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On July 15, 2025, the South China Morning Post (SCMP) suggested a list of the 6 best highland villages in Asia, and at the first was Mae Kampong Village. This dreamy destination has long been a favorite among travelers from around the world. Join Asia King Travel as we uncover the allure of the village in the article below.
Mae Kampong Village Honored in international newspaper
In the article, SCMP writer Tim Pile praised the beauty and tourism development of the village: “Mae Kampong is a breezy village nestled amid rolling hills about an hour’s drive east of Chiang Mai, northern Thailand.
The cool mountain air makes it ideal for growing tea and coffee, which you can sample in local cafes. Community-based tourism plays a key role in village life, empowering villagers and preserving traditions, with visitors taking part in activities such as harvesting crops and tending livestock.
As well as supporting local families, tourism income helps fund schools and infrastructure development. The village is powered by a micro-hydro station, reflecting its commitment to eco-friendly living.”
The village has received a great deal of love from international visitors
The review perfectly captures the first impression of any Mae Kampong tour: the cool, fresh mountain air, along with the local specialties of tea and coffee served in countless cozy cafes around the village. The local culture is equally captivating, marked by its simplicity, rustic charm, and the genuine hospitality of the villagers.
Notably, the list also includes another Southeast Asian destination, Ta Van Village in Vietnam. Much like Mae Kampong near Chiang Mai, Ta Van is close to Sapa, driving travelers authentic mountain vibes just a short distance from a bustling town. Villages in Southeast Asia truly know how to deliver the most genuine experiences for visitors.
Not only was it recently recognized, but Mae Kampong has also frequently appeared in rankings and lists by major travel websites. Lonely Planet included Chiang Mai (which encompasses Mae Kampong) in its list of the “Top 30 Cities Worldwide” in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025. The site also published an article titled “Best Things to Do in Chiang Mai?”, which highlights Mae Kampong as a special mention.
Wanderlog frequently lists Mae Kampong in its “Top Things To Do” in the Chiang Mai tour. According to Expedia, Mae Kampong ranks among the top 5 activities to experience in Mae On, standing out for its waterfalls, homestays, the Teen Tok project, and organic gardens. While the word “award” isn’t explicitly used, this kind of recognition is widely understood as a form of honor.
In 2010, Mae Kampong Village was honored with the Gold Award from the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) in the Cultural Tourism category.
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Just an hour's drive from Chiang Mai City brings travelers to Mae Kampong. Hiding in lush forests and mountains at an elevation of 1,300 meters, this village seems to only show its charm to true travel enthusiasts. Thanks to its secluded highland setting, Mae Kampong enjoys a cooler, fresher atmosphere than many other destinations in the province.
Upon arriving in the village, the first thing that likely impresses you is the sight of over 200 wooden houses clustered closely together on steep hillsides, interspersed with towering ancient trees that create a vibrant and lively landscape.
The village is nestled deep within the green mountains
Adding to the village’s charm are gentle streams that weave through the area, their soothing sounds flowing day and night. These streams originate from the stunning seven-tiered Mae Kampong Waterfall, a must-see during your northern Thailand tour.
If you're looking to explore the mystical blend of nature and spirituality, be sure to visit Muang On Cave. Inside the cave, thousands of stalactites and stalagmites form fascinating shapes, including carvings that resemble seals, five-headed elephants, and even dinosaurs. More than its natural wonders, the cave also houses ancient religious artifacts.
The houses in Mae Kampong are built close together, lining the steep main road that winds uphill. Well-traveled visitors often say the village looks like mountain villages in Japan. As you walk up the slope and step into a local café, the entire village seems to unfold beneath you in one breathtaking view. A moment that every visitor treasures on their Chiang Mai tour.
The best time to visit is around 9 a.m. In the highlands, the morning mist still lingers, and the air is crisp and cool, perfect for sipping a hot cup of coffee while taking in a real-life painting.
The old houses are built along the slope
Despite the growing number of tourists visiting the village, the locals have managed to preserve their traditional way of life. Their main livelihoods still revolve around growing tea, coffee, and various herbs. They continue to live in quaint, old-style houses, with no high-rise buildings in sight to disrupt the charming landscape.
You will be warmly welcomed by the friendly locals
Because of the focus on community-based tourism, visitors have the chance to experience authentic local cultural activities such as tea roasting, coffee bean roasting, and visits to traditional handicraft workshops. They can also enjoy performances of traditional folk dances. A significant portion of the revenue generated from tourism is reinvested into improving the livelihoods of local residents and funding community development projects.
Along the sloping road, you'll find not only charming cafes but also an entire street filled with local food stalls. Northern Thai specialties are served up one after another from early morning until late at night. A perfect balance of sour, spicy, salty, and sweet is simply unable to deny for your taste buds.
You absolutely have to try khao soi noodles, kai yang - grilled chicken marinated with aromatic spices served with som tum and sai ua, the signature sausage of the Chiang Mai region. And when evening falls, the scent of sizzling grilled meat skewers fills the entire street.
Not only will you enjoy the stunning scenery, but you’ll also get to taste delicious local dishes
Besides coffee, don’t forget to try Miang tea, a traditional local brew served with ginger, tamarind, and peanuts mixed with a touch of salt and sugar. Its slightly sour and refreshing taste will enhance your sense of calm as you soak in the cozy atmosphere of the village.
Mae Kampong’s place among the most beautiful highland villages in Asia is no coincidence. It’s the result of sustainable tourism development and the long-standing preservation of traditional values. After getting excited by the vibrant streets of Chiang Mai, the peaceful atmosphere of Mae Kampong offers the perfect retreat. So what are you waiting for? Let Asia King Travel take you on a great northern Thailand tour.
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