Huai Manao Reservoir

Rating: 3.7/5 (6 votes)

Open Days: Generally open daily (this is an agricultural water source and a community recreation area; please visit without disturbing local use and avoid periods of heavy rain/flash floods)

Opening Hours: Generally 08:00 – 20:00 (when restaurants and floating rafts are typically operating; hours may vary by season)

 

Huai Manao Reservoir is a mid-sized reservoir in Ban Mai Sawan, Mae Wang District, Chiang Mai. It plays a dual role as an agricultural water source and a relaxing public space for the local community. The surrounding scenery is a broad expanse of water embraced by hills and greenery, creating a calm, open atmosphere that’s ideal for slowing down and spending time unhurriedly.

 

This reservoir is a royal initiative (a project initiated under a royal development idea) that began around B.E. 2520 (1977). The main purpose was to address water shortages in an area that was formerly degraded reserved forest land, with approximately 4,500 rai considered suitable for allocation for cultivation. The project’s concept therefore focuses on water management that fits the terrain and supports sustainable farming for local residents.

 

In practical terms, Huai Manao Reservoir can supply water to about 4,500 rai of farmland during the rainy season and about 2,000 rai during the dry season. This helps reduce drought impacts and strengthens water security for agricultural areas in Mae Wang District, allowing farmers to plan cultivation more continuously instead of relying on rainfall alone.

 

Beyond irrigation, Huai Manao Reservoir is also an important freshwater fish breeding area in the region. A variety of freshwater fish can be found here, such as snakehead fish, silver barb, tilapia, and Java barb. It’s common to see locals and visitors who enjoy fishing around the reservoir, with activities generally taking place in a simple, community-guided manner.

 

The tourism charm of Huai Manao Reservoir is its completeness without the chaos. Around the reservoir, there are several food and drink options. Some areas provide seating in huts or floating raft platforms, while other zones offer seating on land, so visitors can choose what suits them. Overall, the vibe is similar to popular reservoir-side leisure spots in Chiang Mai, but quieter and more nature-forward.

 

Seasonality noticeably affects the atmosphere. During the rainy season, the landscape turns vividly green and the water level is high, but you should be cautious of heavy rain, slippery roads, and occasional fog. Late rainy season into early winter is often considered the best time to visit because the weather is comfortable, the scenery is beautiful, and travel conditions are generally safer.

 

Getting There: Drive from Chiang Mai city heading south via Highway 108 (Chiang Mai – Hot) for about 19 kilometers to San Pa Tong District. Then look for the junction on the right with signs to Mae Wang District and take Highway 1013 for about 12 kilometers to enter the Ban Kad area of Mae Wang District. At the intersection, turn right and continue for about 7 kilometers to reach Huai Manao Reservoir. The route is generally easy to drive and traffic is not usually heavy.

 

When visiting Huai Manao Reservoir, please respect the site: do not swim, do not litter, and do not interfere with community use. This helps ensure the reservoir remains sustainable as both an agricultural water source and a local recreation space.

 

 

A: It is a royal-initiative project created to address water shortages and support cultivation for communities in the Mae Wang area.

 

A: It’s best for relaxing, eating by the water, taking photos, and spending time slowly rather than doing strenuous activities.

 

A: Not recommended, as this is an agricultural reservoir and there is no dedicated safety system for water activities.

 

A: Late rainy season to early winter is ideal for comfortable weather, beautiful scenery, and easier travel.