“The best memories are those of people you love, the places you have seen together, and the experiences you have shared with one another.”
Mon Jam, also known as Doi Mon Jam or Mon Chaem, is a mountaintop community and national park located in Mae Rim which is about 1 hour from Chiangmai airport and at the elevation of 1,300m. The name "Mon Jam" means "a cluster of grapes on the hill in the local language.
The stunning location nestled amidst rolling hills and lush green forest is also famous for being home to the ethnically diverse Hmong Tribespeople, and the cold weather combined with gorgeous mountain views.
It was previously a wild forest until villagers reclaimed and planted opium, which had negative effects on the land and the local community.
Eventually, the Royal Project purchased the land and included it as part of the Nong Hoi Royal Project which aimed to restore the area, promote sustainable agriculture and improve the quality of life for the residents.
Mon Jam offers breathtaking views, especially during the peak months (October to early February). We came at the right time, on the month of mid- November. Visitors can enjoy lovely flowers, fruits, and a clear blue sky that reveals a mist-covered mountain range. Even in the most evenings of this period, the temperature will go as low as 15 degrees and provide a starry sky above, creating a magical atmosphere.
When planning a trip to Mon Jam, it’s important to consider the weather and other factors that may affect your experience. In this section, we’ll discuss the best time to visit Mon Jam based on factors such as weather, burning season, rainy season, and fog. The weather in Mon Jam is generally mild and pleasant throughout the year, with temperatures averaging around 20-25°C. However, it can get quite chilly during the winter months (November to February), with temperatures dropping as low as 5°C at night. If you’re not a fan of cold weather, it’s best to avoid visiting during this time.
Burning season, which typically occurs from February to April, can cause haze and air pollution in the region. This can affect visibility and make it difficult to fully appreciate the scenic views of Mon Jam. If you’re sensitive to air pollution or have respiratory issues, it’s best to avoid visiting during this time.
The rainy season in Mon Jam typically starts in May and lasts until October. While it can rain heavily during this time, the rain usually only lasts for a few hours and is followed by clear skies. If you don’t mind a little rain and want to avoid the crowds, visiting during the rainy season can be a good option. Fog can occur in Mon Jam throughout the year, but it’s most common during the winter months. While the fog can create a mystical and enchanting atmosphere, it can also limit visibility and make it difficult to fully appreciate the views. If you want to avoid fog, it’s best to visit during the dry season (November to April).
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| Courtesy from goggle. |
We will be spending the best of the 2 nights of the trip at the top of the mountain at Monviewngiam Resort where we book a total of 4 small villas located side by side that come with verandas to the million-dollar view.
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| Resort arranged these 4 cottages side by side for us. |
Monviewngam Resort
Contact: Hotel Website
Location: Google Map
After the 1-hour ride from Chiangmai Aiport and finally we reached our accommodation.
Monviewngarm is located at a high point in Mon Chaem, 1,350 meters above sea level, providing a cool climate all year round.
You can enjoy a 360-degree view of both sunrise in the morning and sunset in the evening. In the nights, we will be comforted by the starry skies above our heads, and twinkling lights from various homes across the mountains.
There are various types of accommodations to choose from... a simple tent to a well-equipped tent to a house which come with a few categories.
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| Courtesy from the resort. |
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| Courtesy from the resort. |
Reception
There is no lobby at this resort, just a little hut that look like a gantry point - this is the reception for Monviewngam Resort.
What an amazing way to start our 2 nights here.
Our Room
We have a group of 9, we need rooms that are adjoining, we were lucky to place the reservation early in May.
The staff - Khun Chan is very helpful and patient, he assisted to book 4 rooms, all adjoining.
It is good to book early to avoid disappointment as the whole of Mon Jam will be super packed in the peak season.
Modern style house is arranged in a beautiful row next to the house with a good view. Get a 180-degree view in front of the house that is built as a private protruding terrace. You can come and sit and talk and socialize.
Features:
- Tables and chairs for living both inside and outside the house.
- television
- Water heater
- En-suite bathroom (very basic)
- Towel (wrapped in plastic bag)
- Soap / Shampoo
- Free drinking water
- air conditioner
Take note that toilet paper is not provided, they only provided a packet of tissue paper.
You may want to purchase more from the reception or bring your own.
