Doi Mae Salong
Ancestors Museum

DOI MAE SALONG was recently selected as an"One Tambon One Product",, OTOP village in recognition of the very fine oolong tea grown in several plantations that thrive in the lofty hills. Mae Salong village has long been known as one of northern Thailands farthest most remote scenic destinations. Mae Salong Village is a one hour drive from Chiang Rai which is easily accessible by direct daily comfortable flight from the countrys capital city, Bangkok, or via flights from Chiang Mai.

Only fifty years ago, these wild mountains came into the hands of pioneers whose determination and love of this forsaken area turned this remote area into a paradise for everyones pleasure. A well appointed museum was opened in April 2004 to honor their ancestors who toiled to make Mae Salong a sustaining success for todays generation. Over 500 photographs displayed throughout several halls relate the fascinating history.

In 1949 mainland China was not peaceful. Its officers and people fled the country because they could not tolerate the communist regime. Their escape spread into northern Burma and Laos. Twelve years later, the communist Chinese and Burmese governments cooperated with each other to attack and conquer the remaining Chinas Kok Min Tang troops. At that time, 1961, the Burmese government petitioned the United Nations for Taiwan repatriate these troops back to Formosa Island. Meanwhile, Thailand also requested Taiwan to repatriate five troops, i.e. 1, 2, ,3,4,5 out of northern Thailand. Only troops #1, 2, and 4 responded. Troops #3, and 5 did not wish to return to neither mainland China nor Taiwan.

In 1970, the Chiang Rai provincial administration had its first experience with communist insurgency when Chiang Rais high ranking officials were ambushed and killed despite the fact the KMT advised the officials not to trust the communists. In the following year, 1971, Thailand incurred serious problems with Thai communist insurgency. The Chinese troops went to Petchaboon province and successfully rid the area of insurgents. The Thai government awarded the KMT with citizenship status and a new settlement on Doi Mae Salong. The Chinese soldiers laid down their weapons and uniforms to concentrate on agricultural development. They became productive citizens who raised their standard of living through peaceful efforts.

The museum is located near the village market. There is a shopping bazaar in the museum selling the fine teas produced in the steep hillsides around the village. Open daily from 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. Entrance fee of Baht 30.- per person.

Visitors can easily spend two or three days in Doi Mae Salong. A recommended place to stay is the Mae Salong Villa with one storey bungalows facing the lovely valley. The restaurant serves delicious dishes especially well known for duck and Chinese herbal soup with black chicken. They can arrange a special tour for you to the Chokechamrern Tea plantation. The drive is about 20 minutes away from the resort through beautiful countryside. For more information, please call Mae Salong Villa at Tel: 053 765 114~9

Also, not far from the resort is a hilltribe village. The Akha tribe are very friendly and welcoming. Our group gave cookies to the 20 toddlers. All members of the village come out to eagerly explain their tribes age old customs. Later, visitors can sit on the towering swing. Those who are brave enough, sail back and forth over the cliff edge.After this excitement, get your camera ready for the singing, dancing and game playing with the villagers. Remember to show your appreciation for their efforts to entertain you by leaving a donation at the village donation box as you say goodbye.