Pa-Son Watchan in Chiang Mai


If you find yourself yearning to escape into a pine forest somewhere in Europe or North America and enjoy some me time amid autumn leaves, you don’t have to get an expensive flight away from Thailand. Pa-Son Watchan in Chiang Mai will have what you’re looking for.

Keep reading to discover what this destination has in store for you.


A foggy pine forest with a lake to visit in winter


Image credit: @pattpsep via Instagram

From December to January, this winter time is perfect for a trip to Pa-Son Watchan in Chiangmai. The weather is cosily cool and you’ll get to admire fall foliage around the forest. The cool atmosphere will tempt you to go trekking and explore the forest without leaving you feeling tired or sweaty. The pine forest here provides an ambiance reminiscent of being in a European or northern American woodland.

Also, if you’re a fan of cherry blossoms, you can expect to spot some here during the wintertime.


Image credit: @jakarin18 via Instagram

One of the highlights is a lake that’s surrounded by green trees. Once you wake up in the morning, we suggest taking a walk here, where you’ll witness the morning light gently illuminating the water’s surface blanketed by mist.

pa-son watchan
Image credit: @pattpsep via Instagram

Just for an idea, you can bring a kayak with you to paddle and vibe on this serene lake.


Have a cosy sleep in an A-frame log hut


pa-son watchan
Image credit: @parnsaiparn via Instagram

FIO Watchan offers cosy wooden A-frame houses placed amid pine trees from ฿800 (~USD22.62)/night. In our opinion, this type of houseing really matches the surroundings. A 3D2N stay here can be a wonderful retreat for office workers at the end of the year.

pa-son watchan
Image credit: @kasapakland via Instagram

However, if you’re an enthusiastic camper, you can bring your own tent to camp here at ฿50 (~USD1.41) per person per night.


Getting to Pa-son Watchan in Chiang Mai


So, here’s another gem in Chiang Mai for travellers to visit in the wintertime without spending much on a plane ticket and flying across the continent.

Driving here from Chiang Mai takes about two hours and it is quite easy as the roads are good and have minimal traffic. However, you can anticipate encountering some winding curves along the scenic path.

Furthermore, for similar articles, visit Khao Yai Thiang in Khao Ya – cycle with views of indigo lakes and wind turbines and Phu Kho –a scenic viewpoint & campground in Loei. Also, Hin Sam Wan – 3 massive whale-shaped rocks in Bueng Kan is worth checking out.

Address: Pa-Son Watchan, Ban Chan, Mae Chaem District, Chiang Mai
Opening hours:
8am-10pm, Daily

Contact: +66 8 6181 3388 | FIO Watchan’s Facebook | Google Maps


Cover image adapted from: @parnsaiparn via Instagram, @pattpsep via Instagram, and @jakarin18 via Instagram

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