Do you love tribal culture? Don't miss out on the Hmong village of Doi Pui during your vacation in Thailand. Discover its history, attractions, and practical information for an enjoyable visit.
Ready for an exciting cultural experience? Head to the mountainous region of northern Thailand and climb up to the Hmong village of Doi Pui. Located atop Doi Suthep Mountain, this tribal community promises beautiful discoveries in a breathtaking natural setting.
Historically, the Hmong people come from the mountainous regions of southern China. In addition to wars and political conflicts, feeling marginalized by the Chinese majority, they migrated to Southeast Asia from the 18th century onwards. Finding refuge in Thailand, they founded the village of Doi Pui at the top of Doi Suthep in 1951 before being relocated to their current site by the government in 1975.
In the village of Doi Pui, tourism has taken precedence over fruit and vegetable cultivation. Today, souvenir shops reign supreme. You'll also find a wide selection of restaurants and cafes. To top it off, the residents have created splendid flower gardens, with the backdrop of Doi Suthep, to delight photo enthusiasts. While Doi Pui has glittered to attract visitors, it has still retained its tribal identity.
Stroll through the village's narrow streets to discover local products. Explore the craft stalls selling jewelry, wooden utensils, and many other handmade accessories. For fans of tribal fabrics, traditional clothing is also available. If you want to offer an original souvenir to your loved ones, Doi Pui is the perfect place to look for your gift. Moreover, the prices are cheap enough to satisfy everyone.
Rest assured, the vendors here don't harass you. You can freely browse their stalls and leave (without the obligation to buy) if nothing suits you. The villagers are always smiling and ready to help you.
For just about 10 baht, you'll have access to one of the most panoramic spots in the region. In the Doi Pui garden, residents grow fruits and vegetables, as well as a wide range of flowers. In the past, opium was one of the main sources of income for hill tribes. By coming to Doi Pui in the spring, you can enjoy the blooming of wild Himalayan cherry trees, also known as Thai Sakura.
There's a restaurant and café on-site for you to relax. Enjoy the romantic landscape while savoring a cup of locally sourced Arabica coffee. Near the entrance to the gardens, a small shop rents traditional Hmong costumes to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.
The Baan Hmong Doi Pui Museum was established in 1984 at the initiative of village chief Mr. Yingyot Wangwanawat. Although the building appears rustic, it's filled with treasures. Consider the antiques and everyday objects of the Hmong people, preserved diligently for generations to come. The entrance fee is 10 baht per person.
The village of Doi Pui is a perfect base to start an adventure through Doi Suthep Pui National Park. Put on your explorer outfit and hit the hiking trails to explore the wonders of the region. Trails reveal splendid waterfalls. Also, enjoy an exciting encounter with the wildlife and flora. The park boasts around 300 bird species and over 2,000 species of plants and ferns.
The highlight of your experience will be discovering Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, a majestic golden monastery clinging to the mountain.
The best time to visit the Hmong village of Doi Pui is from November to February. During these months, temperatures are mild. The sky is generally sunny, and it rarely rains, meaning you can fully enjoy outdoor activities. Several events liven up this period, such as the Hmong New Year festival in November and the Chiang Mai Flower Festival in February.
The simplest option to reach Doi Pui from Chiang Mai is to take a songthaew from Warorot Market. The journey takes about 45 minutes. For more comfort, taxis can take you to the village, but the price is higher. For the more adventurous, it's possible to rent motorcycles and bicycles at some shops in Chiang Mai.
Doi Pui is a small village that can easily be covered on foot, by motorcycle, or by bicycle.