Chiang Rai is Thailand's northernmost province and its boundaries are connected with Myanmar and Laos with Dan Lao Mountain and Mae Khong River flows throughout the area. The area is populated by numerous rugged hill tribes who live in the mountains. Looking on a map the area of Ban Hua Mae Kham is the area similar in shape as that of a fist with its left thumb pointing left. Its a majestic high mountain with cool weather and surrounded by a beautiful panoramic view.

For an adventure, why not drive up the ridge through Akha, Lisu, Lahu, Hmong, Mien, Shan, Chinese and Lawa villages at a time when the hills are covered with wild sunflowers. Toward the end of November through December, Ban Hua Mae Kham has very beautiful scenery. The main attraction is during the morning when the "Buatong" or wild sunflowers bloom covering the whole mountain through the misty fog of winter coolness. This gift of Mother Nature adds a colorful attraction to this area. The tribes will gather to celebrate their unique cultural heritage on the Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th of November.

There will be two performances featuring the music of the tribes. This is an opportunity to purchase famous varieties of Golden Triangle tea, cut flowers, handicrafts and other hill products that will be available for sale.

Ban Hua Mae Kham - be sure to get there before noon! The General Public is invited to join this annual gathering on Saturday, November 15.

The "Off roads 4-wheel drive Rally" takes place on Sunday, November 16. The rally is sure to be an adventure navigating the many mountains and valleys in the Ban Hua Mae Kham area.

How to Get to Doi Hua Mae Kham : The total distance from Chiang Rai city is around 100 kms. The most convenient way is to follow the signs from the Mae Salong turnoff just beyond Mae Chan on the way to Mae Sai. Turn left at the PTT gas station. The destination of Ban Hua Mae Kham is about 32 kms away.

More Information can be found at:

• Tourism Authority of Thailand, Chiang Rai - (66 53) 717433, 744675
• Mae Fah Luang/Mae Chan Area Development for Security Project: Hin Taek - (66 53) 765252
• Golden Triangle Tours Office - (66 53) 713918,

• Friday, November 14, 1997: Loy Krathong on Mae Kok River
• Saturday, November 15, 1997: the 10th Annual Tribal Festival
• Sunday, November 16, 1997: Visit the Golden Triangle

See the related pages:

• Doi Hua Mae Kum Festival
• Hilltribe Cultures Festival Project