Now that the rainy season is quickly upon us, places with wet, sandy beaches and cloudy, rainy skies seem less appealing. However, the culture-rich, mountainous north is at its most attractive time of year.
There is a wonderful, scenic, and peaceful place where brief afternoon rain showers are definitely an advantage. This little known gem is the community of Ban Thatorn in Mae Ai district and the Chiangmai province.
The spectacular scenery with the Mae Kok River snaking its way through the fertile Farng Valley and disappearing into tree-covered mountains, is a photographer's dream. The brief rain showers keep the air fresh and clean to offer unlimited visibility of this strikingly beautiful area. Big, puffy, white clouds decorating the mountain tops against a rich, blue sky with numerous rainbows occur only during the rainy season. Colorful hill tribe people working in corn fields set on almost vertical slopes that are surrounded by many shades of green from the lush vegetation, complete the picture.
You will be equally impressed by the hospitality and friendliness of the Thatorn people. The area is a unique cultural mixture of Thai, Chinese, and hill tribe people who welcome western visitors, but do not change traditions to please them.
The first place to visit is Wat Thatorn. The temple grounds, consisting of over 400 rai of land, are famous for their large Buddha statues that overlook the town. The breath-taking vistas from the upper temple grounds are unmatched anywhere in Thailand. The temple is a perfect place for meditation and study because of the quiet, tree-covered grounds and flower gardens. Contrary to popular belief, heavy rain showers only happen at night. Daytime showers occur only on the mountain tops. Between 5 and 7pm, the skies open up with torrent rain. These cool evening rains make it excellent for sleeping. The mornings are clean and clear with spectacular sun rises.