticulously painting the delicate features.
The vibrant colors and intricate designs reflect the Tai Lue people’s artistic traditions, passed down through generations.
Visitors can even try their hand at painting a doll, taking home a unique souvenir that captures the essence of this captivating village and its time-honored craftsmanship.
Inclusions and Highlights

The tour includes round-trip private transportation, an English-speaking driver and guide, all entrance fees, bottled water, a coffee or bubble milk tea, and a hand-painted wooden doll for participants to take home as a memento.
This full-day excursion from Chiang Mai offers an immersive experience in the local culture and heritage. Highlights include:
Exploring traditional Lanna wooden houses, some over a century old, in Ban Mae Kampong Village.
Visiting ancient temples and witnessing how locals live their daily lives.
Enjoying a delicious lunch prepared by a local family.
Learning the art of hand-painting traditional wooden dolls in Ban Luang Nua Village.
Round-trip Transportation

This tour provides private round-trip transportation from your hotel in Chiang Mai, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience throughout the day.
You’ll be picked up and dropped off at your accommodation, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic journey without the hassle of navigating yourself.
The private transportation is included in the tour price, giving you the freedom to focus on enjoying the local culture and traditions.
With an experienced driver at the wheel, you can sit back and take in the picturesque landscapes as you travel between the charming villages and natural wonders on the itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The tour has a private round-trip transportation, so the group size is flexible and can accommodate the customer’s needs. The maximum group size is not specified, allowing for a customized experience.
Can We Customize the Itinerary for This Tour?
Yes, the tour can be customized. The tour operator is flexible and willing to adjust the itinerary to accommodate guests’ interests and needs, such as additional stops or changes to the duration.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Travelers can request an extended tour to explore the villages and attractions more thoroughly or add additional stops along the way.
Do We Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for This Tour?
No special equipment is needed for this tour. Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. The tour provides all necessary materials for the activities, including painting supplies for the wooden dolls.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?
There may be discounts or package deals available for this tour. Customers should inquire with the tour operator about any special offers or bundle packages that could provide additional savings. Pricing and availability may vary.
Chiang Mai Ancient Village Waterfall & Local Crafts
Recap
The Chiang Mai Ancient Village Waterfall & Local Crafts tour offers a captivating glimpse into the traditional Lanna lifestyle.
Visitors can explore century-old wooden houses, witness ancient traditions, and experience the serene beauty of the Mae Kampong Waterfall.
The tour also includes a delicious local lunch, coffee tasting, and the opportunity to learn the art of hand-painting traditional wooden dolls, providing a truly immersive cultural experience.
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