8. Hilltribe Highlands Tour
We take you to the mountains of Mae Salong where you can visit the PDA-supported community-based tourism project at the Akha tribal village of Ban Lorcha. Learn about the recent history of this area by visiting the Koumintang village of Santi Khiri at Mae Salong.
Mae Salong used to produce lots of opium. Today, the opium has been replaced by a new crop of a more benign nature “ TEA! Many tea plantation owners have started to raise a variety called U-Long Tea that has a very fragrant aroma and exquisite taste. Of course, good tea comes with a price. One kilogram of the best tea this area produces could set you back a few thousand Baht. We think its worth it.
Enjoy Yunnanese cuisine prepared by the descendants of the Koumingtang soldiers that settled in this area several decades ago.
This tour proceeds to Royal Project at Doi Tung. where there is a beautiful botanical garden that is open to the public.
Souvenir shop at Doi Tung features handicraft made at the Doi Tung Royal project factories that make exquisitely designed hand-woven materials and ceramics. The crop replacement project to reduce opium production in this area now produces a variety of agricultural products like Arabica coffee and Macadamia nuts.
Minimum number of passengers recommended is two.