Huai Nam Dang National Park : Your Misty Mountain Escape
Escape the ordinary! Imagine mist-shrouded peaks, natural hot springs, and cascading waterfalls. Huai Nam Dang National Park offers unparalleled beauty and serene adventure in Northern Thailand. Witness the “sea of mist,” soak in therapeutic waters, and explore lush trails. This stunning sanctuary promises breathtaking views and unforgettable moments. Your ultimate mountain getaway awaits!
Nestled high in the captivating mountains of northern Thailand, spanning parts of Mae Hong Son and Chiang Mai Provinces, lies Huai Nam Dang National Park – a breathtaking natural wonderland established in 1995. This expansive park is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers, promising unparalleled beauty across its 1,252 square kilometers. Located at Km. 65 on Highway No. 1095 (Pai-Mae Malai route), the park headquarters are easily accessible. Visitors can immerse themselves in nature, spending nights under the stars and waking to spectacular sunrise views over a ‘sea of mist.’ In January, vibrant cherry blossoms add a special charm to this already picturesque landscape.
Geography
The mountain, which is mostly ranged highlands, has verdant forests that are the source of tributaries and various streams. The National Park offers a number of streams such as Huai Mae Yon Klang, Huai Mae Hi, Huai Mae Ping, Huai Mae Chok Luang, Huai Nam Dang and later join to Mae Nam Pai, Mae Nam Ping Noi and Mae Nam Dang.
Flora and fauna
Mixed deciduous forest, deciduous dipterocarp and evergreen forest blankets the National Park with various plants such as Hopea odorata, Dipterocarpus alatus, Michela floribunda, Toona ciliate, Mangiferasp, Ailanthus triphysa, Lagerstroemia tomentosa, Alphonsea glabrifolia, Xylia xlocarpa, Pterocarpus macrocarpus, Lagerstroemia calyculata, Vitex canescens, Bombax anceps, Pinus merkusii, Shorea obtusa and S. siamensis.
It is also home to wild animals such as Elephant, Sambar Deer, Bear, Tiger, Macaques, Mongoose, Porcupine, Civet, Palm Civet, Common Wild Boar, as well as different kinds of birds such as Thick-billed Green Pigeon, Vernal Hanging Parrot, Richard’s Pipit, Rufous-throated Partridge, Hill Myna, Ashy Bulbul, Black Bulbul. Striped-throated Bulbul, Eagle and Hawk.
Climate & Best Time to Visit
Huai Nam Dang generally enjoys a refreshingly cool climate year-round due to its elevation.
- Winter (October to February): This is the peak season! Enjoy clear skies and comfortable temperatures (max around 20°C, min can drop to a chilly 2°C in the early mornings), perfect for experiencing the famed ‘sea of mist’ and outdoor activities.
- Rainy Season (May to September/October): Experience lush greenery and vibrant landscapes, though some trails might be challenging due to higher rainfall. Expect average maximum temperatures around 24°C and minimums around 10°C.
- Summer (March to April): Warmer, with maximum temperatures around 28°C and minimums around 12°C.
Important Note: Travelers visiting between March and May should be aware of the ‘smoky season’ in northern Thailand due to agricultural burning, which can affect air quality and visibility.
Top Attractions in Huai Nam Dang National Park:
The Enchanting “Sea of Mist” at Doi Kiew Lom
The park is most famous for its incredible Doi Kiew Lom Viewpoint, especially during the cool season (October to February). Imagine waking up to a panoramic ‘sea of mist’ blanketing the valleys, with the sun rising above the majestic mountains. It’s a truly iconic and unforgettable sight, making overnight stays a popular choice for visitors. Doi Chang, the park’s highest peak at 1,962 meters, also offers equally stunning vistas and is a fantastic spot for appreciating the vast mountain ranges.
Doi Chang Viewpoint
Doi Chang is located 20 kilometres beyond the Doi Kio Lom Viewpoint, 1,962 metres in height is Huai Nam Dang’s highest point. And it is only accessible by four-wheels drive vehicle. It is an interesting destination since there is a sightseeing spot for tourists to capture the marvellous scenery of the mountain ranges, amidst the sea of mist. It is equal to Kio Lom in its beauty.
