Independent hotels in Mae Suai

Mae Suai is a lush mountain district of northern Thailand which boasts a fabulous portfolio of resorts and hotels. Mae Suai’s location roughly two-thirds of the way between the cities of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai makes it a great base for nature trips and hikes. It provides trouble-free access to Doi Luang, Doi Pha Hom Pok and Pha Daeng national parks.

Wat Saeng Kaeo Photiyaan temple is located in the town of Mae Suai and features a notable collection of Buddhism related statues. Visiting one of the local coffee plantations is enlightening and relaxing at the same time. The plantations offer pleasing landscapes in secluded locations, while knowledgeable guides provide details about the growing and maturation process of coffee beans.

The massive expanses of Doi Luang National Park are a worthwhile destination when staying in Mae Suai. Reasons to visit this park include the Pu Gaeng and Wang Gaew waterfalls, bathing pools, trekking trails to commanding viewpoints and hilltribe villages. Holidaymakers have the option of joining guided tours of the park or using their own hired vehicles.

There are not too many places to eat in Mae Suai, with nearly all restaurants in the area serving up local Thai cuisine. The same is true for bars, apart from a couple of local places where visitors can have a beer or Thai whiskey. Restaurants also offer alcohol, as do a few convenience shops. No visit to Mae Suai should go without having a cup of arabica coffee, which is famous to the region.

Again, roadside stops are the best places to buy souvenirs and snacks from. Items such as back-scratchers, foot-stools and baskets crafted from bamboo make cheap and attractive keepsakes to take home. In a couple of locations, hilltribe clothing and hats are on sale. Onsite shops in resorts usually have a small collection of the items sold at the night bazaars in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. These typically include silver bracelets and earrings, opium pipes and beautifully finished lacquerware boxes and ornaments.