Chiang Mai: Mae Kampong Village, Hot Springs & Bor Sang Tour

Chiang Mai’s northern regions offer a unique blend of cultural experiences that captivate visitors. The Mae Kampong Village tour promises an immersive journey through traditional Thai rural life, complemented by the soothing warmth of the San Kamphaeng Hot Springs and the intricate artistry of the Bo-Sang Handicrafts Centre. Whether you’re seeking an authentic taste of local cuisine or a deeper understanding of time-honored craftsmanship, this comprehensive tour provides a well-rounded exploration of the region’s rich heritage. Uncover the allure of Chiang Mai’s hidden gems and discover why this destination continues to enchant travelers from around the world.

Key Points

1. A privately-guided, 8-hour tour exploring key attractions around Chiang Mai, including the picturesque Mae Kampong Village, San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, and Bo-Sang Handicrafts Centre.

2. Opportunity to immerse in traditional Thai rural life, interact with friendly locals, and sample savory street food and sweet sticky rice desserts in Mae Kampong Village.

3. Relaxing soak in the mineral-rich, therapeutic waters of the San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, set against the scenic backdrop of the surrounding hills.

4. Vibrant display and hands-on experience in learning the techniques used to craft the iconic Bo-Sang umbrellas, a significant part of the local handicraft tradition.

5. Private group experience with hotel pickup, entrance fees, lunch, and accident insurance included, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Tour Overview

This privately-guided tour offers visitors an immersive experience, lasting approximately 8 hours and covering key attractions around Chiang Mai, including the charming Mae Kampong Village, the relaxing San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, and the vibrant Bo-Sang Handicrafts Centre.

The tour includes hotel pickup within Chiang Mai city or a 5 km radius, and it’s a private group experience with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Highlights include exploring the hidden village of Ban Mae Kampong, enjoying the scenic views from Kew Fin Viewpoint, taking a dip in the hot springs, and witnessing the traditional umbrella-making process at the Bo Sang centre.

All entrance fees, lunch, and travel are included, along with an English-speaking guide and accident insurance.

Mae Kampong Village

Nestled in the lush hills northeast of Chiang Mai, Mae Kampong Village offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Thai rural life.

This hidden gem is known for its picturesque streets, where wooden houses and shops line the winding paths. Visitors can stroll through the village, sampling delicious local street food and regional specialties.

At the Kew Fin Viewpoint, they’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside.

Throughout the visit, guests can interact with friendly locals and learn about their way of life, providing a truly authentic cultural experience.

From exploring the village to indulging in tasty treats, Mae Kampong is a must-visit destination on any Chiang Mai tour.

Street Food and Local Snacks

Visitors often indulge in the vibrant street food scene as they stroll through Mae Kampong Village, sampling an array of delectable local snacks and regional specialties. From savory grilled meats to sweet sticky rice desserts, the village offers a tantalizing culinary experience. Locals enthusiastically share their traditional recipes, eager to introduce travelers to the unique flavors of northern Thailand.

Dish	Flavor Profile	Recommended Pairing
Khao Soi	Rich, coconut curry broth	Pickled mustard greens
Sai Ua	Aromatic, grilled sausage	Sticky rice and chili dips
Khao Niaow Ma Muang	Sweet, mango sticky rice	Freshly brewed Thai iced tea

San Kamphaeng Hot Springs

After exploring the quaint Mae Kampong Village, the tour heads to the rejuvenating San Kamphaeng Hot Springs.

Visitors can experience the soothing, mineral-rich waters bubbling up from the earth, offering a refreshing respite amidst the lush natural surroundings.

The hot springs provide an opportunity to take a dip and unwind, with scenic views of the surrounding hills. Guests can soak in the therapeutic waters, which are believed to have various health benefits.

The hot springs also offer a chance to appreciate the local culture and traditions, as they’ve been an important part of the community for generations.

Bo-Sang Handicrafts Centre

The Bo-Sang Handicrafts Centre features a vibrant display of traditional Thai umbrellas, showcasing the intricate artistry and skilled craftsmanship of the local artisans.

