Thailand

Nestled in the wild mountains of Mae Hong Son, Mae Ngao National Park attracts visitors with its lush greenery, cliffside caves, and thundering waterfalls. Here's a closer look at the park's attractions:.

Nature getaway at Mae Ngao National Park

Less known and less visited compared to Thailand's Gulf Islands, northern Thailand captivates discerning travelers. Nature reigns supreme in the northern hills, where city and countryside blend seamlessly, and numerous national parks offer recreational or adventurous hikes amidst wildlife. Mae Ngao National Park, situated in the remote village of Mae Hong Son, about forty kilometers from Mae Sariang via National Highway 105, epitomizes these natural treasures. Rice fields, pine forests, rivers with lively rapids, and thunderous waterfalls are among the park's natural assets. The park's biodiversity not only fascinates tourists but also offers cultural experiences like visiting a Karen village, marveling at farmers' lifestyles, and accepting the hospitality of their wooden riverside cabins. For the more adventurous, white-water rafting and cave exploration add spice to the excursion. Visit Mae Ngao National Park and satisfy your cravings for natural splendor in northern Thailand.

Where is Mae Ngao Park located?

Mae Ngao National Park is somewhat isolated from major roadways. Most visitors embark on day trips from Chiang Mai or include it in a cultural circuit through the Golden Triangle.

The park is rich in biodiversity. 

The park boasts astonishing biodiversity.

Flora

Vegetation includes deciduous dipterocarp forests, hardwood forests, and evergreen forests.

Fauna

There are no dangerous animals. Common inhabitants include squirrels, red foxes, arboreal monkeys, and large raptors. Songbirds delight near the waterfalls.

Selection of tourist activities

Boating and rafting

The Ngao River is the park's top attraction. Float peacefully along its course on a raft, paddling through the rapids cascading down cliffs. Not a water sports enthusiast? No worries. Lace up your hiking boots; natural wonders abound in the vicinity.

Waterfall trails

Following marked trails, hikers can access three waterfalls. Ol Ogro waterfall is the most popular, as its waters tumultuously plunge 150 meters. Access isn't easy, requiring a three-day round-trip hike, but the trail's beauty amidst dense vegetation justifies the effort, especially as it passes through a Karen village.

More accessible is the Mae La-Or waterfall, near the Mae Sariang road. Though its 400-meter route lacks hiking challenges, it's ideal for picnickers.

Mae Wa-Luang waterfall is a picturesque cascade cascading in multiple stages, located in the eponymous village of Ban Mae Wa-Luang. The trail starts at the visitor center and teems with wild plants and birds.

Cave exploration

If you're not tired, visit Tham La cave, nestled in Ban Umlow village, not far from the Ngao River. Inside, a pond houses various fish species, earning the cave the nickname Fish Cave among locals.

Cultural immersion with the Karen

Visiting a Karen village is an enriching and fascinating experience. Host families can accommodate foreigners. Discover an endearing people with customs, hairstyles, and housing styles vastly different from Western civilization.

Things to know before you go

How to get there?

Mae Ngao National Park is located within Mae Hong Son's administrative area, Mae Suad district, in the village of the same name. If traveling from downtown Chiang Mai, take Route 108, then, upon reaching Mae Sariang town, switch to Route 105. Proceed straight. After 25 kilometers, you'll reach Sob Moei village. Add another 15 kilometers, and you'll arrive at Mae Ngao village.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Mae Ngao National Park is from November to February. The climate is cool and pleasant during this time, but pack sweaters or pullovers to stay warm in the evenings.