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A Journey to Recharge and Discover: Exploring the Beauty of Ban Pa Hemiang
Traveling to recharge and find peace is a popular choice for many. Whether it's exploring the wonders of nature or simply taking in breathtaking views, a getaway can be a rejuvenating experience. This time, we had the opportunity to visit Ban Pa Hemiang, a small village nestled in the mountains of Lampang province, bordering Chiang Mai.
Located in Jae Son sub-district, Ban Pa Hemiang is surrounded by lush forests and offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The village is easily accessible by car, with paved roads leading from both Chiang Mai and Lampang. We opted for the scenic route from Chiang Mai, passing through Mae Kampong and the winding mountain roads.
During our two-day stay, we immersed ourselves in the local culture and embraced the natural beauty of the area. Here's a glimpse into our unforgettable experience:
Day 1:
- Morning: We arrived in Ban Pa Hemiang and checked into our cozy homestay, hosted by a friendly local family. After settling in, we embarked on a leisurely walk through the village, admiring the traditional wooden houses and the breathtaking mountain scenery.
- Afternoon: We indulged in a delicious lunch prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The flavors were authentic and reflected the culinary traditions of the region.
- Evening: As the sun began to set, we joined a group of villagers for a traditional dance performance. The vibrant costumes and rhythmic movements showcased the rich cultural heritage of Ban Pa Hemiang.
Day 2:
- Morning: We woke up to the sound of birds chirping and the fresh mountain air. After a hearty breakfast, we embarked on a guided hike through the surrounding forests. The trail led us to a hidden waterfall, where we could cool off and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
- Afternoon: We visited a nearby farm, where we learned about the cultivation of local crops and the importance of sustainable agriculture. We also had the opportunity to try our hand at traditional farming techniques.
- Evening: We bid farewell to our hosts and the villagers, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. The memories of our time in Ban Pa Hemiang will stay with us forever.
Beyond the Itinerary:
Our journey to Ban Pa Hemiang was more than just a sightseeing trip. It was an opportunity to connect with nature, experience local culture, and gain a deeper appreciation for the simple things in life. The warm hospitality of the villagers, the stunning natural landscapes, and the unique cultural traditions left a lasting impression on us.
A Call to Action:
We encourage everyone to consider exploring hidden gems like Ban Pa Hemiang. These communities offer a glimpse into authentic Thailand, where traditions are preserved, and nature thrives. By supporting local tourism, we can contribute to the economic development of these villages while also experiencing the beauty and richness of Thai culture.
Lush greenery fills both sides of the road leading to the village.
We slowly drove along the winding mountain path.
And then we arrived at our destination, Ban Pa Hemiang community.
This village is peaceful and the air is cool and comfortable.
With the warm welcome from Mr. Chanchai and the villagers,
we felt like we were coming home to a warm embrace.
After that, we put our belongings in our accommodation.
Today's agenda: Harvesting and processing Miang leaves
Get ready to explore the village and participate in a Miang leaf harvesting activity. We will learn the entire process, from picking the leaves to steaming, tying, and processing them into various forms.
While picking Miang leaves, Uncle Prasit shared with us the history of Miang picking.
He explained how Miang was traditionally harvested and how it became the main occupation for local villagers.
He also described the evolution of Miang picking, from hand-picking in the past to the current method using modified blades for faster and less painful harvesting.
The Mieng leaves we are talking about are popularly consumed as a snack by the locals here.
They can also be processed into a wide variety of dishes, such as the one we will be enjoying this evening.
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It rained on the day we traveled, making the already cool air even cooler.
After we finished picking the betel leaves, we steamed them and tied them up like this. My uncle said that once it's done like this, we can sell it.
While we wait for the Mieng leaves to steam, let's make some tea leaf pillows.
These tea leaves are actually Mieng leaves that have been dried until they have a fragrant aroma. They are then stuffed into a pillowcase to create a Mieng tea pillow.
The young, tender leaves of the Mieng plant can also be brewed into a tea, similar to other types of tea.
Place it in the refrigerator or wardrobe to remove musty odors.
After completing various activities, it's time to refuel. Dinner is ready for hungry humans like us. The meal will be a local dish, with some ingredients coming from the Miang leaves themselves. These are used to make a delicious Miang leaf salad, which is best enjoyed with hot sticky rice.
The meal concludes with fresh, locally-sourced fruits and "Mieng" (a traditional Thai appetizer consisting of betel leaves, nuts, and other ingredients). The fruits are picked directly from the gardens of nearby villagers, ensuring their freshness and freedom from harmful chemicals.
This time, we are lucky that it rained, but it didn't rain all day.
