Rating: 4.2/5 (6 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00

 

Nong Hiang (Village No. 1, Ban Phae Phatthana, Mae Pang Subdistrict, Phrao District, Chiang Mai Province) is a small village pond with a charm best described as “simple but genuine.” It has never been designed or promoted as a formal tourist landmark. Instead, it remains a shared water space that flows naturally with the rhythm of everyday community life. Visitors come here to relax quietly, sit by the water, feel the breeze, and experience a rural atmosphere that is still true to itself — a place where time seems to slow down on its own.

 

In northern Thailand, village ponds are more than just scenic views. They are essential elements of the local way of life. Ponds collect rainwater, provide water for use during certain seasons, and serve as familiar communal spaces for villagers. The appeal of Nong Hiang lies in this shared role. Visitors can observe still water, hear the wind and birds, and sense the distant sounds of village life blending into a calm rural atmosphere that feels authentic rather than staged.

 

If your goal is to enjoy pleasant scenery and a good mood, early morning and late afternoon are the best times to visit. The light is softer, reflections on the water are clearer, and the air is more comfortable than at midday. Late rainy season through winter is especially appealing, when humidity is balanced, surrounding trees look fresh, and the breeze is gentle. During the rainy season, the pond appears fuller and more lively, though visitors should watch out for slippery ground and mosquitoes. In the hot season, visiting early in the morning or near sunset is recommended to avoid strong sunlight.

 

Activities at Nong Hiang are best kept simple — leisurely walks, photography of water reflections, or sitting quietly without disturbing local residents. If visiting with children or elderly family members, it is advisable to stay in areas with stable ground and keep a safe distance from steeper pond edges, as community ponds do not always have safety railings like commercial tourist sites. A small but important mindset for visiting is to respect the space: keep noise low, take all trash with you, and avoid feeding animals in ways that could disrupt the ecosystem.

 

Getting There Nong Hiang is best reached by private vehicle. From Phrao District, head toward Mae Pang Subdistrict and enter Ban Phae Phatthana (Village No. 1). Drivers are advised to maintain a moderate speed, as some rural roads are narrow, winding, and shared with local residents and livestock. If you are unsure of the exact turn-off or entrance, setting your navigation to “Ban Phae Phatthana, Mae Pang” and asking villagers for “Nong Hiang” will lead you to the correct spot.

 

For travelers looking to make the most of their day, Nong Hiang works well as a peaceful pause between visits around Phrao and nearby areas. You can combine it with a visit to a well-known temple in Mae Pang, a stop at a nearby hot spring, or continue toward national park areas and reservoirs within the Sri Lanna region. Together, these destinations create a well-balanced day trip that blends quiet moments, community life, and natural scenery.

 

 

A: Early morning and late afternoon are recommended, as the light is softer, the weather is comfortable, and water reflections are especially beautiful.

 

A: As it is a community pond, there is generally no entrance fee. Visitors are encouraged to respect the area and avoid disturbing local residents.

 

A: Yes, visitors can generally walk around and find places to sit and relax. Wearing comfortable footwear is recommended, especially during the rainy season when the ground may be slippery.

 

A: It can be suitable with close supervision. Choose areas with even ground and avoid steep pond edges where there are no safety railings.

 

A: Nearby options include Wat Doi Mae Pang (Luang Pu Waen), Pong Bua Ban Hot Spring, and areas within Sri Lanna National Park and the Mae Ngat reservoir zone.