“A Royal Initiative reservoir surrounded by mountains, offering a serene atmosphere perfect for walking, running, and cycling along the dam crest, with easy connections to Huai Hok Waterfall and Wat Phra That Doi Wiang.”
Mae Thi Reservoir was constructed under the Royal Initiative of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) to address agricultural water shortages in Ban Thi District. Construction began in 1985 (B.E. 2528), and the official opening ceremony was presided over by His Majesty on February 6, 1987 (B.E. 2530), with a total budget of 41,934,360 Baht.
The reservoir has a storage capacity of approximately 5 million cubic meters, supplying irrigation water to over 5,000 rai of farmland, serving as a vital lifeline for the local community.
Unseen Panoramic Scenery in a Mountain Valley
The dam crest is approximately 470 meters wide, with a scenic roadway stretching about 6 kilometers along the reservoir. Surrounded by mountain ranges, especially Doi Wiang rising prominently in the background, the still waters reflect the sky and hills like a natural mirror.
After rainfall, visitors may occasionally witness a light morning mist drifting across the mountain peaks, creating a picturesque and tranquil landscape.
A Favorite Spot for Active Lifestyles
The well-paved road along the dam offers refreshing breezes throughout the day, making it popular among cyclists, city runners, and walking enthusiasts.
Between 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM, golden sunlight glides across the water’s surface, creating breathtaking sunset views that attract photographers and fitness lovers alike.
A Perfect Place for Digital Detox
The area remains largely untouched by commercial development, preserving its peaceful natural setting. In some deeper areas, mobile signals may be weak, making it an excellent destination for a true digital detox.
Visitors can enjoy picnics by the water, listen to birdsong, or even spot water birds and grazing cattle, adding a charming pastoral atmosphere ideal for photography.
Nearby Attractions
Approximately 5 kilometers further in, visitors can explore Huai Hok Waterfall, a scenic natural waterfall suitable for light trekking.
The reservoir is also close to Wat Phra That Doi Wiang, allowing travelers to combine a cultural temple visit with a nature retreat in a single trip.
The distance from Lamphun town center is about 30 kilometers, making it an easy and convenient getaway.
How to Get There
- By Private Car: From Lamphun town, take Highway 1147 toward Ban Thi District. Follow signs for “Mae Thi Reservoir” or “Wat Phra That Doi Wiang” and continue until the end of the paved road. Distance from Lamphun town: approximately 30 km
Travel Tips
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The best visiting time is 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM for sunset views and cooler weather.
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Bring your own picnic mat or portable chair if planning to relax longer.
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Some areas may have weak mobile signals — ideal for a peaceful escape.
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You may encounter water birds or grazing cattle, perfect for rural-style photography.
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Please take all trash back with you to help preserve this Royal Initiative water resource.
Admission Fee:
- Free of charge
Opening Hours:
- Open daily 06:00 AM – 06:30 PM
Visitors are advised to leave before dark for safety, as the area is surrounded by mountainous roads with limited lighting.