Pa Miang Royal Project Development Center

Rating: 3.6/5 (5 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08.00–17.00

 

Pa Miang Royal Project Development Center is a peaceful retreat in Chiang Mai for those who want to escape the city without completely disconnecting from the world. Surrounded by mountains and lush headwater forests, the center is also a living classroom of the Royal Initiative, clearly showing how highland livelihood development works in practice—from demonstration and farmer support to real agricultural products that communities can genuinely sell.

 

The center is located in Pang Bong Village, Moo 1, Thepsadet Subdistrict, Doi Saket District, Chiang Mai. Its area of responsibility covers several villages within the Doi Saket National Reserved Forest and Mae Takhrai National Park. This setting gives Pa Miang its authentic green landscape—not a staged environment, but a working forested area where people and nature continue to coexist.

 

Historically, the Pa Miang Royal Project Development Center was established after His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej visited villagers in Ban Pong in 1981 (B.E. 2524) and learned about the hardships caused by the declining miang (fermented tea leaf) economy. The center was therefore created as a demonstration and support hub, particularly focusing on mushroom cultivation and coffee, providing farmers with more stable income options suited to highland conditions.

 

The terrain is predominantly mountainous with steep slopes and large areas of montane evergreen forest. The elevation ranges roughly between 800 and 1,200 meters above sea level, resulting in a climate with distinct rhythms—cool on some days, misty or rainy during certain seasons. These conditions are ideal for crops such as Arabica coffee and selected highland ornamental plants when land and water are managed properly.

 

For agricultural tourism, highlights include experimental and demonstration plots within the center, featuring ornamental plants, orchids, ferns, and seasonal trial crops. Visitors can also learn about Arabica coffee grown under the Royal Project system, which emphasizes quality and safety, from plantation management to processing coffee beans or ground coffee that can be taken home as meaningful local products rather than generic souvenirs.

 

Another appealing aspect of Pa Miang is its community culture. The Thepsadet area still preserves traditional welcoming practices and cultural activities on special occasions, such as the Bai Sri Su Kwan blessing ceremony, fingernail dances, and local music. Visitors interested in learning are encouraged to be respectful, communicate politely, and avoid disturbing daily life or private community spaces.

 

For nature lovers, Pa Miang is connected to nearby attractions that many visitors continue on to explore, such as Thepsadet Waterfall, a multi-tiered waterfall, and certain forest trails. These routes require physical readiness and weather checks in advance, especially during the rainy season when paths can be slippery. Responsible travel here means carrying out all trash, keeping noise low, and leaving no trace behind.

 

Regarding accommodation, the center offers a limited number of guesthouses and camping areas, with tents available for rent (conditions may vary by season). As for food, there is generally no permanent restaurant within the center, but meals can be pre-ordered before an overnight stay. This setup suits travelers who plan ahead and prefer a quiet, unhurried stay.

 

Getting There From Chiang Mai city, take Highway 118 (Chiang Mai–Chiang Rai) through the Doi Saket junction toward the Thepsadet area, then follow the access road to Pang Bong Village / Pa Miang. The total distance is approximately 54 kilometers and takes about 1.5 hours, depending on the chosen route and traffic conditions.

 

 

A: Late rainy season through winter is generally the most comfortable period, with lush scenery. For specific products or activities, it is recommended to call ahead.

 

A: Yes. The main appeal lies in real learning—seeing how highland livelihoods are supported in practice, especially coffee and seasonal experimental crops, along with the tranquil headwater forest atmosphere.

 

A: Yes. The center offers limited guesthouse accommodation and camping areas, but availability and conditions may vary. Advance booking is recommended.

 

A: Generally, there is no permanent restaurant on-site. Meals can be pre-ordered for overnight stays, and nearby community restaurants and cafés are available.

 

A: Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring rain or wind protection depending on the season, carry drinking water, and check the latest information on activities, accommodation, and road conditions before departure.