Your journey begins with hotel pick-up at 08:30, followed by a scenic drive through the countryside to Maerim. Upon arrival at the learning centre, guests are welcomed and invited to observe a demonstration of traditional rice field ploughing using water buffaloes. You’ll also have the opportunity to feed the buffaloes and learn about their important role in Thai agriculture.
Next, guests will participate in seasonal rice farming activities. Depending on the time of year, this may include sowing rice seeds, transplanting seedlings, planting in paddies, or harvesting mature rice. After the fieldwork, you’ll learn about traditional rice processing techniques such as threshing and pounding rice by hand.
The tour continues with a short walk through the learning centre’s agricultural areas, where you’ll visit sections for raising chickens and growing vegetables. This part of the experience introduces the principles of Sufficiency Economy a development philosophy created by His Majesty King Rama IX that emphasizes living within one’s means, self-reliance, and thoughtful resource management. This approach focuses on moderation, reasonableness, and building resilience against economic and environmental challenges, helping visitors understand how rural Thai communities balance traditional practices with modern needs.
Back at the kitchen area, guests will see how sticky rice is steamed and can try making Kai Pham (Thai-style omelette) without using oil a fun and unique hands-on cooking activity. You’ll enjoy this light snack prepared with fresh ingredients from the learning center.
After this light bite, we’ll return to your hotel, bringing back not just memories but a deeper understanding of traditional Thai farming practices, rural wisdom, and local culture.