As for the toilet, shampoo and shower gel are provided too, however I brought my own.
Million Dollar View
Love the private view that is right infront of our room.
The sun in the afternoon was pretty scorching and bright, we were all hiding in our rooms after check in.
We only come out when the sun is setting.
Sunset View
Right at our terraces, we can see the sunset here.
The temperature contrasted, it went down once the sun set and gradually become cool to cooler to cold to colder!
Mookata Dinner
What an experience to have a great grill dinner over the million dollars views.
Right on our terrace, the staff arrange all the seatings to be together, I pre-ordered 2 big sets at THB1400 and 1 small set at THB400 and additional 500g of pork at THB150.
Night View
When most of us had retreated into the rooms, few of us gathered and chilled at my terrace.
We could feel the temperature dropped significantly so all of us draped over a jacket or shawl.
The whole valley across from our terrace was lit with lights, noises from vehicles could be heard at a distance, laughter and loud chats was also present in the background too.
The whole skies was covered with stars, some are bright, some are dim but you can see they are all sparkling and dancing high above. I was so lucky that I spotted a shooting star too but was too slow to react whether to make a wish or to take a photo.
Pre-Dawn
We have 2 super friendly visitors resting infront of Cindy's doors.
One white and one black but both are very obedient and sweet, they are not fierce at all.
I even got some biscuit to lure them away so that Cindy can come out.
Sunrise View
At this resort, we can also have sunrise view at the restaurant that is facing the east.
The sunrise starts at about 630am.
Breakfast
Like Mae Hong Son, breakfast from the accommodation on mountains are very simple, basic and sufficient to feeling full.
Mini buffet serves here, porridge, fried rice, fried eggs, fried vegetables, chicken hotdogs, toasts and various other drinks.
Dinner
On our second night here, we choose to have simple dinner in the resort as sun set at about 6pm, it is getting cold and dark, so we thought to just make it simple for the 9 of us.
Songthaew
As this is a mountain, there is no walking path for people except for motor roads, the roads here are winding and bumpy so it is not wise to walk to the places of interest especially when I have 4 seniors here.
Aside spending time chilling around our accommodation by doing nothing, we went around to the core of Mon Jam on the second day. To reach the core of Mon Jam from our accommodation, it needs 25 minutes' walk along the dusty motor roads, not pedestrian path so we engaged a Songthaew service for 9 pax at THB1000 from 9am to 2pm.
The front seats are very comfortable that are perfect for my elders.
Known as Songthaew in Thai which means "two rows" in English.
The pickup is divided into 2 rows for passenger seats, see this photo show it all.
Do not expect all roads are smooth, there are some parts of the mountains, road are in this manner so "hold tight"!
Shopping in Mon Jam
Do not expect for any fancy malls built high up in the mountains.
Instead, we shall embrace the original basics of shopping by enjoying walk along the walking path surrounded with scenic views, browsing through several zinc-roofed stalls that sells tribal cosplay, seasonal fruits, fresh vegetables, handmade woven products like bag, pouch, scarf, clothes and many more items here that showcase the hilltribe's heritage in the region.
Below shop is located right in Monviewngam.
It is such a fantastic shopping area in the open street behind the million-dollar backdrop of the mountain views. Most shops here sell similar items: tribal designed clothing and various farming products.
YODDOI Coffee
Pretty and cute cafe that is located in Mon Jam, well surrounded with scenic and breathtaking mountain & various garden views.
Besides offering beverages on the menu, there are also cakes and pastries.
Tea products that are harvested in Mon Jam are sold here too. One thing good about this high mountain tea is - they are fed on dew.
This cafe is very well decorated with purple hydrangeas and roses.
It is great to sip a cup of coffee over colorful landscapes of flowers.
Mon Jam Garden
Located just next to YODDOI Coffee, THB40 entrance fee per person.
It is so cool to enjoy the panoramic views and the magical atmosphere while strolling through this picturesque garden!
Mr & Mrs Ng were not confident on the dried mud pathway and chose to further wait for us at YODDOI and Cindy decided to stay behind to take care of them.
There is a shed here where farmers can take a rest along with some traditional tools like mud stove, stone grinder and etc..
Here are the replicas of Danish red soldier and Singapore khaki soldier.
