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Doi Luang Chiang Dao

Doi Luang Chiang Dao - a dramatic limestone massif with a sea-of-cloud summit

Difficulty 4/5 · HardMultidayOut-and-backOvernight summit (permit)
Distance
~14 km return
Max elevation
2,225 m
Elevation gain
~1,400 m
Duration
2 days
limestone massifpermit cappedcool seasonguidedmultiday
Plan this hike
Explore a lush mountain hiking trail in Doi Pha Tang, Thailand with vibrant green landscapes and a bright blue sky.

The route

The line through Chiang Mai (Chiang Dao), Thailand - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.

Chiang Dao / Chiang Mai trailheadHigh point / turnaroundTrailhead → Summit · sketch (no live map key)

Waypoints

  1. 1
    Chiang Dao / Chiang Mai trailheadTrailhead
    0 km

    Start of route [interpolated - upgrade in research]

    Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.

  2. 2
    Intermediate camp/villageCamp
    3.5 km

    Staging point (approx) [interpolated - upgrade in research]

    Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.

  3. 3
    High point / turnaroundSummit
    ~2,225 m7 km

    Turnaround (out-and-back) [interpolated - upgrade in research]

    Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.

Season & conditions

Best season

Nov-Feb (cool season)

Weather risks

Cold nights, mist; can be near-freezing at the summit

Cool-season only (approx Nov-mid Feb) and permit-capped; a guide and porters are standard. Confirm.

On the trail

Terrain & surface

Steep limestone-massif trails to a grassy summit

Technical & exposure

Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally

Navigation & waymarking

Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally

Accessibility & group fit

Suitable for reasonably fit hikers; not wheelchair accessible - confirm specifics

Crowds & solitude

A popular, well-known route - busier in peak season

Variants & turnaround

Two-day standard; sunrise from the summit

Getting there & staying

Trailhead access

Chiang Dao, from Chiang Mai

Shuttle & transport

Out-and-back/loop - no shuttle needed

Huts, camping & refuges

Camping (porter-supported); no huts

Gear, water & connectivity

Layered outdoor kit, sturdy footwear, sun/rain protection, ample water; patchy mobile coverage - carry a map/PLB where remote

Facilities

Services in Chiang Dao / Chiang Mai; limited or none on the trail

Guide & crew

Mandatory guide + porters

Permits & safety

A capped national-park permit (cool-season window); guide + porters required. Confirm.

Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.

Hazards

Cold, steep terrain, the capped/limited access

Emergency exits & rescue

Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote

This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.

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Walk Doi Luang Chiang Dao with your group
Manta plans the route, the huts and the easy alternatives so a mixed crew all get a great day.
Plan this hike