Friday, February 18, 2011

The spectacular 10 hills of the North of Thailand

Geography of the Spectacular 10 Hills of the North of Thailand
HOW TO GET THERE 
There are many ways to the "Dois" in the North of Thailand, despite their remote locations and high elevation. Some of the hills could be reached by your own car, some by train, and some by airplane. Before you leave, however, you should study about the places first and then check the appropriateness of each transportations, for example, you should know you could drive up to the top of Doi Inthanon, or you should board the train to Doi Khun Tan since Doi Khun Tan National Park office is only around 1km from Khun Tan Railway Station.

BY CAR

Bangkok - Lampang: From Bangkok, take highway no.1 and turn left to highway no. 32 at the km marker 52, passing Singburi, Chainat and Nakhonsawan. Then continue with highway no.1 again, passing Kamphaengphet, Tak, and enter Lampang province. The total distance is 602km.
Bangkok - Chiang Mai: From Bangkok, take highway no.1 and continue with highway no. 32, passing Ayutthaya, Angthong, Singburi, Chainat, Uthaithani and Nakhonsawan.
 Then continue to Kamphaengphet, Tak, Lampang, and turn left into highway no. 11 to Lamphun and Chiang Mai. The total distance is 696km.
Bangkok - Chiang Rai: From Bangkok, take highway no. 32 passing Ayutthaya, Singburi, and Chainat. Then continue with Phahonyothin Road (highway no.1) and enter Uthaithani and Nakhonsawan province. From here there are three routes to get to Chiang Rai, all of which take around 9 hours.
1.  Nakhonsawan - Lampang - Phayao - Chiang Rai (830km)
2.  Nakhonsawan - Lampang - Chiang Mai - Chiang Rai (900km)
3.  Nakhonsawan - Phitsanulok - Phrae - Chiang Rai (804km)


BY BUS
Mo Chit - Lampang
Transport Company:

Northern Section : 02-936-2852-66 to 442, 311
                           : 02-936-2841-48 to 442, 311
Siam First Tour: 0 2936 2953
RCA Branch : 02-2031420-22
Hua Lamphong Branch :  02-633-0411-7
Thepharak Road :  02-759-5855 call 0 ,Mobile : 089 - 890 - 6535
Chiang Mai Branch : 053-222292-3

New Wiriyayanyon Tour : 0 2936 2205 - 6 , 054-322-866
Wiriya Tour:

Bangkok : 0 2936 2827 
Lampang : 054-217373
Phrae : 054-51-1392
Chiang Mai : 053-244501

Tanchit Tour
Bangkok : 02-9363210-3
Chiang Mai : 053-202606-7
Nakhonchai Air: 0 2936 0009, 0-2936-0800 ,fax : 0-2936-0800
Sombat Tour:

Bangkok : 0 2792 1444
Karuhart Tour:
Bangkok :  02-9363531
Chiang Rai : 053-717083

Chertchai Tour: 0 2936 0043

BY TRAIN
Bangkok - Chiang Mai: Trains leave Bangkok Railway Station (Hua Lamphong) to chiang Mai 7 times a day at 06.00am, 08.30am, 02.30pm, 06.00pm, 07.25pm, 07.40pm, and 09.30pm.
Bangkok - Lampang: Trains leave Bangkok Railwaystation (Hua Lamphong) to Lampang 7 times a day at 07.45am, 08.25am, 03.00pm, 06.00pm, 07.25pm, 07.40pm, and 10.00pm. You should get off at Khun Tan Station and walk further for 1.3km in order to get to Doi Khun Tan National Park Office.
For mere details, please contact: Bangkok Railway Station (Hua Lamphong): Tel: 0 2223 3762, 0 2223 7788 Ext. 4201-3


