Ban Rak Thai Sleep in the Middle of Nature and Feel the Cool Mountain Breeze

If you’re tired of sleeping in a hotel or a normal shelther, then you better move to another atmosphere instead. In northern provinces of Thailand, including Mae Hong Son, there are many nature-surrounded places for you. You may want to set up a little camp at one of them. Ban Rak Thai is one of those. You should try for once.

A Village Rooted in Yunnanese Heritage

If you’ve ever heard of the Yunnan ethnic group, then you already have a glimpse of what Ban Rak Thai is like. This village is one of their settlements, carrying forward traditions, food, and language that date back generations. The story of Ban Rak Thai began when Yunnanese migrants, including members of the Kuomintang (KMT) Party, fled China after the Chinese Civil War and settled in Mae Hong Son. Unlike other communities that have modernized rapidly, the people here have preserved their traditional way of life.

Walking through the village, you’ll notice that Chinese influences are everywhere—from the architecture of the mud-brick houses to the aroma of tea leaves drying in the sun. You might even feel like you’ve stepped into a small town in Yunnan, China. To fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere, put on some Chinese folk music and take a slow walk through the charming, lantern-lit streets.

A High-Altitude Escape on the Thai-Myanmar Border

Perched at an elevation of approximately 1,800 meters above sea level, Rak Thai village offers a cool climate all year round, making it a perfect retreat from Thailand’s tropical heat. The village sits right on the border between Thailand and Myanmar, surrounded by rolling green hills, lush tea plantations, and dense forests.

Decades ago, this land was mostly barren and undeveloped, but today, it is a thriving cultural and eco-tourism hotspot. The mist-covered mornings, fresh mountain air, and stunning landscapes make every moment here feel special. Whether you visit during the winter months for the crisp air and foggy views or during the rainy season when the hills turn a deep green, Ban Rak Thai always offers a refreshing escape into nature.

A Taste of Yunnan in the Heart of Thailand

The first thing you must do upon arriving at Ban Rak Thai is try the local food. This is not your typical Thai cuisine—instead, the village is famous for its authentic Yunnanese dishes, a legacy of the settlers who made this place their home.

🥢 What should you try?

• Stewed pork leg with mantou buns – A slow-cooked pork dish served with fluffy Chinese-style steamed buns. The flavors are rich and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
• Yunnan hotpot – A warming dish, perfect for the cool weather, filled with fresh vegetables, mushrooms, tofu, and aromatic herbs.
• Tea-infused dishes – Since the village is known for its tea plantations, some dishes feature tea leaves as an ingredient, creating a unique and flavorful experience.

Several restaurants in the village specialize in authentic Yunnanese food, using traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations. So, don’t hesitate—sit down, order a few dishes, and enjoy a feast that tells the story of the village’s past.

Exploring Ban Rak Thai’s Iconic Landmarks

After your meal, take some time to explore the charming village and its surroundings. There are several must-visit locations that capture the essence of Ban Rak Thai.

🏞  The Lake – The most famous attraction in the village, this serene lake is the heart of Ban Rak Thai. Whether you’re taking in the view, capturing photos, or enjoying a peaceful moment by the shore, the lake’s beauty is best appreciated at sunrise, when the mist floats gently above the water.

🌿 Tea Plantations – Ban Rak Thai is synonymous with tea, and a visit to its rolling tea fields is a must. The plantation landscape is arranged in neat terraces, with rows of tea bushes and small huts dotting the hillsides. Visitors are welcome from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, where they can learn about the tea-growing process, participate in tea picking, and taste freshly brewed Oolong, green, or black tea. Don’t forget to borrow a straw hat and basket, and snap some memorable photos as a tea farmer for the day!

🏠 Living Zone & Souvenir Shops – Beyond its natural beauty, Ban Rak Thai is a living community, where residents carry out traditional trades and crafts. Strolling through the village, you’ll see locals drying tea leaves, weaving handicrafts, and preparing homemade preserved fruits. Souvenir shops line the streets, selling locally grown tea, dried fruits, and Yunnan-style ceramic tea sets—perfect gifts to bring home.

Staying the Night Amidst Nature

For those who want to experience the tranquility of Ban Rak Thai after sunset, staying overnight is highly recommended. However, since this is a popular winter destination, accommodations fill up quickly during peak seasons.

🏡 What to expect?

• Traditional mud-brick guesthouses with simple yet cozy rooms.
• Lakeside resorts offering stunning views of the water.
• Small, family-run lodges that provide a warm and personal touch to your stay.

Waking up in the crisp morning air, with cool mist covering the lake and hills, is a truly magical experience. If you’re feeling stressed from work or study, spending a few days in Rak Thai village will refresh your mind, body, and spirit. There’s nothing quite like waking up to the sight of mist rolling over the lake and sipping fresh tea as the sun rises.

How to get there 

Ban Rak Thai is located at Area 6, Mhok Cham Pae District, Muang County, Mae Hong Son Province.

🚗 By Private Car:

• Start from Mae Hong Son city center and follow Chiang Mai – Mae Hong Son Road.
• Continue on Highway 1095 until you see the turn-off to Pha Suea Waterfall.
• Follow the road straight, and you will arrive at Ban Rak Thai.

🚐 By Public Transport:

• Catch a yellow minibus from Sai Yood Market for around 70 Baht. However, schedules may be limited, so check departure times in advance.
• Most hotels or travel agencies in Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son can arrange a private tour or transport for you.

🎟 By Tour Package:

• Joining a Mae Hong Son loop tour package is one of the easiest ways to visit Ban Rak Thai. Many packages include stops at Pang Ung, Pha Suea Waterfall, and tea plantations, offering a well-rounded experience.
• There are also package tours from Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son, perfect for those who want a seamless, guided trip.

Opening hours and Entrance fee : Opens daily from 9 am until 6 pm. Admission is free.

Note : Wheelchair user is accessible

Our services :

• Package Tours Maehongson06 : 4 days 3 nights Package Tour Pai – Mae Hong Son Loop

Ban Rak Thai Map