Rating: 3.9/5 (9 votes)

Open Days: Daily (advance contact or appointment recommended, especially during the rainy season)

Opening Hours: Generally 08.00–17.00 (may vary depending on field operations)

 

Royal Initiative Highland Agricultural Development Station, Ban Sao Daeng is a learning-oriented destination that allows visitors to witness “real development work on the ground” without artificial presentation. Its value does not lie in flashy attractions, but in the systematic management of highland farmland—covering soil, water, and disciplined coexistence with upstream forests—which represents the core principles of many royal initiative development projects across Chiang Mai.

 

The station is located south of Ban Sao Daeng, Moo 7, Chaem Luang Subdistrict, Chiang Mai Province, covering an area of approximately 387 rai. Available information indicates that the land originally belonged to 14 local households from Ban Sao Daeng, all of whom voluntarily donated their farmland for the establishment of the station. This reflects a fundamental “root” of development work: a shift from fragmented individual farming toward a shared prototype area that elevates knowledge, planning, and long-term community support systems.

 

It is important to understand that stations of this type function primarily as “working field areas” rather than leisure-oriented tourist sites. Meaningful visits usually come from moving slowly, observing guidelines posted in the area, respecting operational boundaries, and—when appropriate—politely engaging with on-site staff to gain deeper insight into how the station functions as part of a broader development system.

 

Another factor to prepare for is the remoteness and road conditions. The final sections of the route include gravel and local dirt roads, resulting in relatively long travel times. During the rainy season, these dirt-road sections may deteriorate, making careful planning, weather checks, and time management essential.

 

Getting There Travel from Chiang Mai to Mae Rim via Highway 107, then turn left toward Samoeng District along Highway 1096. Upon reaching Samoeng town, continue along Rural Road 5032 (Samoeng–Wat Chan) to Ban Wat Chan, then proceed via local dirt roads to Ban Sao Daeng. Key distance segments include approximately: Chiang Mai–Mae Rim 15 km, Mae Rim–Samoeng 35 km, Samoeng–Wat Chan 93 km, and Wat Chan–Ban Sao Daeng 21 km. Total travel time is around 4 hours, though it may take longer during the rainy season.

 

 

A: It is ideal for visitors interested in royal initiative development projects, highland agriculture, and learning-oriented travel rather than photo-centric tourism.

 

A: Visitors will experience the atmosphere of highland communities and gain an overview of the station’s development systems; accessible areas may vary depending on field activities.

 

A: Travel time is relatively long and includes gravel and dirt-road sections. Extra caution is advised, especially during the rainy season when conditions may worsen.

 

A: Prepare food, drinking water, insect repellent, rain or cold-weather gear depending on season, and appropriate footwear. Check weather conditions and fuel up before entering remote sections.

 

A: The nearest areas with accommodation options are Ban Wat Chan and Galyani Vadhana District, which offer more lodging and camping choices. Advance booking is recommended, especially in winter.

 

A: Late rainy season to early winter is generally more comfortable. During the rainy season, allow extra travel time and prioritize road safety.