🌳 What it is

A massive Cham Cha tree (rain tree) growing directly out of the water, with branches spreading wide above the lake.
Depending on the season and water level, the trunk is partially submerged, creating that iconic cinematic look.

Early morning, you often get mist on the water, calm reflections, and almost no people. That’s when most of the viral clips are filmed.

🚗 How to get there from Chiang Mai

By car or motorbike

• Distance: about 85–90 km north of Chiang Mai
• Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

Route:
Chiang Mai city
→ Highway 107 towards Mae Taeng / Fang
→ Turn towards Phrao
→ Follow signs for Mae Pang village
→ Navigate to Cham Cha Pha Daeng Homestay (this is the easiest pin)

You can park directly at the homestay area near the water.

🚤 How to reach the tree

The tree is not reachable on foot.

• You take a small wooden boat from the lakeside
• Boat ride is about 10 to 15 minutes
• Local boatmen know exactly where to stop for photos and videos

It’s common (and recommended) to contact a local boatman in advance, especially at sunrise.

⏰ Best time to go

• 6:00 to 7:30 am for fog and soft light
• December to February has the best mist
• Later in the day, the light is harsher and more visitors arrive

🏡 Where people usually stay

Many creators stay overnight nearby to catch sunrise, most commonly at:
• Cham Cha Pha Daeng Homestay in Mae Pang

Simple, warm atmosphere, and right next to the boat departure point.

⚠️ Important tips

• Bring cash for the boat
• Respect locals and the environment
• Water levels change by season, so the look varies slightly throughout the year
• Drones are sometimes allowed but always ask locally first