Thailand

The Doi Ang Khang massif is a privileged hiking destination in northern Thailand, renowned for its breathtaking views, botanical gardens, and traditional Burmese tribes.

Planning a trip to Chiang Mai in the coming months? Don't miss the opportunity to ascend Doi Ang Khang, a charming mountain resort located in Fang, a district in northern Thailand bordering Burma. The rugged and windy terrain of Doi Ang Khang will thrill trekking enthusiasts. The ascent is not strenuous, as you'll stop in ethnic villages scattered with bamboo huts. On your descent, visit a royal agricultural station where roses, peaches, rhubarb, and other spring crops flourish. A day trip to Doi Ang Khang will satisfy your desire for fresh air and fulfill the cravings of summit enthusiasts, botany enthusiasts, forest hikers, and those seeking cultural experiences.

History

Over the past century, Doi Ang Khang has witnessed massive immigration of indigenous minority tribes: the Lahu, Hmong, Lisu, Palong, etc. Some fled Myanmar, where military rule prevails, while others came from China's Yunnan province to seek refuge in Thailand. "Doi Ang Khang" translates to "hill" or "mountain peak" in Thai. This massif is part of the historical region known as the Golden Triangle.

Until 1969, the region was dominated by drug traffickers. When King Bhumibol Adulyadej, or Rama IX, inspected the mountain, it was covered in opium poppy fields. His Majesty initiated the establishment of an agronomic research station. The need for an alternative to opium poppy cultivation was urgent. However, selecting species adapted to the temperate climate, studying their altitude tolerance, calculating harvest volumes, and determining yields were initial challenges. Thus, the agricultural station was created.

In the early years, there were disputes with Burmese authorities. However, Rama IX succeeded in pacifying the region. The quality of life for mountain farmers has improved since they no longer depend on opium for survival. They have been able to earn a stable and decent income from selling vegetable products. Additionally, the decline in opium poppy cultivation has ended the Sino-Burmese conflicts that plagued the region.

Today

Verdant, colorful, and blooming, the Doi Ang Khang massif remains largely unknown to foreign visitors. Visitor numbers suffer in comparison to nearby Doi Inthanon, Thailand's highest peak at 2,565 meters.

While Doi Ang Khang ranks only 15th in Thailand's mountain resorts by altitude, it boasts many attractions. It houses a variety of vegetable and floral species, along with shrubs of all kinds. Beyond the world of farming, visitors will encounter tribal communities nestled in the northern hills. While perhaps not suited for hardcore trekking enthusiasts, if you seek easy trekking routes mixed with cultural tourism amidst picturesque landscapes, ascending Doi Ang Khang should not be missed.

Trekking and hiking at Doi Ang Khang

Navigating around the mountain requires a powerful vehicle. Climbs can be steep and challenging at times. All the attractions in Doi Ang Khang cover a route of 3 kilometers.

Royal Agricultural Research Station

Undoubtedly, the highlight of Doi Ang Khang is King Rama IX's agronomic station. Even if you're not a botany enthusiast, you'll be delighted by the vegetable and ornamental flower greenhouses, shrubs, and fruit trees.

Notice the cylindrical and round cacti, each with sharp spines. Look along the row of peach trees. Further ahead, you'll find orchards of plums, rhubarb, kiwis, strawberries, and other species, all grown according to organic farming principles. It's truly fascinating to discover plants from the Northern Hemisphere thriving in this remote corner of Thailand.

Enthusiasts will gladly lose themselves in the Japanese bonsai garden, where floral compositions mimic nature in a sublime way. However, the most enjoyable experience is horseback riding on mules. A herd of donkeys grazes peacefully in a clearing near the peach trees. Upon request, a professional agent can assist you with mounting.

Next, you'll reach the station's visitor center, which resembles an alpine chalet. Here, you can dine or enjoy a hot cup of coffee before descending the mountain. Undoubtedly, visiting this royal agricultural station will be a memorable experience.

Ban Khum Village

For lodging or enjoying local specialties, stop at the largest village in Doi Ang Khang: Ban Khum. This village offers accommodation, dining services, and retail shops. There's even an ATM. The region's largest hotel is rated three stars. If you're looking to purchase souvenirs, a morning stroll is worth your while. Traditional tunics, shawls, hats, bracelets, tapestries, and other crafts are available.

Ban Nor Lae Village

At the village entrance, you'll encounter people wearing purple sarongs, sometimes adorned with black or silver belts. These are the Palaung, an ethnic group that migrated from Myanmar's Shan State to escape armed conflicts and poverty. They settled in the northern hills about fifty years ago. Besides their colorful attire, bamboo houses with doors facing the rising sun are the most evocative feature of Palaung civilization.

Ban Khop Dong Village

This village is home to the Lahu, a tribal community living in humble wooden huts. While branded jeans and t-shirts abound, older clan members still wear traditional costumes. Rice and corn are staples for sustenance. To supplement family income, many village women engage in basket weaving, crafting beautifully executed hats, baskets, and mats.

Practical information

When to visit Doi Ang Khang?

The best time to ascend Doi Ang Khang is during the winter, between November and March. Clear skies during this season offer splendid views of flowers and orchards. The months from May to October are strongly discouraged if you fear heat and heavy rains.

The influence of altitude explains the cool climate compared to tropical Thailand (average 17°C) and significant temperature variations between day and night (from 29°C to 11°C). Pack warm clothing for the night and sturdy, non-slip footwear.

How to get there?

The only transportation option from Chiang Mai to Doi Ang Khang is by private vehicle. Instead of driving yourself, it's advisable to hire a driver experienced in mountainous terrain. The road leading there traverses stunning landscapes.

Entrance fee

While access to the mountain is free, there's a visitor's fee of 30 baht per person at the entrance to the royal agricultural station. If you're driving, there's a parking fee of 50 baht. Totaling approximately €2.24.

Nearby attractions

• Wat Thaton Buddhist Temple;
• Hinoki Land, a beautiful Japanese park in the heart of Thailand
• Doi Inthanon National Park.