Mon Jam is a mountain village located in Northern Thailand, about an hour’s drive from Chiang Mai. It is known for its stunning mountain vistas and cold weather, making it a popular destination for tourists looking to escape the heat of Thailand’s cities. The village is home to the Hmong Tribespeople, an ethnically diverse community that adds to the cultural richness of the area.
Mon Jam was previously a wild forest until villagers reclaimed and planted opium, which caused a lot of side effects and infertile land in the area. However, the Thai government’s Royal Project helped the villagers transition to more sustainable agricultural practices, which led to the creation of Mon Jam as a tourist destination. Today, the village offers a range of activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and glamping, making it an ideal location for those looking to explore the beauty of Northern Thailand.
What is Mon Jam?
Mon Jam is a mountain community located in the Mae Rim district of Chiang Mai province in Northern Thailand. It is a popular tourist destination due to its stunning natural beauty, cool climate, and the presence of the Hmong tribespeople.
Location
Mon Jam is situated about 37 km (25 miles) north of Chiang Mai and can be reached by car or motorbike in approximately one hour. The village is nestled in the mountains and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
History
Mon Jam was originally a wild forest until villagers came to reclaim and plant opium, which caused many side effects and infertile land in the area. In the early 2000s, the government launched the Nong Hoi Royal Project to promote sustainable agriculture and reforestation in the area. As part of this project, Mon Jam was transformed into a model community for sustainable tourism.
Today, Mon Jam is a thriving community that offers visitors a chance to experience the unique culture of the Hmong tribespeople and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Visitors can stay in comfortable lodges or go glamping in luxurious tents, and can participate in a variety of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and bird watching.
Mon Jam is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Chiang Mai who wants to experience the beauty of Northern Thailand and learn about the local culture.
Getting to Mon Jam
Getting to Mon Jam is an adventure in itself, with winding roads and stunning mountain views. Here are the various ways to get to Mon Jam:
By Car
Renting a car is a great option for those who want to explore the area at their own pace. From Chiang Mai, take the Mae Rim-Samoeng Road and follow the signs to Mon Jam. The drive takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, and the last 20 minutes are on a steep, winding road. Be sure to have a powerful car with good brakes, as the road can be challenging.
By Van
If you prefer not to drive, you can take a van from Chiang Mai to Mon Jam. Vans leave from the Chang Phuak Bus Terminal and cost around 150 baht per person. The journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
By Motorbike
For the adventurous types, renting a motorbike is a popular way to get to Mon Jam. However, be aware that the road can be steep and winding, so it’s not recommended for inexperienced riders. Renting a motorbike costs around 200 baht per day.
By Rental
Another option is to rent a private car with a driver. This is a good option for those who want to relax and take in the scenery without worrying about driving. Rental cars with drivers cost around 2,500 baht for the day.
No matter how you choose to get to Mon Jam, be sure to take your time and enjoy the stunning views along the way.
Accommodation
Mon Jam offers a range of accommodation options, from camping to glamping. It is recommended to make reservations in advance to secure your preferred accommodation.
Camping
For those seeking a more rustic experience, camping is available at Mon Jam. Visitors can bring their own tents and equipment, or rent them on-site. There are several camping areas to choose from, each with its own unique view of the surrounding mountains. Some camping areas offer access to shared bathrooms and showers.
Glamping
For those who want a more luxurious camping experience, glamping is available at Mon Jam. Visitors can stay in tents that are equipped with comfortable beds, electricity, and other amenities. Glamping tents are situated in a more secluded area of the mountain, offering a more private and peaceful experience.
Reservations
It is recommended to make reservations in advance to secure your preferred accommodation at Mon Jam. Reservations can be made through the official Mon Jam website or through third-party booking sites. It is important to note that some accommodation options may have limited availability during peak travel seasons, so it is best to book early.
Overall, Mon Jam offers a range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs. Whether you prefer camping or glamping, there is something for everyone at this charming mountain village in Northern Thailand.
Things to Do at Mon Jam
Mon Jam is a charming village located in the mountains of Mae Rim, Northern Thailand. It is a popular destination for tourists seeking to escape the city and immerse themselves in nature. Here are some of the top things to do at Mon Jam:
Trails
Mon Jam is surrounded by beautiful mountain views and nature trails that are perfect for hiking and trekking. Visitors can explore the lush green forests and enjoy the fresh mountain air while hiking. The trails are well-marked and safe for visitors of all ages.
Canopy Walk
Another popular attraction at Mon Jam is the canopy walk. Visitors can walk on a suspended bridge that is 50 meters long and 20 meters high. The walk provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Skywalk
The Skywalk at Mon Jam is a must-visit attraction for those who love adventure and breathtaking views. The Skywalk is a glass platform that is suspended 400 meters above the ground. Visitors can walk on the platform and enjoy panoramic views of the mountains and forests.
Pongyang Jungle Coaster Zipline
The Pongyang Jungle Coaster Zipline is an exciting and thrilling activity for visitors to Mon Jam. The zipline is 1,000 meters long and takes visitors on a ride through the jungle. Visitors can control the speed of the coaster and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding nature.
Mae Sa Waterfall
Mae Sa Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located near Mon Jam. Visitors can take a day trip to the waterfall and enjoy the stunning views of the cascading water. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests and is a great spot for picnics and relaxation.
