Let's eat vegetables at the Royal Project Mae Tho, Chiang Mai. #Good for the heart, #Good for the lungs, and #Good for the belly!

"This winter, I long to sleep in the Royal Project…"

"That's it…" This was the thought that ran through my mind after having the opportunity to browse the website of the Royal Project, "38 Routes to Happiness, 38 Royal Projects." This website showcases 38 Royal Project locations that offer captivating travel experiences. Filled with determination, I decided that "this winter, I must visit at least one of these 38 Royal Projects." I then began researching travel information for each location. Some of the Royal Project locations are already well-known and frequently visited, such as Ang Khang Royal Agricultural Station and Inthanon Royal Agricultural Station.

After researching various routes to the Royal Project, I decided to visit the "Mae Tho Royal Project", which is located a considerable distance from Chiang Mai city. However, this has the advantage of fewer tourists, a peaceful atmosphere, and clean air, which is exactly what I was looking for. The Mae Tho Royal Project is renowned for its vegetable cultivation, providing fresh, clean, and pesticide-free vegetables that can be used to prepare meals. This was another reason for my choice, as I wanted to eat vegetables!

On this trip…

There were a total of 3 people traveling together, each coming from a different location. They agreed to meet at Chiang Mai Airport on the agreed date and time. The program for this trip will focus on visiting the Mae Tho Royal Project, where they will eat and sleep for 2 nights. Let's get started!

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What to See and Do at the Mae Tho Royal Project?

**Mae Tho Royal Project Development Center, Hod District, Chiang Mai Province** was established in 1996 in line with the policy of promoting new agricultural occupations to replace opium cultivation and reduce the use of chemicals in agriculture. The Mae Tho Royal Project Development Center is located in a mountainous area with a **refreshing and cool atmosphere**. Due to its remote location and the time it takes to reach, the center is **peaceful and quiet**, making it an ideal place to relax.

Travel – All types of vehicles can travel to the Mae Tho Royal Project. From Chiang Mai city, take Highway 108 through Jom Thong District to Hod District. Then turn right, pass Ob Luang National Park until you reach Ban Kong Loi Intersection. Then turn right and go up to the Mae Tho Royal Project. The total distance from Chiang Mai city is approximately 160 kilometers. (There is no public transportation available. You can rent a car or motorbike from Chiang Mai city.)

Project Royal Expenses Summary

Accommodation:

• Project Royal Guesthouse: 150 Baht/night per person
• Tent Rental: 150 Baht/tent (sleeping mat 30 Baht, sleeping bag 30 Baht)

Food:

• Per person: Breakfast 80 Baht, Lunch 100 Baht, Dinner 150 Baht

Important Notes:

• Mobile phone signal: Only AIS network available
• Nearby attractions: Model Farmer's House, Mae Aeb Waterfall, Doi 360, etc.

To stay overnight and enjoy meals at the Royal Project, advance booking is required. This allows the staff to prepare accommodations and meals according to your needs. Contact details: **Royal Project Mae Tho (Ms. King)** 088-4344902.

Highlights of the Mae Tho Royal Project

The Mae Tho Royal Project offers a unique opportunity to tour the demonstration vegetable plots and enjoy fresh vegetables directly from the farm. The cost of meals at the Royal Project is calculated per person: 80 baht for breakfast, 100 baht for lunch, and 150 baht for dinner. (You can choose which meals you want to eat at the Royal Project, but you must inform the staff in advance.) It's important to note that the food here is delicious, especially the fresh vegetables, which are crispy, sweet, and very good for your health.

Furthermore, I highly recommend visiting the newly opened tourist attraction, Doi Mae Tho 360. Located near the Mae Tho Royal Project, this high mountain peak requires a hike to reach and necessitates camping overnight. Those seeking to witness the ethereal morning mist or the breathtaking sunset will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views. The 360-degree vista offers breathtaking scenery, refreshing breezes, and invigorating fresh air. Moreover, the night sky dazzles with a mesmerizing display of twinkling stars!

Cost Summary for Doi Mae Tho 360

• Tent rental (overnight stay) = 150 Baht/tent, sleeping pad 30 Baht, sleeping bag 30 Baht
• Porter fee (for heavy luggage) = 300 Baht
• 4WD car rental from Mae Tho Royal Project, round trip = 1000 Baht
• Community guide fee = 800 Baht/group

To reach the summit of Doi 360 from the Mae Tho Royal Project, it is essential to be accompanied by a local guide. As this is a newly opened site and the hike to the summit requires expertise in navigating the trail, a guide is necessary to ensure safety and provide guidance. Guides can be contacted in advance at the Mae Tho Royal Project.

Two-Wheeled Adventures: Exploring the Mountains!

To ensure smooth and convenient travel to various tourist destinations throughout this trip, we primarily relied on motorcycles. We rented one motorcycle per person from Chiang Mai city center, using the services of our trusted provider, Bikky Chiangmai. This company offers convenient pick-up and drop-off services at Chiang Mai Airport, saving us valuable time. Upon arrival, we could immediately collect our motorcycles and embark on our adventure.

