San Kamphaeng is a district located in the eastern part of Chiang Mai province in Thailand. Known for its hot springs, this area is a popular destination for tourists looking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. With its picturesque landscape and rich cultural heritage, San Kamphaeng offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience.
The hot springs of San Kamphaeng are one of the main attractions of the area. With water temperatures reaching up to 105 degrees Celsius, these natural springs are perfect for cooking eggs and other foods. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak in the warm waters while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. In addition to the hot springs, San Kamphaeng is also home to a number of other natural wonders, including waterfalls and caves.
Aside from its natural beauty, San Kamphaeng is also known for its rich cultural heritage. The area is home to a number of traditional craft villages where visitors can watch artisans at work and purchase handmade goods. These include silk weaving, pottery, and wood carving. Additionally, San Kamphaeng is home to a number of temples and historical sites that offer a glimpse into the region’s fascinating history and culture.
Location and History
San Kamphaeng is a district of Chiang Mai province located in northern Thailand. It is situated about 18 kilometers east of Chiang Mai city and can be reached via Highway 1006. The district is known for its handicrafts and hot springs, making it a popular destination for tourists.
The history of San Kamphaeng dates back to khwaeng Mae Om, which was established in 1901. It was later renamed to San Kamphaeng in 1939. During the Lanna period, the district was known for producing cotton and silk fabrics. Today, it is home to villages and factories producing pottery, saa paper, lacquerware, paper umbrellas, and silk.
In addition to its handicrafts, San Kamphaeng is also known for its hot springs. The San Kamphaeng hot spring is located about 36 kilometers away from Chiang Mai city and can be reached by car or bike. The hot spring is believed to have healing properties and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Local Attractions
San Kamphaeng is a beautiful district in Chiang Mai that is rich with local attractions that are worth visiting. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or nature, there is something for everyone in San Kamphaeng.
One of the most popular attractions in San Kamphaeng is the Bo Sang Handicraft Centre, which is a great place to learn about traditional Thai handicrafts such as umbrella making, silk weaving, and wood carving. Visitors can watch artisans at work and purchase souvenirs to take home.
Another must-visit attraction is the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Ratchaworawihan, which is a beautiful temple located on a mountaintop outside of San Kamphaeng. This temple is one of the most sacred in Thailand and is known for its stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
If you are looking for outdoor activities, the Tube Trek Water Park Chiangmai is a great place to cool off and have some fun. This water park has a variety of water slides and pools that are suitable for all ages.
For those interested in local markets, the San Kamphaeng Saturday Walking Street is a great place to explore. This market is known for its local handicrafts, food, and live music. Visitors can sample local delicacies and purchase souvenirs to take home.
Finally, for art enthusiasts, the MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum is a must-visit attraction. This museum showcases contemporary art from Thailand and Southeast Asia and is known for its impressive collection of works by local artists.
Overall, San Kamphaeng is a great destination for those looking to explore local attractions and learn about Thai culture and history. With so many things to see and do, it is definitely worth a visit!
Shopping in San Kamphaeng
If you’re looking for unique and authentic Thai handicrafts, San Kamphaeng is the perfect place to go shopping. Located just a short drive east of Chiang Mai, this district is known for its high-quality silk products, ceramics, wood carvings, and more.
One of the most popular places to shop in San Kamphaeng is the San Kamphaeng Handicraft Village. Here, you can find a variety of handmade goods, including silk scarves, pottery, and lacquerware. You can even watch local artisans at work, demonstrating their craft and offering workshops for those interested in learning.
Another must-visit shopping destination in San Kamphaeng is the Baan Tawai village. This charming village is home to dozens of shops and galleries, selling everything from intricate wood carvings to traditional Thai musical instruments.
If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, be sure to check out the San Kamphaeng Saturday Walking Street Market. Here, you’ll find a lively atmosphere, with vendors selling all sorts of handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs. Don’t forget to try some of the delicious street food while you’re there!
Finally, for those interested in silk products, the Chiang Mai-San Kamphaeng Road is lined with shops and mini-factories selling high-quality silk scarves, clothing, and accessories. Many of these shops offer tours, allowing visitors to see the silk-making process from start to finish.
Crafts and Workshops
San Kamphaeng is a haven for crafts lovers. The 18-km stretch of highway that runs through it is home to villages and factories producing pottery, saa paper, lacquerware, paper umbrellas, and silk. With so many crafts concentrated in one area, it is one of the best places to watch craftsmen at work.
The village is made up of small cottages tucked between the factories and workshops where artists produce their crafts. Each factory along San Kamphaeng Road specializes in a single craft. Visitors can witness the process of creating pottery, silk, and various handicrafts.
