Doi Mae Salong (Santikhiri)

History & Significance

Doi Mae Salong has a fascinating history tied to the Chinese Nationalist Army (Kuomintang or KMT Division 93). In 1961, approximately 15,000 soldiers relocated from Burma to settle in Mae Salong Nok. In 1969, they were integrated into the Thai military as the Chinese Irregular Forces (CIF) to assist the Thai government in fighting communist insurgents, achieving victory in areas like Doi Luang and Khao Ya. In recognition of their contributions, the Thai government granted them residency and citizenship in 1982. Once notorious for opium cultivation in the early 1970s, the community successfully transitioned to sustainable agriculture, particularly tea and fruit farming, under a reforestation initiative supported by former Prime Minister Kriangsak Chamanan. The settlement was renamed 'Santikhiri,' meaning 'Peaceful Hill,' which corresponds to its Chinese name 'Mei Si Le' (a homonym for 'peaceful').

Highlights & What to See

• Tea Plantations & Tastings: As one of Thailand's premier tea-growing regions, Doi Mae Salong is famous for its high-quality Oolong tea. Visitors can tour scenic plantations like 101 Tea Plantation, Wang Puttan, and Choke Chamroen, observe traditional tea-making processes, and enjoy tea tastings.
• Phra Boromathat Chedi Srinakarindra Satismahasantikiri: Located at the mountain's highest peak (1,500 meters), this stunning Lanna-style pagoda was completed in 1996 to honor Princess Srinagarindra (the Princess Mother). The pagoda stands 30 meters high and offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
• Tomb of General Duan Xi Wen: Built in 1980 on a hill at 1,300 meters, this white marble Chinese pavilion houses the tomb of the leader of the KMT's 5th Regiment. It serves as a popular viewpoint overlooking Santikhiri village.
• Chinese Martyr's Memorial Museum: This beautifully decorated Chinese-style museum commemorates the KMT soldiers who fought alongside Thai forces. It features historical photographs, documents, and a library.
• Phra That Srimahapo Mongkol Boonchum: A Thai-Chinese temple consecrated in 2006 to mark King Bhumibol Adulyadej's 60th anniversary of accession and 80th birthday, featuring beautiful Chinese architectural elements and sculptures.
• Wild Himalayan Cherry Blossoms: From December to March, the mountain slopes are painted pink with blooming wild Himalayan cherry blossoms (Nang Phraya Suea Khrong).

Visitor Information

Doi Mae Salong is open daily. While there is no general admission fee to enter the mountain area, some specific attractions have small fees. For instance, the Chinese Martyr's Memorial Museum is open daily from 08:00 to 17:00, with an admission fee of 20 THB for Thai nationals and 50 THB for foreign visitors. The morning market in Santikhiri is best visited early in the day to see local hill tribes (including Akha, Mien, Lahu, Lisu, and Lawa) selling fresh winter fruits, vegetables, and local crafts.

How to Get There

Doi Mae Salong is located in Mae Fa Luang District, Chiang Rai Province, about 6 kilometers from the Myanmar border. Visitors can travel by car or local songthaew from Chiang Rai city or Mae Chan district. The winding mountain roads offer scenic views but require careful driving.