Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Trekking in Thailand is one of the best ways to discover the country beyond its famous beaches and bustling markets. When you go trekking, you step into a land of green mountains, thick forests, and traditional hill villages. Many visitors think only of islands, but the trails in the north and central regions show a more peaceful and natural side of the country. You can walk past rice terraces, waterfalls, and jungle paths while learning about local life. Moreover, you will find treks for all levels, from short day hikes to adventurous multi-day routes. Additionally, every trail brings a mix of culture and nature that stays in your memory.
Top 10 Places For Trekking In Thailand
Here are the top 10 places for trekking in Thailand you should explore. Each one has its own charm and unique experiences.
1. Chiang Mai
Photo: icon0 com / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Chiang Mai is the most popular place for trekking in Thailand. There are trails for both beginners and experienced hikers in this area, which is surrounded by tall mountains and thick jungles. You can walk through bamboo forests, rice fields, and rivers and meet Karen, Hmong, and Lahu tribes along the way. Many treks also include stops at waterfalls and places where elephants are cared for, which makes the trip more interesting. Moreover, you can choose from one-day treks to longer routes lasting three to four days. Each season brings a different look to the trails, from green fields in the rainy months to misty paths in the cool season.
Location: Northern Thailand.
Best Known For: Numerous treks and hill tribe experiences.
Top Highlights: Jungle trails, rice fields, waterfalls, and hill tribe villages.
Suggested Read: Best10 Places To Visit In Chiang Mai
2. Pai
Photo: Christophe95 / Wikimedia Commons
Pai is a small town with a calm atmosphere that draws many travellers. The surrounding hills and valleys make it a great place for easy to moderate treks. You can walk past hot springs, waterfalls, and bamboo groves before reaching small villages where people still follow old traditions. The hikes here aren’t too hard, so even people who have never been hiking before can enjoy them. The trails are also beautiful because you can see Pai Canyon and rice fields from them. After walking, you can take a break in natural hot springs or a town café. Besides that, a lot of hikers go to Pai, so you can probably meet other travellers who like to explore nature too.
Location: Mae Hong Son province, 135 km northwest of Chiang Mai.
Best Known For: Hot springs and relaxed trekking routes.
Top Highlights: Easy hikes, hot springs, Pai Canyon, and local village stops.
3. Doi Inthanon
Doi Inthanon stands tall as the highest mountain in Thailand at 2,565 meters. Trekking here feels different because of the cooler climate and lush highland forests. The national park surrounding the peak has trails that take you past waterfalls, thick jungles, and birdwatching spots. Moreover, the treks often pass through Karen villages where you can see traditional farming methods. The views from the top are amazing, especially when the valleys are cloudy at sunrise. The Royal Twin Pagodas near the top add cultural depth to your trip as well. Many treks have guides for safety and informational purposes.
Location: 70 km southwest of Chiang Mai.
Best Known For: Thailand’s highest summit and waterfalls.
Top Highlights: Thailand’s highest peak, forest trails, waterfalls, and sunrise views.
Suggested Read: Amazing Places To Visit In Thailand On Your Next Tropical Vacation
4. Mae Hong Son
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
Mae Hong Son is a great place for anyone who wants to get away from the throng. The area is near the Myanmar border and has undulating hills, caves, and small tribal villages. Treks here are peaceful, giving you a sense of remoteness that is hard to find elsewhere. Moreover, you can interact with the Shan and Karen communities, taste their food, and learn about their lifestyles. The landscapes include forests, rivers, and hot springs, adding variety to your walks. Mae Hong Son is well-suited for multi-day treks, where you can camp under the stars or stay in homestays. It combines adventure, culture, and quiet beauty in a way that feels refreshing.
Location: Northwestern Thailand, near the Myanmar border.
Best Known For: Remote trails and cultural immersion.
Top Highlights: Remote treks, tribal villages, hot springs, and forest landscapes.
5. Chiang Rai
Photo: Nina R / Wikimedia Commons
Chiang Rai is often known for its temples, but its trekking routes are just as rewarding. You can walk on these paths through bamboo forests, tea plantations, and hill tribe villages. You can meet people from the Akha, Lisu, and Karen groups. Many of them will let you into their homes. Also, many of the treks here include overnight stays, which give you a chance to learn about the customs of the area. The area is also close to the Golden Triangle, which is where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. This means that the views are both beautiful and one-of-a-kind. It’s also less crowded in Chiang Rai than in Chiang Mai, which makes hiking there more relaxing.
Location: Northernmost Thailand.
Best Known For: Tea plantations and tribal stays.
