Doi Mon Jong Trek
The Lion’s Head Peak & Golden Grasslands, Northern Thailand
Season: December–February
Price: 840 AUD / person
Standing at 1,929 metres above sea level, Doi Mon Jong is one of Thailand’s most visually striking trekking destinations. Located deep within the Omkoi Wildlife Sanctuary, this mountain is famed for its dramatic viewpoint at Huai Sing (Lion’s Head Cliff) and vast rolling grasslands that glow gold under the sun.
The trail journeys through pine forests, fern valleys, and open ridgelines, gradually revealing sweeping mountain panoramas. In winter (December–February), the slopes burst into colour as scarlet rhododendrons (Gularb Phanpi) bloom across the hillsides — a rare and unforgettable sight.
Sunrise and sunset at Mon Jong are the true highlights. As the first light spills across endless mountain ranges, a sea of mist fills the valleys below, creating a sense of vastness and quiet wonder. Remote, peaceful, and deeply wild, this trek is perfect for those wanting a genuine mountain experience without extreme difficulty.
Trip Overview
Duration: 2 Days / 1 Nights
Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆ (2 / 5) — Easy to moderate trek suitable for beginners with reasonable fitness
Daily hiking: 3–4 hours
Trekking Style: Guided trek · Tent camping
• Gradual climbs with some open ridge walking
• Camping basics required
• No technical trekking or climbing skills neededAccommodation: Camping & local camp stay
Season: October – January
Fit beginners, teenagers (15+), adults, and active seniors seeking scenic landscapes and a relaxed pace.
What Makes This Trek Special
Iconic Lion’s Head Cliff (Huai Sing viewpoint)
Vast golden grasslands known as the “Elephant Golf Course”
Seasonal red rhododendron bloom (Dec–Feb)
Pine forests, fern valleys & panoramic ridgelines
Sunrise sea of mist & sunset mountain silhouettes
Remote wilderness with minimal crowds
Camping Style
This trek involves simple tent camping in a remote wildlife sanctuary. Sleeping arrangements are basic. Nights can be cold, especially in winter months, and temperatures drop significantly after sunset. Camp life is quiet and immersive, surrounded by open grasslands and mountain air.
Food
All meals are prepared by our trekking team. Expect warm, filling Thai-style dishes designed to refuel you after hiking. Food is simple, nourishing, and comforting rather than elaborate. Please advise dietary requirements in advance.
Facilities
There are no showers during the trek. Toilet facilities are basic and set up at campsites where possible. A proper shower and changing facilities are available at the headquarters at the end of the expedition.
Trail Conditions
The trail includes forest paths, grassy ridges, uneven ground, and occasional ascents. Some ridge sections are exposed but wide and non-technical. Trails may be slippery after rain.
Experience Level
No technical skills are required. Participants should be comfortable hiking several hours per day, carrying a daypack, and adapting to remote outdoor conditions.
Weather & Environment
Weather can change quickly. Expect cool mornings, warm daytime temperatures, strong winds on ridges, and cold nights. Winter months can be especially chilly before sunrise.
Pack Weight
Participants carry personal items in a daypack. Shared gear and food are managed by the team where applicable. Packing light is strongly recommended.
Respect for Nature
Doi Mon Jong lies within a protected wildlife sanctuary. All participants must follow Leave No Trace principles, respect wildlife, and comply with ranger regulations at all times.
Trip Itinerary
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Early morning departure from Chiang Mai, travelling south toward Omkoi. We stop along the way for rest and breakfast at a well-known local restaurant, famous for its grilled chicken and hearty mountain meals.
Upon arrival at Muser Ranger Station, we register with park authorities, organise gear, and load supplies onto 4WD vehicles. The journey continues with an exhilarating off-road ride along narrow mountain roads, winding through ridges and valleys.
After a packed lunch, we begin trekking through pine forest, gradually ascending toward open grassland ridges. The views expand with every step as the landscape opens into rolling hills and dramatic rock formations, including Phu Hin Chor, a towering stone landmark perfect for panoramic photos.
We continue through shaded forest, fern fields, and the short ascent of Sam Hop Hill (Three-Breath Hill) before reaching the stunning Elephant Golf Course — an expansive golden grassland surrounded by mountains.
In the late afternoon, tents are set up and those who wish can hike to Lion’s Head Cliff (Huai Sing) for sunset. Standing at the peak as the sun dips below the mountains is a moment many describe as unforgettable.
Dinner is served at camp, followed by stargazing and quiet mountain stories under a vast night sky.
Trekking time: 3–4 hours
Overnight: Tent camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAs the climb continues, the forest gradually opens and the air cools. By mid-afternoon, we emerge onto the pine plateau, a wide open landscape often wrapped in drifting mist. Camp is set beneath tall pines, and the evening is spent resting, warming up by the fire, and listening to the quiet of the mountain.
Trekking time: ~4–6 hours
Distance: ~6.5 km
Overnight: Pine Plateau campsite (tent)
Meals: Lunch, Dinner -
Before dawn, we wake for sunrise. Soft light spills across endless mountain layers as mist drifts through the valleys — one of northern Thailand’s most beautiful morning scenes.
After breakfast, we pack up camp and begin the descent along the same scenic trail, enjoying final views of forests and grasslands.
At the trailhead, we freshen up and enjoy a local lunch before returning by 4WD and vehicle transfer back to Chiang Mai in the afternoon.
Trekking time: 2–3 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Upcoming departure dates
| Departure | Finish |
|---|---|
| 5 Nov 2026 | 6 Nov 2026 |
| 19 Nov 2026 | 20 Nov 2026 |
| 3 Dec 2026 | 4 Dec 2026 |
| 17 Dec 2026 | 18 Dec 2026 |
