Thailand
Covered with rice fields and lush virgin forests, the Dawna mountain range is a popular destination for outings in northwest Thailand. Here's a closer look.
Excursion to the Dawna Range: Between hiking and wildlife exploration
The craving for fresh air, the exhilaration of summits, and the need for a break from urban hustle lure hundreds of Thais and Burmese to Dawna's mountain cliffs. Familiarly known as the "Dawna Hills," the range spans the high plateaus of northern Thailand, with its highest peaks clustered in Burma's Kayah and Kayin States. Climbing and hiking enthusiasts, take note! Consider this destination if you're traveling around Mae Hong Son, Mae Sariang, or Tak. Guided by a tour guide, explore rare species such as the Asian elephant and the Indochinese tiger. Encounter Karen or Hmong tribes in national parks. Seasoned adventurers won't stop until they reach the summit of Mela Taung or Mulayit Taung to enjoy a breathtaking sunrise!
Geographical description
The dramatic cliffs of Dawna stretch from Kayah State in the north to the Umphang region in the south. The terrain consists of narrow valleys with gentle slopes as it overlaps the Daen Lao range. Moving south, the mountainous terrain becomes more rugged and continuous. Altitudes exceed 2,000 meters in Kayin State, where the Dawna Hills form a backbone with Mon State before winding through the high plateaus along the Thai border, creating a picturesque crest above rice paddies, tea plantations, and fruit orchards. The total length of the range is 350 kilometers.
Historical background
The mountain resort holds significant tourism potential. Unfortunately, political unrest in Burma has affected the area. Instead of hotels or guesthouses, border towns now host refugees. For safety reasons, tourists are advised to use a travel agency. Some roads are hazardous.
Today
An excursion to Dawna Hills promises nature and adventure. While mountain hiking is the main activity, tourists also show enthusiasm for cultural exchanges with Burmese ethnic groups. Interest in ecotourism continues to grow. Behind the mountain range lie about a dozen parks and animal sanctuaries in Thailand, offering opportunities to study the unique flora and fauna of Southeast Asia.
Climbing the Dawna Range
- Mela Taung
Looking for a rugged hike in Burma? Scale the snowy slopes of Mela Taung, Dawna Range's highest point at 2,080 meters. You'll feel tiny amidst the majesty of the peaks.
- Salawin National Park
Straddling Mae Sariang and Sop Moe districts, Salawin National Park is a popular hiking destination. Progress through the dipterocarp forest and encounter various animals: the Indochinese tiger, barking deer, gaur, palm civet, and the majestic elephant, which reigns supreme in these woods.
- Thung Yai Naresuan Wildlife Sanctuary
Visiting Thailand's largest protected area is a privilege! Ascend the Three Pagodas Pass, traverse rivers, ravines, fertile valleys, and wooded mountains with the Dawna Range in the backdrop. Thung Yai Sanctuary is a delight for hikers! The realm of animals is full of wonders. While the inventory isn't complete, the available figures are impressive: the sanctuary alone hosts 200 tigers native to Southeast Asia and over 400 bird species.
- Khao Laem National Park
Like Thung Yai Sanctuary, Khao Laem Park is part of the Western Forest Complex. Gain elevation by climbing the lush hills of Tenasserim. Dawna Range majestically overlooks the park. The fauna here mirrors that of the previous sanctuary.
- Taksin Maharat National Park
Named after King Taksin, this park boasts Thailand's largest tree. Fascinating waterfalls, caves, and limestone formations abound.
- Visit tribal communities
Meet Karen villages nestled in the Dawna Mountains. Corn and rubber fields sustain their livelihoods, bamboo huts serve as shelters; and ethnic dances ritualize religion, births, and harvests. It's as if the tribe has made a pact with nature. A guaranteed change of scenery!
Practical information
The best time to visit
Similar to northern Thailand, Dawna Hills enjoy a tropical monsoon climate: scorching summers and stormy days give way to cool, dry winters. To avoid inconvenience, plan your visit between November and February.
Getting there
Between November and February, tourists flock to the Dawna Mountains. The weather is usually sunny, with rainy days being rare.
Accommodations and dining
Accommodation options include small hotels, guesthouses, and homestays.
