The Chiang Dao trip at Chiang Dara was a continuation of the Walking in Mae Kampong trip. After the van dropped us off at the Chang Phuak Bus Terminal, we took a Chiang Mai-Tha Ton bus to Chiang Dao. The fare was 40 baht.

Before reaching Chiang Dao, there will be a checkpoint for ID card inspection. Don't forget to bring your ID card. On the way, we messaged with P'Chat, who informed us to tell the bus boy to drop us off at Chiang Dao, sign 2, at the Mae Ied bridge. The bus will stop right in front of P'Peerakarn Agriculture shop. P'Chat was already waiting there. He said he wanted the shop to be the meeting point for convenience. After talking for a while, P'Chat asked the shop boy to ride a motorbike to take us to Jeang Dara, about 1 km away. Enter through the Wat Intharam intersection. There is a clear sign at the entrance. If you bring a car, enter through the dirt road. There will be a parking lot (the road is next to an agricultural canal).

We arrived at a time when the cafe was quite crowded and had to wait for a while. While waiting, we took some pictures from our seats in the cafe.

I soon moved myself to the first bamboo hut. Tonight, we sleep in the middle of the rice field, living a simple life, sleeping in a mosquito net in a bamboo hut, using a sarong instead of a towel. Come and listen to the sounds of nature around you. Come and live a quiet life, not flashy. At Chiang Dara - Ban Tung Luk, Chiang Dao District, Chiang Mai Province, accommodation does not include breakfast, 300 baht/person/night, special price until the end of September. If you come alone like me, the price will not be increased. If you are interested in staying, you can contact the page at https://www.facebook.com/JiangdaraCoffeeAndTea/

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Let's take a look at the bathroom. It's a bit rustic, and the water used comes from a natural source. The water used for bathing has been treated with alum.

Relaxing on the porch of the cottage. This angle is also beautiful in its own way.

The weather is perfect today, so why would we want to sit still? It's Sunday, August 20, 2017, and there are many customers. There are students studying for exams, people discussing beauty businesses, and a group of cyclists enjoying the scenery. The rice fields on the other side of the canal are green, and Doi Luang Chiang Dao is in the background.

After a while, we reached the main road from Chiang Dao. The rice fields on the other side were also beautiful.

A short walk into town, just one kilometer, and you'll find a bridge over the Mae I River. The water is a deep, dark color.

Crossing the bridge, you will reach Wat Intharam. Upon entering, you will immediately encounter the main pillar of Chiang Dao.

Wander around the ancient yet beautiful ordination hall and the bell tower that doesn't require climbing many stairs.

Upon arriving in the city center, I had to grab some grub. I opted for a 35 baht stir-fried pork with basil and a fried egg.

After a hearty meal, the rain came down in torrents. It was unpredictable to travel during the rainy season. We waited for the rain to ease, then put on our raincoats and trudged back to our accommodation. On the way back, we walked slowly, having to pull up our raincoats all the way. Along the way, we saw another rice paddy. I love this place. Everywhere you look, it's green with rice fields.

Back at the accommodation, the rain had stopped. I sat down to enjoy a hot latte for 40 baht, the atmosphere was more than worth it.

After the rain stopped, the mist came to our delight. From our angle at Doi Luang Chiang Dao, we were surrounded by mist. The mobile phone camera could only capture this much.

For dinner, we ordered a mixed seafood salad. This dish costs 50 baht and is packed with ingredients. It was delicious.

The sky has turned a deep blue, even though the sun is not setting, it has been replaced by a deep blue.

I fell asleep at 8 pm last night. The weather was nice and it rained all night.

Mr. Chat lent me his bicycle to go to the morning market. The morning market is mostly fresh produce. I walked around twice and then went to other places. I guess I've seen the normal way of life here.

Cycling from the morning market to Wat Mae Ed, I learned from the locals offering food that it was a Buddhist holy day. The atmosphere around Wat Mae Ed was serene and peaceful.

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After leaving Wat Mae I-D, I stopped to buy food until my bag and the rack hanging on the cart were almost full.

On the way back, I cycled to the other side of the road. If I turned right, I would go back to Chiang Dara, but I turned left. This side is very fertile.

The time for mischief here is over. I have a 9 am bus to Kong City. This time, I must thank Mr. Chat for recommending accommodation in Kong City. He also took care of arranging the bus to Kong City for me.

Impressions of Chiang Dara

• Peaceful and quiet: The tranquil atmosphere allowed for a restful sleep, accompanied by the soothing sounds of nature amidst the rice fields.
• Chemical-free rice paddies: The commitment to organic farming practices ensures a healthy and sustainable environment.
• Unique perspective of Doi Luang Chiang Dao: The breathtaking views of the mountain from a different angle offer a refreshing perspective.
• Valuable insights from Mr. Chat: The owner's knowledge and guidance provided valuable insights into the local culture and agricultural practices.
• Simple living experience: The opportunity to disconnect from the city and embrace a simpler way of life offered a refreshing change of pace.

This trip combines affordable and easily accessible homestays that we enjoy.

The next stop on our journey will be Kong, a district in Chiang Dao, Chiang Mai province.

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