The onset of the monsoon in June brings a welcome respite from the hot summer months in Southeast Asia, as the landscape turns from earthy tones to multitude shades of green. "For those who have visited Thailand during this remarkable green season, Chiang Mai and the Northern country are at their brilliant best," remarks Anthony Tschudin, Resort Manager. "From late May, and all the way through to October, Chiang Mai is bathed in hues of green, with clean air, resplendent waterfalls, and verdant rice paddies transforming the landscape into a beautiful idyll." The rains bring with them an energy that radiates through the countryside, as traditional farming practices and the local flora and fauna flourish during these months.
Providing the perfect setting to experience this "season of plenty," Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai is a great base to discover this fascinating region, with a variety of experiences and day trips ideal for couples and families. Shaded by the dramatic Doi Suthep mountain, puffy white clouds play hide and seek with the intermittent sunshine, as the rice paddies that envelop the Resort come alive: "A picture-perfect scenery for those who enjoy the outdoors," smiles Anthony.
Explore the Lush Countryside: Green Season in Chiang Mai
The advantages of visiting Chiang Mai during this season are plenty. Visitors will find that the natural beauty of the landscape is unparalleled, with the greenery having a truly therapeutic effect that touches the soul. The cool, crisp air is perfect for exploring the countryside, which is a veritable paradise with stunning Buddhist temples, local markets and cultural extravaganza. "Compared to the peak season from October to March, Chiang Mai sees fewer crowds during the green season," remarks Ashok Nair, Director of Rooms and Residences. "This means visitors can plan day trips to popular attractions such as Doi Suthep, Wat Phra Singh, and the Old City without having to hustle and navigate long queues, allowing for a more relaxed and intimate experience."
Spectacular Rice Fields, Flowing Waterfalls
The onset of the green season brings the rice fields alive as the gently terraced paddies appear almost like a painting, with shimmering reflections creating a mesmerising tapestry. Visitors can take leisurely walks or bike rides through the countryside, immersing themselves in the beauty of the landscape while capturing postcard photos and memories. "What's more, numerous waterfalls transform into cascading spectacles," shares Ashok. "Visitors can hike through lush forests to reach some of the most scenic sites such as the Monthatharn Waterfall, Sticky Waterfall, Mae Sa Waterfall and Huay Kaew Waterfall."
Culinary Immersion
While the rains come in short bursts, spending time at the Resort provides plenty of opportunity to connect with the nature and culture of the region. During the Cooking Class at Rim Tai Kitchen, guests can wander through the verdant chefs garden guided by the Resort's skilled team, handpicking ingredients to use in creating Thai recipes. "This hands-on approach not only adds an extra layer of authenticity to the cooking experience, but also allows guests to appreciate the strong connection between farm-to-table dining and Thai culinary traditions," shares Thai Chef Instructor Suwattana Boonyarattananusorn.
Countryside Relaxation
The season of plenty is also the perfect time to indulge in some spa sessions at the award-winning Wara Cheewa Spa, which serves as a retreat into nature. Signature treatments such as Kularb Lanna are inspired by traditional Thai healing techniques and local fragrance of flower petals from the region. Guests can also opt for the specially tailored Soulful Awakening Program that offers a more comprehensive, holistic wellness experience, combining soothing massages, invigorating body scrub, and herbal compress therapies.
Sound Meditation
From the gentle caress of raindrops on the skin, to the rustle of leaves and the scent of wet soil, every aspect of the rain is therapeutic and beneficial. "The gentle rhythm of rain creates a harmonic symphony that has a deeply meditative effect on the self," explains Dheeraj Singh Patwal, Health and Wellness Manager. During this guided meditation, the rhythm is enhanced through a synchrony of traditional Himalayan sound bowl vibrations. "This sensory experience has profound healing powers, enabling you to absorb the many sensations that the monsoon season brings with it," he adds.
Cultural Activities
The sabai (relaxing) aspect of the weather during this season lends naturally to the unhurried pace of life. Guests looking to experience this traditional rural Thailand can immerse themselves in the many hands-on activities offered at the Resort's Chaan Baan, which explores the rich craft heritage of Thailand. A variety of traditional activities such as tie and dye with natural colours on cotton fabric, pottery, saa paper making, soy-wax candle making, traditional candle making, rice planting, and even buffalo bathing are all possible at this cultural centre under the guidance of skilled artisans.
Experience green season in Chiang Mai at Four Seasons. Call +66 (0)2 207 8900 email reservations.thailand@fourseasons.com, or chat via the FS Chat App.