BY AIR

Bangkok - Lampang: Thai Airways: HEAD OFFICE 02-545-1000 or www.thaiairways.com,
RESERVATIONS   24 HOURS :  0 2356 1111, 0 2356 2222
Bangkok - Chiang Mai: Thai Airways: HEAD OFFICE 02-545-1000 or www.thaiairways.com,Orient Thai Airlines: Tel.(662) 229 4260  Fax: (662) 229 4278-9  or www.orient-thai.com
Air Asia: +60 2515 9999 or www.airasia.com  (Operating Hours : 8am - 9pm (GMT+7))
Nok Air: 1318 or +662- 900 9955 or www.nokair.co.th
Bangkok - Chiang Rai: Thai Airways: 1566, (662) 308-8383   or www.thaiairways.com
Air Asia: 0 2515 9999 or www.airasia.com E-mail : rsvn@thaitravelcenter.com
Orient Thai Airlines: 1126, 0 2267 3214 - 6 or www.orient-thai.com
RESERVATIONS   24 HOURS :  0 2356 1111, 0 2356 2222
Thing to Know before Starting the Trip 
There are some things you should prepare and bear in mind before setting off. These tips might help you through difficulties or give you a smoother trip to hills and mountains in the North of Thailand.
Learn before you leave 
It is important to know first when it is the right time to visit your destination.  Most of the hills will be suitable to visit in cold season (from November to February), because the weather is cool and the sky is clear.
 In rainy season, on the contrary, the road could be slippery, while the trek could be dangerous from flood. This is why many hills in the area of the national parks might be closed in this season.
 You will also need to check out and plan about the route, as well as asking for permission at least 15 days in advance, in case that the area is under the wildlife sanctuary (the Royal Forest Department is located at Bang Khen district in Bangkok).
Driving uphill 
In cold season, thousands of tourists will be heading to the North. If you plan to travel in this season, you should avoid weekends and especially long holidays.
 If it is the hill that is accessible by car, for example Doi Inthanon, one might experience traffic jam throughout from the foot to the top.
 Moreover, be sure to check the readiness of your car, for instance, tires, brakes, lubricating oil, and other necessary equipments in case of emergency.

Trek to the top 
In case that you need to walk uphill to the top, you should have prepare your body to face with hard climbing and long walking. Also, do not forget about suitable trekking outfit and first-aid kit, you will surely feel sorry when they are really needed.
 Please also note that, in order to trek in the area of the national park, you need to inform the authority in advance. And for your own safety, tourists must always travel with accompanying officers, which could be arranged at the national park office.

Camping Tips 
Do NOT pitch a tent in the dried stream, floods might occur all of a sudden.
 Do NOT set your camp under larger tree, you will risk being struck by thunderbolt.

 Do NOT set your camp across the animal trails, especially in narrow mountain pass.
 Do try to stay on the mound that has airy atmosphere.
 Do try to finish setting your camp before it gets dark.


1  Doi Inthanon The Summit of Thailand 
Doi Inthanon is best known as the highest mountain of Thailand at the elevation of 2,565m above sea level. Nowadays, Doi Inthanon has become an increasingly booming tourist attraction of Chiang Mai.
 Up on this hill there are not only magnificent scenery, lush beautiful forests, and comfortably cool weather, but also hundreds of species of wildlife and birds to study and preserve.

Location: The national park office is at the km marker 57 on highway no. 108. The park covers an area in Chom Thong district, Mae Chaem district, and San Pa Tong district in Chiang Mai.
 Doi Inthanon National Park covers an area of 1,005 sq.km. on Doi Inthanon, Thailand's highest mountain which is 2,565m above sea level. In old days, it used to be a conservation area until it was declared the 6th national park of Thailand on October 2nd, 1972. After that on January 16th, 1974, His Majesty King Bhumibol and Her Majesty Queen Sirikit paid a visit to this park and advised that the national park area should be extended to cover the watersources as well.
 Therefore, from then on until today, Doi Inthanon National Park also covers area in Mae Na Jon, Ban Chang Keng, and Tha Pha sub-districts in Mae Chaem, and Yang Kram, Ban Luang, Sob Tia sub-districts in Chom Thong district.
 Due to the very high elevation, the weather on the top of Doi Inthanon is generally cool and comfortable all year round, with an exception of cold season when it is freezing cold. Ranges of mountains of Doi Inthanon give birth to many tributaries of Ping River and formed many beautiful waterfalls, namely Siriphum, Wachirathan, Mae Pan, Mae Klang and Mae Ya Waterfalls. The dense evergreen forest is abundant with lichens and wild orchids and is also one of the largest bird feeding grounds of Thailand. Thus, Doi Inthanon is a true paradise for thousands of travelers who look for a fantastic retreat in the middle of pristine natural settings.
Recommended Attractions within the National Park Mae Ya Waterfall (km 1) Originated from a stream called Huai Mae Ya, Mae Ya Waterfall is one of largest and most beautiful waterfalls in Thailand. Surrounded by shady cool forests, the water flows gracefully over the 280-meter-high cliff. To get to Mae Ya Waterfall, start with highway 1009 and turn left for about 14km.
Mae Klang Waterfall (km 8) Mae Klang Waterfall is around 20m high and is full of water all year. It is a charming spot for a picnic, but not very suitable for swimming especially in rainy season. Close to Mae Klang Waterfall is another fall named Wang Kwai Waterfall, which is originated from the same stream, Huai Mae Klang.
Brijinda cave (km 8.5) Located at the km marker 8.5 on highway 1009, Brijinda Cave has wonderful stalagmite and stalactite that have lived for over million years now. Moreover, there is also an ancient Buddha image placed inside this cave.
Wachiratarn Waterfall (km 21) Located around the km marker 21 along the way to the top of the mountain, Wachiratarn Waterfall is a very grand and magnificent waterfall accessible by car. In rainy season the water will be very full and run rapidly over the  cliff, sending an incredible amount of water and spray onto the whole area. Nowadays you can also enjoy Cliff abseiling, which is a new activity at this fall.
Doi Inthanon Royal Project Research Station Located at Ban Hmong Khun Klang, the research station is operated under the Royal project. Tourists can visit the charming garden of temperate-climate flowers and a cut-flowers nursery within the station from 08.30am-04.30pm. For more information, please call 0 5381 0765-8 to 104 , 108

