Community Cooperative Living and Organic Farmstay Experience
Overview
Duration
2 Days | 1 Nights
Location
Chiang Mai
Itinerary
Day 1: Responsible Living: Forest Exploration and Local Cooking
Includes Lunch, Dinner
Start your adventure as you are picked up by your guide at 9am this morning and transferred to a fascinating agricultural community cooperative just over an hour outside Chiang Mai city. To begin, get a brief introduction into the history and traditions of the area, giving you insight into the rich culture and sustainable organic and cyclical farming lifestyle you’ll experience throughout the tour.
You'll gain knowledge into the origins of this fascinating community farming co-operative where everyone member pitches in for the common good. Following the introduction, take a scenic hike through a local community forest, where you’ll learn about the various trees, plants, and fruits that thrive in the region. The forest is a vital resource for the local population, and your guide will explain how it provides food and water for the community. You'll also learn about the different varieties of Bamboo the thrive in the forest and are used for various purposes from cooking to construction. The short hike only lasts about 15-20 minutes one way, allowing for an intimate connection with nature. Please note, while it is a short and relatively easy hike, some parts can require scrambling over rocks and traversing uneven ground. During the trek, you’ll also have the chance to collect samples of seasonal fruits and plants.
After the hike, enjoy a delicious traditional picnic, cooked using natural bamboo techniques. The meal includes sticky rice and other local dishes, all prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Dining in the midst of nature whilst sitting on large banana leaves adds to the authenticity of this communal and eco-friendly experience.
In the afternoon, you’ll return to the sustainable living base site, where you’ll relax with a soothing herbal foot bath. Soak your feet in a blend of around 20 different herbs, which will help relieve tension and rejuvenate you after your hike. While soaking, you can enjoy herbal snacks and drinks, adding to the relaxing atmosphere.
Later, take a walk around the community to pick seasonal vegetables from local gardens. With your fresh produce, you’ll join a cooking session, preparing a traditional meal under the guidance of local experts. This hands-on experience will teach you how to cook authentic dishes with fresh, organic ingredients. Afterward, sit down to enjoy your meal, savouring the flavours of your hard work, before enjoying a peaceful overnight experience in a quaint, but comfortable farmstay lodge.
Day 2: Responsible Living: Scenic Views and Organic Agriculture
Includes Breakfast
On the second day, you’ll start with a visit to a scenic viewpoint, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. This is a perfect opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the region and take in the peaceful environment.
Next, head to a nearby chicken farm, where you’ll learn about the differences between conventional and organic eggs. You’ll even have the chance to compare both types by cooking and tasting them, gaining a deeper understanding of the benefits of organic farming.
Your next stop is an organic farm. To get there, you will embark on a local 'Saling' ride (A moped with a sidecar basket and bench) to explore the area. The journey will take you through the village, vegetable gardens, and animal farms, offering a closer look at how organic farming practices are implemented. The farm owner will share her story of transitioning to organic farming and explain how these practices have positively impacted both her farm and her family’s health. The visit to the farm will last about 30-45 minutes, allowing you to fully appreciate the work behind sustainable organic farming.
After the farm visit, you’ll return to the sustainable living site, where you’ll relax before transferring back to Chiang Mai for around 1pm in the afternoon, bringing an end to your two-day adventure filled with sustainable living, organic farming, and local culture.
Important Information
Inclusions
Accommodation
English Speaking Guide
Transportation
Meals and Snacks as Mentioned
Drinking Water
Exclusions
Tips for Guide and Driver
Other Beverages
Other Services Not Mentioned
Domestic Flights
International Flights
