Doi Pha Hee, or Ban Pha Hee, began as a settlement for the Akha ethnic community that migrated from Myanmar and China decades ago. Originally, this mountainous area was used for opium cultivation. However, thanks to the royal grace of the Princess Mother (Somdet Ya), who introduced the Doi Tung Development Project to transform the region, the villagers shifted to planting Arabica coffee instead. Today, Doi Pha Hee has become a top quality coffee production site, exporting products nationwide and internationally. The village is situated along the Thai-Myanmar border, resulting in a cool climate year-round and uniquely beautiful scenery.

The standout feature that draws visitors is the Hanging Legs Coffee Shop, located along the village cliffs. Tourists can sit and sip fresh coffee, roasted and dripped using traditional methods, while dangling their legs into the cool breeze. The backdrop features the complex mountain ranges of Doi Tung and Doi Pha Mee. Besides the aromatic coffee, another significant identity is the vibrant Akha costumes adorned with intricate embroidery. The village encourages tourists to rent these outfits to walk around and take photos, allowing them to blend into the high-mountain village atmosphere.

In terms of culture, Doi Pha Hee strictly preserves Akha customs and traditions, especially the Giant Swing Festival, held annually between August and September to celebrate and thank nature for a bountiful harvest. Along both sides of the village paths, you will see coffee beans drying in front of houses and a simple way of life. Exploring the village, which is built in tiers along the hillside, will allow you to see the friendly smiles of the locals—a simple yet deeply touching charm for travelers.

The atmosphere during winter is particularly special as a thick sea of mist often covers the entire village in the morning. Staying at a local homestay is very popular, as guests can wake up to find the mist floating right to their doorstep. During the rainy season, the sky after a downpour is crystal clear, and the forest turns a refreshing, lush green. Visiting Doi Pha Hee is not just about taking photos; it is about bringing yourself to rest and absorbing positive energy from a peaceful way of life.

For cafe lovers and coffee enthusiasts, this is an unmissable paradise where you can witness every step of the process from planting and drying to roasting. For groups of friends or couples seeking a quiet retreat to talk under the stars at night, Doi Pha Hee offers charming homestays at friendly prices, complete with delicious tribal cuisine. A trip here ensures warm memories and beautiful photographs to take back home.

We invite you to rest your soul at Doi Pha Hee, sip warm coffee amidst the cold wind, and touch the hearts of the Akha people who are ready to welcome visitors with sincerity in every season.

• Private Car: From Chiang Rai city, take Highway 1 towards Mae Sai. Turn left onto the ascent to Doi Tung (old route). Drive past the Doi Tung Royal Villa toward the Mae Fa Luang Arboretum (Doi Chang Mub). The road is quite narrow and steep; please drive with caution.

• Public Transport: Take a purple songthaew (local truck) at the entrance of Doi Tung (KM 871) to go up to the Royal Villa. From there, you may need to hire a private vehicle or contact your homestay for a pickup.

• Best Visiting Times: November to January is when the mist is most spectacular. Staying overnight is recommended to catch the morning light.

• Footwear and Dress Code: Bring warm clothes even if it is not winter, as the mountaintop stays cool all night. Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on slopes.

• Accommodation: Homestays here fill up quickly during long holidays. It is recommended to book in advance directly through the accommodation's Facebook pages.

• Special Activities: Do not miss trying Tribal Cuisine, such as Akha chili paste or local-style minced meat salad (Laab), which are usually included in homestay packages.

• Caution: Paths within the village are steep and narrow; large vehicles have difficulty entering. It is recommended to park in the village's central parking area and explore on foot.

Admission Fee:

• There is no entrance fee to the village; visiting and strolling around is free.

Opening Hours:

• Coffee shops and restaurants are open daily, approximately 08:00 – 18:00.

• For tourists not staying overnight, it is recommended to drive down from the mountain before sunset for safety.