Cascading Wonders: Huai Nam Dang’s Waterfalls
The park is home to several beautiful waterfalls, perfect for cooling off and immersing yourself in nature’s raw power:
- Huai Nam Dang Waterfall: This 4 level waterfall originates from Huai Nam Dang stream and there are a number of rocky outcrops in the fairs basin. The water is 50 metres high and 40 metres wide and is generally covered by rainforest vegetations.
- Mae Yen Waterfall: A year-round cascade, Mae Yen is a popular spot for hiking and swimming. The trail to the waterfall takes you through verdant forests, offering a refreshing dip in its deep pool.
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Mae Lat Waterfall & Mae Hat Waterfall: These multi-tiered beauties, around 40-50 meters high, are nestled within evergreen rainforests, providing a tranquil escape.
Rafting on Mae Taeng river
Rafting on Mae Taeng river, Along both side of Mae Taeng river offers various plants and different kinds of birds such as Kingfisher. Wagtail, Coucal. Malkoha. Minrvet Bulbul. Swallow, Sunbird and Raptors. Visitors can take a rafting trip along the river. Total rafting period is about 3-4 hours, beginning at Ban Pang Pa Kha or Ban Pa and end up at Ban Sop Kai
Pong Nam Ron Tha Pai or Tha Pai Hot spring
Tha Pai Hot Spring: Located in the Pai district, Tha Pai Hot Spring offers a more secluded and natural hot spring experience. Surrounded by lush teak forests, the steam rising from the pools creates a serene atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and connecting with nature.
Pong Nam Ron Pong Dueat or Pong Dueat Pa Pae Hot Spring
Pong Dueat Pa Pae Hot Spring:Â A natural wonder, this remarkable geyser-type spring can shoot hot water up to 2 meters high! While the main geyser is scalding, the park has developed well-maintained artificial pools where you can enjoy a relaxing, therapeutic soak. Explore the pleasant 1,550-meter nature trail winding through the lush surroundings.
Trekking Through Pristine Forests
For the adventurous soul, Huai Nam Dang offers a network of nature trails, catering to various fitness levels. Explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, from evergreen to deciduous forests, and keep an eye out for its fascinating flora and fauna. Popular trails, like the Aueang Ngoen Trail, lead to charming spots and offer stunning views. Whether you’re seeking a short stroll or a more challenging hike, the pristine nature awaits.
Stargazing Under Northern Skies
With minimal light pollution, Huai Nam Dang National Park is a stargazer’s paradise. The elevated campsites offer an unobstructed view of the night sky, perfect for capturing breathtaking star trail photography or simply marveling at the constellations in serene silence.
Cultural Insights
Beyond its natural beauty, the park is also home to local communities, including the Karen and Lahu hill tribes. Some tours offer opportunities to visit their traditional villages, providing a glimpse into their rich culture and traditional way of life, coexisting with the land for centuries.
Entrance Fee :
- Foreigners: Adults 300 THB / Children 150 THB
- Thai Nationals: Adults 50 THB / Children 20 THB
Accommodation :
For an immersive experience, the park offers cozy cabins for rent, perfect for an overnight stay. Camping is also a popular option, with designated sites available. Tents and bedding can be rented directly from the park office, allowing you to wake up to incredible mountain vistas. If you prefer more amenities-rich accommodation, there are numerous hotels and resorts in nearby Pai and Mae Taeng.
How to Get There from Chiang Mai
Huai Nam Dang National Park is approximately 60-70 kilometers north of Chiang Mai.
- By Car/Motorbike: The most flexible option. Follow Highway No. 107 (Chiang Mai-Fang) for about 37 km, then turn left onto Highway No. 1095 towards Pai for another 65 km until you reach the park checkpoint. The drive takes around 2-2.5 hours.
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By Public Transport: Buses heading to Pai or Mae Hong Son from Chiang Mai can drop you near the park entrance, from where local transport can be arranged.
Our Services :
At My Chiang Mai Tour, our Huai Nam Dang experiences go beyond typical tours. We offer authentic, intimate encounters with nature’s raw beauty. Witness the famed “sea of mist” from exclusive vantage points, discover hidden hot springs, and explore less-trodden trails with knowledgeable local guides. We connect you with the genuine Northern Thai wilderness and its vibrant local culture, ensuring a truly unique and memorable adventure.
Secure your mountain escape to Huai Nam Dang and witness the legendary “sea of mist” at dawn! Plan your adventure today.
Huai Nam Dang National Park Map
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