Siriphum Waterfall (km 30) Siriphum Waterfall is a very high and attractive waterfall located in the middle of the forest around the km marker 30. Nearby is a view spot that yields breathtaking scenery over rich forests and countless farms of Hmong people.
Mae Pan Waterfalls Located at the km marker 37, on Doi Inthanon-Mae Chaem Road, Mae Pan group waterfalls comprise many interesting waterfalls, for instance, Mae Pan Waterfall, Huai Sai Luang Waterfall, than Thong Waterfall, Song Phi Nong Waterfall, and Ob Noi.
Beauty Spot (km 41) The km marker 41 along the road to the top of Doi Inthanon is the most beautiful view spot to watch sunrise and sunset over ranges of mountains. On the left, Doi Hua Seua could also be seen wonderfully.
Phra Mahathat Naphamethanidon and Phra Mahathat Naphaphonphumsiri (km 41)
 Standing elegantly at the km marker 41 are the two pagodas named Phramahathat Naphamethanidon and Naphaphonphumsiri. The monuments were established by the Air Force in order to bestow to His Majesty King Bhumibol and Her Majesty Queen Sirikit in the occasion of His 60th birthday anniversary.
Yot Doi, the roof of Thailand The highest point of Thailand is the summit of Doi Inthanon (or Yot Doi) with an elevation of 2,560m above sea level. The mountaintop is covered with hill evergreen forest with pretty high humidity. So there are many kinds of plants from various botanical societies, for example, Foi - Lom (a kind of Lichen with long, threadlike leaf), and red rose (Rhododendron Arboreum Subsp.), as well as hundreds of species of wild birds. At this spot there is a short but worth-exploring nature trail called Ang Ka Luang Nature Trail. The boardwalk that cuts through the verdant forest is very well-paved and nice for a stroll.
How to get there From Chiang Mai town, take highway 108 in the direction to Chom Thong district, then turn right at the km marker 57 into Highway 1009. The national park office is at the km marker 31.
Chiang Mai - Chom Thaong route The minibus leaves Chiang Mai gate bus station every 30 minutes from 06.00am to 05.00pm. The journey takes around 1 hour and the fee is about 15 baht (or more).
Chom Thong - Inthanon route The minibus leaves to Doi Inthanon National Park from 08.00am to 05.00pm. The bus fee is about 20 baht (or more).
Chom Thong - Mae Chaem route The minibus starts from Phrathat Si Chom Thong Temple to the national park office. The bus fee is 25 baht (or more).
 Tourists could also hire a whole minibus from Chom Thong district to Doi Inthanon. The price depends on the amount of passengers and duration (Entrance fee to the national park not included).

Recommended Accommodations Apart from the lodging houses and tent ground of the national park, there are plenty of private resorts and hotels around the km 7 on Chom Thong - Inthanon Road.
Touch Star Resort offers 40 lodging houses in country style.
Contact 0 5326 7364 or
www.touchstarresort.com
Inthanon Highland Resort offers 23 rooms by the lake and ranges of mountains. Contact Tel. 0-1882-6409, 0-1960-4778, 0-1961-0361 Fax 0-1885-0926  or www.inthanon-highland.com
Doi Inthanon National Park Contact 0 5328 6728 - 9  or Inthanon_NP@hotmail.com

2  Doi Pha Hom Pok 
The height of Doi Pha Hom Pok is second only to Doi Inthanon. If the sky is clear enough, those with good eyes might see as far as Doi Ang Khang.
 The road up to Doi Pha Hom Pok is pretty similar to the one up to Doi Inthanon. Moreover covered on the both hills are wild and verdant evergreen forests.