Various points here for pretty photos with the million-dollar view.
The swing at the Skywalk in Mon Jam is a delightful addition to the already scenic location. It's a simple yet charming wooden swing that hangs from a sturdy tree branch, providing visitors with a fun and relaxing way to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Mae Rim and Mae Taeng valleys. Swinging gently amidst the lush greenery and vibrant flowers, it's a perfect spot for a moment of tranquility and joy.
Skywalk Mon Jam
The motor path that leads up to the slope was covered by various trees that were all not in the blooming season. There are indication signs telling us about the species like Peach, Plum, Cherry Blossom and etc..
There are several gardens located here, and each comes with an entry fee of THB40.
Mrs Lee chose one and we entered... To be surrounded pretty flowers and mountain views.
The blue slavia flower is one of the beautiful blooms you can find around the Skywalk at Mon Jam.
The UV is super high, do not forget your sunblock lotion, hat and sunglasses.
These vibrant blue flowers add a lovely splash of color to the already picturesque landscape, making it a favorite spot for visitors to take photos and enjoy the natural beauty.
Aside for its beauty, the leaves of blue salvia have antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. They can be used in herbal infusions and decoctions for various health benefits.
The nectar-rich blossoms attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it a great addition to pollinator gardens
The "hand" at the Skywalk in Mon Jam is actually a unique and artistic feature that adds to the charm of the area. It's a large, hand-shaped sculpture made from metal or wood, and it's often used as a photo spot for visitors. The hand is positioned in such a way that it appears to be reaching out towards the beautiful mountain scenery, creating a visually striking and memorable image.
Cafe
Located right next to the entrance of the garden which I was not able to locate the name.
It is also a good place for us to take a breather after playing under the sun.
Blue salvia is popular in gardens and landscapes due to its vibrant blue flowers and long blooming period.
YODDOY The Orange Farm
We are here for a rest only as the sun was pretty strong though it was not humid with some wind.
It's harvesting season for the orange and we are here to have the fleshiest orange juice.
We have the whole place by ourselves, a nice cozy place to take a short rest.
It took some time for the staff to serve us 9 cups or oranges because they are freshly squashed .. one cup at a time. It is good to replenish some vitamin C during this weather.
Right opposite of the reception is the entrance to the farm where people can pluck the best oranges.
There is even a bridge that connect people direct to the farm, offering a good shortcut.
The staff even show us the pet of the place: Bamboo Rat - so cute and fluffy!
MaoVo Station
A local small Thai restaurant that located just 3 minutes' walk away from our accommodation.
Though the menu is simple, but they also have mookata available.
Good food, nice view and open dining space.
The upper level is cool, there is indoor with Xmas feel & outdoor with a swing.
Here are the food we had;
I have the legendary Khao Sai here which is crispy noodles in red curry.
POV: To spend 2 nights here is the best decision I made for the group.
The air is fresh, the wind is cool, and the atmosphere is peaceful, it is a good place to re-charge our body and soul.
In my future trips, if I can, I would like to include 2 nights in mountains or villages wherever possible. In fact, I already told my MR I want to visit other mountains area in CNX again.
The blog on Mon Jam has come to an end, we had Khun Chai back to drive us down to Chiang Mai Town and had some fun on the way. Please look out for coming blog on Mae Rim.
Here are the links to our trip in Chiang Mai:
2024 is a blessed year for us that we travelled quite a bit, here to share some of the links of the blogs:
Between 2022 to 2023, we visited The Netherlands & Belgium, here to share : Amsterdam, The Hague , Rotterdam , Kinderdijk , Naarden ,Muiden , Haarlem , Nijmegan, Brussel, Bruges
and Antwerp.
We even moved to stay in Denmark during the peak of Covid : Relocation from Singapore to Aalborg, Denmark
Feel free, you are most welcome to browse through my other blogs to France, Japan, China, Thailand, Malaysia and cruises etc.
Next Trip:Muar Malaysia while Japan is in the plan - Please stay tune by liking my Facebook page: followblueginger, Instagram page : followblueginger , TikTok page: bluegingerkaren and Tumblr page :followblueginger.
Thanks, and Cheers
"I travel because seeing photos in books and brochures was not good enough for me, To be there, that was everything"
