There is no doubt that Thailand is home to stunning beaches, vibrant floating markets, and delicious street food. People love to explore this beautiful piece of heaven on tuk-tuks, the common means of transportation here. But beyond these tuk-tuks and tropical scenery, there is a whole other side of this country waiting to be explored. We are talking about Thailand’s hiking trails. These are raw, diverse, and deeply rewarding. Hence, hiking is the best way to experience the landscape and natural beauty of a new place.
Hiking is not an easy task for everyone. However, in the case of Thailand, it is not the case. The country offers hiking trails for all levels. Whether you are a seasoned trekker or just looking to stretch your legs while connecting with nature, these trails allow you to experience Thailand holidays with ease on foot. In this post, we will discuss some of the most unmissable hikes in Thailand that are sure to bring you closer to the soul of the land in the best way possible.
A List of Epic Trails You Cannot Miss in Thailand
1. Doi Inthanon National Park Hiking Trail
Standing at 2,565 meters above sea level, Doi Inthanon enjoys the status of being Thailand’s tallest mountain. It is also called “the roof of Thailand” due to its height and might. It is located in Chiang Mai province and offers the most scenic hiking experiences in the country. Here, you will not only conquer the giant stones but also be transported to a refreshing escape into Thailand’s cooler and alpine-like climate. Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail is one of the most talked-about routes here. It is a 3 km loop that delivers breathtaking views. If you are hiking on a clear sunny day, you are most likely to be treated to sweeping views of green valleys layered beneath the drifting clouds. The whole panorama looks extremely magical and is a treat for the eyes.
While hiking, you will pass through the lush and colourful wildflower meadows. There are high chances that you will spot rare birds and butterflies fluttering among the trees. If you want to make your Thailand holidays memorable, then head out early in the morning to catch the sunrise above the clouds. It is truly an awe-inspiring moment that makes this hike unmissable.
2. Doi Suthep Hiking Trail
When you plan to visit Chiang Mai, the Doi Suthep hiking trail is a must-do thing here. From this trail end to Doi Pui village, it takes almost a half-day to complete the hike. To start the hike, first you will need to go to the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple. From there, a forest trail leads you deep into the serene mountains, winding through dense woodland, small waterfalls, and peaceful, shaded paths. Moreover, as you walk, your ears would be treated with forest sounds that will offer a refreshing dose of calm. The overall vibe of the place is so enchanting that you will lose track of the time and will reach Doi Pui without getting tired. If you are a beginner with a moderate level of fitness, the hike is suitable for you. It will take about 6 to 8 kilometres one way to complete it. The hike is a truly rewarding experience as it combines culture, nature, and calm far from the buzz of the city.
3. Erawan National Park Trail
It is a common understanding that all hikes take you to the top of a mountain or a view point. However, not all hikes are similar as some even take you to waterfalls. That is exactly what you will find in Erawan National Park. Located in the west of Thailand, the park is seen as one of the most breathtaking spots one will ever find in the Southeast Asia region. The trail consists of seven tiers, each with its own distinct charm. Every tier features natural pools and cascading falls that get more magical as you climb higher. The adventure does not stop here. Along the way, you can catch your breath and take a swim in the emerald green waters. In addition, cool streams are the right way to dip your feet if you want to relax and take a break during your hike. The forest itself is teeming with life. You might spot monkeys swinging through the trees, butterflies fluttering by, and exotic birds calling overhead.
You have to be really careful during this hike. Although the total distance to the top is just 1.5 km, some of the paths are steep and can cause trouble for you. Despite these hurdles, each tier offers a new reward. If you want to get a mix of adventure and relaxation in one hike, go for Erawan National Park.
4. Dragon Crest Mountain
If you are living in Krabi and want to hike amidst jaw-dropping views, then the Dragon Crest Mountain trail awaits you. Another name for this hike is Khao Ngon Nak. It has such an aura and vibe that makes it an unmissable hike in Thailand. It is a fairly challenging hike, but with the most beautiful and Instagram-worthy backdrop. In addition, the payoff at the top is truly magical and worth the effort. The trail passes through the shady forests and small waterfalls and leads all the way up to several iconic viewpoints. The whole distance is 3.7 km.
When you ascend the trail, you will witness a beautiful landscape unfolding before you. It will reveal glimpses of the surrounding jungle and distant islands. As you reach the top, the famous Dragon Crest will welcome you with views of the Andaman Sea, lush hills, and scattered limestone islands below. You can take a victory photo here! It is a famous hiking trail and is usually crowded, so it is best if you start early in the day. This way, you will avoid the midday heat and large crowds. Most importantly, bring plenty of water, as there are no vendors or facilities along the trail.
5. Khao Luang Peak
For adventure seekers and natural beauty lovers, there is no better trail than Khao Lunag Peak. It is the tallest mountain in the southern Thailand, standing at 1,835 metres, offering hikers a challenging climb through the rich tropical rainforest and a diverse ecosystem. This trail is the longest we have covered so far, about 7 to 8 km one way. It will typically take you 4 to 6 hours to complete it, depending on your pace and fitness level, of course. Along the way, you’ll pass gushing streams, bamboo groves, and dense jungle, often enveloped in mist, especially in the early morning. You need to be careful during the hike, as the trail can be steep and slippery in parts, but the journey is part of the fun, especially for nature lovers.
When you reach the top, you will come across the sweeping views of forested hills, and if the sky is clear, you can even get to catch glimpses of the Gulf of Thailand. Many hikers even choose to camp overnight near the top to catch the stunning sunrise over the mountains. This combo of steep paths, natural beauty, and reaching the highest point of southern Thailand makes Khao Lunag a truly unmissable hike in Thailand.
Wrap Up
Hiking is all about discovering the hidden and greener side of a country. In Thailand, it becomes even more fun when you pass the waterfalls, chirping birds, and fluttering butterflies. The post has summed up some of the unmissable hikes in the heart and soul of Thailand to make your Thailand holidays truly magical. After all, hiking in Thailand is not just about getting to a viewpoint or breaking a sweat, but connecting with nature in the best way possible. So, if you’re ready to hit one of the above trails, contact Virikson Holidays and get amazing Thailand vacation deals.
