Moo Ban Rak Thai (Mae Aw) is a unique village in Mae Hong Son Province, Thailand, originally settled by former Kuomintang (KMT) soldiers who sought refuge after the Chinese Civil War. The village is characterized by its Yunnanese architecture, tea plantations, and a central lake that reflects the surrounding mountains. It has become a popular destination for those seeking a tranquil retreat, offering opportunities for tea tasting, enjoying Chinese cuisine, and exploring the scenic landscape. While it has grown in popularity, retaining a peaceful atmosphere remains a key draw for visitors. The village is situated on a steep, winding road, approximately 44-45 kilometers from Mae Hong Son city.
This attraction is best suited for travelers seeking a peaceful escape, nature lovers, tea enthusiasts, and those interested in unique cultural experiences. It's also a good destination for couples and photographers.
November to December offers cool temperatures and beautiful scenery, but it's also the peak season. January to February is also pleasant, with fewer crowds.
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. Morning is recommended for quieter views and fewer crowds. Late afternoon offers beautiful light for photography.
Accessibility is limited due to the hilly terrain and winding roads. The village itself has some paved walkways, but navigating the area can be challenging for individuals with mobility issues. Facilities for those with disabilities are limited.
The village is generally considered kid-friendly, with open spaces for walking and exploring. However, the steep slopes and proximity to the lake require close supervision. Stroller access is limited due to uneven terrain. There are limited dedicated kid activities.
Pets are generally not allowed in restaurants or guesthouses.
Numerous restaurants around the lake offer Yunnanese and Chinese cuisine. Cafes serve coffee and tea. Restrooms are available in some restaurants and guesthouses. Picnic areas are limited.
This is a beautiful city which is so nice to visit. The location here is stunning and the views are beautiful. The city is blessed with a lot of ancient buildings and historic places which makes this place really beautiful and nice to go around. We really enjoyed this city and will definitely come back again.
The cafe is a little place situated in the middle of the buzzing market of the city and is a cute little place with a really warm ambience and very nice and friendly people and staff. The food was great and had a lot of amazing local flavors. It was totally worth the visit and we really enjoyed the food and hospitality.
Let others know your experience here.