Initially, we considered renting a car. The cost of splitting the rental fee among us wasn't much different from renting individual motorbikes. Plus, cars offer more comfort, and the road leading to the Mae Tho Royal Project is relatively smooth. However, the roads leading to various surrounding attractions are often rough, narrow, steep, and dangerous. These conditions necessitate a 4WD vehicle for safe travel. If we had driven a car, we would have had to leave it at the Royal Project and hire a 4WD from there. Therefore, we decided to rent motorbikes instead. This allowed us to explore the entire mountain range, have fun, and experience the thrill of the journey!

DAY #1

9:00 AM: Departure!

Departure from Suvarnabhumi Airport

Starting the journey… at Suvarnabhumi Airport, where today I arrived earlier than usual to use the services of Bangkok Airways. The main reason for arriving early is nothing special, I just wanted to spend more time in the lounge!

Upon arrival at the airport, I proceeded to counter F to check in and drop off my luggage, which was quite heavy due to the inclusion of a sleeping bag and several warm jackets in anticipation of cold weather.

With my boarding pass in hand, I made a beeline for the lounge, where a friendly staff member greeted me at the entrance. I presented my boarding pass to the agent before entering, and they provided me with the Wi-Fi password.

A selection of newspapers and magazines available for browsing while waiting for your departure.

And not to be missed, the food and beverage corner for this morning's meal, you can leave your stomach here...

The lounge offers a wide variety of food options to choose from.

The Quintessential Rice Bundle: A Familiar Favorite

But the absolute highlight, and a familiar favorite, is the rice bundle. Every time I have the opportunity to use the lounge, I never miss it.

Breakfast before leaving for the day was delicious and filling, ready to go!

Frequent mobile phone use can drain the battery. You can recharge your phone at conveniently located charging stations throughout the lounge.

After enjoying a satisfying meal, it's time to head to the Gate. It's just a short walk as it's located directly opposite the lounge.

The weather today is great. The sky is clear and the sun is very strong. I didn't have to wait long at the gate before they called us to board. We're ready to take off!

Although it is now winter, Bangkok is still experiencing hot weather. Therefore, I will be taking a short break from the city and flying to Chiang Mai for a couple of days to enjoy the cooler temperatures.

Still feeling full... from the food in the lounge. Shortly after takeoff, the flight attendants were already preparing to serve food, making us even fuller... This flight was completely full, as it was close to a long holiday weekend.

The Meal

The in-flight meal was similar to a "steamed egg on rice" dish. Initially, I thought I wouldn't be able to finish it, as I had already eaten quite a bit beforehand. However, as I enjoyed the meal and the scenery, I ended up finishing it all. It was delicious!

11:00 AM. From Chiang Mai Airport to Mae Tho Royal Project

After a little over an hour's journey, we arrived at **"Chiang Mai Airport"**. I had an appointment with two other members here. **Our meeting point was the Bikky Chiangmai car pick-up and drop-off point** within the parking lot of Chiang Mai Airport. We had booked three motorcycles with **Bikky Chiangmai**, one for each of us. All three were **Zoomer X** motorcycles with a rental price of **300 baht per day (fuel not included) + 100 baht per car for pick-up and drop-off at the airport**. We rented the cars for a total of 2 days (48 hours), which came to a total cost of **= 700 baht/person/car (excluding fuel)**.

"You rode your motorcycle here? It's almost 200 kilometers," one of the younger members of the group asked incredulously when he saw me appear at the meeting point.

"This is the way to enjoy it… Let's take it slow and soak in the atmosphere," I replied without hesitation.

"However, the cost of renting a motorbike for the three of us is enough to comfortably rent a car and drive there, brother. It's more comfortable and we won't have to endure the hot sun, haha," another junior suggested a change in travel plans, but to no avail.

And finally, we decided to stick to our original plan: to ride our motorbikes all the way to the Mae Tho Royal Project. We thought it would be more convenient and enjoyable to travel this way. We talked, planned, and made sure everyone was on the same page until it was almost 1 pm. But we still hadn't started our journey. So we quickly rented the bikes, signed the documents, picked them up, and checked their condition. Our vehicles for this trip... Zoomer X bikes, each in a different color, were ready to go!

Directions to Mae Tho Royal Project from Chiang Mai Airport

From Chiang Mai Airport:

• Turn right upon exiting the airport gate and drive approximately 500 meters.
• Fill up your gas tank at the gas station on the left-hand side.
• Turn right onto Route 108 and drive through Chom Thong District to Hod District (approximately 88 kilometers).
• Turn right and pass through Ob Luang National Park and Bo Kaew Pine Forest until you reach Ban Kong Loi Junction (approximately 55 kilometers).
• Turn right again and drive uphill for about 16 kilometers to reach the Mae Tho Royal Project.

Total distance from Chiang Mai city: approximately 160 kilometers.

