Mae Chai

Mae Chai (แม่ใจ) is a small town and subdistrict in northwestern Phayao Province, near the border with Lampang Province. It sits along National Highway 1 (Phahonyothin Road) and serves as the principal town of Mae Chai District. The area was historically heavily forested but saw significant growth in rice and highland wheat production from the 1990s onward. Red kidney beans are also cultivated in the surrounding hills.

The district lies in the upper valley of the Ing River. West of town rises Doi Luang (1,426 m), a peak in the Phi Pan Nam Range within Doi Luang National Park. East of the town are the Nong Liang Sai and Mae Pim reservoirs. Part of Mae Chai lies within Mae Puem National Park, making it a potential base for exploring protected forests and wildlife. The area was historically part of Chiang Rai province until Phayao was established in 1977. The Mae Chai River runs through the area. The climate is typical of Northern Thailand: cool season (Nov–Feb), hot season (Mar–May), and rainy season (Jun–Oct).

By Plane

The nearest major airport is Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI), about 110 km north, or Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), about 140 km south. From either, take a bus to Mae Chai.

By Train

The nearest railway station is in Lampang (about 80 km south), with regular train services from Bangkok and Chiang Mai. From Lampang, take a bus north to Mae Chai.

By Car / Road

Mae Chai lies directly on Highway 1 (Phahonyothin Road), about 30 km northwest of Phayao town. Buses running between Phayao and Lampang stop here. From Phayao Bus Terminal, the journey takes about 40 minutes (40–50 baht).

The town is small and easily walkable. Songthaews connect Mae Chai to surrounding villages. For exploring Mae Puem National Park, a private vehicle or hired motorbike is recommended.

• Mae Puem National Park — A forested park straddling the Phayao-Lampang border, offering hiking, waterfalls, and wildlife viewing. The park protects the Mae Puem National Conserved Forest and Dong Pradu Forest. Access from Mae Chai town.
• Doi Luang — A 1,426 m peak in the Phi Pan Nam Range, rising within Doi Luang National Park. Offers hiking and mountain views.
• Nong Liang Sai Reservoir and Mae Pim Reservoir — Two reservoirs east of town, popular for fishing and picnics.
• Agricultural landscapes — Rice paddies, wheat fields, and kidney bean farms surround the town, with views of forested hills.

Hiking and nature walks in Mae Puem National Park. The park has several trails through mixed deciduous and evergreen forest. Birdwatching is rewarding, especially in the early morning.

Simple Thai restaurants along Highway 1 serve khao soi, grilled chicken, som tam (papaya salad), and other Northern Thai staples. The market has freshly cooked snacks for takeaway.

Bottled water and soft drinks are available at local shops. Coffee and tea stalls are found near the market area.

Accommodation options are limited. Small guesthouses and homestays may be available — ask at the district office or local shops. For more choices, stay in Phayao town (30 km southeast).

The morning market sells fresh local produce including rice, vegetables, and seasonal fruit. For speciality shopping, Phayao town has a wider selection.

• Phayao (30 km southeast) — Provincial capital with Phayao Lake, Wat Si Khom Kham, and lakeside dining.
• Lampang (80 km south) — Known for horse-drawn carriages, Burmese-style temples, and the Wat Phra That Lampang Luang.
• Chiang Rai (110 km north) — Gateway to the Golden Triangle and the White Temple.
• Doi Phu Nang National Park (70 km east) — Waterfalls, hiking, and wildlife in the Phi Pan Nam Range.