Trekking in Thailand

The vast open spaces of northern Thailand make it an ideal area for hiking, particularly during the cooler months of the year (Nobember-February) Chiang Mai and Chiang Rair are the most obvious trekking centres in the North, and a number of companies have been established to meet the growing demand for this kind of activity. Hikers can choose from a wide range of treks, which vary in distance and time to suit the widest possible audience. Particularly popular are treks in the mountainous area near Thailand’s border with Myanmar and Laos. Knowledgeable guides are usually provided and indeed are advisable. Most tours include overnight stays in simple forest lodges or in hill tribe villages.

Elephant Trekking : The Thai government has called a halt to once-extensive logging, but elephants trained to work in the industry are still very much a part of the scenery, especially in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Kanchanaburi. Exciting elephant rides through the jungle supervised by skill attendants, are available in such places for varying lengths of time, from a few hours to a full day.   

Mountain Biking :  Mountain biking is often described as the “intimate” way to see a country. Besides, it is environmentally friendly, with no petrol fumes to pollute the air, and provides good exercise for traveller. A number of companies offer well-organised biking tours.

The north of Thailand is most suitable for this activity because of its cooler temperatures, especially from November to February. Visitors have a choice of itineraries, such as four-day, three-night tour, which takes in some of the most popular feature  of the  region; hill tribe villages, ancient caves, northern tea plantations, hot springs and cruises by bamboo raft through some of the remotest territory in Southeast Asia.

Accommodation is in simple village lodges. The packages often include transport for baggage and assistance throughout the tour, all meals and an English-speaking guide.

For those heading south, biking tours offer variations of half day and full day tours depending on your time and energy. Distance covered are from approximately 11 to 36 kms, and combine cycling – mostly along back roads with relatively little traffic – with elephant rides and boat transfers depending on the tour. En route, visitors can enjoy scenic rubber plantations, waterfalls, local villages, and stunning beaches.

Doi Inthanon National Park : This includes Thailand’s highest mountain, and is the most popular venue for hiking, with its extensive trails. Located in Chiang Mai province.