Doi Luang National Park
Discover the wild beauty of Doi Luang National Park, featuring rugged mountains, stunning waterfalls, and serene camping spots.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Doi Luang National Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the wild beauty of Doi Luang National Park, featuring rugged mountains, stunning waterfalls, and serene camping spots.
"A magical park with beautiful waterfalls and peaceful camping, perfect for nature lovers."
🎒 Pack Your Own Food
No restaurants on-site, so bring all your meals and snacks. You can drive out for supplies if needed.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be steep and sometimes eroded. Good footwear is essential for navigating the terrain safely.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pu Kaeng Waterfall
East side of the park
A stunning multi-level waterfall with numerous spots to swim and relax amidst lush jungle. A 2km trail leads to its upper reaches.

Camping by the Stream
Near waterfall entrance
Pitch your tent beside the soothing sounds of running water for a tranquil overnight escape. Power points are available in huts.

Nature Trails
Various entry points
Explore well-maintained paths through the jungle, offering opportunities for short, accessible walks or more challenging treks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Doi Luang Chiang Dao Hike Early
Choose Your Doi Luang Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Pack Your Own Food
No restaurants on-site, so bring all your meals and snacks. You can drive out for supplies if needed.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be steep and sometimes eroded. Good footwear is essential for navigating the terrain safely.
🦟 Bring Insect Repellent
Mosquitoes are common, especially on the trails. Protect yourself to enjoy your hike without irritation.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially if you plan on hiking. The jungle can get warm and humid.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Pack Your Own Food
No restaurants on-site, so bring all your meals and snacks. You can drive out for supplies if needed.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be steep and sometimes eroded. Good footwear is essential for navigating the terrain safely.
🦟 Bring Insect Repellent
Mosquitoes are common, especially on the trails. Protect yourself to enjoy your hike without irritation.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially if you plan on hiking. The jungle can get warm and humid.
💰 Entrance Fees
Expect to pay around 100 THB for foreigners and an additional fee for vehicles.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Doi Luang National Park for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the multi-level Pu Kaeng Waterfall and the serene camping opportunities. The cleanliness of facilities and the peaceful atmosphere are frequently highlighted. Some visitors noted that hiking trails can be steep and that food options are limited, requiring visitors to bring their own provisions.
"A fantastic place to camp for a couple of nights. We had the place for ourselves. Toilets and showers were spotless and even had toilet paper and hand soap. No restaurant so bring your own food. We were allowed to drive out to get more supplies. Very friendly staff. The only thing we missed was a longer walking trip. Only possible to do a 2 km hike into the forest."
Edv.
"A magical park. Big, interesting and fascinating. A hiking trail with many small/medium waterfalls, many places to enter the water, many beautiful places to sit near the water, no hikers. Everything is clean and beautiful, and leave it that way.
For those who find it difficult to walk a lot, you don't have to walk too far to see a beautiful place. You can stop at the beginning, there are places to sit near the water and enter. Those who want a little more of a challenge, should go all the way to the top, and will not be disappointed."
Rob M
"Some part of the park is under construction with adding new facilities. Can do camping near waterfall entrance. Power point available at the hut"
Rachel Yap
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Doi Luang National Park has multiple entry points. The east side entrance, near Chiang Rai, is about a 60-minute drive south. You can reach it by car or motorbike.
If you're heading to Doi Luang Chiang Dao for the summit hike, you'll likely start from the Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary.Navigation can vary depending on the entrance. Using GPS or a local map is recommended. Some reviews mention specific directions from nearby towns like Chiang Rai or Phayao.
Yes, you can typically drive your own vehicle into the park, but there's usually an additional vehicle entrance fee.
The summit hike for Doi Luang Chiang Dao requires a guide and advance booking through the Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary. Applications are usually in mid-to-late October.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees for foreigners are typically around 100 THB per person, with an additional fee for vehicles (e.g., 30 THB for a motorbike).
For general park entry and day visits, advance booking is usually not required. However, for the popular Doi Luang Chiang Dao summit hike, booking is essential and must be done through the Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary in mid-to-late October.
