Thailand Hill Tribe Visit

Visiting the hill-tribes is one of the most wonderful parts of visiting the northern regions of Thailand. Some of the tribes are still relatively remote and have not been influenced by modern life. Many tribes still make and wear traditional clothing and sell their handicrafts for a living.

In northern Thailand, there are ten different tribes of hill people. The Karen are by far the most numerous and they’re easy-going and friendly. Many of the Hmong people live in Chiang Mai near the mountain peaks.

The most remote of the hilltribe people are the Akha, who still practise shifting cultivation. Trekking is one way to learn about their lifestyles and traditions.

CHIANG MAI
Hilltribe treks are a popular variety of trekking in and around Chiang Mai. These consist of stretches trekked on foot, on elephant back, and by mountain bike, bamboo raft and rubber kayak. Popular programmes include stops and overnight stays at ethnic villages: Karen, Lahu, and Shan.

CHIANG RAI
Hilltribe treks at Chiang Rai also combine hiking, elephant back rides and rafting, and include stops or overnight stays at hilltribe villages.

HMONG VILLAGE
Experience the genuine Hmong way of life with a homestay in a well-maintained traditional village off the Chiang Khong-Chiang Saen road. Choose from 196 households offering accommodation for as little as 100 baht per person per night.

MAE HONG SON
One of the best hiking trails in Mae Hong Son is Doi Mae Ukor, in Khun Yuam District. This centres around the Mae Surin Waterfall. The trails here wind through Waterfalls and a vast field of wild sunflowers that bloom in November.