Family-Friendly Adventures in Mae Chan District, Chiang Rai,, Thailand!

Choui Fong Tea Plantation

Why Visit?

Embark on a refreshing family day out at Choui Fong Tea Plantation, located in the serene hills of Chiang Rai, Thailand. Known for its expansive, lush green fields and high-quality tea, it"s a perfect blend of education and relaxation.

Getting There

Choui Fong Tea Plantation is about a 90-minute drive from Chiang Rai city center. Renting a car or hiring a taxi for a day trip is the most convenient way to visit, providing flexibility to explore at your own pace.

Itinerary

Morning - Plantation Tour (Start around 9 AM)

Arrive early to enjoy the cool morning air. Start with a guided tour (available in English and Thai) which kicks off from the main visitor center. You"ll learn about the different types of tea plants, their growth processes, and the meticulous art of tea harvesting. The kids will be fascinated to see the tea leaves they usually see in bags, right on the plants!

Midday - Tea Tasting Session

After the walking tour, head to the tea tasting area. Here, you can sip on various freshly brewed teas. The staff will explain the distinct flavors and brewing techniques. Don"t miss trying the plantation"s signature oolong tea!

Lunch at the Tea Plantation Café (Around 12 PM)

Enjoy a meal at the onsite café, which offers a range of delicious dishes with a panoramic view of the tea fields. The café uses fresh, local ingredients, and some dishes incorporate the plantation"s own teas.

Afternoon - DIY Tea Picking (Post-lunch)

Post-lunch, participate in a DIY tea picking experience. It"s a fun activity for the kids as they try their hand at picking the best tea leaves under the guidance of experienced workers.

Visit the Gift Shop

Before heading back, stop by the gift shop. It"s a great place to buy some tea and souvenirs like tea-flavored ice cream and cosmetics made from tea extracts, ensuring you take a piece of your visit home.

Departure (Around 3 PM)

Wrap up your visit by 3 PM to avoid the late afternoon rush and enjoy a leisurely drive back to the city.

This itinerary offers a blend of educational and leisure activities ideal for a family looking to explore the picturesque and calming environment of a tea plantation.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Hall of Opium Museum

Why Visit?

Morning Adventure at the Hall of Opium Museum

Begin your family day trip at the Hall of Opium Museum, nestled in the Golden Triangle Park near Chiang Rai, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge. To get there, rent a car or book a tour from Chiang Rai, approximately 1.5 hours away. This unique museum offers a deeply engaging experience that delves into the history of opium, its global journey, and impacts.

Museum Highlights & Educational Journey

Arrive by 9 AM as the museum opens, giving your family plenty of time to explore without rush. The museum presents an interactive educational journey beginning with a dark tunnel that symbolizes the mystery and allure of opium. Your family will learn about the history of opium trade, the Opium Wars, and the role of opium in culture and society through multimedia displays and captivating exhibits.

Interactive Exhibits and Family Learning

Engage with interactive displays that are child-friendly and educational. Children will be fascinated by the reconstructed opium den and the sea of poppies installation, which vividly illustrate the historical context. Each section of the museum is designed to foster understanding and spark curiosity, making learning about this challenging subject matter accessible and intriguing.

Garden Exploration and Scenic Views

Post-museum exploration, stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens surrounding the museum. Enjoy a family picnic with views overlooking the convergence of the three countries, a perfect spot to discuss the new insights gained and relax in the picturesque setting.

Conclusion of the Day

Wrap up your visit by 1 PM, ensuring you have the afternoon to explore nearby attractions in the Golden Triangle area or return to Chiang Rai for other adventures. The Hall of Opium Museum not only offers a unique historical insight but also provides a comprehensive, memorable experience that educates and engages every family member.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Chiang Saen

Why Visit?

Chiang Saen, a hidden gem in Northern Thailand, offers a blend of history, nature, and culture, making it a perfect destination for a family trip. Here’s an engaging two-day itinerary for a family visit:

### Day 1: Exploring Ancient Ruins and Temples

Morning

Start your day at the Chiang Saen National Museum (open Wednesday-Sunday, 9 AM-4 PM). It"s a great place to introduce the kids to the rich history of the area with artifacts dating back to the Lanna Kingdom. It"s just a short walk from the main town area.

