Mae Pong is a district (amphoe) in the northern Thai province of Chiang Mai. It is situated in the Mae Ping River basin and shares borders with the districts of San Sai Yai and San Sai Nua in Chiang Mai Province, as well as the districts of Om Koi in the neighboring province of Mae Hong Son.
Geography
- Location: Central part of Chiang Mai Province, northern Thailand.
- Topography: The district encompasses a mixture of lowland plains along the Mae Ping River and surrounding foothills of the Daen Siriang Mountain Range.
- Climate: Mae Pong experiences a tropical monsoon climate, with a rainy season from May to October and a dry season from November to April.
Administrative divisions
Mae Pong is divided into several sub‑districts (tambons) and villages (mubans). The primary tambons include:
- Mae Pong
- Mae Pong Nai
- Mae Pong Nok
- San Kamphaeng
- Ban Luang Nai
Each tambon is further subdivided into multiple mubans (villages).
History
The area that now forms Mae Pong district was originally part of the larger San Sai district. In 1972, the Thai government established Mae Pong as a separate minor district (king amphoe). It was later upgraded to a full district (amphoe) in 1977.
Demographics
As of the most recent census data available (2020), Mae Pong district had a population of approximately 35,000 residents. The community is predominantly composed of ethnic Thai and Lanna peoples, with local languages including Central Thai and Northern Thai dialects.
Economy
The district’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, with rice paddies and fruit orchards (especially longan and lychee) constituting major cultivated crops. Small‑scale livestock raising and local handicraft production also contribute to the local livelihood.
Transportation
Mae Pong is accessible via provincial roads that connect it to Chiang Mai city to the north and to neighboring districts. Bus services and motorbike taxis are common modes of local transport.
Points of interest
- Wat Mae Pong: A Buddhist temple serving as a cultural and religious center for the district.
- Mae Pong River Bend: A scenic area along the Mae Ping River popular for picnics and local fishing.
Note: Information presented reflects data available from official Thai governmental sources and recognized geographic references.
