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The Giant Chiang Mai: Treehouse Café with Epic Views & Relaxed Vibes
- Jenn & Leon
- May 30, 2023
- 13 min read
Updated: 12 hours ago
The Giant Chiang Mai Cafe is a highly unique cafe located in the Lampang district of Chiang Mai.
The cafe is part of a giant treehouse, complete with rope bridges, and it offers stunning views of the mountainous jungle it sits in the heart of.
The vantage point is epic, and beyond the refreshments, it is worth the visit just for THAT view alone.
The cafe serves a variety of coffee drinks, as well as food and cakes.
It has been a tremendously popular spot for both locals and tourists alike, and it is a great place to immerse yourself in a forest and feel what it is like to hang out in the trees.
In all of our travels, we cannot say we have ever experienced dining quite like it!
We are super happy we had the opportunity to come here, and we hope this post will be enough to encourage you to take a trip to The Giant and support this great community venture if ever you are in Chiang Mai.
In this post, we share our highlights, the food, how to get to The Giant Chiang Mai, and our experience ratings.
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Our Highlights: The Giant Chiang Mai
The Giant Chiang Mai Treehouse Cafe was opened in 2014 as part of a village community project to promote the rich history of coffee in the area.
The cafe is constructed on platforms intertwined amongst giant trees that overlook a valley within the dense woodland.
The treehouse was built by the villagers and is on the site of Baan Pok, a cultivated area of coffee, tea leaves, and persimmon fruit.
The objectives of the project are to develop utilities in the village, such as improving the roads and cell signals.
The Giant is also seeking to create awareness and promote natural and sustainable living, alongside campaigning against deforestation, hunting, and agricultural burning.
This was a climbing-to-new-heights experience in Chiang Mai.
The Giant is an enchanting place that doesn't just begin at the cafe; it begins on the road trip to get there, too.
As we made our way deeper into the forest, we started to feel more and more like we were about to find ourselves someplace very different, and very different it was!
The climb to the cafe is very steep, and the road is in poor condition, although we did make it with no issues.
Initially, we were greeted by Buddha before parking up and making our way to the cafe's grand entrance.
There is a sweet ambience here, and we were impressed by the view and vibe.
The cafe is built seamlessly with the trees and nature around it, utilizing branches and open spots, but blending really well with the natural environment.
The first thing to navigate is the wooden rope bridge, which is fun and scary all at the same!
Only two people can cross at a time, and it is super wobbly.
We were still brave enough to film as we crossed, but we had to take good care with it!
We certainly knew we were in a treehouse by the time we got to the other side, that's for sure.
The elevated platforms and walkways provide a sense of adventure as you navigate through the treehouse, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Every corner of this café is thoughtfully designed, and we certainly give the builders a lot of credit for making it a dreamlike setting and a memorable experience.
Being in the heart of a lush forest, the cafe offers uninterrupted views of verdant mountains and vibrant trees.
The melody of chirping birds and rustling leaves felt so tranquil, backed up with nice, efficient service and, most importantly, good coffee.
But more on that later!
Note: As this cafe is located amongst woodland, be prepared for bugs!
Mosquitos and other biters are prevalent here, so be sure to bring some bug spray or wear long/loose clothing to avoid those pesky itches.
We were bitten several times, and it was weird as the tiny bites drew blood.
We did not even notice at first!
Mozzies do not do that, so we are not sure what they were. But be advised!
The Food & Menu at The Giant Treehouse Cafe
The menu here is fairly limited, but there is a good selection of coffee and juices on offer, along with a handful of Thai and Western food options if you are hungry.
The cake section is perhaps the main highlight, though, and what we opted for (it was mid-morning).
They were well presented and added a great touch of color to our photos, too.
The menu includes steak, spaghetti dishes, soup, curry, and pizza.
There are only a few choices of each, and when we return here, we will probably go for one of them.
Leon is a big fan of curry and has developed a penchant for sampling Panang Curry wherever he goes, so at the very least, we need to try that!
Let us know in the comments if you try/recommend any of the other options.
Tip: if you order a coffee, state that you want it hot (if you do). As with many Thai cafes & restaurants, it will be assumed you want it cold if you don't!
The coffee was nice, although it was a tad on the lukewarm side when it was served.
That seems fairly common in Thailand, though, and we do not mind.
It was a nice touch to add the complementary alphabet crackers, too.
We added two treats to our order, a carrot and a strawberry cream cake.
Cake seems to be the signature item on the menu, and besides, who doesn't want to eat cake in a treehouse, right?!
They were presented nicely and tasted great.
We would suggest giving them a try for sure.
