Rating: 3.7/5 (7 votes)

Open Days: generally daily (recommended to call ahead if you plan activities or an overnight stay)

Opening Hours: generally 08:00 – 17:00 (based on hours commonly cited in available sources)

 

Mae Chaem Forest Park in Mae Chaem District, Chiang Mai, is a place that gently pulls you away from the rush of the city and into a landscape of forest and flowing water, without needing to exaggerate its charm. One of its key features is that it is a forest park managed by the Forest Industry Organization (FIO), with the Mae Chaem River running through the area. This gives the park a living, breathing atmosphere — not just quiet woodland, but moving water, cool breezes, and plenty of space for relaxed outdoor activities, from casual walks to bamboo rafting and mountain biking for those who enjoy being active.

 

The overall feel of the park is “spacious, open, and shaded.” It’s a green area well suited for recharging without the pressure of ticking off attractions. Many visitors enjoy spending time near the river, as the presence of flowing water immediately softens the mood of the place. Early mornings are especially pleasant, with cool air that’s perfect for strolling, photography, and easing yourself into a slower rhythm. In the late afternoon, the light becomes warmer and more atmospheric, ideal for a gentle walk before heading back into Mae Chaem town or continuing on to another route.

 

Activities that fit naturally with Mae Chaem Forest Park include bamboo rafting along the Mae Chaem River, offering a simple, traditional Thai style of relaxation — nothing luxurious, but genuinely comfortable. Cycling is another popular option, particularly for mountain bike riders who enjoy natural trails with a bit of challenge. Even if you’re not looking for physical activity, the park works just as well for “doing nothing at all,” thanks to its resting spots and an atmosphere that invites quiet conversation or simply letting the silence do its work.

 

Another layer of Mae Chaem Forest Park’s appeal is its role as a learning and conservation space. As an FIO forest park, it isn’t designed purely for tourism. It also functions as an area for environmental education, offering knowledge about forest resources to students and interested visitors, and it can accommodate group activities such as meetings or seminars. For travelers who prefer to understand a place rather than just pass through it, this park provides a clear view of the relationship between people and forests in a very tangible way.

 

When it comes to seasons, winter is the most comfortable, with cooler temperatures that are ideal for relaxing or staying overnight. The rainy season brings lush greenery and energetic river flows, though visitors should be cautious of slippery ground and come prepared with rain gear and good footwear. In the hot season, visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon is recommended; bring enough water and you can still enjoy the park comfortably.

 

Getting There If driving from Chiang Mai city, take Highway 108 (Chiang Mai – Hot – Mae Sariang), then connect to the route leading to Mae Chaem District. Continue along the local roads until reaching the entrance to the forest park. Using a navigation app and pinning “Mae Chaem Forest Park” is highly recommended for accuracy. Before setting off, make sure your fuel tank is full and allow sufficient travel time. If you plan to return the same day, it’s best to head back before dark for safety on the mountain roads.

 

If you’re looking for a nature-focused destination in Chiang Mai that doesn’t require climbing high peaks, yet still offers calm, greenery, and real time by the water, Mae Chaem Forest Park is a dependable choice. It isn’t a place designed to keep you constantly excited; rather, it’s a space that lets you truly “rest” — in a way both your body and mind can feel right away.

 

 

A: It is located in Village 3, Kong Khaek Subdistrict, Mae Chaem District, Chiang Mai. You can navigate directly using the coordinates 18.30687, 98.36179.

 

A: Winter offers the most comfortable weather and is ideal for relaxing or staying overnight. The rainy season is lush and scenic, but visitors should be cautious of slippery paths.

 

A: Popular activities include bamboo rafting, cycling, walking, photography, and group activities. If you plan specific activities or an overnight stay, it’s best to call ahead.

 

A: It’s accessible by car via the main route to Hot District and then onward to Mae Chaem. Using a navigation app and allowing enough travel time is recommended, and it’s best to return before dark.

 

A: You can contact the park at 087-182-6440.