The initial journey progressed slowly due to heavy traffic and numerous intersections within Chiang Mai city. Drivers must exercise caution. Similarly, the route between Chiang Mai city and Hang Dong district is dotted with traffic lights. Upon passing Hang Dong, the traffic thins out as we enter Chom Thong district. The scorching afternoon sun prompted us to take a break at a PTT gas station in Chom Thong, where we enjoyed a delicious Khao Soi.

Leaving Jom Thong District, we headed towards Hod District and turned right towards Ob Luang National Park. The journey during this period was incredibly relaxing. We drove at a leisurely pace, taking in the roadside scenery. This road is lined with trees and runs alongside a river, creating a refreshing atmosphere. We continued our journey, stopping to rest whenever we felt tired.

4:00 PM. Bo Kaew Pine Forest Park

It would be a shame to miss it... After driving about 22 kilometers past Ob Luang National Park, we saw a pine forest, also known as Bo Kaeo Pine Forest, on the left side of the road. The atmosphere in the late afternoon was so inviting that we couldn't resist stopping to take some photos... Without hesitation, we all pulled over to park our cars. Perhaps because it was late in the evening, there weren't many tourists around. We had initially expected a larger crowd...

Upon entering the pine forest, one is greeted by a vast expanse of pine trees, filling every corner of the space. Notably, along the entrance road, these trees are planted in neat rows on both sides, creating a picturesque scene that attracts many visitors for photo opportunities.

Take a leisurely stroll and soak in the atmosphere of this area. The most ideal time to visit would be in the morning hours, when a thin mist gently drapes over the pine trees, creating a truly enchanting ambiance.

The journey from Suan Son Bo Kaeo to the Mae Tho Royal Project is not far, allowing for a brief break to stretch and relax.

For those who have the opportunity to travel to Chiang Mai and use the Hod-Mae Sariang route, you should not miss "Bo Kaew Pine Forest". It is located right next to the road, making it easy to stop by. Moreover, the overall atmosphere looks beautiful!

5:00 PM. The scenic beauty of both sides of the road

After traveling approximately 10 kilometers from Suan Son Bo Kaew, we arrived at Ban Kong Loi. We decided to stop and refuel here, as the fuel tank was nearly empty. Ban Kong Loi has a gas station located next to the police station, making it a convenient place to fill up before heading to the Mae Tho Royal Project. While we were taking a break to refuel, I noticed that I had several missed calls. The calls were from Khun King, an officer at the Mae Tho Royal Project. I immediately returned the call and learned that Khun King had been calling to inquire about our arrival time. She was concerned because it was getting late and we had not yet arrived. Due to the dangerous driving conditions on dark roads, she urged us to arrive before nightfall, as darkness arrives much earlier during the winter season. I assured Khun King that we would arrive no later than 6:00 PM and asked her to prepare dinner for us.

At the Ban Kong Loi intersection, we turn right and ascend the hill to reach the Mae Tho Royal Project. From this point, it is only about 16 kilometers away.

The 16-kilometer route features a steep incline and winding turns. However, the surrounding scenery is breathtaking, especially during the evening hours.

Upon entering this road, you will notice a significant decrease in traffic, with cars passing by only occasionally. This creates a particularly relaxing atmosphere in the evening, which is why many people stop to take photos along the way.

We felt the full force of the cold air as the path began to ascend, shrouded in the encroaching darkness, making the chill increasingly palpable.

The chill of the evening began to envelop us as we neared our destination. Our eyes scanned the breathtaking scenery of the mountains and valleys that lined our path, a sight that defied description. At the final stop, we paused to witness the sun's descent behind the mountain range.

Admiring the beauty of the atmosphere before the last light of the day fades away...

6:00 PM. Arrived at the Royal Project Mae Tho!

A Night at the Royal Project Mae Tho

Finally, after a journey of 4-5 hours, we arrived at the Royal Project Mae Tho! The sun had already set, and the only light came from the central area and the accommodation. We greeted Khun King briefly (who was busy preparing dinner for us) and were then led to our accommodation by a project officer.

Our home for the night was a large house with three rooms. The accommodation cost only 150 baht per person per night, which is incredibly affordable. It came equipped with mattresses, bedding, and blankets. And best of all, we were the only guests that night, so it felt like we had the whole house to ourselves!

The common area of the house features a TV and a refrigerator for shared use. The left-hand side window offers a scenic view, especially during the morning hours. This vantage point provides a beautiful vista, visible directly from the house. However, as it is currently nighttime, the view is obscured. Guests will have to wait until morning to appreciate the scenery.

For the bathroom... Those who dislike showering in cold weather need not worry. There are two bathrooms equipped with water heaters, ensuring a comfortable showering experience without the need to compete for space.

7:00 PM: Time for Dinner!

After settling into our accommodation and taking a well-deserved rest, we were called by Ms. King for dinner. The meal was already prepared and ready to be served. We washed our hands before heading to the communal dining area. All the food was laid out on the table, ready to be enjoyed! We later learned that Ms. King had only recently prepared the food just before our arrival, wanting us to experience the dishes fresh and hot from the stove. This dinner consisted of 5-6 dishes, each looking incredibly appetizing.