Visitors can observe the umbrella makers in action, learning about the meticulous process of creating these iconic Chiang Mai souvenirs.

The centre offers:

1. An opportunity to watch the artisans hand-paint the umbrellas with intricate designs and patterns.
2. A chance to purchase a wide variety of umbrellas, ranging from practical parasols to decorative pieces.
3. Insights into the history and significance of the Bo-Sang umbrella-making tradition.
4. A hands-on experience in learning the techniques used to craft these beautiful, unique umbrellas.

Highlights of the Tour

Though the tour features several exciting activities, its highlights undoubtedly include the hidden village of Ban Mae Kampong, the serene hot springs at Sankamphaeng, and the captivating umbrella-making demonstration at the Bo-Sang Handicrafts Centre.

At Ban Mae Kampong, visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, explore the scenic viewpoint of Kew Fin, and indulge in local street food and snacks. The hot springs at Sankamphaeng offer a refreshing and rejuvenating experience, while the Bo-Sang Handicrafts Centre showcases the intricate process of traditional umbrella-making, allowing guests to witness the artistry and craftsmanship.

Highlight	Description	Duration
Ban Mae Kampong	Hidden village, Kew Fin Viewpoint	1.5 hours
Sankamphaeng Hot Springs	Visit, sightseeing, swimming	1 hour
Bo-Sang Handicrafts Centre	Watch umbrella making	1 hour

Tour Inclusions

Aside from the highlights of the tour, the package also includes several key inclusions to ensure a well-rounded and convenient experience for visitors.

The tour provides:

1. Private car transportation with air conditioning, allowing guests to travel comfortably between destinations.
2. Entrance fees to all the featured attractions, eliminating the need for additional out-of-pocket expenses.
3. A delicious lunch, keeping guests energized throughout the day.
4. Bottled drinking water and an English-speaking guide, ensuring hydration and clear communication.

Plus, the tour includes accident insurance, providing a layer of protection and peace of mind for participants. With these comprehensive inclusions, visitors can focus on enjoying the tour’s highlights without the hassle of additional planning or expenses.

Tour Exclusions

While the tour package includes a range of services, there are a few exclusions travelers should be aware of.

Personal expenses, such as souvenirs or additional food and beverages outside of the provided lunch, aren’t covered. Plus, gratuities for the guide and driver aren’t included in the tour price. These out-of-pocket costs are the responsibility of the traveler.

The tour operator has designed the package to provide a comprehensive experience while keeping the base price affordable. By understanding the exclusions ahead of time, visitors can better plan and budget for their Chiang Mai adventure, ensuring they’ve a memorable and enjoyable trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Adjust the Itinerary to Suit My Interests?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to suit your interests. The tour provider allows you to adjust the activities and destinations based on your preferences, ensuring you have an enjoyable and personalized experience.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Location?

The tour spends about 2 hours at Mae Kampong Village, 1 hour at the San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, and 1 hour at the Bo-Sang Handicrafts Centre. The remaining time is for transportation, lunch, and sightseeing along the way.

Are There Any Age or Health Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour has no specific age or health restrictions. It’s suitable for most travelers, though guests should be able to walk for short periods and tolerate hot springs. Participants with mobility issues should consult the tour operator for suitability.

Can I Request a Different Language-Speaking Guide?

Yes, you can request a different language-speaking guide. The tour company is typically happy to accommodate language preferences as long as you let them know in advance. This is subject to guide availability.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, you can likely extend the tour duration. Contact the tour provider to inquire about additional time and any associated fees. They’ll be able to accommodate your needs and provide pricing for extended tours.

Recap

The Chiang Mai: Mae Kampong Village, Hot Springs & Bor Sang Tour offers a well-rounded cultural experience. Visitors can enjoy traditional Thai rural life, indulge in the local cuisine, relax at the hot springs, and witness the intricate art of umbrella-making.

This comprehensive tour provides an opportunity to explore the region’s rich heritage and natural wonders.