Doi Luang National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Northern Thailand. Covering an area of 1,169 square kilometers, the park is located in the Phi Pan Nam Range and was established in 1990 by combining the area of four existing parks. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including over 300 species of birds and rare animals such as Asiatic black bears, clouded leopards, and barking deer.
The park’s main attraction is Doi Luang, the third highest peak in Thailand, which stands at 2,175 meters above sea level. Hiking to the summit of Doi Luang is a popular activity for visitors, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The park also boasts a number of scenic waterfalls, including Mae Klang, Mae Pan, and Huai Mae Pan, which are perfect for swimming and picnicking.
As a national park, Doi Luang is dedicated to the conservation of its natural resources and the promotion of sustainable tourism. Visitors are encouraged to respect the park’s rules and regulations, which include no littering, no hunting, and no damaging of the park’s flora and fauna. With its stunning natural beauty and commitment to conservation, Doi Luang National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Northern Thailand.
Location and Overview
Doi Luang National Park is located in the northwesternmost mountain chains of the Phi Pan Nam Range, covering an area of 1,169 square kilometers (451 sq mi). The park is situated in Amphoe Mae Suai, Amphoe Phan, Amphoe Wiang Pa Pao in Chiang Rai province, Amphoe Wang Nuea and Amphoe Ngao in Lampang province, and Amphoe Mae Chai and Amphoe Mueang in Phayao province. It was declared as the 61st national park on April 16, 1990.
The park is named after its highest peak, Doi Luang, which stands at 1,696 meters (5,564 ft) above sea level. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several endangered species. The park is also known for its beautiful waterfalls, lush forests, and stunning mountain views.
The park is easily accessible by car or motorbike, with several main roads leading to the park’s entrance. Visitors can also take a bus from Chiang Rai or Chiang Mai to the nearby town of Phayao or Lampang and then take a local bus or taxi to the park.
Doi Luang National Park is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a range of activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. The park is also home to several ethnic hill tribe communities, offering visitors a unique cultural experience.
Some of the notable peaks in the park include Doi Luang, Doi Chang, and Doi Pha Tang. The park is also home to several stunning waterfalls, including the Pu Kaeng Waterfall, Mae Ya Waterfall, and Mae Khamin Waterfall.
The park’s forests are home to a diverse range of flora, including several rare and endangered species. Visitors can see a range of trees such as teak, oak, and pine. The park is also home to several species of wildlife, such as elephants, tigers, and gibbons.
In conclusion, Doi Luang National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Northern Thailand. With its stunning mountain views, beautiful waterfalls, and diverse range of flora and fauna, the park offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience.
Activities and Attractions
Doi Luang National Park offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to hike to the highest peak, explore waterfalls and trails, camp overnight, or witness the stunning sunrise and sunset, there’s something for everyone.
Hiking and Trekking
For hiking enthusiasts, Doi Luang National Park offers a challenging trek to the highest peak in the park, Doi Luang, standing at 2,225 meters above sea level. The trek takes approximately 2 days and 1 night, and can only be done with a guide. The trek is not recommended for beginners, as it involves steep inclines and rugged terrain.
For those looking for a less challenging hike, there are several shorter trails that lead to scenic viewpoints and waterfalls. These trails range from easy to moderate difficulty, and can be done without a guide.
Waterfalls and Trails
Doi Luang National Park is home to several stunning waterfalls, including Namtok Pu Kaeng, Namtok Cham Pa Thong, and Namtok Wang Kaew. Visitors can explore these waterfalls by following the marked trails. The trails can be done without a guide, and range from easy to moderate difficulty.
Camping and Overnight Trips
Camping is allowed in designated areas within the park. Visitors must bring their own camping gear and supplies, as there are no shops or restaurants within the park. Overnight trips can be arranged with a guide, and include camping and trekking to Doi Luang.
Sunrise and Sunset
The sunrise and sunset at Doi Luang National Park are not to be missed. Visitors can witness the stunning colors of the sky as the sun rises and sets over the mountains. The best viewpoints for sunrise and sunset are located at the summit of Doi Luang and at the park’s scenic viewpoints.