National parks in Thailand generally open early in the morning and close around sunset. Specific hours can vary by entrance, so it's best to check locally if you plan a very early or late visit.
While not explicitly mentioned in all reviews, national park fees in Thailand often differ for Thai citizens and children. It's advisable to inquire at the entrance.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the Pu Kaeng waterfall with its multiple levels, various hiking trails through the jungle, and camping sites. Different entry points offer unique natural features.
The hike to Pu Kaeng Waterfall is approximately 2 km round trip. The trail can be steep in parts but is generally well-marked and manageable.
Yes, many visitors enjoy cooling off in the water at Pu Kaeng Waterfall. There are numerous spots along the trail where you can enter the water.
Absolutely! You can easily enjoy a day trip to see the waterfalls and do a short hike. Many visitors find the 2km waterfall trail and the nature trail fulfilling for a day visit.
Yes, reviews indicate that toilets and showers are available and are generally kept clean. Some even mention supplies like toilet paper and soap.
🎫 🏕️ Camping & Accommodation
Camping is a popular option, especially near the waterfall entrance. You can set up your tent near the stream for a peaceful experience. Power points are available in nearby huts.
Campers can find power points in huts. While there's no restaurant, you can drive out to get supplies. Toilets and showers are also available.
Advance booking for campsites is generally recommended, especially during peak seasons or if you want a specific spot. It's best to inquire with the park authorities.
📸 📸 Photography
The Pu Kaeng Waterfall offers numerous beautiful photo opportunities with its cascading levels. The lush jungle scenery along the hiking trails also provides great shots.
Yes, the trails are generally well-marked, and there are many scenic points along the way. Be mindful of the terrain, especially on steeper sections, when setting up for a shot.
Morning light can be soft and beautiful, especially filtering through the jungle canopy. Midday sun can be harsh, but the waterfall spray might create interesting effects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For younger children or those who tire easily, the lower sections of the waterfall offer beautiful spots to relax near the water without extensive walking. The clean facilities, including toilets and showers, add to the comfort for families. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience for everyone.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Remember to wear sturdy hiking boots, as some trails can be steep and eroded. Bringing insect repellent is also crucial, as mosquitoes are common. The opportunity to camp near the stream offers a unique way for nature lovers to spend more time immersed in the park's serene atmosphere.
📸 Photographers
Early morning light can be ideal for capturing the soft glow filtering through the trees. Be prepared for potentially damp conditions near the waterfalls and consider bringing protective gear for your camera. The relative lack of crowds, especially on weekdays, allows for unhurried shooting and the capture of tranquil natural scenes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Doi Luang Chiang Dao Summit Hike
Travelers planning this hike should be prepared for rugged terrain and varying weather conditions. The hike involves significant elevation gain, and booking well in advance is essential due to limited permits. The experience offers breathtaking panoramic views from the summit, making the effort worthwhile for seasoned hikers.
It's advisable to check the official website or contact the Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary directly for the most up-to-date information on application dates and procedures. Being prepared with appropriate gear and fitness levels will enhance the overall experience of conquering Doi Luang Chiang Dao.
Exploring the Pu Kaeng Waterfall
Many visitors find the hike to be steep in places, with some sections showing signs of erosion, but it's generally considered manageable. Along the way, there are plenty of spots to enter the water and cool off, making it a perfect escape on a warm day. The natural pools and surrounding jungle create a serene environment, often with very few other hikers present, especially on weekdays.
For those who prefer a less strenuous experience, even the lower levels of Pu Kaeng Waterfall offer beautiful scenery and places to sit near the water. The trail also provides numerous photo opportunities, capturing the power and beauty of the cascading water amidst the vibrant green foliage.
Camping Amidst Nature
Basic facilities are available for campers, including access to toilets and showers, which are noted for their cleanliness. Some camping areas also offer power points in nearby huts, adding a touch of convenience to the wilderness experience. While there isn't an on-site restaurant, visitors are permitted to drive out to purchase supplies, making it feasible to prepare your own meals.
Camping here is described as a magical experience, especially when you have the place largely to yourself. It's an ideal way to disconnect and enjoy the tranquility of the park, with the sounds of nature providing a natural soundtrack.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit