“Enjoy a tram ride through the hillside orange groves, admire 360-degree views, taste fresh oranges, and photograph the winter flower garden.”
Thanathorn Orange Farm (Plot 8 Tha Ton) is a large agro-tourism destination in Chiang Mai province. Located in Tha Ton sub-district, Mae Ai district, near the border of Fang district, its orange cultivation areas are spread across several hills, creating a beautiful landscape of cascading orange tree rows. Set against the backdrop of northern mountains and cool weather almost all year round, it is highly regarded as one of Thailand's most scenic orange farms.
This orange farm was developed under the concept of modern agriculture combined with agrotourism. It opens its actual cultivation areas for tourists to learn about the process of producing quality oranges, from soil preparation, rootstock selection, grafting, drip irrigation, pruning, nutrient management, fruit bagging, pest and disease prevention, to harvesting and sorting before distribution both domestically and internationally.
The farm cultivates several quality orange varieties, including Sai Nam Phueng orange, which is the main produce, characterized by its firm flesh, juiciness, sweet and sour taste, and unique aroma; Shogun orange, known for its soft flesh, thin peel, and ease of consumption; and Fremont orange, a hybrid mandarin with an intensely sweet taste, deep orange color, and popularity in the quality fruit market.
The highlight activity is the tram tour, which lasts approximately 40–60 minutes (depending on the service schedule). The tram passes through key orange groves, viewpoints, and cultivation areas, with staff providing commentary on the farm's history, orange cultivation techniques, and agricultural information. Tourists will see panoramic views of orange groves stretching across the valley and stop at several popular photo spots.
One of the highlights of Plot 8 is the viewpoint on the ridge, offering panoramic views of the orange groves arranged in curved patterns along the hillsides. Especially during misty mornings or evenings when the sunlight bathes the orange trees, it becomes a very popular time for photographers and photo-loving tourists.
The farm also features a winter flower garden, with flower species changing seasonally, such as cosmos, salvia, French marigolds, and many other vibrant flowering plants. This adds color to the area and has become another popular check-in spot during the winter season.
After touring the farm, visitors can stop by the produce and souvenir shop, which sells freshly graded oranges, 100% fresh orange juice, orange jam, honey, dried fruits, as well as processed fruit products and local agricultural goods. Most of the oranges sold are freshly picked from the farm daily, ensuring a fresh, sweet taste and natural aroma.
Additionally, Thanathorn Orange Farm serves as a study site for commercial fruit farm management for students, farmers, and various organizations interested in quality orange production technology, large-scale farm management, and developing agro-tourism destinations that generate income while conserving green spaces.
During harvest season, visitors can witness the process of sorting oranges onto the packaging conveyor, quality inspection, weighing, and boxing for sale, clearly reflecting the production standards of a large commercial orange farm. The surrounding area also offers resting spots, coffee shops, and viewpoints where one can admire the beautiful landscape of Mae Ai district and nearby areas.
The most popular period is November–February, which is the harvest season. Oranges are ripe on trees throughout the farm, the weather is cool, and winter flowers are in full bloom. This makes it an ideal time for touring, relaxing, photography, and experiencing the most beautiful atmosphere of the orange farm all year round. It is also a significant landmark on the Fang–Mae Ai–Tha Ton travel route that should not be missed.
How to Get There
- From Chiang Mai city, take Highway 107 (Chiang Mai–Fang) passing Mae Rim, Mae Taeng, Chiang Dao, and Chai Prakan districts towards Fang. Then, take Highway 1089 to Tha Ton sub-district, Mae Ai district. You will find clear signs for Thanathorn Orange Farm (Plot 8) along the road. The total distance is approximately 160 kilometers, taking about 3–3.5 hours to travel. The road is paved throughout, accessible by private cars, vans, and small buses. Parking is available for tourists within the farm.
Travel Tips
- It is recommended to visit during November–February, which is the peak orange season and the coolest time of year.
- It is advisable to use the tram service for comprehensive and convenient farm tours.
- Mornings and evenings are ideal for photography due to beautiful light and cooler weather.
- Inquire about tram schedules in advance, especially during holidays and festivals.
- If you wish to purchase oranges to take home, it is best to buy them at the farm's shop, which offers graded produce directly from the source.
- During peak tourist season, allow extra travel time due to the large number of visitors.
Admission Fee:
- Admission fee including tram ride: Adults approximately 80–100 Baht / Children approximately 40–50 Baht (prices may vary seasonally, please check with the farm before your visit).
Opening Hours:
- Open daily from 08:00–17:00. It is recommended to visit in the morning or early afternoon to have ample time for touring the farm, taking the tram, and photography.