Chiang Dao National Park

The Chiang Dao National Park is a protected wildlife sanctuary located north of Chiang Mai. The town it’s located in is known among the locals as the City of Stars.

It’s home to dense rainforests, majestic limestone caves, shimmering temples, and many spectacular waterfalls throughout the jungle. It’s the perfect destination for anyone who loves nature and wildlife!

One of the park’s most notable features are the limestone peaks (which reach 2,186 meters high), which is the reason why they call it the City of Stars. It was once believed by the locals that the highest point of the mountain could actually reach the cosmos. Today, it is known that the peak is the third highest in Chiang Mai; following Doi Inthanon and Doi Pha Hom Pok.

The local hill tribe village is an excellent part of the trip where visitors can get up close. There is a special traditional market that showcases the beautiful handmade goods crafted by the villagers, as well as Thai cooking schools that teach you the basics of making the culinary delights of northern Thailand.

The entire park is 1,100 square kilometres large, and the best way to explore it is by hiking and trekking. It’s pretty close to the Myanmar border, and home to vibrant flora and fauna. It’s no wonder that Chiang Dao National Park is a favourite destination for local and foreign trekkers alike; just be sure you’re in good health.

If you’d like to spend more time at the park, camping here is permitted. Visitors are permitted to stay for one or more nights, depending on what you want to see and do. But if you’d like to reach the mountain top, at the very minimum, an overnight stay is needed. The hill tribe village or nearby valleys also offer basic homestay accommodation, which may not be much, but recommended for anyone who wants to get up close and personal with the local culture.

There are no camping facilities within the area, so visitors are advised to bring their own gear, food, and water.