Family Adventure in Chiang Mai: A Cultural Exploration

Elephants, Hill Tribes, and Mountain Highs

Today was an incredible immersion into the heart of Northern Thailand. From ethical encounters with majestic elephants to exploring the diverse cultures of local hill tribes and soaking in breathtaking mountain vistas, it was a day packed with unforgettable experiences that Leela, Thomas and I will cherish forever. It’s days like these that remind me why we embarked on this family adventure in the first place – to connect with new cultures, learn about the world around us, and create lasting memories together.



Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Tikky Cafe. I had read some great reviews, and it was conveniently located. It was a cozy little place with a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for fueling up before our adventures. I opted for a classic Thai breakfast of Jok (rice porridge) while Thomas enjoyed some toast and eggs, and Leela had a smoothie. It was the perfect start to a busy day.


Discover authentic Thai flavors at Tikky Cafe in Chiang Mai - where every dish tells a story.

Our first official stop was the Elephant Nature Park Office. We had booked a visit to the Elephant Nature Park, a sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating elephants. The office served as a meeting point before we headed out to the park itself. As someone who values ethical tourism, I was so impressed by their commitment to providing a safe and natural environment for these gentle giants. It’s so important to me that Leela learns about responsible animal tourism, and this was a fantastic opportunity to show her firsthand. The weather in Chiang Mai in January is pleasant, with cooler temperatures ranging from 14°C to 28°C, which made it ideal for outdoor activities.


Discover the Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, a sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating elephants while promoting conservation and education.

The purpose of life, after all, is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience.

After a short drive, we arrived at the Elephant Nature Park. The sanctuary was sprawling and beautiful, with lush greenery and plenty of space for the elephants to roam. We were greeted by our guide, who shared the stories of the rescued elephants and the park's mission. It was truly heartwarming to hear how these elephants, many of whom had suffered abuse and neglect, were now living peaceful and fulfilling lives.



We spent the morning observing the elephants in their natural habitat. We watched them bathe in the river, interact with each other, and graze on bamboo. It was incredible to see these magnificent creatures up close, and Leela was absolutely captivated. She peppered our guide with questions about the elephants, their habits, and their individual personalities. I was so proud of her curiosity and her genuine concern for their well-being.



One of the highlights of our visit was the opportunity to feed the elephants. We were given buckets of fruit and vegetables, and we carefully offered them to the elephants, who gently took them with their trunks. Leela was a little hesitant at first, but she quickly warmed up to the experience, giggling as an elephant wrapped its trunk around her hand to grab a banana. It was such a special moment, and I know it’s something she’ll never forget.



Next on our itinerary was the Baan Tong Luang Eco-agricultural Village, a place I had mixed feelings about visiting, having read mixed reviews. I wanted to form my own opinion, and I was keen to learn about the different hill tribes represented there. Baan Tong Luang is home to several different hill tribes, including the Karen, Hmong, Lahu, Akha, and Yao people, each with their own distinct culture, language, and customs. While some find it to be a ‘human zoo,’ others see it as an educational experience and an opportunity to directly support several hill tribe people in the area. I wanted to see for myself.


Discover the beauty and sustainability of rural life at Baan Tong Luang Eco-agricultural Village in Chiang Mai, where culture and nature harmoniously blend.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by the sight of traditional houses and villagers dressed in their colorful tribal attire. We wandered through the village, observing the different crafts and customs of each tribe. Leela was fascinated by the Karen long-neck women, who wear brass coils around their necks as a symbol of beauty. We learned about their weaving techniques, their agricultural practices, and their unique cultural traditions.



While I appreciated the opportunity to learn about these different cultures, I couldn’t shake the feeling that the village was somewhat staged for tourists. It felt a little artificial, and I wondered if the villagers were truly benefiting from our visit. I made sure to purchase some handmade crafts directly from the villagers, hoping to contribute to their livelihoods in a meaningful way. Perhaps, I thought, we should consider visiting the homestay of Masu, a Kayan Long Neck woman, as an alternative in the future.



After Baan Tong Luang, we drove up to Mon Jam, a mountain peak offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The drive itself was an adventure, winding through narrow mountain roads with stunning vistas at every turn. I was a bit nervous navigating the steep inclines, but Thomas expertly handled the car, and we arrived safely at the top.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Mon Jam, a stunning garden retreat in Chiang Mai, offering panoramic views and a tranquil escape into nature.

Mon Jam was absolutely breathtaking. The air was crisp and cool, and the views were simply stunning. We could see rolling hills, lush valleys, and distant mountains stretching as far as the eye could see. The gardens at Mon Jam are gorgeous. You can see an almost 360-degree view of mountains all around you as you wander among the flowers. Leela was thrilled to run around the flower gardens, chasing butterflies and taking pictures with her little camera. We spent a relaxing hour just soaking in the beauty of the place, taking photos, and enjoying the fresh mountain air. We enjoyed lunch with local food and coffee. The gardens were gorgeous, and the weather was perfect.



As the sun began to set, we made our way back down the mountain, feeling grateful for the incredible experiences we had shared. Before heading back to the hotel, we had dinner at B Samcook Home16, a restaurant known for its modern take on Thai cuisine. The entrance is appealing and modern, with a lush outdoor area with tables and chairs. The restaurant itself is laid back, charming, and quirky with an open kitchen concept. We were greeted with a signature welcome drink featuring butterfly pea juice. The menu was extensive, but we opted for the tasting menu, which featured a variety of delicious and beautifully presented dishes. Chef Boy asked after food allergies and checked we were ok with having a lot of seafood before the courses began.


Experience the best of Asian Fusion cuisine at B Samcook Home in Chiang Mai – where traditional flavors meet modern culinary artistry.

Thomas and I enjoyed a glass of local wine with our meal, while Leela happily munched on some spring rolls and fried rice. The food was exquisite, a perfect blend of traditional Thai flavors with modern culinary techniques. The staff was friendly and attentive, and the ambiance was cozy and inviting. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with adventure and cultural immersion.



After dinner, we decided to check out Boy Blues Bar for a nightcap. This interesting little place is located inside a Night Market, upstairs in a little area that was created for this bar. It’s a comfortable venue to watch some live rock music. The music was great. We enjoyed a couple of drinks while listening to the bluesy tunes. Leela, surprisingly, enjoyed the music as well, tapping her feet along with the rhythm. It was a fun and relaxing way to wind down after a long day.


Experience the pulse of Chiang Mai at Boy Blues Bar, where soulful blues melodies and a lively atmosphere await every night.

As I lay in bed that night, reflecting on our day, I felt a deep sense of gratitude. We had experienced so much in just one day – ethical encounters with elephants, cultural immersion in a hill tribe village, breathtaking mountain views, and delicious Thai cuisine. It was a day that had enriched our minds, touched our hearts, and created memories that would last a lifetime.



Tomorrow, we plan to explore the ancient city of Wiang Kum Kam, visit the Wat Phra That Doi Kham temple, and immerse ourselves in the vibrant Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. I’m excited to see what new adventures await us!