Thailand

Chiang Dao National Park, recently renamed Pha Daeng National Park, is one of the must-visit destinations near Chiang Mai. Here's an overview:

The rugged terrain of Chiang Dao attracts avid hikers. It offers exhilarating treks, orchid watching, walks through bamboo groves, picnics by waterfalls, and bathing in hot springs—a perfect ecotourism getaway. Despite its remote location, Chiang Mai residents eagerly drive 87.4 km to rejuvenate in this peaceful haven for a weekend. Scaling Doi Kham Fa, the park's highest peak, makes you feel on top of the world. Spend a day exploring Chiang Dao Park and experiencing the natural grandeur of Chiang Mai.

History

Established in 2000, the park covers 1,155 km2 and spans several administrative districts, including Muang Na, Thung Khao Puang, Ping Khong, Chiang Dao, Piang Luang, Saen Hai, and Wiang Haeng. Initially a state-owned domain, it was named Chiang Dao National Park after the former royal forest and well-known Chiang Dao district. Later, the park officials requested a name change due to confusion with Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary, officially renaming it Pha Daeng National Park in March 2006.

Location

Finding Chiang Dao National Park is challenging—it nestles in the mountainous foothills north of Chiang Mai, near the Myanmar border. The park's visitor center is in Na Wai village, Chiang Dao district, reachable by an 87 km road—75 km main road and 12 km secondary road. Hikers cherish this remote, tranquil spot away from tourist crowds, best accessed by private vehicle.

Rich biodiversity

Chiang Dao National Park is a paradise for wildlife and plant enthusiasts. As you trek its steep cliffs, you'll encounter deciduous dipterocarp trees, barking deer darting among pines and bamboos, and squirrel, boar, and porcupine sightings in the understory forests. It hosts a diverse array of herbivores, reptiles, and birds, including gorals, gaurs, and bantengs. Langurs swinging through the canopy and the chorus of frogs and toads near streams add to the wildlife spectacle.

Activities galore

The park's allure lies in its high mountain ranges. Climbing enthusiasts will find joy in its numerous peaks, like Doi Daeng, Doi Phadang, Doi Danfak, and more. Most hiking trails are concentrated in the western part, which is dense with deciduous forests and abundant wildlife, while the eastern section features predominantly sedimentary rocks.

Not just for climbers, the park offers:

Pang Tong Waterfall

Perfect for a refreshing dip amidst lush jungle, this waterfall cascades gently over rocks for over 50 meters, accompanied by birdsong and fluttering butterflies.
  

Si Sangwan Waterfall

More dramatic at 20 meters, it cascades in three tiers through mixed forests of hardwoods and ferns, home to rare orchid species.
  

Yod Doi Tuai Viewpoint

In the northern section, this cliff viewpoint offers breathtaking vistas of dense forests, with Myanmar visible on the horizon on clear days.
  

45-kilometer-viewpoint

Located midway between Mae Cha and Peang Luang, it overlooks Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary.

Exploring caves

Two stunning natural caves—Klap Cave, about ten meters long, and Pha Cave, smaller but more accessible—reveal stalactite and stalagmite formations, accompanied by bats.

Visiting hill tribes

Local English-speaking guides can lead you to hill tribe villages like Lisu and Karen, where farming and livestock are central to their traditional lifestyle, complete with vibrant attire, thatched-roof huts, and animistic rituals.

Practical information

Entrance Fees

Vary for Thai nationals and residents; non-Thais pay 100 baht (approx. €2.8), Thais only 20 baht (approx. €0.56), with half-price for children.

Best time to visit

Chiang Dao Park enjoys cooler temperatures, with highs around 26.7°C in winter and lows dropping to 7.5°C. Peak tourist season is during the first and last quarters of the year; avoid June to September due to heavy rains that make climbing hazardous.

Accommodation

Two well-maintained bungalows offer overnight stays within the park.

Nearby attractions

Besides Pha Daeng National Park, nearby highlights include Chiang Dao limestone caves, Doi Luang Chiang Dao mountain station, and hot springs.