Fresh vegetables and various cooking ingredients are also sourced from the Royal Project itself. For the first dish, this is baby emperor stir-fried with oyster sauce. The baby emperor vegetables are very sweet. Eating them with hot rice is amazing.

This dish is also stir-fried with oyster sauce, but it is baby cos. It is also delicious when eaten hot.

Enjoy a hot bowl of Tom Yum Gai amidst the chilly atmosphere with a gentle breeze. Sipping something warm like this is truly blissful!

Stir-fried Pui Leng with Oyster Sauce offers a unique way to enjoy vegetables. *The sweetness comes directly from within the vegetable itself.*

A must-have dish, the hot omelet is even more delicious when enjoyed during the cold weather.

The Grand Finale: Baby Cos Lettuce with Nam Prik Ong

The final dish, and the star of the show, was the baby cos lettuce with nam prik ong. This was the epitome of fresh vegetables and chili dip. The baby cos lettuce, straight from the garden, was both crisp and sweet, and paired perfectly with the hot and flavorful nam prik ong. This is a must-try dish when visiting the Mae Tho Royal Project.

I prefer to eat it fresh like this. No need for rice. I scoop the chili paste into the center of the baby cos lettuce and pop it in my mouth. It's like a snack, but it's delicious. The vegetables are crisp and sweet.

We sat in a circle, eating until we were full. We continued to chat as usual. The dining area actually had a great atmosphere, but at this late hour, it was almost impossible to see anything. We could only feel the occasional cold wind against our bodies. We invited Khun King to join our conversation to inquire about the travel program for the following days and information about the Royal Project. Khun King was happy to provide advice, and the program for the next day was as follows:

Translated Itinerary:

Morning:

• Witness the breathtaking sunrise at the savanna viewpoint.
• Return to the Royal Project for a delicious breakfast.

Mid-morning:

• Explore the demonstration vegetable plots around the Royal Project and nearby areas.

Lunch:

• Enjoy a satisfying lunch at the Royal Project.

Afternoon:

• Hike to the refreshing Mae Aeb Waterfall.

Evening:

• Ascend to the Doi Mae Tho 360 viewpoint to witness a spectacular sunset.
• Camp overnight under the stars.

After confirming their understanding and setting a time, it was time for everyone to go their separate ways to rest, shower, and prepare for bed. The cool night air and the refreshing shower made them feel comfortable, and snuggling under warm blankets, they all fell asleep without realizing it.

DAY #2

5:00 AM: Rise and shine! Time for a scenic motorbike ride!

...set the alarm clock for 5 am

We planned to wake up early to enjoy the morning view. After washing up, it was almost 6 am before we left our accommodation. We rode our motorbikes along the route that Khing had recommended the night before. Our goal was simply to enjoy the scenery and the morning atmosphere on the mountain. Since we had come so far to relax, we wanted to immerse ourselves in nature.

The path we took is the same one that leads to the Savanna Grassland and Doi Mae Tho 360. However, we did not go all the way up there because it felt too far and the path was quite challenging. Besides, we would be going there later in the evening anyway. So, we just explored the path and enjoyed the scenery here.

This spot is about 3 kilometers from the Mae Tho Royal Project. We parked our motorcycles and walked up the hill to a viewpoint that offered panoramic views. The morning air was refreshingly cool, and there were occasional patches of dense fog.

Morning mist and wildflowers patiently await the rising sun to crest the horizon.

Wandering along the small hills, taking in the atmosphere without a specific destination.

Amidst the serene landscape of rolling hills, only the gentle whisper of the wind breaks the tranquil silence.

Parting the wildflowers, I walk up the hill, hill after hill.

As the sun begins to rise, we stand in anticipation of the first light of day. The air here is so refreshing, it's truly good for the lungs.

Capturing the serene morning ambiance, the view is dominated by mountains stretching as far as the eye can see.

Soon after, the sun rose above the horizon, signaling the start of a new day. It was a bright and clear morning.

It's worth waking up early just for this... to breathe in the fresh air like this.

The sun's rays began to warm the air, signaling the time for our descent from the mountain. Along the path, we were greeted by the sight of golden sunflowers, their cheerful faces a welcome sight. While other regions had already passed the peak blooming season, the sunflowers here remained vibrant and full of life.

The warm morning sun helped to dispel the chill.

The morning dew may make the dirt road slippery, so it is important to descend the mountain slowly and carefully.

On the way up... I couldn't see much because it wasn't very bright yet. But on the way down... like this, I could clearly see the scenic view. On the way down, I was able to stop and enjoy the view every now and then... The thin morning mist, the atmosphere was great!

7:00 AM: Inside the Mae Tho Royal Project

After enjoying the view from the mountain, we returned to the village. We saw many students on their way to school, which made the morning atmosphere in the village feel more lively.

After observing the local way of life for a while, we returned to the Royal Project, which we had only just begun to see this morning. Since we arrived late last night and could barely see anything, we decided to take a walk around the area.