Location: in Mae Fang National Park, Fang district, around 160km from Chiang Mai town. The path up to the hill is in Mae Ai district.
 The name Doi Pha Hom Pok actually means the hill covered with sky. Exactly as the name suggests, this is a really high hill standing like a tower at 2,285m above sea level, the second highest hill after only Doi Inthanon. Covered with verdant trees of hill evergreen forest, mix deciduous forest, and pine forest, it has many sorts of rare plants and orchids, as well as wildlife, wildbirds, and butterflies. Doi Pha Hom Pok is cold and windy all year round. The top of the hill is covered with grassy fields and herbaceous plants, so it is a very good beauty spot to see all the areas surrounded, including sunrise, sunset and Talay Mok or the misty sea of mountains.
INTERESTING ACTIVITIES AT DOI PHA HOM POK
Camping at Suan Son Kew Lom
 Suan Son Kew Lom is a vast grassy ground that the national park organizes for tourists who fancy camping. It is backed by the pine forests on one side and is suitable for watching scenery down below in the other. So it really the best spot to appreciate the beauty of Doi Pha Hom Pok and its surroundings, as well as to stay truly close to the nature.
Walking along the Nature Trails There are two interesting nature trails around the top of Doi Pha Hom Pok (or Yot Doi, meaning the mountaintop). The first is Kew Lom - Yot Doi route which is 3.5km long and takes around 2 hours. The second is Yot Doi - Pang Mongkon route which is 7 - 8km long and takes around 6 hours. If you come to trek in cold season, you will be likely to see blooming pink Sakura flowers and red roses along the way. Apart from the nature trail, there are mountain bikes for rent for those who prefer exploring the hilltop on bicycle to on foot.
Bird and Butterfly Watching More than 225 species of birds are found on Doi Pha Hom Pok. The most common of which are Beautiful Nuthatch (Sitta Formosa), Lesser Rufous-headed Parrotbill (Paradoxornis atrosuperciliaris), Fire-tailed Sunbird (Aethopyga ignicauda), Scarlet Finch (Haematospiza sipahi), and black-breasted Thrush (Turdus dissimilis). If you are lucky enough, you might also find some more rare birds like Cutia (Cutia nipalensis) and Black-throated Tit (Aegithalos concinnus).
 As for the butterflies, there are a number of butterflies found on Doi Pha Hom Pok, expecially from cold season to summer. Those commonly found are geyser imperial butterflies and Meandrusa gyas which is an animal in the list of national wildlife protection.
 Besides, tourists could also visit the nearby attractions within Mae Fang National Park, for example, Fang Hot Spring and Tham Huai Bon. The former is located near the national park office; it is a really nice spot to relax and got soaked in the mineral pond. The latter is located along the way to Doi Pha Hom Pok; it is a large cave with wonderful stalactite, stalagmite, and stone pillars.
 Moreover, there are quite a few beautiful waterfalls within Mae Fang National Park, for example, Phu Meun Waterfall, Mae Heng Yai Waterfall, Mae Heng Noi Waterfall, Na Ma-Eun Waterfall, Pong Nam Dang Waterfall, Huai Ian Waterfall, and Huai Bon Waterfall, etc. You can find more information about these attractions at the Tourist Information Center in Mae Fang National Park.
To get there: Mae Fang National Park is approximately 160km from Chiang Mai town. You can get there by taking highway no. 107 (Chiang Mai - Fang route) and turn into the route Fang - Mon Pin around 3km before reaching Fang town. Then turn right into the route 4054 for another 8km to Ban Pong Nam Ron and Mae Fang National Park Office.
 In order to get to the top of Doi Pha Hom Pok, it is necessary to ask the permission and pay the entrance fee at Mae Fang National Park first. Then, you can drive along the by-pass road in the direction to Mae Ai district.
 After passing a small intersection for 4km, there will be a left turn to Doi Pha Hom Pok. It is a dirt sideroad that is pretty steep and windy, so one should have 4WD vehicle and some driving skill or just find help at the national park office.
 After going uphill for around 13km, you will finally get to the tent ground at Kew Lom. This is the end of the way, so if you wish to get the summit, you will need to walk along the nature trail as mentioned.
 In case that you do not bring your own car, you can find 4WD up to Doi Pha Hom Pok from around the national park office.
ACCOMMODATIONS  
Mae Fang National Park provides 6 lodging houses for 4 persons each, as well as tent grounds, mineral water bathrooms, spa, massage, restaurant, and even seminar room.
 As for the tent grounds, there are 2 locations to choose from, in front of the national park office (close to the mineral bath), and at Suan Son Kew Lom (ready to see Talay Mok as soon as you open your tent).
For more information, please contact Mae Fang National Park: 0 5345 1441  or Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant life: 0   2561- 0777 , 0  2579  6666  E-mail webmaster@dnp.go.th