This made the weather here cool and comfortable, with no sun at all.
The wind was cool and refreshing.
Today, we will be staying at a local homestay.
There are many homestays in the area, and they are all run by the community. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, like a big family. People greet each other as they walk by, creating a sense of camaraderie.
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A crystal-clear stream meanders through the villages.
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The surroundings of the homestay are lush and verdant.
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Listening to the sound of flowing water and feeling the cool air, it's a night for comfortable sleep without needing a fan. In fact, you might even need to cover yourself with several blankets because the nighttime air is so good, you wouldn't even need to wait for winter.
This morning, we will go to Giw Fin, which is about 4 kilometers from the village, to watch the sunrise.
The entire route today is shrouded in white mist because it rained again last night.
The sun must be hidden in the white mist of the fog.
The Viewpoint of Kiw Fin
The Kiw Fin viewpoint is located within the Jae Son National Park, similar to the Ban Pa Hemiang community. From the car park, it takes approximately 200 meters of walking to reach the viewpoint.
The background is not a white background, but rather a white mist that surrounds everything.
Although we cannot see the sunrise, the white mist is just as beautiful.
Along the way, there are small and large trees that are green, lush, and filled with mist throughout the forest floor.
The crisp morning air invigorates the senses.
And then we're back for breakfast today.
It's hot rice porridge with soft-boiled eggs. I'd like to ask the aunt if I could change from a bowl to a pot, please. :)
Before waving goodbye to the Ban Pa Hemiang community, there's a coffee shop with a million-dollar view where you can sip on hot coffee.
Right in front of us is the Ban Pa Hemiang community village, surrounded by green mountains.
The coffee here is grown by the villagers themselves.
It's freshly brewed coffee for us to enjoy.
The Enchanting Charms of Ban Pa Hemiang: Beyond Coffee and Miang Trees
Nestled amidst the serene landscapes of northern Thailand lies the captivating village of Ban Pa Hemiang, a hidden gem that offers far more than just its renowned coffee and miang trees. During the month of February, the village transforms into a breathtaking spectacle as the dok siao trees burst into bloom, painting the landscape with a mesmerizing blanket of white.
But the floral wonders of Ban Pa Hemiang extend beyond the dok siao. Come December, the doi sakura, a captivating variety of wild Himalayan cherry, graces the village with its delicate pink blossoms, creating an ethereal ambiance reminiscent of Japan's iconic cherry blossoms. This remarkable convergence of flora ensures that Ban Pa Hemiang remains a captivating destination throughout the year.
Beyond its natural beauty, Ban Pa Hemiang offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the warmth of Thai hospitality. The village boasts a charming array of homestays, where visitors can experience the authentic rhythm of local life. From savoring traditional cuisine to engaging in heartfelt conversations with the villagers, a stay in a Ban Pa Hemiang homestay promises an unforgettable cultural immersion.
The allure of Ban Pa Hemiang extends far beyond its picturesque landscapes and cultural experiences. The village embodies a spirit of resilience and community, where sustainable practices and environmental consciousness are deeply ingrained. Visitors can witness firsthand the villagers' dedication to preserving their natural surroundings, making Ban Pa Hemiang a model for responsible tourism.
A visit to Ban Pa Hemiang is an invitation to reconnect with nature, embrace cultural diversity, and discover the profound beauty of simplicity. It is a place that leaves an indelible mark on the soul, beckoning travelers to return time and again to experience its magic anew.
Travel
By private car
Route 1 from Jae Son National Park is approximately 16 kilometers long. The route consists of asphalt and concrete roads, winding its way through the high mountains.
Route 2 from Chiang Mai city follows the same route as Mae Kampong, passing through Mae Kampong village for approximately 7-8 kilometers. The road is paved with asphalt and concrete, winding along the high mountains. Drivers should exercise caution due to the winding nature of the road.
Contact Homestay at Ban Pa Hemiyong
Contact Information:
- Facebook Page: Ban Pa Hemiyong Community, Lamphang Province
- Contact Person: Mr. Chanchai (Village Headman)
- Phone Number: 084-8949122
- Online Booking: 1nightstaywithlocals
Cost: 850 Baht/person/night, including two meals.
Our program includes the following activities: * A walk through the Pa Hemiyong village, surrounded by the Kafae and Mieng forests. * Mieng leaf picking, followed by a demonstration of Mieng making, including steaming, tying, and processing. * A workshop on making tea leaf pillows for health benefits. * A home-cooked dinner at the homestay featuring local dishes. * A sunrise view at Kiw Fin.
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See you on the next trip!
:)
t.aroundtogether
Wednesday, February 26, 2025 7:16 PM
