Enriching Community Partnerships and Destination Experiences with Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai

As a custodian of luxury hospitality in Northern Thailand for more than three decades, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai continues to create meaningful relationships with the destination and the community through well curated experiences that reflect the spirit of this “land of a million rice fields.” Recently awarded #1 Resort in Thailand by Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2025, the resort’s commitment to fostering a deep sense of responsibility to the environment and the community is well regarded world over. “Sustainability is not just a philosophy that we talk about,” insists Sean Mosher, the proud General Manager of Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai. "We are committed to integrating responsible practices into every area of our operation, while engaging in a meaningful way through our in-resort and destination experiences.”

The countryside idyll of Chiang Mai provides the perfect backdrop for these initiatives that vary in rhythm, tone, and mood – suited to the wide demographic of travellers that visit this beautiful resort. “Our experiences beat to the pulse of our location,” smiles Ashok Nair, Director of Rooms and Residences, adding that the Concierge team is always on the lookout for sustainable programs that help guests connect with the destination and the people.

Sightseeing in Mae Kampong

For those seeking an outdoor adventure, the sightseeing tour in Mae Kampong offers an unforgettable experience. “Nestled in the mountains, Mae Kampong is a charming village that emphasises sustainable living,” shares Ashok. The trek through the village introduces guests to the beauty of the surrounding nature, with stops at local coffee plantations, waterfalls, and organic farms. The community here focuses on eco-friendly practices, making it an ideal destination for travellers interested in learning more about the Northern Thai way of life.

Trekking Through Doi Inthanon

“A visit to Doi Inthanon, Thailand's highest peak, offers a chance to immerse yourself in Chiang Mai’s breathtaking natural beauty while supporting conservation efforts,” he suggests. Doi Inthanon National Park, also known as "The Roof of Thailand," is a must-visit, home to captivating waterfalls, scenic trails, and vibrant local villages. The highlight of the park is Doi Inthanon Summit, the highest point in Thailand at 2,565 metres (8,415 feet) above sea level, offering the perfect spot for a moment of calm during sunrise. "The trekking experience here allows you to hike through lush forests, discovering a rich array of plant and animal life, as well as the park’s conservation efforts,” he elaborates.

Temple Tour in Chiang Mai Old Town

Chiang Mai is renowned for its beautiful temples, many of which are in the Old Town. A guided temple tour with the resort’s expert Concierge team provides an enriching experience, offering visitors a chance to admire the region's sacred architecture while learning about its rich Buddhist heritage. “Some must-visit temples include Wat Phra Singh, known for its beautiful Lanna architecture, and Wat Chedi Luang, which houses ancient ruins and plays a key role in the city’s history,” recommends Ashok. The temples are peaceful places for reflection and visiting them respectfully allows guests to immerse themselves in Chiang Mai’s spiritual traditions.

Learning Traditional Rice Farming

The in-resort experiences are as earthy and vivid as the destination tours, with rice farming playing a central theme in the setting and experience. “Get a hands-on experience working with local farmers in our lush fields,” he says. “A time-honoured practice continues to sustain local communities in the region.” Besides rice cultivation, guests can also learn about the beautiful, symbiotic relationship between the farmers and water buffaloes for a deeper understanding of the local way of life and the importance of preserving these traditions.

Cultural Immersion at Chaan Baan

The resort’s cultural centre, Chaan Baan, offers an immersive cultural experience for guests of all ages. From pottery and natural indigo dyeing to saa paper making, and traditional candle making, the resort provides the perfect playground for a fun learning experience, all while engaging with the local community and contributing to the preservation of these traditional crafts. "By supporting the local artisans, our guests play a part in the sustainable development of the region, all while deepening their understanding of the local culture,” he reflects.

Organic and Sustainable Healing

The artisanal expertise extends to the award-winning Wara Cheewa Spa, where the team is dedicated to using locally sourced products that celebrate the rich natural resources of the region. From herbal compresses infused with indigenous plants to oils crafted from locally grown herbs, each treatment not only nurtures the body but also supports local farmers and artisans. “By embracing organic ingredients and eco-friendly practices, Wara Cheewa Spa offers a holistic journey that honours the environment, promotes well-being, and reflects a deep respect for Chiang Mai's cultural heritage and natural beauty,” shares Dheeraj Signh Patwal, Health and Wellness Manager.

Cooking at Rim Tai Kitchen

Honouring the local ingredients extends to the authentic culinary experiences at the resort that guests can enjoy through the cooking class at Rim Tai Kitchen. The experience starts with a visit to the Chef’s Garden, where guests pick fresh, seasonal ingredients grown using sustainable farming practices. “This farm-to-table experience not only teaches the art of Thai cooking but also emphasises the importance of using locally sourced and organic ingredients in creating healthy, delicious meals,” smiles Thai Chef Instructor Suwattana Boonyarattanunusorn.

Sustainable Wellness Practices

In Chiang Mai, sustainable wellness practices provide a perfect balance between personal well-being and environmental connection. At the resort, wellbeing is all about connection within and with nature as many of the sessions are practiced outdoors in the beautiful lawns or overlooking the emerald rice paddies. Whether it is yoga, sound healing or pranayama, the programs reflect the resort’s commitment to preserving the cultural heritage and natural resources through meaningful engagement, inviting you to live a life in balance.

“The rural way of life in Thailand is intrinsically sustainable, and by embracing as much of the local traditions as we can at our countryside retreat, we are creating a uniquely Thai experience - one that is truly sustainable and integrated into the local community,” says Sean.