Chiang Mai’s Thai Buffalo and Rice Planting Experience offers a unique opportunity to take in the region’s longstanding agricultural traditions. Participants can expect to engage in hands-on activities, such as feeding the iconic Riam Thai buffalo and planting rice in picturesque paddy fields. This 2.5-hour workshop not only provides insights into local farming practices but also allows visitors to savor a delicious traditional lunch and connect with the welcoming community. With flexible booking options and exceptional customer feedback, this experience promises an unforgettable glimpse into Chiang Mai’s vibrant cultural heritage.
Key Points

- Immersive 2.5-hour experience that allows participants to feed Thai buffalo and engage in traditional rice planting techniques in Chiang Mai.
- Hosted at Hang Tueng farmstay with opportunities to interact with local farmers and school groups, fostering cultural exchange.
- Includes a traditional Thai lunch, transportation, and authentic farmer costumes and boots, providing a comprehensive learning experience.
- Highly rated by past guests, with over 15 reviews praising the welcoming atmosphere, organization, and unique, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
- Flexible cancellation policy and reserve now, pay later option available, making the experience accessible and convenient for travelers.
Activity Overview

The experience offers visitors a chance to enjoy traditional Thai farming practices, with a focus on buffalo and rice planting.
It lasts 2.5 hours and is priced from £41.19 per person. The group size is limited to 10 participants, with English and Thai as the available languages.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
Visitors will be transported via red taxi and provided with traditional farmer costumes and boots for the hands-on activities of feeding buffalo and learning rice planting techniques.
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Itinerary Highlights

Starting at the Hang Tueng farmstay & workshop in Chiang Mai, visitors will begin their Thai buffalo and rice planting experience.
They’ll first feed the Riam Thai buffalo, learning about these gentle giants.
Next, you will dive into the paddy fields to plant rice, mastering traditional techniques.
Participants will enjoy the paddy fields, planting rice using traditional techniques.
After working up an appetite, a traditional lunch of rice, green chicken curry, and herbal drink will be served.
Throughout the day, guests will have the chance to interact with local farmers and school groups, seeing the community.
Transportation is provided via the iconic red taxi service.
Taking in Local Culture

As visitors enjoy the local culture, they’ll have genuine opportunities to interact with Uncle Serd and the friendly community of farmers.
During the experience, they’ll learn traditional rice planting techniques from the locals, gaining a deeper understanding of their way of life.
They’ll also have the chance to engage with local school groups, fostering cultural exchange.
Interacting With the Community

Visitors will have the opportunity to personally meet and engage with Uncle Serd, the local farmer who hosts the experience. He warmly welcomes guests, eager to share his deep knowledge and passion for traditional farming practices. Through meaningful interactions, travelers can:
| Activities | Details |
| — | — |
| Learn From Experts | Gain insights from Uncle Serd and other local farmers |
| Observe Community Traditions | Witness interactions with school groups and volunteers |
| Participate in Hands-On Activities | Become immersed in rice planting and buffalo feeding |
| Support Local Economy | Purchase locally-sourced lunch and souvenirs |
| Forge Connections | Foster lasting bonds with the welcoming community
This community-focused experience offers a rare chance to authentically connect with Thai rural life.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback

Over 15 reviews, customers have given this Thai cultural experience an impressive 4.9 out of 5 stars overall.
Guests consistently praise the welcoming atmosphere and excellent organization of the activity. Many describe it as a unique, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity suitable for all ages, with families enjoying it together.
Customers highlight the genuine interactions and valuable learning experiences, from feeding buffalo to hands-on rice planting. The activity’s combination of culture and hands-on activities makes it a hit with visitors of all backgrounds.
Genuine interactions and valuable learning experiences, from feeding buffalo to hands-on rice planting, make this a hit with visitors.
With its 24-hour cancellation policy and reserve now, pay later option, this Chiang Mai experience is both flexible and highly recommended.
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Meeting the Local Farmers

Guests at the Hang Tueng farmstay are welcomed by Uncle Serd, the friendly local farmer who owns the property.
He leads participants on an immersive experience, allowing them to:
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Meet the hardworking Thai farmers who tend the land.
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Observe their traditional farming techniques and learn the significance of rice cultivation.
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Engage in open discussions about the community’s agricultural practices and cultural traditions.
Through this genuine interaction, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the farmer’s way of life and the local community’s enduring connection to the land.
Preparing for the Experience

Before participants can enjoy the Thai buffalo and rice planting experience, they’ll want to ensure they’re properly prepared. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for navigating the farmland. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended, as the activity takes place outdoors in the Thai heat. Sunscreen, a hat, and bug spray are also advisable.
| Item | Reason | Recommendation |
| — | — | — |
| Footwear | Protect feet on uneven terrain | Closed-toe shoes |
| Clothing | Stay cool and comfortable | Lightweight, breathable |
| Sun Protection | Avoid sunburn | Sunscreen, hat |
With the right gear, guests can fully engage in this unique culture without distraction.
Getting to the Farmstay

Once participants have their gear ready, they’ll make their way to the activity’s starting point – the Hang Tueng farmstay & workshop in Chiang Mai.
The farmstay is easily located on Google Maps. To get there, participants can:
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Take a red taxi from their hotel or a central location in Chiang Mai.
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Follow the pickup instructions provided by the tour operator.
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Arrange their own transportation and meet the group at the farmstay.
Upon arrival, the local hosts will greet the group and provide a brief introduction before starting the immersive Thai buffalo and rice planting experience.
Since You Asked

Can I Take the Buffalo Home After the Experience?
No, you cannot take the buffalo home after the experience. The buffalo belong to the local farmers, and they are only used for the educational and cultural activities during the tour. Participants do not get to keep or adopt the buffalo.
Will I Have to Do the Full Rice Planting Process?
No, you won’t have to do the full rice planting process. The experience includes learning rice planting techniques, but you’ll primarily participate in feeding the buffalo and experiencing the traditional rice farming activities, not the entire planting cycle.
Is Vegetarian/Vegan Food Available During the Lunch?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available for the traditional lunch. The menu includes rice, green curry, and herbal drinks, so those with dietary restrictions can be accommodated during the experience.
Is It Possible to Visit the Local School on My Own?
The activity itinerary doesn’t mention an opportunity to visit the local school on your own. However, you can interact with school groups that may be participating in the experience. It’s best to check with the tour organizers about any additional school visits.
Can I Extend My Stay at the Farmstay After the Activity?
Yes, you can extend your stay at the farmstay after the activity. The booking details indicate flexibility, allowing you to reserve now and pay later. This provides an option to prolong your experience at the farmstay if desired.
The Sum Up
The Thai Buffalo and Rice Planting Experience in Chiang Mai offers an authentic taste of traditional Thai farming. Visitors can feed Riam Thai buffalo, plant rice in picturesque paddy fields, and enjoy a delicious local lunch. With flexible booking options and exceptional customer feedback, this unique experience promises unforgettable memories while immersing in the welcoming local community and culture.
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