Nong Phaya Phrom

Rating: 2.2/5 (23 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 06:00 – 18:00

 

Nong Phaya Phrom in On Tai Subdistrict, San Kamphaeng District, Chiang Mai, is a health-focused spot that feels more like a “community public park” than a place you need to over-prepare for. The pond and its surrounding area have long been used as a relaxed space to unwind, and what makes it different from a quick photo stop is how naturally it invites you to move without forcing it. There are exercise points and a walkable path along the pond’s edge, so people come either to walk seriously for fitness or simply to clear their head in the cool of the morning or late afternoon.

 

The charm of Nong Phaya Phrom is its sense of “just right.” It doesn’t pressure you to do a checklist of activities like bigger attractions, but it’s not so empty that there’s nothing to do. You can start with a slow walk around the water to enjoy the surface reflections and the line of trees, then gradually shift into brisk walking or a light jog at your own pace. If you come as a family, it’s a space where adults can get their steps in while kids can roam and breathe a bit—just keep a closer eye near the water for safety.

 

If you’re wondering “when is the best time to visit,” places like this typically feel most rewarding early in the morning or in the evening before closing. The sun is softer, the breeze is better, and the light looks great without needing heavy filters. Winter is especially comfortable for walking. In the rainy season, everything turns greener and feels more lush, but it’s smart to expect slippery patches and a bit more mosquitoes or insects. Shoes with good grip and mosquito repellent usually solve most of it.

 

Getting There If you’re driving from Chiang Mai city, set navigation to “Nong Phaya Phrom” and head toward the San Kamphaeng area, then continue into On Tai Subdistrict before entering the Ban Pa Hiang community area (Moo 1). Traveling by private car is the most convenient because it makes it easy to hop to nearby cafes, restaurants, or onward attractions in the Mae On zone. A motorbike also works, but allow a little extra time and ride carefully once you’re inside the community roads—especially during morning and evening hours when locals use the route more often.

 

Overall, Nong Phaya Phrom works nicely as a “reset stop” in a San Kamphaeng–On Tai–Mae On day. You can start the morning with a 30–60 minute walk around the pond, then continue to a nearby coffee shop or a meal before moving on to bigger destinations like San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, Mae Kampong Village, or Tham Mueang On Cave. It’s a balanced half-day plan that gives you both movement and real rest without feeling rushed.

 

 

A: Early morning or late afternoon before closing is ideal. The air is cooler, the light is softer, and it’s more comfortable for walking or light exercise.

 

A: For a relaxed walk and a quick reset, 30–60 minutes is enough. If you want to exercise more seriously and rest a bit afterward, plan for 1–2 hours.

 

A: Yes, the atmosphere is calm and easy-going. Just supervise closely near the water and consider visiting in the morning or evening to avoid strong midday heat.

 

A: Yes, if the rain isn’t heavy. Be mindful of slippery surfaces, wear shoes with good grip, and bring an umbrella or raincoat.

 

A: Popular next stops include San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, Mae Kampong Village, Tham Mueang On Cave, and Mae Ta Khrai National Park—all in the same general zone for an easy half-day to one-day itinerary.