Thailand
With its mountainous terrain hiding caves, temples, and wildlife reserves, Chiang Dao is a must-visit for nature lovers on a trip to Chiang Mai.
City of stars… This literal translation of Chiang Dao is quite telling when considering its mountainous relief. The pure air, the altitude exhilaration, the gentle and majestic panoramas, and the desire to disconnect from civilization draw many tourists to this district of Chiang Mai. You'll witness the cherry blossoms in bloom. By climbing the illustrious Doi Chiang Dao mountain, you'll visit a Buddhist temple and experience the benefits of meditation. Abundant biodiversity awaits you at Chiang Dao National Park, about forty kilometers from the city. Tourism relies on budget accommodation services suitable for all budgets. Take a two-day excursion around Chiang Dao and find out what you can expect from an unforgettable trip in Northern Thailand.
A nature destination in Chiang Mai
Administratively, Chiang Dao is home to nearly 15,200 residents under the jurisdiction of Chiang Mai. It consists of 16 villages. Flooded rice fields, steep cliffs, and hills make up a breathtaking landscape, one of those characteristic countryside landscapes of Northern Thailand.
The simplicity is evident in the hotel offering. Beds are concentrated in campsites, bungalows, and vacation rentals. The price of a night ranges from €10 to €25, showing a nature-oriented destination, far from luxurious claims.
Things to see and do in Chiang Dao
Nature heritage
Doi Chiang Dao: Perched at 2,175 meters, Doi Chiang Dao is the country's third-highest point. Even if you're not a climber, easy trails have been created for a gentle walk.
Chiang Dao Caves: With a torch in hand, walk in the footsteps of the early local monks as you venture into the rock caves converted into sanctuaries. Your imagination will soar as you recall the manifestations of worship that once resonated through the ruined chedis clustered near the caves. Figures painted on the rock dating back 1,500 years bear witness to human presence in these white, cold cavities. The company of a local guide is recommended to see interesting details. The attraction is in the mountain foothills, near Wat Tham Pha Long, about 75 km from downtown Chiang Mai.
Chiang Dao wildlife sanctuary: Better known by its English name, Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary, this reserve is a popular walking destination. It is a 1 kilometer walk from the Chiang Dao Cave. The establishment has an environmental and recreational mission: it takes care of injured, sick, or orphaned animals who have no chance of survival without appropriate care. The highlight of the visit is to be found in the bird population. Don't miss the rehabilitation center, where you can study and watch a wide range of mammals: felines, elephants, ruminants, antelopes, monkeys… Possibility of hiking around the protected area.
Chiang Dao National Park: The name of this reserve, bordering Myanmar, has been changed to "Pha Daeng National Park". It covers an area of 120,000 ha. Its location less than 40 km from downtown, the attractiveness of Doi Chiang Dao and Doi Pha Dang, two mountain ranges in the region, and the density of forest cover make it a prime destination for climbers and seasoned hikers. By reaching the summit of Doi Pukphukka, which rises 1,800 m above sea level, you will feel like the master of the world.
Cultural and religious heritage
Wat Tham Chiang Dao: This temple-monastery is one of the must-sees in Chiang Dao. Enjoy its idyllic setting above a rocky ridge, and, once inside, don't miss the turquoise blue pond where large fish swim. There is a secret cave called Wat Tham Phra Non, from which the nickname "cave sanctuary" comes. Visiting this 360-meter long cave helps understand the link between the hermit condition and the attainment of Buddha status. Continue with a meditation session, to recharge and let go of work tensions. Access to the building requires athletic legs to climb the five hundred steps of stairs. It is adorned with elegant sculptures of nagas (multi-headed snakes that control the energy of the elements).
Wat Tham Pha Long: The ascent of the mountain passes through the Buddhist monument Wat Tham Pha Long. While hikers appreciate it for its wooded setting, savvy tourists stop here to practice meditation. An art in which the priests of the place have imposed their notoriety. The path leading to it is lined with panels displaying Buddhist proverbs. It is definitely worth noting in your address book.
How to get to Chiang Dao?
Tourism in Chiang Dao is facilitated by a correct and solid road network. You can choose to rent a private car or take public transportation to get there. If you're not used to driving on the left, the second option is recommended.
From Bangkok
Public buses run round-trip between the capital and Chiang Dao. Allow half a day's journey from Mochit station.
For a comfortable journey, consider taking a VIP bus ticket: folding seats, refreshments, and an air-conditioned interior.
From Chiang Mai
If you intend to include Chiang Dao in your Chiang Mai itinerary, note that regional buses to Chiang Dao are grouped at Chang Puak station. You'll have to wait an hour and a half before the bus departs.
Getting around the city
The rugged trails can be traversed on foot or by mountain bike. Local hotels offer motorcycle or scooter rentals upon request.
You'll love…
Taking a breath of fresh air at the top of Doi Chiang Dao;
Cooling off at the foot of the Sri Sungwan waterfall;
Taking a thermal cure at the Pong Arng station;
Enjoying a picnic with the family;
Visiting Wat Tham Chiang Dao and its famous fish pond;
Enjoying an animal experience at Chiang Dao National Park;
Photographing the iconic landscapes of the city.