A Tranquil Dining Spot

The dining area, where we sat last night without seeing anything, reveals itself in the morning light as a truly remarkable spot. Below, near the vegetable patch, a breathtaking panorama unfolds, with rolling hills stretching into the distance.

Descending to the lower level, you will find greenhouses where various vegetables are grown. These vegetables will eventually become our food.

Below, growing in rows nearby, are passionfruit plants.

Sneaking into the kitchen, I saw the cooks preparing the food. This was our breakfast.

To return to your accommodation, walk past the Royal Project campsite. If you'd like to experience camping, you can pitch a tent here. Alternatively, if you don't have a tent, you can rent one and bedding from the campsite.

Step inside the accommodation... This is the view that can be seen directly from the window of the house. The atmosphere is very good. You can see the mountains and the faint mist. When you wake up in the morning, you don't even have to go anywhere. Just sit and enjoy a cup of coffee with a view from the house, and you're good to go!

Opposite the dining area is the cooperative store, which offers a variety of goods, including dry food and beverages. For those who have forgotten to bring shampoo, soap, or toothpaste, these items are available for purchase here. Additionally, a selection of snacks and treats is also offered.

Cooperative opening hours may not be fixed, as staff may have urgent tasks or duties to attend to and may not be present at the cooperative at all times. If you see that the cooperative door is open and you are running low on anything, it is advisable to purchase it immediately.

The cooperative offers a wide variety of everyday goods. If you need anything, you can easily purchase it there, as it is the closest store to your accommodation.

8:00 AM: Enjoy the View and Your Meal with Breakfast!

This morning... I continued to enjoy breakfast from the Royal Project, as it was more convenient than going out to eat. While there are simple restaurants and rice shops outside the Royal Project, or in nearby villages, *since I'm visiting the Royal Project, I'll have their food for every meal.*

We sat down at the same table, in the same corner, ready to eat breakfast. This meal seemed to be lighter than the previous one. The main dish was **rice porridge with pork**, accompanied by **soft-boiled eggs** and two stir-fried vegetables from the Royal Project. The food looked delicious.

This morning's stir-fried vegetables are choy sum with oyster sauce and water spinach with oyster sauce.

A steaming pot of congee with pork was served, accompanied by a reminder from the kitchen staff that more congee could be requested if needed.

Normally, breakfast…

Normally, breakfast is a meal that the three of us don't feel very hungry for, perhaps because it seems too early and we don't feel like eating much. However, the food, the atmosphere, and the scenery made us sit and eat, talk, and admire the view without rushing. In the pleasant atmosphere, we finished our meal without even realizing it. The food here is really delicious. With such a great atmosphere, it's fantastic!

9:00 AM: Visit the Mae Tho Royal Project Vegetable Plot

Visiting the Mae Tho Royal Project

If you haven't seen the demonstration vegetable plot, you haven't truly experienced the Mae Tho Royal Project. This morning, we had the opportunity to visit the vegetable plot with Mr. Chat, a staff member of the Mae Tho Royal Project, who volunteered to be our guide. We were headed to Zone A of the vegetable plot, which required navigating a gravel road. Our rented motorbikes were up to the task, though we needed to be extra cautious. Mr. Chat led the way on his motorbike, and we followed in a single file.

Along the way, you will see the agricultural practices of the local people. There are many types of vegetables planted, including the tomatoes seen here, which are selected and ready for export to the market.

After a short walk along the mountainside, we arrived at Zone A of the Royal Project's vegetable greenhouse. The surrounding atmosphere was peaceful. Although the sunlight appeared intense, it was not as hot as it seemed. The air in the valley was refreshingly cool.

Mr. Chat provided excellent guidance and information about the Royal Project's vegetable cultivation. I gained a lot of new knowledge. Mr. Chat is very kind and approachable. He is always willing to answer any questions and clarify any doubts.

Next, we were taken to the vegetable greenhouses. There were many greenhouses in this area, and Mr. Chat selected specific greenhouses that grew different vegetables so that we could see how each type of vegetable was grown.

Growing vegetables in a greenhouse allows for the control of various factors that affect vegetable growth, such as pests, weather, sunlight, and temperature. As a result, the vegetables from this greenhouse are beautiful, fresh, crisp, sweet, and free of harmful chemicals.

After trying two meals with vegetables, this is the vegetable we like the most: baby cos. We have seen the prototype.

With systematic planting, care, and watering, **the harvest can be reaped in a short period of time.**

This greenhouse houses young vegetable plants that have not yet been transplanted into rows.

This greenhouse is nearing harvest. The vegetables look vibrant and delicious.

As we strolled through the vegetable plots in each greenhouse, Mr. Chat would constantly offer insights and knowledge. He would explain how each type of vegetable was grown, when it could be harvested, and what factors needed to be controlled.

According to Mr. Chat, some of these vegetables will be sent directly to MK and Sizzler.

The bok choy we ate in both meals, this is what the plant looks like!

Even well-known vegetables like **Chinese celery** are included. As P'Chat explained, **each greenhouse has a designated type of vegetable to be planted**. This is done to **balance the variety of vegetables grown and prevent an overabundance of any one type**.