Lunch

Enjoy a meal by the Mekong River. There are several family-friendly restaurants offering local Thai cuisine with views of the river.

Afternoon

Visit Wat Phra That Pha Ngao, just a 15-minute drive from the town center. The temple offers a serene atmosphere and stunning views of the Mekong River and Laos. Kids will love exploring the giant Buddha statue and the old chedi surrounded by bells.

Evening

Return to Chiang Saen for a quiet dinner and perhaps a stroll along the river to see the sunset.

### Day 2: Nature and Wildlife

Morning

Drive to the Golden Triangle Park, where Thailand meets Laos and Myanmar. It’s about 20 minutes from Chiang Saan. Explore the opium museum to educate the family on the area"s past in the opium trade, and take a boat trip around the river junction, a real geographical marvel.

Lunch

Have lunch at one of the riverside cafes in the Golden Triangle area, offering dishes that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

Afternoon

End your trip with a visit to the Hall of Opium, an informative museum about the history of opium in the region and its global impact. It"s both educational and intriguing, with interactive displays that engage children.

Each activity is rich in cultural history and natural beauty, promising a memorable experience for the whole family in Chiang Saen.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Doi Mae Salong

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating journey to Doi Mae Salong, a hidden gem in Northern Thailand that promises an enchanting experience for your family. Known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, this hilltop village offers a perfect blend of nature and history.

Day 1: Arrival and Tea Plantation Tour

Start your adventure by driving from Chiang Rai, which is approximately 1.5 hours away. Upon arrival, check into one of the cozy guesthouses or resorts. Refresh and head out to explore the sprawling tea plantations that Doi Mae Salong is famous for. The Choui Fong Tea Plantation, with its meticulously manicured terraces, offers a guided tour that explains the tea-making process and ends with a delightful tea tasting session. The kids will love the open spaces and the chance to see tea pickers in action.

Day 2: Historical Exploration and Local Market

Dedicate your second day to learning about the intriguing history of Doi Mae Salong, originally settled by Kuomintang soldiers who fled China in the 1960s. Visit the informative Mae Salong Museum to uncover this unique past and then stroll to the Martyrs" Memorial Hall, a tribute to the fallen soldiers. In the afternoon, wander through the local market to pick up some souvenirs and try some local snacks like the delicious Yunnanese dishes or the famous oolong tea.

Day 3: Nature Walk and Departure

On your last day, take a leisurely walk through the village’s serene surroundings. The Phra Boromathat Chedi, set on a hill, provides panoramic views of the rolling hills and is a great spot for family photos. Afterward, pack up and drive back to Chiang Rai or continue your journey onward.

Doi Mae Salong"s blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural diversity makes it a fascinating destination for a family trip, leaving you with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation of Thailand’s diverse landscapes and histories.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Mae Sai (Maesai)

Why Visit?

Embark on a memorable family adventure in Mae Sai, the northernmost town of Thailand, brimming with unique cultural experiences and stunning landscapes. Here"s a perfect itinerary to make the most out of your Mae Sai trip:

Day 1: Explore the Vibrant Border Market

Start your journey at the bustling Mae Sai Border Market, where you can witness the lively trade activities between Thailand and Myanmar. Easily accessible by local tuk-tuk or songthaew from the town center, this market offers an array of goods from both countries. Dive into the local culture by trying some street food like khao soi (curry noodles) or sweet roti. Kids will love the colorful souvenirs and handmade crafts.

Day 2: Visit Wat Phra That Doi Wao

Just a short drive from the market, visit Wat Phra That Doi Wao, an ancient temple offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the nearby town of Tachileik in Myanmar. The temple is home to a giant scorpion statue guarding its entrance, a unique photo opportunity for the family. Learn about the temple"s legend involving a mythical serpent and its role in protecting the area.

Day 3: Tham Pla - Fish Cave National Park

Venture approximately 12 km southwest of Mae Sai to Tham Pla, also known as the Fish Cave National Park. Kids will be fascinated by the large pool filled with fish considered sacred by locals. The park offers shaded picnic areas perfect for a family lunch. Explore the serene walking trails surrounding the cave and enjoy a relaxed day in nature.

Throughout your visit, Mae Sai"s charm lies in its vibrant culture and the warm hospitality of its people. Each attraction showcases the unique blend of Thai and Myanmar influences, making your family trip both educational and exciting.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.