TOP 5: The Most Beautiful Hikes of Thailand

Thailand is known for its beautiful landscapes and great diversity. What better way to explore it than by walking a part, to be sure to not miss any detail of this magical country?

Here is a list of hikes that your eyes will never forget!

1- Doi Luang Chiang Dao

What?

Doi Luang Chiang Dao is the 3rd highest mountain in Thailand. Known to many locals, this hike is for many people a list of “things to do before dying”.

The climb itself is quite steep in places, and crosses a jungle surrounded by mountains. But your efforts will not be in vain: once you reach the summit, you will enjoy a splendid panoramic view: the most beautiful and the widest in Thailand.

Where?

Doi Luang Chiang Dao is about an hour and a half drive north of Chiang Mai. To find it on the map, click here.

How?

This hike is not easy and is done over several days. But rest assured, some cottages and campsites are present so you can sleep on the spot and regain strength. It is also strongly recommended to take a local guide, which you can book in advance at the park office for about 1000 baht – about 25 €. Another popular option is to opt for an organized tour of 2 days and 1 night, totally planned from beginning to end with a local guide included.

2 – Khao Sok National Park

What?

Khao Sok is an unusual corner, one of the oldest tropical rainforests on the planet more than 160 million years old! This protected natural park covers approximately 740 km² and is a true sanctuary of fauna and flora.

The beginning of the hike is in a wild jungle, following a path completely lost in the middle of it. Cliffs, rivers and streams punctuate the walk which takes about 3 hours to reach the Khao Sok cave. And it is once inside the cave that the real adventure begins: discover what’s around you in complete darkness.

Where?

Khao Sok is located in the South of Thailand, close to Surat Thani and Koh Samui. To find it on the map, click here.

How?

The trails have little elevation making this hike easily accessible while enjoying the magic of nature and observe more closely flora and fauna. Allow about 4 hours for a full turn. It is even possible to mix walk and boat ride before or after visiting the cave. However, it is not advisable to go on this hike without a guide.

3 – Khao Yai National Park

What?

The Khao Yai National Park covers an area of 2,168 km² and extends over 4 provinces: Nakhon Ratchasima, Saraburi, Prachinburi and Nakhon Nayok. It is very popular because it is home to the largest monsoon forest in Asia.

A veritable environmental treasure with a unique fauna and flora on the continent, it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and ASEAN National Heritage.

Where?

Khao Yai is about 200 kilometers from the bustling Bangkok. Only 2 hours drive will take you to this haven of peace. You can take a bus directly from the capital. To find it on the map, click here.

How?

You will be able to make the decision to go for a walk by yourselves inside the park and discover its numerous trails. It is nevertheless advisable to take a guide for those who wish to optimize their discovery time in order to see as much as possible. You can find one at the park entrance for 500 Baht for a whole day.

For more information on Khao Yai National Park, it’s here!

4 – Tab Kak Hang Nak Hill

What?

The trail of Tab Kak Hang Nak Hill offers one of the most beautiful views of South Thailand.

The climb itself is quite physical, lasts a good two hours and requires a little effort on the part of hikers. Nevertheless, the view that awaits you at the top is well worth it and offers you a unique sight on the surrounding plains and bay. Between the time spent climbing, the break at the top and the return on foot, it takes about 6 hours for this visit.

Where?

The Kak Hang Nak Nature Trail Tab is located in Krabi Province. To find it on the map, click here.

How?

There is no way to get there by public transport, so you have to rent a scooter and ask a taxi to drop you off. This trail is quite physical and therefore requires a good general condition, and is not recommended for children. The entrance is free and a guide is not necessarily necessary, but you can leave a small tip to the people who manage the site!

5 – Kiew Mae Pan

What?

Kiew Mae Pan is a real natural treasure in Thailand. In addition to the hike itself, you can also take the opportunity to visit the famous Doi Inthanon in Chiang Mai, which is the highest peak in the country.

This trail is a natural trail of 3 kilometers long. Its particularity is that you can find interesting explanations about the eco system in general all along the way. The 2000-meter forest is full of impressive fauna and flora.

Where?

The Kiew Mae Pan hike is located in Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand. To find it on the map, click here.

How?

Doing this hike on your own seem a little complicated. The road to the park from Chiang Mai is long and narrow. So you have to rent a scooter or have it driven there. You also have many agencies that offer this hike as a ride like any other, framed from beginning to end.