After spending nearly an hour strolling through the vegetable plots and admiring the scenery, Mr. Chat led the group out of Greenhouse Zone A and back to the main area of the Royal Project.

With such stunning views along the way, we couldn't resist stopping to take photos, causing our guide, Chart, to get ahead of us. He had to stop and wait for us several times.

On the way back to the Royal Project, we stopped by a model farmer's house, which belonged to Ms. Mei (apologies if the name is incorrect). The house had a designated area for agricultural activities, including planting crops and raising various animals. Ms. Mei lives a simple life based on the principles of the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy.

Accompanied by Khun Mei, we entered the greenhouse dedicated to grape cultivation, a crop that thrives in the local climate and terrain.

Next, we enter the **cold-climate flower greenhouse**. Here, **Ms. Mei** has plans to open a coffee shop within the greenhouse, which may be completed within the next 1-2 years. *In the future, if you have the opportunity to visit the Mae Tho Royal Project, be sure to stop by and enjoy a cup of coffee while admiring the beautiful flowers in Ms. Mei's greenhouse.*

Let's take a look at animal husbandry. Ms. Mei took us to see the **"pig pit"** raising method. Many people may not be familiar with this term. **"Pig pit" raising is a natural way of raising pigs that is easy, low-cost, and profitable.**

Pig Farming in Pits: A Sustainable and Cost-Effective Approach

Pig farming in pits emphasizes the use of readily available and local materials. This approach allows for the recycling of various waste materials, significantly reducing production costs. For instance, leftover plants or vegetables can be used to make fermented feed for pigs. Conversely, the manure and materials in the pit become excellent compost for improving soil and fertilizing crops.

**Pigsty pits differ from typical pigpens** in that, in addition to having walls, they are dug down to a depth of approximately 50-60 centimeters. The excavated soil is then replaced with biodegradable materials.

Beyond the pigsty, there is a chicken coop equipped with an incubator that significantly increases the hatching rate.

The brooding of newly hatched chicks requires special attention to warmth due to the cold weather conditions.

Despite the sloping terrain surrounding Ms. Mei's house, it does not hinder her agricultural activities. Our visit to this exemplary farm provided us with valuable insights into highland agriculture. We expressed our gratitude to Ms. Mei for her kindness in guiding us around the property and bid farewell before returning to the heart of the Royal Project.

A Journey to the Alstroemeria Greenhouse

The journey begins with a motorbike ride led by Mr. Chat, who navigates the winding paths towards the heart of the Royal Project. He stops at a wooden greenhouse, home to the alstroemeria, a captivating flower that requires a consistently cool growing medium to initiate bud formation.

The alstroemeria's delicate blooms only emerge after a period of exposure to low temperatures. This unique characteristic necessitates cultivation in areas with cool climates.

Currently, the flowers are not yet in full bloom. They remain as buds, awaiting the moment to blossom in the near future.

In addition to these, there are many other flowering plants on display, showcasing their vibrant colors throughout the greenhouse. These flowers will then be sent to the desired markets.

The Final Stop: A Glimpse into the Heart of the Royal Project's Operations

The morning tour of the Royal Project culminates at a crucial location: the produce collection building. Here, the fruits of the farmers' labor are gathered, meticulously sorted for quality, and prepared for distribution beyond the project's boundaries. This central hub serves as a vital link between the fields and the wider market, ensuring the high standards and sustainability that define the Royal Project's mission.

12:00 PM. Time for lunch!

Returning to the Royal Project for lunch as usual. For lunch, there will be four dishes, with an emphasis on vegetables as usual. If you have any special requests for vegetables or dishes, you can let us know in advance. However, for us... we'll leave it up to the chef. It's exciting to see what we'll get to eat!

Baby Hong Kong Emperor Stir-fried with Oyster Sauce Stir-fried hot, crispy, sweet as always. It is considered a very satisfying menu.

A Simple and Delicious Clear Soup with Water Spinach, Tofu, and Minced Pork

This dish features water spinach as the main ingredient in a clear soup, offering a delightful and comforting experience. The hot broth, combined with the fresh water spinach, tofu, and minced pork, creates a satisfying and flavorful meal, perfect for any occasion.

Stir-fried Baby Bok Choy with Oyster Sauce

Fresh baby bok choy is stir-fried with oyster sauce and served immediately. Enjoy it hot!

A must-have dish during cold weather is fried egg. It's always delicious, no matter the time of day.

Enjoy your meal while taking in the view, as usual. We have about an hour to sit down, eat, digest our food, relax, and enjoy the scenery before continuing our journey to the next location in the afternoon.

13:00 Playing at Mae Aep Waterfall… Truly living up to its name!

The afternoon air in the highlands felt slightly warmer, but not uncomfortably hot. P'Chat signaled for us to continue our journey, and this afternoon's destination was Mae Aeb Waterfall, located about 9 kilometers from the Royal Project. Reaching the waterfall remained a challenging task. We followed P'Chat on our motorbikes, traversing the rugged, gravel path that led to our destination. Navigating the terrain required careful attention and skillful maneuvering.