Doi Luang National Park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including wild boar, palm civet, civet, Malayan flying lemur, bear, Siamese hare, macaques, and tiger. Visitors are reminded to respect the wildlife and not to feed or disturb them.
Overall, Doi Luang National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With its stunning scenery, challenging hikes, and diverse wildlife, it offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors.
Park Entrance and Headquarters
Doi Luang National Park has multiple entrances, but the main entrance is located in Mae Taeng District, Chiang Mai Province, about 95 km from Chiang Mai city. The entrance fee is 200 baht for foreigners and 40 baht for Thai nationals. The park is open daily from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Upon entering the park, visitors will find the park headquarters, which is located near the entrance gate. Here, visitors can obtain maps and information about the park’s trails, camping sites, and other facilities. The park headquarters also has a small museum with exhibits on the park’s flora, fauna, and geology.
Visitors can also rent camping equipment, such as tents and sleeping bags, at the park headquarters. However, it is advisable to bring your own camping equipment if possible, as the rental equipment may not be of the best quality.
The park headquarters also has a restaurant that serves Thai food and snacks. The restaurant is open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
It is important to note that the park headquarters is the last place to buy food and supplies before entering the park’s remote areas. Visitors should bring enough food, water, and other supplies for their entire trip, as there are no stores or restaurants inside the park. Additionally, visitors should be aware that there is no mobile phone signal in most parts of the park, so it is advisable to inform someone of your itinerary before entering the park.
Climate and Weather
Doi Luang National Park is located in Northern Thailand and is known for its lush greenery and diverse wildlife. The climate in Doi Luang is generally hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 56°F to 93°F throughout the year. The park experiences two distinct seasons – a rainy season and a dry season.
Rainy Season
The rainy season in Doi Luang National Park typically lasts from May to October. During this time, the park receives heavy rainfall, which can sometimes lead to flooding. Visitors should be prepared for muddy trails and slippery conditions. However, the rainy season also brings lush greenery and blooming flowers, making it a great time to visit for those who enjoy nature.
Dry Season
The dry season in Doi Luang National Park lasts from November to April. During this time, the weather is hot and dry, with clear skies and low humidity. This is the peak season for visitors, as the weather is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and camping.
It is important to note that temperatures can drop significantly at night, especially during the dry season. Visitors should bring warm clothing for the evenings and early mornings.
Overall, the climate in Doi Luang National Park is tropical and can be unpredictable at times. Visitors should check the weather forecast before their trip and pack accordingly. Regardless of the season, the park offers stunning natural beauty and a unique travel experience for those looking to explore Northern Thailand.
Getting There and Accommodations
Doi Luang National Park is located in the northern part of Thailand and can be accessed from various points. The nearest airports are Chiang Rai International Airport and Chiang Mai International Airport. Both airports have frequent flights from Bangkok and other major cities in Thailand.
From Chiang Rai or Chiang Mai, visitors can take a bus or taxi to Phayao Province. Once in Phayao, there are several options for getting to the park, including hiring a private car, taking a local bus, or renting a motorbike. The park is located about 50 kilometers from Phayao city center.
There are several accommodations available in and around Doi Luang National Park. Visitors can choose from guesthouses, resorts, and camping sites. Some popular options include:
Doi Luang Resort: This resort is located just outside the park and offers comfortable rooms and bungalows with stunning views of the mountains.
Phu Fah Resort: This resort is located in the nearby town of Chiang Kham and offers cozy cottages and villas with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Camping: There are several camping sites within the park, including the popular Pha Tang Campsite. Visitors can rent tents and camping equipment or bring their own.
It is important to note that accommodations within the park can fill up quickly during peak season, so it is recommended to book in advance. Visitors should also be prepared for basic amenities and limited food options within the park.
Overall, getting to Doi Luang National Park and finding accommodations is relatively easy, and there are several options available for all types of travelers.