Doi Luang Chiang Dao Trek
The Sacred Mountain of Wonders
Season: Mid November – Mid February
Price: 1200 AUD / person
Rising to 2,225 meters above sea level, Doi Luang Chiang Dao is one of Thailand’s most sacred and biologically rich mountains.
As the country’s only semi-alpine forest, this protected landscape is home to rare and endemic plant species found nowhere else on Earth.
The trail passes through ancient forests and seasonal wildflower fields — including the iconic Chiang Dao Lady’s Slipper Orchid and the Parrot Flower, a rare ground orchid believed by many to be a symbol of good fortune.
At sunrise, mist drifts through the valleys below, revealing the Three Brothers Ridge bathed in soft golden light — a moment that feels both powerful and deeply peaceful.
This trek offers a balanced introduction to multi-day trekking in Northern Thailand, combining gentle challenges with unforgettable natural beauty.
Trip Overview
Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights
Difficulty: ★★⭑☆☆ (Moderate)
Highest Elevation: 2,225 m
Trekking Style: Guided, small group
• Some root climbing & rope sections
• Camping basics required
• No technical mountaineering skills neededAccommodation: Camping & local camp stay
Season: Mid November – Mid February
What Makes This Trek Special
Thailand’s only semi-alpine ecosystem
Rare orchids & seasonal wildflowers
Sacred mountain protected by wildlife sanctuary
Sunrise sea of mist & panoramic ridge views
Camping under stars in a quiet, untouched landscape
Camping Style
This trek involves simple tent camping at designated sanctuary campsites. Tents are shared, and sleeping arrangements are basic. Nights can be cool, especially in the early morning, and campers should be comfortable sleeping close to nature, with forest sounds and changing mountain weather.
Food
Meals are freshly prepared by our trekking team using local ingredients whenever possible. Expect warm, filling dishes designed to restore energy after long days on the trail. Food is simple, nourishing, and satisfying rather than elaborate. Special dietary needs should be advised in advance.
Facilities
There are no shower facilities on the mountain. Toilets are basic and shared, typical of protected wilderness areas. Power outlets, mobile signal, and internet access are extremely limited or unavailable throughout the trek.
Trail Conditions
The trail includes uneven ground, tree roots, rocky sections, and occasional steep climbs. In some areas, hands may be needed for balance, including holding roots or ropes provided by park authorities. Trails can be slippery after rain.
Experience Level
No technical climbing or mountaineering skills are required. However, participants should be comfortable hiking for several hours, carrying a daypack, and adapting to outdoor conditions. A reasonable level of fitness and a flexible mindset are essential.
Weather & Environment
Mountain weather can change quickly. Cool mornings, warm afternoons, fog, and sudden rain are all possible—even in peak season. Temperatures drop significantly at night, especially during winter months.
Pack Weight
Participants carry personal items and daily essentials in a daypack. Shared equipment and food are handled by the team where applicable, but packing light is strongly recommended.
Respect for Nature
This trek takes place in a protected wildlife sanctuary. All participants are expected to follow Leave No Trace principles—carrying out all rubbish, respecting flora and fauna, and following ranger regulations at all times.
Trip Itinerary
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We leave Chiang Mai and travel north toward Chiang Dao, a quiet mountain town at the base of Thailand’s third-highest peak.
After lunch near Chiang Dao Cave, we complete registration with local authorities and attend a mandatory orientation on trekking regulations and conservation guidelines. The afternoon is slow and relaxed, with time to enjoy views of the surrounding limestone mountains and lotus fields.
In the evening, we settle into our camp near the sanctuary, share a local-style dinner, and prepare for the trek ahead.
Overnight: Chiang Dao Homestay
Meals: Lunch, Dinner -
After an early breakfast, we transfer by local pickup truck to the trailhead and begin trekking into the heart of Doi Luang Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary.
The trail passes through bamboo forest, wildflower fields, and ancient woodland zones. During the right season, Parrot Flowers and rare orchids bloom along the path. The terrain is mostly gradual, with occasional climbs and uneven sections.
We reach Ang Salung campsite in the late afternoon, set up tents, and hike to a nearby ridge for sunset views over the Three Brothers Peaks. Dinner is served at camp under the stars.
Trekking time: 4–6 hours
Overnight: Tent camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Before dawn, we hike toward the summit of Doi Luang Chiang Dao. At sunrise, a sea of mist rolls through the valleys below, bathing the limestone ridges in golden light—one of the most iconic mountain views in Thailand.
After breakfast back at camp, we pack up and descend via the same route. A vehicle transfer brings us back to base camp for a shower and lunch before continuing onward to the next destination.
Trekking time: 2–3 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Upcoming departure dates
| Departure | Finish |
|---|---|
| 25 Nov 2026 | 27 Nov 2026 |
| 16 Dec 2026 | 18 Dec 2026 |
| 6 Jan 2027 | 8 Jan 2027 |
| 20 Jan 2027 | 22 Jan 2027 |
| 3 Feb 2027 | 5 Feb 2027 |