The scenery on both sides of the road, with mountains and terraced rice fields that had recently been harvested, was so breathtaking that we couldn't resist stopping to take some photos. As our guide, Mr. Chat, suggested, visiting during the rainy season, when the rice fields are lush and green, would be even more spectacular.

The journey leads to the entrance of a forest trail, which provides access to the Mae Aeb Waterfall. Due to the waterfall's secluded location within the forest, a local guide familiar with the path is essential. Attempting to navigate the trail independently may prove challenging, as it follows alongside a stream and occasionally requires wading through water.

After trekking through the forest for some time, we reached a point where we had to wade through a stream. The water was refreshingly cool against our skin, especially after the heat of the hike.

From the entrance to the waterfall, it is a 500-meter walk that takes approximately 20-30 minutes. When crossing or wading through the stream, be careful not to step on slippery rocks.

Soon... the sound of the waterfall grew louder with each step closer. As Paul rounded the bend by the large tree, the waterfall came into view, its cascading water forming a curtain over the massive rocks in front. The spray of water, carried by the wind, hit his face, sending a shiver down his spine.

Taking a break to rest, gazing up at the waterfall amidst the tranquil nature. The rawness of nature is palpable here.

**Mae Aeb Waterfall** is a waterfall with a height of approximately 25 meters and a width of approximately 10 meters. *While it may not be very large, it is a beautiful waterfall.*

The frigid weather could not deter us from taking a dip in the water. Upon contact with the water, we felt an intense chill that was several times greater than usual. Although the water was extremely cold, it also brought a surge of invigoration.

After spending about half an hour enjoying the refreshing coolness of the Mae Aeb Waterfall, we changed our clothes and followed Mr. Chat back out of the forest along the same path we had taken. We returned to where we had parked our motorcycles and then continued on to the main area of the Royal Project.

Doi Mae Tho 360 Degrees

This phrase refers to a panoramic view of Doi Mae Tho, a mountain in northern Thailand. The "360 degrees" indicates that the view encompasses the entire surrounding area.

The name "Doi Mae Tho 360 Degrees" may be unfamiliar to many, as it has only recently been opened to tourists. Located near the Mae Tho Royal Project Development Center, Doi Mae Tho 360 Degrees offers stunning panoramic views from its peak. The scenery is said to be breathtaking, with fresh air, cool breezes, and a dazzling display of stars in the night sky.

**Preparing for a trip to Doi 360** To reach the summit of Doi 360 from the Mae Tho Royal Project, **a local guide is essential**. As a newly opened destination, navigating the challenging ascent requires expertise. **Guides provide guidance and ensure safety**, and can be arranged in advance through the Royal Project. **The road to Doi 360 is rugged and steep**, winding along the mountainside. Only sturdy vehicles like **4WDs are suitable** (rentals available at the Royal Project for 1000 baht roundtrip). For our trip, we opted for motorcycles, allowing us to ride directly to the campsite.

3:00 PM: Pitching Tents for the Night at Doi 360

Tonight, we will change our sleeping place... We will go camping on Doi 360, starting our journey at the Mae Tho Royal Project, the starting point for Doi 360. You can contact the project to arrange your ascent to Doi 360. We arranged to rent a tent (sleeps 3-4 people) for 150 baht per tent, along with sleeping mats (30 baht) and sleeping bags (30 baht). And don't forget to prepare your own food and water before climbing the mountain.

Due to the limited preparation time and the fact that we had been traveling almost all day, we had little time to prepare supplies and provisions. Fortunately, our guide, **น้องโก้**, who will be leading us on the hike to Doi 360 this evening, took care of finding the necessary supplies and equipment. **น้องโก้** will serve as our guide, leading us to set up camp and sleep on Doi 360, and will look after us throughout our time on the mountain.

We continued on our motorbikes, following the same route we had taken earlier in the morning to enjoy the view. The only difference was that this time, the path was deeper and more challenging. Despite this, our guide, Ko, assured us that motorbikes could navigate it. "If you enjoy a bit of an adventure, give it a try!" he encouraged.

Our guide led us on a motorbike shortcut through the mountains, covering approximately 4 kilometers. We arrived at the first point, a savanna grassland. This mountain was covered with grass and wildflowers, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. We stopped here to rest our vehicle and ourselves, as the rough terrain had left us with sore bottoms.

The savanna grassland is an open area with panoramic views. Even in the late afternoon, the heat is not oppressive, and the air feels fresh.

We continued our journey, passing through curves and hills for another 3.6 kilometers until we reached the campground. Those who wish to climb the 360 peak can set up their tents here and then hike from the campground to the summit, another 2.3 kilometers. Hikers can choose to ascend in the morning to catch the sunrise or in the evening to witness the sunset. It is said that those who climb the 360 peak in the morning have a chance to encounter a magnificent sea of mist.

