Best Hiking Areas in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai, a city nestled in the northern mountains of Thailand, offers some breathtaking hiking trails that provide a perfect blend of culture, nature, and adventure. Here are some of the best hiking areas you shouldn’t miss:

1. Doi Suthep-Pui National Park

• Location: Approximately 15 km from Chiang Mai City
• Trail Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Doi Suthep-Pui National Park is the most popular hiking destination near Chiang Mai. The park features two mountains, Doi Suthep and Doi Pui. The trails offer a variety of flora and fauna, waterfalls, and Buddhist temples such as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

2. Doi Inthanon National Park

• Location: About 65 km from Chiang Mai City
• Trail Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous

As Thailand’s highest peak, Doi Inthanon offers a more challenging hike. The park is home to various unique species of birds and orchids. Hikers can also visit the Royal Twin Pagodas, a significant landmark within the park.

3. Mae Sa Waterfall

• Location: About 30 km from Chiang Mai City
• Trail Difficulty: Easy

Mae Sa Waterfall is a series of seven cascading waterfalls. Although not a strenuous hike, the trail leads through beautiful rainforest and offers multiple viewpoints to enjoy the falls.

4. Mon Cham

• Location: About 70 km from Chiang Mai City
• Trail Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous

Mon Cham is a remote village located in the Mae Wang Wildlife Sanctuary. The hike to this village offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the opportunity to experience the local Karen hill tribe culture.

5. Song Ya Niwat Hiking Trail

• Location: About 40 km from Chiang Mai City
• Trail Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous

The Song Ya Niwat Trail is a less touristy option that takes hikers through dense forests, crossing rivers and passing by Hmong and Karen hill tribe villages. The trail ends at the beautiful Mae Wang Waterfall.