Doi Luang Chiang Dao & Wawajo–Loe Jo Trek
The Sacred Mountain of Wonders
Season: Mid November – Mid February
Price: 2700 AUD / person
Rising dramatically above Northern Thailand, Doi Luang Chiang Dao is one of the country’s most extraordinary mountains — sacred, wild, and biologically unique.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, this towering limestone massif is home to rare sub-alpine ecosystems, endemic plant species found nowhere else on Earth, and vast forest landscapes untouched by modern development.
Beyond Chiang Dao, the journey continues deeper into the highlands — across cloud-kissed ridges, untouched forests, and remote hill-tribe villages along the legendary Wawajo – Hongkai – Pui Luang – Loe Poe He – Loe Jo route.
Here, time slows. Villages remain connected by footpaths, and every summit reveals wide, quiet horizons stretching into Myanmar’s borderlands.
Trip Overview
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights
Difficulty: ★★★★☆ (4 / 5) -Challenging multi-day trekking journey
Highest Elevation: 2,225 m
Trekking Style: Guided, small group
• Climbing tree roots & uneven terrain
• Rope-assisted sections
• Multi-day camping
• No technical mountaineering requiredAccommodation: Camping & local camp stay
Season: Mid November – Mid February
Participants should have:
• Previous multi-day trekking experience
• Good cardiovascular fitness
• Confidence on uneven and remote terrain
• A resilient mindset for long, demanding days
What Makes This Trek Special
UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve
Thailand’s third-highest peak (2,225 m)
The tallest limestone mountain in Thailand
Over 2,000 plant species, including 100+ endemic species
Long ridgelines above the clouds
Panoramic 360° summit views
Remote hill-tribe villages rarely visited by travelers
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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Transfer to Chiang Dao. After lunch near Chiang Dao Cave, complete trekking registration and attend a mandatory orientation covering safety, conservation, and trail regulations.
In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxed stop at Chompoo Lotus Organic Farm before settling into a local homestay. Evening BBQ dinner and relaxed group time.
Overnight: Chiang Dao Homestay
Meals: Lunch, Dinner -
Transfer by pickup truck to the Den Ya Khad trailhead. Begin trekking through bamboo forests, wildflower fields, and ancient woodland zones.
Arrive at Ang Salung campsite by late afternoon. Set up tents and hike to a nearby ridge for sunset views over the Three Brothers Peaks.
Trekking time: 4–6 hours
Overnight: Tent camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Early morning summit hike to Doi Luang Chiang Dao. Watch the sunrise break through a vast sea of mist — one of Thailand’s most iconic mountain moments.
Descend back to camp, then transfer to Chiang Dao Story Camp for lunch and showers. Afternoon transfer back to Chiang Mai.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
-
After several days in the mountains, this day allows for recovery and cultural immersion in Chiang Mai.
Highlights include:
• Wat Umong forest temple
• Lunch in the Suthep area (famous Khao Soi or local restaurant)
• Stroll through Baan Kang Wat artisan village
• Evening Khantoke dinner with traditional Lanna performances
• Optional visit to Sunday Walking Street marketThis town day gives your body a chance to rest, enjoy showers, and prepare for the next multi-day trek — balancing wilderness and culture perfectly.
Overnight: Chiang Mai Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner -
Early departure toward Mae Hong Son. Meet local trekking team and switch to 4WD for an off-road ride into the mountains.
Begin trekking toward Wawajo Ridge and Pui Luang Peak, arriving at camp in time for a dramatic sunset.
Overnight: Tent camping (Pui Luang)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Sunrise coffee with 360° views from Pui Luang. Trek onward through remote highland terrain toward Loe Poe He campsite.
Quiet evening surrounded by mountains and forest sounds.
Overnight: Tent camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Another sunrise before trekking toward the hidden summit of Loe Jo. Camp under the stars with sweeping views across remote mountain ranges.
Overnight: Tent camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Final sunrise at Loe Jo Peak before descending back to the pickup point. Transfer by 4WD to town, lunch, and onward transfer to Chiang Mai.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Upcoming departure dates
| Departure | Finish |
|---|---|
| 25 Nov 2026 | 2 Dec 2026 |
| 16 Dec 2026 | 23 Dec 2026 |
| 6 Jan 2027 | 13 Jan 2027 |
| 20 Jan 2027 | 27 Jan 2027 |
| 3 Feb 2027 | 10 Feb 2027 |