Special Events at The Giant Chiang Mai
While there is no definitive schedule, the cafe has seen a variety of live music performances in the past.
The cafe has also hosted a number of art exhibitions, featuring the work of local artists.
The Giant is connected through a series of bridges to other structures within the trees, too.
We saw an ad about Yoga Retreats and Zip Lines elsewhere amongst the trees, but we did not check them out.
From what we saw and can tell from research online, many of the additional things you can do here have not resumed since the COVID-19 restrictions.
Before 2019, the cafe was a popular spot for that reason too, but has struggled to regain visitor numbers since then, largely due to negative press around Smoky Season in Chiang Mai.
Be sure to check The Giant's Facebook page for the latest updates.
How to Get to The Giant Treehouse Cafe
Getting to The Giant Chiang Mai was a pretty cool adventure for us, as we had hired a car, and it was a great opportunity to drive out to a more remote area.
The Giant Chiang Mai Treehouse Cafe is located in the Baan Pok village, Huaykaew, Mae On, Chiang Mai. It is about 60 kilometers from Chiang Mai city center.
By Bike or Car
The cafe is located on a hilltop, giving it perfect views of the surrounding countryside.
To get to The Giant, you will need to follow the signs to Mae On. Once you reach Mae On, you will need to follow the signs to Huaykaew Road.
The cafe will be on your left, just before the Huaykaew Waterfall.
If you are coming from Chiang Mai city centre, you will be coming off Highway 118.
The roads from there are in pretty good condition; however, once you get to Baan Pok village, the mountainside will become pretty steep, and the road surface is very uneven and potholed.
Good tires and a decent car are required here; we have a 10-year-old Fiesta in good condition, and it was just about ok.
If you are worried about the final climb, there are Songthaews at the bottom that will be happy to take you the rest of the way.
By Taxi or Tuk-Tuk
One way to get to the cafe is by taking a taxi or a tuk-tuk. You can either hail one on the street or request a ride through a ride-hailing app (we use Grab).
Public Transportation
While public transportation options may vary, you can look for buses, trucks, or songthaews (red trucks used as shared taxis) that go in the direction of the Mae Rim district in Chiang Mai.
From there, you can arrange for a taxi or tuk-tuk to take you the remaining distance to the Giant Chiang Mai Treehouse Cafe.
It's advisable to check the restaurant's operating hours and plan your visit accordingly.
Additionally, consider the traffic conditions in Chiang Mai, which can get fairly hectic during peak hours, to ensure a smooth journey.
It's always a good idea to have an offline map (you can download them on Google if you do not have data) or a GPS navigation system handy, as well as the contact information of the cafe, in case you need to ask for further directions or encounter any difficulties along the way.
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Check out a host of different options with GetYourGuide, including guided food tours, city sightseeing, cultural highlights, and even elephant sanctuaries and zip lining.
No matter where your travels take you, GetYourGuide offers the best way to connect with your destination.
⪢ Contact Information for The Giant Chiang Mai
● Address: 100/1 Moo 1, Huaykaew Road, Mae On District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
● Contact Number: (+66) 86 776 2946
● Email: thegiantthailand@gmail.com
● Facebook: @thegiantchiangmai
💡 Note that cash is certainly preferred here. There is a card machine, but it was not working on our visit (we suspect it was, but like many restaurants in Thailand, the owners want to avoid the charges and taxes that come with processing payments electronically).
Opening Hours
● Monday: Closed
● Tuesday - Sunday: 8.30 am - 5.30 pm
Some listings mention slightly different times (like opening at 11 am or closing at 5:30 pm), but the most reliable schedule seems to be 8:30 am to 5 pm, with Mondays off.
💡 Heads-up: The road up is steep and winding, so it's best to go by car or arrange transport from Mae Kampong. Once you're there, the views and the treehouse vibe are absolutely worth it.
Tips for Visiting Breakfast World Restaurant, Chiang Mai
● Arrive early for popular items: Breakfast World is known for its diverse and delicious breakfast options that can sell out quickly. Arriving early ensures you get your favorites.
● Try the local and international dishes: The menu features a wide range from traditional Thai breakfast staples to Western classics — don’t miss the Thai-style rice soup or fresh fruit plates.
● Bring cash: The restaurant primarily accepts cash payments, so have enough Thai Baht on hand.
● Be prepared for a casual, bustling atmosphere: The restaurant is popular with locals and tourists alike, so expect a lively, no-frills dining experience.
● Check opening hours before you go: Opening times can vary, especially during holidays or festivals, so it’s best to confirm in advance.
