Hiking in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a fantastic place to hike and has some great trails for all levels. Chiang Mai is a mountainous city which is known for so much (Temples/Markets/Nightlife), and the beautiful mountain/hill peaks are definitely one of them. There are hikes for all levels from beginner to advanced. 

Almost all of hikes have epic waterfalls, lush forests, great views and some even have small villages that welcome you with open arms. If you can bring a little extra cash to donate or purchase something. It helps them out a lot. Be sure to plan your day out accordingly most of these hikes in Chiang Mai take at least 4 hours to complete. Be sure to bring plenty of water on your hikes in Chiang Mai Thailand. Even in the 'Winter Season' it can get really hot.

There are so many websites, hiking groups and organised Treks (Through trekking companies), so the choice can seem endless. But don't let this put off, hiking in Chiang Mai can be one of the best parts of this wonderful city. Our advice:

• What type of hiking are you looking for? Easy/Challenging, on your own/in a group or a paid trekking tour? Think about what you want.

• Do some research, there is plenty of information on the internet.

• Join a hiking group, such as the Chiang Mai Walking and Talking Hiking Group

• Be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks on your hiking trip along with insect repellent and sunscreen. Also bring clothing to cover your knees and shoulders in case you happen to visit a temple or shrine along the way.

• Check the weather forecast and make sure you are prepared for the weather conditions. The trail can become muddy and slippery during (or after) rainfall so wear shoes with good traction. Bring layers as the top of these mountains can be chilly (especially Doi Inthanon and Doi Pui).

When to go?

While you can hike year-round in Chiang Mai, there are a few distinct seasons to be aware of. The best time to hike is typically in the dry season which typically lasts from October to March. Temperatures are coolest during this time and the trails are usually not slippery and muddy. 

The hot season takes place from April to June. Temperatures soar during these months so take care not to hike during the middle of the day. Some national parks close during hot season, so check before you go.

Rainy season (or monsoon season) takes place from July to September. Some trails are too muddy and slippery to hike on during this time, but not all. Most hikers avoid monsoon season, but some prefer it because visibility is better due to improved air quality.

No matter which season you choose, the best time of day to hike is usually in the early morning or late afternoon hours. Avoid hiking during the middle of the day when the temperatures are hottest.

Below are some of the most popular hikes in and around Chiang Mai.

Distance: 2.9 km (1.8 miles) to Wat Pha Lat Temple and back
Elevation Gain: 187 m (614 feet)
Highest Point of Elevation: 635 m (2084 feet)
Difficulty Level: Easy
Cost: Free (donations are accepted at the temple)
Trailhead: Monk’s Trail Trailhead

One of the most popular and well-known Chiang Mai hikes, the Monk’s Trail leads to a hidden jungle temple on Doi Suthep Mountain. The hike follows a stream uphill through the jungle, passing a few small waterfalls along the way.

After 1.5 km, the trail crosses over a footbridge and emerges at Wat Pha Lat Temple – a gorgeous temple nestled in the jungle along a waterfall. The temple doesn’t get many visitors and is primarily used as a meditation retreat center by the monks.

Before crossing the stream, be sure to take in the views of the temple from the other side. This is the best spot to see the temple’s Naga staircase (naga are mythical beings which look like serpents). There are also great views of Chiang Mai city from the stream.

This section is quite easy, however, if you then climb to the road, cross the road and walk about 200m up the road, you can continue the trail all the way to Doi Suthep temple. This part is difficult!

Distance: 2.3 km (1.5 miles) loop, plus an extra 1.2 km (.8 miles) to the viewpoint and back
Elevation Gain: 182 m (597 feet)
Highest Point of Elevation: 1685 m (5528 feet)
Difficulty Level: Easy
Cost: Free
Trailhead: Doi Pui Peak Trailhead at the Pui Campground

Doi Pui Peak is a short but steep nature trail that loops through the evergreen and pine forests on the top of Doi Pui mountain. The trail features informative signboards at 13 stations along the way with details about the park’s flora and fauna.

The highlight of the trail is Doi Pui Peak. At 1685 meters (5528 feet), it is the tallest point on the entire mountain. There isn’t much of a view to speak of from here, however.

For the best views, continue along the trail past the Royal Pavilion for 0.6 km (or 0.4 miles) until you reach a ridge. There are plenty of spots with great views along the ridge, along with a bench and some nice places to relax and enjoy the forest.

There are other more difficult trails that continue from this area.

Distance: 6.3 km (3.9 miles) there-and-back
Elevation Gain: 325 m (1069 feet)
Highest Point of Elevation: 614 m (2016 feet)
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Cost: 50 baht fee for foreigners to access the lake
Trailhead: The Golden Buddha Statue at Huay Tung Tao Lake

Dtaat Mook waterfall is a lovely cascading waterfall that typically has water year-round. Reaching the waterfall requires a pleasant hike uphill through the jungle and a bamboo forest. This is hike is moderate.

The trailhead is located at Huay Tung Tao Lake, which is a gorgeous destination in its own right. There are many scenic bamboo huts overlooking the lake and restaurants specializing in seafood. The lake is a popular destination on the weekends for families.

Distance: 3.4 km (2.1 miles) loop
Elevation Gain: 190 m (623 feet)
Highest Point of Elevation: 2311 m (7584 feet)
Difficulty Level: Easy
Cost: 300 baht per person entrance fee (for foreigners), plus 200 baht to hire a guide
Trailhead: Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail trailhead

Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail is a short ramble through the woods on Thailand’s tallest mountain, Doi Inthanon. The loop hike follows a picturesque stream before eventually breaking out of the foliage to a viewpoint.

While a bit further away from Chiang Mai than the other hikes on this list, the trail deserves a spot on your bucket list as it is undeniably one of the best Chiang Mai hikes. The views from the top are *epic*.

There are loads of more difficult hikes at Doi Inthanon