There are many shops along the road from Chiang Mai to San Kampaeng which sell these Thai local products. Visitors can purchase souvenirs such as ceramics, wood carvings, jewelry, and silk products.
One of the must-visit workshops is the Bo Sang Umbrella Village. Here, visitors can watch the process of making paper umbrellas from scratch. The village is home to many umbrella factories and shops where visitors can purchase beautifully designed umbrellas of all sizes.
Another popular workshop is the Saa Paper and Mulberry Papermaking Village. Visitors can learn about the process of making paper from the bark of mulberry trees and can purchase handmade paper products such as notebooks, cards, and lanterns.
Overall, San Kamphaeng is a great place to experience Thai culture and to bring home unique souvenirs.
Food and Dining
San Kamphaeng offers a variety of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. From local street food to fine dining restaurants, visitors will find something to satisfy their cravings.
For those looking for traditional Thai cuisine, Huen Jai Yong and Nasi Jampru are popular choices. Huen Jai Yong offers a range of Thai dishes, including curries, stir-fries, and soups, while Nasi Jampru specializes in local northern Thai food, such as khao soi and sai oua.
If you’re in the mood for something different, Tartar Bistro offers a fusion of Thai and European cuisine, with dishes such as salmon tartare and duck confit. Meanwhile, Aroy Garden is a great option for those looking for a mix of European and Thai food, with a beautiful garden setting to enjoy your meal.
For those looking for a quick bite, there are plenty of street food vendors selling local snacks such as sai krok isan (northeastern Thai sausage) and kanom krok (coconut rice pancakes). Alternatively, food delivery services such as foodpanda offer the convenience of ordering from your phone and having your meal delivered straight to your door.
Overall, San Kamphaeng’s dining scene offers a diverse range of options to suit all tastes and budgets, making it a great destination for foodies.
| Restaurant Name | Cuisine Type | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Huen Jai Yong | Thai | $$ |
| Nasi Jampru | Northern Thai | $$ |
| Tartar Bistro | Thai-European fusion | $$$ |
| Aroy Garden | European-Thai fusion | $$ |
Source: TripAdvisor
Accommodations
San Kamphaeng offers a variety of accommodations to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a family, there’s something for everyone.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, there are several guesthouses and hostels in the area that offer clean and comfortable rooms at affordable rates. Some popular options include the San Kamphaeng Backpacker Hostel and the Baanpong Lodge.
If you’re willing to splurge a little, there are also several luxurious resorts in San Kamphaeng that offer top-notch amenities and services. The Alpine Golf Resort – Chiangmai is a popular choice among golfers, while the Thantara Resort Chiang Mai is perfect for those looking to relax and unwind.
For those who prefer a more unique experience, there are also several boutique hotels in San Kamphaeng that offer a one-of-a-kind stay. The Vet Boutique Hotel – SHA Extra Plus is a great option for animal lovers, as it is both a hotel and veterinary clinic. The Puka Boutique Resort is another popular choice, with its beautiful garden setting and unique bungalow-style accommodations.
Overall, San Kamphaeng offers a range of accommodations to suit any budget or preference. Be sure to book in advance, especially during peak travel season, to ensure availability.
Getting There and Around
San Kamphaeng is a district located in the eastern part of Chiang Mai Province, Thailand. It is approximately 20 kilometers away from Chiang Mai city center. There are several ways to get to San Kamphaeng from Chiang Mai:
- By Bus: There is no direct bus from Chiang Mai to San Kamphaeng. However, you can take a bus from Chiang Mai to Promenada Mall and then take a taxi to San Kamphaeng.
- By Taxi: Taking a taxi is the most convenient option to get to San Kamphaeng. You can easily find a taxi in Chiang Mai city center or at the airport. The journey from Chiang Mai to San Kamphaeng takes around 30 minutes and costs approximately 500-800 baht.
- By Motorbike: Renting a motorbike is a popular option for those who want to explore San Kamphaeng and its surroundings at their own pace. Motorbike rental shops can be found in Chiang Mai city center and at the airport. The rental cost ranges from 150-300 baht per day.
Once you are in San Kamphaeng, there are several ways to get around:
- By Songthaew: Songthaews are the most common mode of transportation in San Kamphaeng. They are shared taxis that run along fixed routes. The fare is usually around 20-30 baht per person.
- By Motorbike: Renting a motorbike is also a good option for getting around San Kamphaeng. You can rent a motorbike from one of the rental shops in the district.
- By Bicycle: Cycling is a great way to explore San Kamphaeng and its surroundings. You can rent a bicycle from one of the rental shops in the district. The rental cost ranges from 50-100 baht per day.
Overall, getting to and around San Kamphaeng is relatively easy and affordable. Whether you choose to take a bus, taxi, motorbike, or bicycle, you will be able to explore this beautiful district and its attractions with ease.
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