● Visit with a group: The large menu is perfect for sharing; bring friends or family to sample more dishes.
● Ask for recommendations: Staff are friendly and often happy to suggest popular or seasonal dishes.
Where to Stay in Chiang Mai
Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Chiang Mai hotel deals below to find great rates from top providers in the city.
Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination.
Watch on YouTube
If you like the look of Breakfast World, this cafe is a must-see if you are in Chiang Mai, too. It is a cafe nestled right into the tree!
They have a wide assortment of coffees and teas, and beautifully decorated and delicious cakes to choose from.
It is in a very remote and rural area, though, and you need a car or scooter to get there.
If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like and subscribe!
Your support truly is invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world!
Our Experience Ratings:
Giant Chiang Mai
The Giant Chiang Mai Treehouse Cafe is an enchanting destination that seamlessly blends an outdoor dining experience with mesmerizing natural beauty.
Being in this giant tree, at height, we had a one-of-a-kind experience where we felt completely immersed in the peace and warmth of nature.
Whether you're a traveler seeking adventure or simply looking for a unique dining experience, this treehouse cafe is sure to leave an indelible impression, beckoning you to return!
Embark on this extraordinary journey and let The Giant create a special memory for you.
Atmosphere
The Giant Chiang Mai Treehouse Cafe embraces sustainable practices, making it a haven for eco-conscious travelers.
The cafe employs renewable energy sources, minimizes waste, and supports local farmers and artisans.
By visiting the cafe, you contribute to their mission of environmental preservation and sustainable tourism, leaving a positive impact on the community and the planet.
That, alongside its style and location, which we have already gushed about, puts this cafe in top mark territory.
Cost
It depends on what you consider a good price really. The meals on offer range from 150 - 200 Thai Baht at the time of writing.
That's around 4-5 USD. The cakes we bought were 115 baht. The cold drinks are around 120 baht, with hot coffees starting from 70 baht.
For what we got, considering the experience as a whole, we feel this was absolutely fine. Knowing the profits go towards the village is a nice touch, too.
Food
The cakes were tasty and served well. The coffee was very good, unsurprising given the history of the area!
No complaints, although perhaps a slightly bigger menu would be nice.
Service
No complaints about the service, it was friendly and efficient.
We were there earlier in the day, and there were no other visitors at the time, so this was to be expected.
At busy times, we cannot say, but from what we experienced, it's a thumbs up.
The only slight downside was that the staff did not speak English very well, although we had no problems with that, it's just something to be aware of (come forward translation apps haha).
FAQ: Visiting The Giant Chiang Mai Treehouse Café
What is The Giant Chiang Mai?
The Giant Chiang Mai is a treehouse café and guesthouse perched high in the rainforest canopy of Doi Saket.
It’s known for its suspended rope bridges, jungle views, and peaceful setting, perfect for nature lovers seeking a unique coffee break.
Where is it located, and how do I get there?
It’s located in Baan Pa Miang, about 90 minutes east of Chiang Mai Old City by car or motorbike.
To get there:
● Rent a motorbike or car for flexibility
● Hire a private driver or book a day tour
● Be cautious — the final stretch is a steep, narrow road with some tight curves
💡 Try to avoid driving after dark. The mobile signal is patchy in the area.
What are the opening hours?
The café is open daily from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm.
Mornings are best for clear views and smaller crowds.
Is there an entrance fee?
Yes, there is a small entrance fee of 100 THB per person, which includes access to the suspension bridge and tree platforms.
What’s on the menu?
The café offers a selection of:
● Hot and iced coffees
● Teas, smoothies, and juices
● Thai snacks and simple meals (e.g., fried rice, noodles)
It’s more about the experience than gourmet cuisine, but it’s decent and satisfying.
Is the rope bridge safe?
Yes, the suspended bridge is secure, with safety netting and hand ropes. However, it may not be suitable for those with a fear of heights or limited mobility.
💡 Sneakers or closed shoes are better than sandals for walking across the bridge.
Can you stay overnight there?
Yes, there are a few rustic treehouse rooms available for overnight stays, but they must be booked in advance. It’s ideal for travelers seeking quiet solitude or a digital detox.
Is it child-friendly?
Children are welcome, but they should be supervised closely, especially around the bridge and elevated walkways.
Are there facilities available?
Yes, the property includes:
● Toilets
● A small parking area
● Seating areas with panoramic views
● Limited but friendly staff support
Is the Giant worth visiting?
Definitely, if you're looking for a hidden gem off the tourist path. It’s a relaxing escape with forest vibes, clean air, and a one-of-a-kind setting in the treetops.
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