San Pa Thong Travel Guide

San Pa Tong is a lively compact town south of Chiang Mai best known for its large cattle and water buffalo market held every Saturday morning.

Most people don’t consider San Pa Tong a destination in itself, but it is on the way to the Mae Wang valley and has an authentic small town atmosphere that is quite pleasant to explore. There are plenty of little restaurants serving northern Thai food but nothing in the way of shopping or mind-blowing attractions.

The most exciting thing in San Pa Tong is the Saturday livestock market, which begins at 05:00 and runs around 10:00 in the morning. It is a very lively market, and something unusual to see. Besides selling buffalo and cows, the market also has a handful of vendors trying to unload used vehicles and other sundry items.

Getting There & Away

Buses and pick up truck taxis regularly run from Chiang Mai’s city center to San Pa Tong. It’s only about 30 minutes from Chiang Mai, so renting a car or scooter is a better alternative to figuring out the bus system. There are some interesting sights along the way from Chiang Mai if you follow the Canal Road all the way to San Pa Tong. Chiang Mai is well serviced by air, train and bus from most parts of Thailand and home to the closest airport.

San Pa Tong attractions

• Saturday Livestock Market: every Saturday morning, Thais converge on the town to sell water buffalo and cattle to anyone interested.