Top Highlights: Bamboo forests, tea fields, hill tribe stays, and quiet trails.
Suggested Read: Offbeat Places In Thailand
6. Khao Sok National Park
Khao Sok in southern Thailand is a rainforest that is one of the oldest in the world. Trekking in Khao Sok is like venturing into a wild jungle with massive trees, rock cliffs, and secret caves. Most guided treks also involve boat cruising on Cheow Lan Lake, making it all the more adventurous. What’s more, you might spot rare flora like the Rafflesia flower or fauna like gibbons or hornbills. The trails vary from short hikes to full-day ones, giving you a choice depending on how you feel. You can spend a night in floating bungalows on the lake, making it all the more special.
Location: Surat Thani province, southern Thailand.
Best Known For: Ancient rainforest and lake treks.
Top Highlights: Rainforest hikes, Cheow Lan Lake, caves, and wildlife spotting.
7. Phu Kradueng National Park
Phu Kradueng in Loei province is known for its wide plateau at the top of the mountain. The trek up is steep, but once you reach the summit, the landscape opens into flat trails surrounded by pine forests and flower meadows. Furthermore, the area offers waterfalls, rocks, and vistas from which to observe the sunrise and sunset. Long walks are more comfortable in the cooler climate than in the lowlands. Furthermore, camping on the plateau is highly popular, and spending the night under the stars is a memorable experience. The park is popular among Thai people; therefore, hiking here also provides a cultural experience with other hikers.
Location: Loei province, northeastern Thailand.
Best Known For: Plateau camping and sunrise views.
Top Highlights: Plateau treks, pine forests, waterfalls, and sunrise viewpoints.
Suggested Read: Khao Yai National Park
8. Doi Khun Tan National Park
Photo: Walter Coppola / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Doi Khun Tan is a lesser-known park located between Chiang Mai and Lampang. It is famous for its old railway tunnel, but its trekking trails are just as interesting. The paths lead you through teak forests, waterfalls, and viewpoints that overlook the surrounding valleys. It has campsites and low-key bungalows for overnight stays, making it convenient for longer hikes. The cooler climate of its higher elevations makes hiking pleasant even in summer. And because it is less popular than other national parks, you can have serene trails and feel a more personal connection to nature. Doi Khun Tan is a good bet for a serene hike with historic flair.
Location: Between Chiang Mai and Lampang.
Best Known For: Historic railway tunnel and quiet trails.
Top Highlights: Forest walks, old railway tunnel, quiet trails, and bungalows.
9. Erawan National Park
Photo: Nina R / Wikimedia Commons
Erawan National Park in Kanchanaburi is best known for its seven-tiered waterfall. Trekking here means walking along trails that pass emerald pools and limestone cliffs. The hike is not very difficult, so it is good for beginners and families. During your breaks while trekking, you can also swim in the natural pools, which makes the trekking experience more enjoyable. Wildlife and holes in the park make your trip more interesting. In addition, Erawan is close to the River Kwai Bridge, so you can enjoy both nature and history. Near the first few waterfall levels, the park can get crowded. Trekking here is short but scenic and perfect for a day trip.
Location: Kanchanaburi province, western Thailand.
Best Known For: Seven-tiered Erawan Waterfall.
Top Highlights: Short hikes, emerald pools, tiered waterfalls, and swimming spots.
Suggested Read: The Ultimate List Of The Top Things To Do In Thailand
10. Doi Phu Kha National Park
Photo: Nur Mohammad / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Doi Phu Kha in Nan province is one of the least visited trekking areas, which makes it special. The park is known for its remote mountains, rare plants, and peaceful trails. You can go trekking here through thick forests, rivers, and small towns that aren’t near any tourist trails. The park is also home to some rare species, such as the Chomphu Phu Kha tree, which has pink flowers in some months. The walks can be hard, but the untouched nature and peaceful atmosphere make it worth it. Additionally, camping inside the park lets you enjoy clear night skies and cooler air.
Location: Nan province, northern Thailand.
Best Known For: Rare plants and remote trails.
Top Highlights: Remote forest trails, rare pink flowers, peaceful treks, and scenic campsites.
Trekking in Thailand is more than a nature walk—it’s a journey through lush jungles, mountains, rivers, and rich local cultures. From Chiang Mai’s popular trails to Nan’s untouched beauty, each route offers something unique. Whether it’s an easy day hike or a multi-day camping adventure, there’s a trek for every traveller. For those who love culture and adventure, Thailand’s trekking routes promise unforgettable experiences. Plan yours today with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Sergei A / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
