Feel the Mountain Breeze — Doi Inthanon & Pha Dok Siew Trail, Chiang Mai
Known as the “Roof of Thailand,” Doi Inthanon is the highest mountain in the country, rising 2,565 meters above sea level. It’s not just about height; it’s a world of lush forests, flowing waterfalls, cool breezes, and cultures that have lived in harmony with nature for generations.
Early morning on Doi Inthanon, a peaceful start to chase the sunrise above the sea of mist. (If the fog allows!)
The highest Buddha statue in Thailand, standing gracefully atop the mountain, is embraced by clouds every morning.
Here, local hill tribes like the Karen (Pga K’nyau) and Hmong share the land with park rangers under the umbrella of Doi Inthanon National Park. The mountain is also home to one of His Majesty King Rama IX’s Royal Projects, encouraging local communities to grow cool-climate crops and raise fish sustainably, a project that changed lives and protected the forest.
Cool all year round! On this visit, the temperature dipped to a refreshing 11°C, perfect hiking weather.
Around the mountain, you’ll find several rest stops and park cafés, near the visitor center, sunrise point, and the summit at Ang Ka.
One of the most loved trails here is the Pha Dok Siew Nature Trail, located near Ban Mae Klang Luang, a Karen village famous for its rice terraces and eco-homestays. The 3-kilometer trail winds gently through lush greenery, vegetable plots, and bamboo bridges, with local guides leading the way. They don’t just guide you, they share stories, traditions, and even help you capture the best photos (many are trained in mobile photography and English!).
Morning serenity at Ban Mae Klang Luang — a Karen village surrounded by misty mountains and emerald rice terraces.
The adventure begins! Setting off on the Pha Dok Siew Nature Trail, where forest whispers and cool breezes greet every step.
The first stretch is smooth and easy, before the trail gently slopes down into the valley, where nature truly unfolds.
Along the way, visitors encounter a mix of learning and beauty — from local crops to the forest’s ecosystem.
Along the path, you’ll find about 13 interpretive signs sharing stories of the forest, wildlife, and local wisdom.
The descent begins, heading deeper into the green as the sound of waterfalls grows closer.
A charming sight: strawberry patches scattered near the forest edge before reaching the stream.
Some parts of the trail lead you across wooden bridges, perfect for a photo stop or quiet pause.
The highlight? The breathtaking Pha Dok Siew Waterfall — a multi-tiered cascade where the 8th and 9th levels steal the show. You’ll cross wooden bridges right in front of the falls, where mist and light blend into a dreamy scene that once appeared in the Thai movie Rak Jung (“Love So Much”), giving rise to its nickname, Rak Jung Waterfall.
Waterfall level 10, the first glimpse of cascading magic on this unforgettable trail.
The path continues along a peaceful stream, shaded by tall trees and cool mist.
Waterfall level 9, one of the trail’s highlights, where water tumbles powerfully into a crystal pool below.
The stream widens here, sparkling under the sunlight, flowing down from the 9th tier of the falls.
Waterfall level 8, better known as the “Rak Jung Waterfall”, is a picture-perfect spot made famous by a Thai romance film.
As you descend, the trail opens up to sweeping views of emerald rice terraces embraced by mountains, a view that stops everyone in their tracks. The walk ends in the village, where locals welcome you with a cup of freshly brewed Mae Klang Luang Arabica coffee, grown right in the forest you just explored.
Stepping out from the dense forest, you’re greeted by these breathtaking rice terraces framed by rolling hills.
Foreign travelers soaking in the view, a perfect reward after the forest walk, surrounded by endless green.
Their coffee is famous: even global brands buy from here. But the Karen people keep it small, growing just enough to sustain the forest and their simple way of life. That’s why sipping it here feels extra special; it’s not just good coffee, it’s a taste of sustainability.
Stay the night in a cozy wooden homestay, wake up to sea-of-mist mornings, and fall asleep under a sky full of stars.
Pha Dok Siew Trail at Doi Inthanon — an easy trek, an authentic experience, and a gentle reminder that happiness grows naturally when people and nature walk side by side.
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Editor in Chief : Nampetch Siramanon
Editor: Pacific Leisure (Thailand)
Content Creator : Mr. Saroj Na Ayutthaya
