A Google Search for the word “Mae Hia” returns images of the reservoir, view of Doi Suthep, and shaded green areas, as top results. This indicates a variety of things, as determined from personal memories of the Mae Hia area and the desire of internet users to share something with the public, from which we may infer that society in general perceives and discusses Mae Hia as being comprised of designated, beautiful, green, recreational areas, which attract people to ‘check in’.

If you look at the real world, away from the screen, is Mae Hia really like that? Admittedly, it is true, although there are still many more positive aspects. This article has compiled 5 Active Green Spaces suitable for recreational activities, both intense and relaxed, and with beautiful angles to take photographs for social media…let’s get started!

1. Mae Hia Agricultural Demonstration and Training Center

On the south side of the Doi Suthep area, covering over 600 rai, the Department of Forestry has permitted Chiang Mai University to utilize the area with the purpose of education and agricultural research. Currently, there is an established research center and university research institute, while the area at the back features a reservoir, view of Doi Suthep, lawn and coffee shop for sitting and relaxing. Additionally, the road encircling the agricultural plot is suitable for running and cycling, located behind the park area.

Free access

Open 06:00 – 21:00

2. Urban Forest, Doi Suthep-Pui National Park Protection Unit, Por 4.

Located behind Mae Hia Agricultural Research Center. Following the road through the research area and exiting through the rear gate, you will enter a forested area within the city. This is the main road leading to Baan Mae Hia. The beautiful shaded atmosphere begins from this point onward, with large shady trees on both sides, continuing to the parking area surrounded by teak forest. On the north side, there is a short study route open at certain times to anyone interested in hiking and seeing the forest at the foot of the mountain, coordinated by forestry officials of the National Park Protection Unit. But for anyone who practices Lanna rituals and beliefs, the meeting points and times within the urban forest will be of particular interest during the Pu Sae – Ya Sea Guardian Spirit Festival, which takes place from May – June (14^th day of the 9^th lunar month, according to the Lanna calendar). The ritual is performed in the courtyard on the south side of the National Park Unit building. On the day of the event, people of faith attend from all over the world. But if their visit doesn’t coincide with the ceremony, there is a ancestral house arranged to honor spiritual beliefs and protect the Lanna forest.

Free entry

Open 08:30 – 16:30

3. Urban Forest – Mae Hia Botanical Garden

Hidden on a small road, next to Chiang Mai Night Safari, is a beautiful gem of urban forestry. This charming dry forest should appeal to those who enjoy walking or biking along forest paths – walking slowly, moving with the wind, without haste, without restlessness, relaxed all the way – especially the small paths along side the road.

Free access

Open 08:30 – 16:30

4. Royal Park Rajapruek (World Horticultural Garden)

It is safe to say that the World Horticultural Fair in Chiang Mai in 2006, 16 years ago, is still clear in many people’s minds, including those who visited from other provinces, as well as locals. The arrangement of that event still impresses many people even today, the splendor of the plants cannot be compared to the past. But the plants and international gardens are still cared for, and can be visited every day. Entrance fee is 100 bath for adults and 70 baht for children between 100-140cm tall. For foreign visitors, entrance fee is 200 baht for adults and 150 baht for children between 100-140cm tall.

For those who like to exercise, be it walking or cycling, you can enjoy the cool evening breeze at the foot of the mountain. The location of Royal Park Rajapruek is the best, with a beautiful and pleasant atmosphere, similar to that of Ang Kaew in Chiang Mai University.

Admission from 08:00 – 18:00

More information: www.royalparkrajapruek.org

5. Chiang Mai Night Safari

Open in 2005, welcoming and serving both Thai and foreign tourists for a long time, the tourism program is continuously being improved with new activities added constantly. Currently, there are two main types of activity. The Safari Tram (viewing animals from inside a vehicle) includes all other activities: Jaguar Trail, Tiger Show, Night Predator Show, Tiger World, Petting Zoo, photo-taking with small animals, Dancing Show, and the House Man Show in the salon. Price is 300 baht for adults and 150 baht for children, or 800 baht for foreign visitors and 400 baht for children. The Jaguar Trail is suitable for anyone who wishes to view animals on foot. Price is 50 baht for adults and 25 baht for children. Or 100 baht for foreign visitors and 50 baht for children.

Admission from 11:00 – 21:00

More information: www.chiangmainightsafari.com