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In Northern Thailand's mountainous regions lies Doi Mae Salong, a peaceful place that draws in visitors with an intriguing history, extreme local culture, and awe-inspiring scenery. Going back only a few decades, Doi Mae Salong's historical roots are a powerful recipe for tourism.
In the 1960s, soldiers of the Chinese Kuomintang who retreated to the northern parts of Thailand during the Chinese Civil War settled in this mountainous region. They brought tea and unexpected architecture.
Today, visitors to "Thailand's Little Yunnan" can experience a day unlike any other in a unique and memorable area that fuses Thai, Chinese, and indigenous cultures.
Doi Mae Salong. (Source: Shutterstock)
Doi Mae Salong’s story originates from the arrival of Kuomintang soldiers who fled from China during the Chinese Civil War in the late 1940s. Subsequently settling in this mountainous area, those soldiers established a self-sustaining society that combined Thai and Chinese customs.
In the early 1940s, opium was the first product, and it was considered the primary industry. Then, with the collaboration of the community to introduce tea cultivation, the Thai government had cut off planting opium and planting tea instead, which flourished in the high-altitude climate.
Up until now, whenever asked about Doi Mae Salong, people in this town are always proud of its Oolong tea plantations as a gift of Mother Nature. Because of Chinese culture, the cuisine, language, and annual festivals of this town are definitely influenced.
History of Doi Mae Salong. (Source: Freepik)
Witnessing this unique blend of history and culture as a chance for visitors who come to Doi Mae Salong either the first time or more because these things have defined Doi Mae Salong for its speciality and make it a captivating destination for cultural tourism.
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One of Doi Mae Salong's main attractions is its famed tea plantations. The chilly climate and good soil make this region perfect for producing high-quality Oolong tea, which has become a symbol of Doi Mae Salong.
Many estates welcome tourists, providing guided tours of the full tea-producing process, from growing to processing and tasting. Popular plantations include 101 Tea Plantation and Wang Put Tan Tea Plantation, where tourists may try several tea varieties, purchase tea goods, and take in the vistas of terraced tea fields.
When visitors pay a visit to this town, the locals will give them a chance to sample a tea-peaking experience and witness the process of making tea for farmers. From this experience, they will get all the way to make each cup of tea, which helps the locals earn from the tea fields and encourages sustainable tourism.
Tea Plantations as the Heart of Doi Mae Salong. (Source: Unsplash)
When you ask the locals about Mae Salong Temple, they will tell you a story about a majestic land where Mae Salong Temple is settled. It is known as Wat Santikhiri and is located on the top of a mountain where you can witness the stunning panorama of surroundings.
The temple's golden stupa gleams in the sunlight and serves as a focal point for tourists, who may stroll about the quiet grounds or meditate while appreciating the sights. The trek up to the temple is definitely worth it, as it rewards tourists with a sense of peace and miles-long panoramic views.
The temple has special value for the residents, and during the Chinese New Year, it transforms into a hub for traditional events, attracting visitors from adjacent villages and cities.
Doi Mae Salong's local markets are a vibrant representation of the community's ethnic variety. Visitors may purchase a wide range of Yunnan and Thai items here, such as dried fruits, Chinese herbs, handcrafted teas, traditional Yunnan snacks, and elaborately carved souvenirs.
The main market is located in the heart of town, where sellers offer everything from fresh food to steamy bowls of Yunnan-style noodles. This market is a good place to try local foods like Yunnan dumplings and "khao soi," a renowned Northern Thai noodle dish with Chinese influences.
If you're shopping for souvenirs, the market sells tea and one-of-a-kind handicrafts made by Chinese and hill tribal artists.
The Martyrs' Memorial Hall may be small, but it is impactful. It tells the story of KMT soldiers who left China to come to Thailand and settled in Doi Mae Salong. To call the hall a museum might be a stretch; it's more like a family collection of photos and documents and a few artifacts that provide a glimpse into the story of these soldiers.
Best time to discover Doi Mae Salong. (Source: Unsplash)
During the cool, dry season from November to February is a great period for visitors who want to try out things in Doi Mae Salong. Perfect weather with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C makes this town itself very comfortable to be outside, exploring the small town and touring the tea plantations.
The colorful trees, the lushness of the tea plantations, and the coolness of the climate make Doi Mae Salong a lovely refuge from the warmth and humidity of the rest of Thailand. Chinese New Year, which falls in January or February, is a particular highlight for many visitors to the town.
To celebrate, the townspeople hang colorful lanterns all over the place, paint the inscription "Happy New Year" in big letters everywhere, and host lion dances and other performances that showcase the town's Chinese heritage.
Doi Mae Salong, a captivating hilltop retreat, is situated about 70 kilometers from Chiang Rai. You can reach this picturesque destination in a few ways:
Doi Mae Salong is a place where visitors can explore the fusion of Thai and Chinese cultures in such a beautiful natural environment. With tea farms, temples on hills, busy markets, and historical places, Doi Mae Salong is making itself great for people who fancy nature, history, or culture. Join Asia King Travel to find out the specialities of this small town.
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