Lisu Lodge and Khum Lanna

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Northern Thailand

A pair of award-winning eco-lodges set in the hills above Chiang Mai, with a variety of treks, hill-tribe tours and activities on offer

Reviewed by Philip Worman & Michael Cullen

Lisu Lodge and Khum Lanna, Thailand, Overview

LISU LODGE AND KHUM LANNA - REVIEW

Hill treks and activity tours are two-a-baht in Chiang Mai. But the ones run by Asian Oasis are a cut above the rest. Like their imitations, they offer 1- to 4-day combinations of trekking, elephant rides, white water rafting, waterfalls, visits to hill tribes, cycling and even oxcart riding. But what sets them apart are their two flagship lodges, Lisu Lodge and Khum Lanna: beautifully appointed resorts built in two different architectural styles, and set in the lush countryside surrounding Chiang Mai. Where other treks stretch to a sleeping bag on the cabin floor, here you get a civilised sunset drink, excellent Thai cuisine, a comfortable bed and a simple bathroom.

If you want remote, you can hike five hours up to their Lahu Outpost, perched on a hilltop with early-morning panoramas over endless jungle-covered ridges (pictured). Even here, bedding and basic ablutions are provided, and locals stir-fry your dinner in front of you – fresh veg and spiced meats – while you sip chilled beer and get your tired limbs expertly massaged. This is roughing it with the edges smoothed off.

HIGHS

The obvious experience and professionalism of the guides, some of whom are native hill tribe villagers – in this way, guests are welcomed as friends in villages, rather than as gawpers
The low-key approach, with limited group numbers (often only 4-6), following little-travelled routes into the hills.
Relaxing after a day's hiking with a hot shower and a cold beer as the sun sets

LOWS

Some of the local entertainment (singing and dancing) might not appeal, particularly as audience participation is required
For those in search of ‘authentic’ discomfort and sleeping on dirt floors, these resorts are not for you!
You need to be fairly fit for the trek to Lahu Outpost, especially in the heat of summer (Nov-April)

Print Whole Report

Name	Lisu Lodge and Khum Lanna	Location	nr Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai & North
Type	Soft adventure eco-tours	Country	Thailand
Price Guide	$27pp (1day) - $410pp (4 days) FB	Open	all year


DISTANCES	Airport: 100km	Nearest Shops: 20km	Nearest restaurant: 20km	Beach: 800km