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Chiang Mai

Pha Dok Sieo Nature Trail

4.6(538 reviews)

Pha Dok Sieo Nature Trail offers a rewarding half-day hike through the forested hills of Chom Thong District, winding past several waterfall spots and ending at a traditional village where locals demonstrate weaving and offer complimentary coffee and tea samples. The trail sits within the Doi Inthanon National Park area near Ban Luang, making it a practical choice for travellers looking to experience northern Thailand's natural landscape without a full-day commitment.

Visitors can choose between two route options: a 3-kilometre loop that returns to the starting point, or a one-way 3-kilometre walk through to the coffee village, with a car available for the return journey at an additional 150 baht. The terrain involves some inclines and is moderately steep in places, with the full walk taking approximately one and a half to two hours. A strawberry farm also features along the route. Local guides are friendly and attentive, often pointing out wildlife such as snakes and assisting with photographs.

A local guide is compulsory and costs 220 baht per group of up to ten people, so solo travellers and small groups can share the cost easily. Parking at the trailhead fills quickly, but the nearby national park car park 500 metres away offers overflow parking with complimentary transport back to the entrance. Sturdy closed-toe shoes with good grip are recommended, as is bringing water for the walk. Morning starts are advisable for cooler temperatures, and the dry season from November to February offers the most reliable trail conditions.

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Experience hints

Visitor favorite

Pair your visit. After Pha Dok Sieo Nature Trail, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.

Reviews from Google

What a great way to start the day! Parking was full, but I got a complimentary scooter ride back from the National Park car park 500m down the road. Our local guide (220 baht for a group of up to 10ppl) spoke a little english and pointed out all of the important plants, we were lucky enough to have two Thai people join us who also helped translate. The walk follows the river through lush rainforest, with many waterfalls, beautiful bamboo bridges, strawberry farms and rice fields along the way. You can stop and see local women weaving with the opportunity to buy beautifully hand made bags and garments. Final stop is a complimentary coffee and tea tasting, before getting in the back of a truck to take you back to the car park (150 Baht)

The walking route is not too long about 3-4 km. Using about 1.30-2.00 hours. Along the way you can enjoy the nature with several waterfalls spot. The walk way has up and down and a bit stiff. However it’s not slippery. At the end of the village will have traditional coffee shop where you can enjoy and relax and take the car up to your parking space. Do come and enjoy the place :)

Amazing trail guide is required (100 bat per person) and you could take right at the beginning of trail. Two options loop 3 km and one way to coffe village with car back 3 km (additional 150). I would recommend one way. Check if guide good with English so you can get real experience as they local and will tell a lot of staff.

A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 538 reviews on Google.

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Pha Dok Sieo Nature Trail: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Pha Dok Sieo Nature Trail worth visiting?

Pha Dok Sieo Nature Trail holds a 4.6★ rating from 538 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated activities & tours in Chiang Mai.

What are the opening hours of Pha Dok Sieo Nature Trail?

Pha Dok Sieo Nature Trail is typically open 08:00-16:00 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.

When is the best time to visit Pha Dok Sieo Nature Trail?

The best months to visit Chiang Mai are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – January & Songkran (April) — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: March – May (smoke & heat).

Where is Pha Dok Sieo Nature Trail located?

Pha Dok Sieo Nature Trail is at GGRJ+96C, Ban Luang, Chom Thong District, Chiang Mai 50160, Thailand, in Chiang Mai. Getting around Chiang Mai: Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks); Grab (available in city centre).

Location Info

GGRJ+96C, Ban Luang, Chom Thong District, Chiang Mai 50160, Thailandgobuyticket.com/doi-inthanon-tickets-tours
Opening Hours
Monday08:00–16:00
Tuesday08:00–16:00
Wednesday08:00–16:00
Thursday08:00–16:00
Friday08:00–16:00
Saturday08:00–16:00
Sunday08:00–16:00

Visitor Information

Best time to visit

November – February

Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)

Rainy season

June – October

Avg. temperature

15°C – 36°C(59°F – 97°F)

Crowds

High

Peak: December – January & Songkran (April)

Getting there

Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) has direct flights from Bangkok (1 hr), Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Overnight sleeper trains from Bangkok take ~12 hrs.

Getting around

  • Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks)
  • Grab (available in city centre)
  • Motorbike rental (฿150–250/day)
  • Tuk-tuks (negotiate price first)

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Tips for Visiting Activities & Tours

Vet Elephant Sanctuaries

Only visit sanctuaries that prohibit riding, use no chains or bullhooks, and let elephants roam freely. Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai set the standard. If a place offers painting shows or circus tricks, walk away.

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Do Outdoor Activities in the Morning

Heat and humidity peak from noon to 3 PM. Schedule jungle treks, cycling tours, and outdoor cooking classes for early morning. Water activities are more flexible since you're in and out of the sea.

Nearby Places

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Siriphum Waterfall

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A peaceful seasonal waterfall in Chom Thong District, ideal for swimming and nature walks away from the crowds.

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