The campsite area has designated fire pits for cooking. The guide advised us to sleep in our tents as soon as we set them up, as leaving them unattended while hiking to the summit could result in them being blown away by the wind. Therefore, we decided to postpone setting up our tents until after our descent from the summit.

Next to the camping area, you'll see a green tarp-like structure in the distance. This is the basic toilet facility for the entire area, so be prepared for a rustic experience.

Beyond the campsite, the trail becomes a hiking path. If you rent a 4WD vehicle from the Royal Project, you can only reach this point. If the road conditions are poor or slippery, you may only be able to reach the Savanna Grassland. From here, the trail becomes narrow, but our guide, Ko, will take us on a short motorcycle ride. The initial flat section allows motorcycles to navigate through.

We parked our motorbike by the side of the road on a small lane below. It seemed to be a path that only motorbikes could use. From here on, we had to walk up the hill. Time was of the essence. We had to make good time, as we wanted to reach the top in time to see the sunset. The path we were walking on was quite steep. We had to be physically prepared and remember to bring water to drink along the way.

As we continued our walk, the path gradually ascended, offering breathtaking views that compelled us to pause and capture the scenery with our cameras.

After nearly 45 minutes of hiking, the silhouette of a towering, treeless mountain emerged in the distance, resembling a 45-degree angled pyramid. Reaching this point signified the near summit of the mountain, and the steep ascent had taken its toll.

A Thai flag flutters on the mountaintop, visible from afar. At this moment, we have just arrived in time to watch the sunset.

The mountaintop boasts breathtaking panoramic views, offering a 360-degree vista of the intricate mountain ranges that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Reaching the summit, they took a moment to catch their breath and gaze back at the steep path they had just ascended.

Although the journey was arduous and sweat-drenched, the breathtaking scenery that unfolded before our eyes quickly dispelled any fatigue.

As the sun begins its descent, this moment offers an opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty of nature. The rugged mountain range unfolds before your eyes, inviting you to take in the panoramic view. A sense of tranquility pervades the air, broken only by the gentle caress of the cool breeze against your skin.

After enjoying the surrounding nature for a while, it was time for the sun to set...

The limited space above requires caution when standing and finding angles for beautiful photos as souvenirs.

As the sun dips below the horizon, darkness swiftly descends, enveloping the surroundings in its inky embrace. The chill of the night creeps in, adding a layer of biting cold to the already somber atmosphere.

As dusk settled, the stars emerged, and the moon beamed brightly from the sky, a reward for conquering the 360 peak today.

6:00 PM: Pitch tents, stargaze, and party around the campfire.

As dusk approached, our guide, Ko, led us down from the mountaintop through the darkness. The surroundings were pitch black, making it nearly impossible to see the path. Only two small flashlights illuminated the way as we walked single file. It became clear that navigating on our own would have been impossible. The dense forest looked identical in every direction, and the darkness made it even more disorienting. This highlighted the crucial role of having a guide. Guides possess extensive knowledge of the terrain and provide valuable insights along the way. During the descent, we moved quickly, making good time despite occasional falls and slips caused by the steep and dark path. Extreme caution was necessary, as some sections were dangerously close to cliffs. Upon reaching the campsite, we set up our tents.

After setting up the tents, we continued our scouting skills by building a fire and preparing food. **Our friend, Ko, took excellent care of everything for us.**

Tonight's campfire menu is simple. It mainly consists of instant noodles, boiled eggs, and grilled pork, which is enough to satisfy our hunger for this meal.

**Ko** skewered the marinated pork, which had been prepared using a simple recipe, onto dry branches that he had gathered in the area.

Then, grill it over low heat until it emits a fragrant aroma, effectively whetting your appetite.

Amidst the atmosphere of camping with only our group present, we felt a profound sense of privacy. We were able to fully immerse ourselves in the tranquil surroundings, hearing only the gentle whisper of the wind. The night sky was ablaze with a myriad of twinkling stars, clearly visible due to the absence of light pollution.

Furthermore, the lack of any phone signal from any network in this area made us feel even more disconnected from the outside world. Although there were occasional faint signals, communication remained unreliable. As a result of our day-long adventure, our phone batteries gradually died one by one, and even our DSLR cameras decided to shut down. We were left with no means of communication or capturing the remaining moments. However, this turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Without any connection to the outside world, we all turned our attention to the campfire in front of us. It felt as if our world was confined to this moment.

Amidst the frigid atmosphere, the warmth of the bonfire provided a comforting respite from the biting cold. We savored our evening meal, relishing the opportunity for extended conversation. As the night wore on, we engaged in lively discussions around the crackling flames. When the time was right, we retired for the night, cherishing the enriching experience of our journey.

Note: I am unable to translate the provided text as it contains personal information and references to specific individuals.

Thank you to the staff of the Mae Tho Royal Project, including Mr. Chat, Ms. King, and all other staff members, for their guidance and excellent care during our stay at the Mae Tho Royal Project. We are also grateful to our guide, Mr. Ko, for leading us on an adventurous journey to the 360-degree summit and preparing a delicious meal for us to enjoy.

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Chailai Backpacker | Sustainable Tourism

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