Thailand

Overlooking the rural landscapes of northeastern Thailand, the Phi Pan Nam mountain range is a prime hiking destination. Let's explore the attractions of Phi Nam Man.

Escape into the wild mountains of Phi Pan Nam: between hiking and ecotourism

The simple joys of rural life inspire most Northern Thailand hiking tours. For your next visit, explore the mountain villages scattered throughout the Phi Pan Nam range. From the tea farms of Chiang Rai to the freshwater lake of Phayao, passing through the terraced rice fields of Nan, Phrae, and Lampang, a 400-kilometer route offers the delights of green tourism. Sturdy walking shoes are essential for crossing rivers, descending to waterfalls, and climbing rugged rocks with strange shapes. Two types of ecotourism experiences stand out:

• The first invites you to visit Phi Nam Man National Parks, where elephants and Malayan bears may cross your path.
• The second, more focused on human interaction, allows you to connect with Karen and Hmong tribes.

Far from being separate, these experiences complement each other perfectly. Teak forests provide refuge for both animals and hill tribes, as decided by the mountain deities after whom the Phi Nam Man range is named.

Historical background

Etymology

The mountain range derives its name from a Thai word meaning "spirits of the thousand streams" or "mountain spirits that separate the streams."

Hydrography

Whether you believe in Thai folklore or not, the name Phi Nam Man evokes its rich hydrographic potential. While not as high as other Thai mountain ranges, it is rich in springs. These springs give rise to the Mekong and Chao Phraya rivers, separated by the massif itself. The Wang and Yom rivers flow from these mountains. The Yom River passes through Phrae and Sukhothai before joining the Chao Phraya Basin.

Refuge for tribal communities

However, Phi Pan Nam—sometimes spelled Pee Pan Nam—is not just about rivers and waterfalls. Burmese minority tribes have sought refuge in these hills, including the Hmong, Lisu, and Karen. Practicing subsistence agriculture, these former refugees often struggle to make ends meet. They have been granted citizenship in national parks to benefit from tourism revenue, though substantial portions of land are allocated to logging companies.

Communist Era Remnants

Thailand has historically viewed communism as a threat. Did you know that the high-altitude forests of Phi Pan Nam served as battlegrounds between the royal army and communist rebels? The conflicts lasted from 1950 to 1970. A memorial on Mount Phaya Phipak in Chiang Rai National Park commemorates the brave soldiers. Officially inaugurated by King Rama IX and Queen Sirikit, the site was visited by Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn in 1982.

Flora and fauna of the Phi Pan Nam Range

More than twenty protected areas are scattered throughout the massif, providing a safe habitat for diverse wildlife. Teak trees, bamboos, and various flowering plants, including dipterocarps, dominate the mountains. Asian elephants are common in these jungles.

Rare and endangered species find sanctuary here: the fishing cat, Malayan bear, Asian black bear, Chinese pangolin, sambar deer, gaur, and Bengal slow loris—a primate with silky fur reminiscent of lemurs from Madagascar.

While more common and widely distributed, barking deer, giant black squirrels, Burmese hares, Indian hares, and civets also deserve attention. This list is not exhaustive, but visitors are assured of encountering emblematic animal species in Southeast Asia.

Today

Venturing into the mountains of Phi Pan Nam is ideal for adventure enthusiasts. Strap on your hiking boots and pack a first aid kit, as the journey is not for the faint-hearted.

Exploring the Phi Pan Nam mountain range

Whether a custom tour or group package, Phi Pan Nam offers a wide range of attractions, including:

Wildlife viewing

The range is a continuous succession of wildlife sanctuaries. Encounter the red-beaked pirola and blue-winged siva singing in the foliage of Doi Luang Park, at the northern extreme of Phi Pan Nam. Camp in Lam Nam Nan Park and walk alongside big-headed turtles. Continue to Nam Pat Wildlife Sanctuary, home to barking deer, wild dogs, and Asian black bears. While spotting big cats isn't guaranteed, you're sure to witness a festival of feathered creatures.

Spectacular rock formations

Phi Pan Nam has gained fame for its mushroom rocks, named for their round and compact shapes. Passing through Phrae, don't miss seeing them in Phae Mueang Phi Forest Park, approximately 8 kilometers northeast of the city.

Romantic landscapes

Lacking majestic peaks, Phi Pan Nam's relief is characterized by rolling valleys and hills. Some landscapes take on romantic tones, such as Phu Langka Forest Park, floating in a sea of mist at dawn. Mountain enthusiasts will delight in finding a hill shaped like a generous breast. After photo sessions, exploring wild roses is a must. This essential Phu Langka Park is located in Phayao.

Elephant trekking

Visiting an elephant camp is a must during your journey through the Phi Pan Nam range. Asian elephants are rare in protected areas; a few herds still roam Si Satchanalai Park and Nam Pat Wildlife Sanctuary. To share special moments with these gentle giants, head to animal-friendly private reserves!

Exploring Sukhothai ruins

If your journey through the Phi Nam Man range starts at Phayao and its legendary lake, Sukhothai is the culmination. Lose yourself in the Sukhothai historical park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stone idols, temples of brick and red sandstone, and scattered ruins among the trees invite a peaceful stroll while giving you a glimpse of the luxury and splendor of a bygone kingdom.

Practical information

The best time to visit

Visits are highly recommended between November and March. Temperatures are mild during this period, ranging from a minimum of 10 °C to a maximum of 18 °C during the day. Other seasons should be avoided. Temperatures rise toward mid-April. From June onward, the sky becomes angry, and trails become muddy and slippery.

How to get there

To reach the heights of Phi Pan Nam, take the Phahonyothin Road. It starts in Chiang Rai and ends in Tak. Alternatively, the Northern Line offers two train services for railway enthusiasts. The rails focus on the southern part of the range: the first train winds through the hills of Phrae (130 m), while the second connects Uttaradit and Phrae (360 m).