Pha Dok Siew Nature Trail : A Trekking Journey Through Scenic Landscapes
The Pha Dok Siew Nature Trail, located in Doi Inthanon National Park in Northern Thailand, is a well-known trekking destination that has recently undergone improvements. The trail is managed by the local Karen people and is one of two nature trails in the park. With the help of a grant from the coronation of King Rama IX and assistance from Chiang Mai University, the Karen people have built bridges, stairs, and railings using bamboo and wood to enhance the safety of the trail near the waterfall. They have also placed educational boards along the trail, providing information about the local flora and fauna.
Having a guide is mandatory when trekking the Pha Dok Siew Nature Trail. Although the trail is marked, having a guide not only provides extra income for the local people but also offers a more enjoyable hiking experience. Some of the guides speak English, but most do not.
The trail is relatively easy at the start, as it descends through a forest filled with pine trees such as Pinus Kesiya. Informational boards can be found along the route, providing insight into the local flora and fauna. As you continue down the steps, you will reach the waterfall and pass by greenhouses filled with marigold flowers, a symbol of worship for the Buddha. The presence of these flowers may indicate a change in the trail route from previous hikes.
The nature trail leads to the magnificent Pha Dok Siew Waterfall, which is part of the Mae Klang River cascading down several waterfalls within the Doi Inthanon National Park. The source of the river is located in the forest higher up the mountain and it flows into the Ping River south of Chomthong, passing famous waterfalls such as Mae Klang, Wachirathan, and Sirithan. The main road (no.1009) runs parallel to the river until Ban Khun Klang.
There is a designated swimming area just below the waterfall, but it is only accessible if conditions permit. Your local guide will inform you if swimming is safe, especially after heavy rainfall. If you do plan on taking a swim, it is recommended to bring a small towel for comfort during the latter half of the hike.
After taking a break at the waterfall, the journey continues to the Mae Klang Luang village. This village is home to the White Karen people and is named after the Klang River (Mae Klang), which serves as the community’s source of drinking water. According to local history, the Karen people have lived in this area since 1870 and obtained the land for the establishment of four villages.
The villagers are known for growing rice, coffee, strawberries, and even raising water buffalo. The walk to Mae Klang Luang village takes between 90 minutes and 2 hours, and upon arrival, visitors can indulge in the locally roasted and ground coffee.
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