Elephant PooPooPaper Park
The Elephant PooPooPaper Park is a unique and eco-friendly attraction at Mon Jam. Visitors can learn about the process of making paper from elephant dung and even make their own paper. The park also has a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs made from elephant dung paper.
Flower Garden
The Flower Garden at Mon Jam is a beautiful attraction that is perfect for nature lovers. The garden is filled with colorful flowers and plants that bloom all year round. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the garden and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Mon Jam is a great destination for tourists seeking to escape the city and enjoy the beauty of nature. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, ziplining, and exploring the surrounding nature. The entrance fee to Mon Jam is 50 baht per person, and visitors can enjoy delicious Thai food and fresh vegetables grown hydroponically in the village.
Best Time to Visit Mon Jam
When planning a trip to Mon Jam, it’s important to consider the weather and other factors that may affect your experience. In this section, we’ll discuss the best time to visit Mon Jam based on factors such as weather, burning season, rainy season, and fog.
Weather
The weather in Mon Jam is generally mild and pleasant throughout the year, with temperatures averaging around 20-25°C. However, it can get quite chilly during the winter months (November to February), with temperatures dropping as low as 5°C at night. If you’re not a fan of cold weather, it’s best to avoid visiting during this time.
Burning Season
Burning season, which typically occurs from February to April, can cause haze and air pollution in the region. This can affect visibility and make it difficult to fully appreciate the scenic views of Mon Jam. If you’re sensitive to air pollution or have respiratory issues, it’s best to avoid visiting during this time.
Rainy Season
The rainy season in Mon Jam typically starts in May and lasts until October. While it can rain heavily during this time, the rain usually only lasts for a few hours and is followed by clear skies. If you don’t mind a little rain and want to avoid the crowds, visiting during the rainy season can be a good option.
Fog
Fog can occur in Mon Jam throughout the year, but it’s most common during the winter months. While the fog can create a mystical and enchanting atmosphere, it can also limit visibility and make it difficult to fully appreciate the views. If you want to avoid fog, it’s best to visit during the dry season (November to April).
Overall, the best time to visit Mon Jam is during the dry season (November to April) when the weather is mild and there’s less chance of haze and fog. However, if you don’t mind a little rain and want to avoid the crowds, visiting during the rainy season (May to October) can be a good option.
Mon Jam Royal Project
Mon Jam is a mountaintop community and national park in the Mae Rim County, located just about 45 minutes from the Province of Chiang Mai. It is also known as ‘Doi Mon Jam’ and ‘Mon Chaem’. The Mon Jam Royal Project is a part of the Royal Project which empowers the residents to use sustainable farming methods to cultivate a variety of crops around the year.
Administrator
The Mon Jam Royal Project is managed by the Royal Project Foundation, which was established in 1969 by the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej. The Foundation aims to improve the living conditions of the hill tribes in Northern Thailand and promote sustainable agriculture. The Foundation provides the hill tribes with technical support, seeds, and other resources to help them grow crops and improve their livelihoods.
Vegetation
The Mon Jam Royal Project is known for its beautiful gardens and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The gardens at Mon Jam are just gorgeous, with an almost 360-degree view of mountains all around you as you wander among the flowers. The Royal Project has introduced a variety of crops to the area, including strawberries, coffee, and various vegetables. The Mon Jam Royal Project is also home to a variety of fruit trees such as apples, peaches, and plums.
The Mon Jam Royal Project is a must-visit destination for those who want to explore the beauty of Northern Thailand and learn about sustainable agriculture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the gardens, taste the fresh produce, and even participate in farming activities. The Mon Jam Royal Project also has a restaurant that serves delicious food made from fresh, local ingredients.
In conclusion, the Mon Jam Royal Project is a beautiful and educational destination that offers visitors a unique insight into sustainable agriculture and the hill tribe communities of Northern Thailand.
Other Attractions Near Mon Jam
In addition to the stunning views and outdoor activities at Mon Jam, there are several other attractions worth checking out in the surrounding area. Here are a few highlights:
Nong-Hoi Royal Project
Located just a short drive from Mon Jam, the Nong-Hoi Royal Project is a sustainable agriculture initiative that was started by the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej. The project focuses on developing new crops and farming techniques that can improve the lives of local farmers and promote environmental conservation. Visitors can take a tour of the project to learn more about its goals and see some of the innovative farming methods in action. Some of the crops grown at Nong-Hoi include coffee, strawberries, and various kinds of vegetables.
Lampang
If you’re looking for a change of pace from the rural tranquility of Mon Jam, the city of Lampang is just a short drive away. Lampang is known for its historic architecture and cultural landmarks, including several ancient temples and the famous Wat Phra That Lampang Luang. The city also has a lively night market where you can sample local street food and pick up souvenirs. If you’re interested in history, be sure to visit the Dhanabadee Ceramic Museum, which showcases the region’s rich tradition of pottery-making.
Doi Mon Long
For a more active adventure, consider hiking to the summit of Doi Mon Long, a nearby mountain that offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley. The hike is challenging but rewarding, and takes you through lush forests and past sparkling waterfalls. Along the way, you’ll see a variety of flora and fauna, including rare orchids and colorful butterflies.
Whether you’re interested in sustainable agriculture, cultural landmarks, or outdoor adventures, the area around Mon Jam has plenty to offer. Be sure to explore these other attractions to get the most out of your trip to Northern Thailand.