3  Doi Luang Chiang Dao
Location: in Chiang Dao district, 5km westward of Chiang Dao town and 75km northward of Chiang Mai town. There are many way to get to the top of Doi Luang Chiang Dao, but the most popular of which is from Den Ya Khat Forest Ranger (Khun Huai Mae Kok), since the route is not too steep and there is a resting point along the way.
 You might easily conquer the summit of Doi Inthanon and other mountains by car, but the only way to get to the top of Doi Luang Chiang Dao is to walk. Sit at the elevation of 2,225m above sea level, Doi :Luang Chiang Dao is the third highest hill of Thailand after Doi Inthanon and Doi Pha Hom Pok. It is under the administration of Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary. You will need to have at least 3 days 2 nights in order to win this mountain.
Choose the Path 

The first thing to do before starting the trip to the summit of Doi Luang Chiang Dao is to figure out the way. Today there are two popular paths to choose from, Den Ya Khat route and Pang Wua - Na Lao route.
 Den Ya Khat route is less steep and slippery. There is a resting spot Ang Salung which is at the foot of Doi Luang Chiang Dao. The total distance is 11 km.
 Pang wau - Na Lao route is suitable for a true adventure since the path is much steeper, although it takes less time. The total distance is 8 km and the journey usually takes around 4 hours.
From Doi Pyramid to the Summit of Doi Luang Chiang Dao
 After you have chosen the path, now it is time to walk! As for Den Ya Khat route, you should start the trip early so you will reach the camp site, Ang Salung, by late afternoon.
 Along the way to Ang Salung, ones can see wonderful nature and scenery. This is also one of the most famous bird watching routes of Thailand.
 Before reaching Ang Salung, you will pass a hill called Doi Pyramid, which is strangely shaped like a Pyramid in Egypt. The height of this hill is 2,175m above sea level.
 After that, trek through the hill evergreen forest called Dong Yen, and a vast grassy field into the only tent site on this hill, Ang Salung. Then, pitch a tent and prepare dinner as to finish the program of the first day.
Doi Kew Lom 

The second day is much easier since you are already close to the top of Doi Luang Chiang Dao. Walk uphill for a while and there you will find yourself standing at the mountain's peak. From this spot you will see Doi Sam Phi Nong, or the three sibling hills, lining on the left before you, whereas on the right is Doi Pyramid. This also a fantastic sunrise and sunset beauty spot, since there are no higher mountains to block view. Apart from the scenery, around the place ones can also see various plants and flowers in semi-alpine society, which could be rarely found elsewhere.
 After visiting the summit of Doi Luang Chiang Dao, you might also visit the peak of the nearby hill called Doi Kew Lom, which is only 15 minutes away from Ang Salung. The scenery and natural beauty of this hill are really worth an effort too.
 Spend another night at Ang Salung, it is time to make a returning trip on the third day. You can use the same route down to Den Ya Khat Forest Ranger Unit and board a bus back to Chiang Dao district. If you still have time and strength, you may also visit Chiang Dao Cave that has fascinating halls of stalactite and stalagmite. This cave is located in Ban Tham sub-district, on the same way to Doi Luang Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary.
 Doi Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary is open for tourists to trek only from November to March. Moreover, it is necessary to hire a local carrier as a guide. This policy is made in order to help create income for the locals. These people will be trained to carry traveler's belonging, guide the way and held facilitate the trip.
 There are some local agencies that could help you organize the trip to Doi Luang Chiang Dao with reasonable price. They will ark for permission to trek in the park, arrange the carriers and guide, as well as preparing foodstuff, cooking equipment and tent. The service costs around 1,800 - 2,500 Baht (or more).
How to get there: from Chiang Mai town, take highway 107 (Chiang Mai - Fang route) for 77km, passing Mae Rim district and Mae Malai Market. Then drive further for 30km (around 2.30 hrs), you will reach Chiang Dao district administrative office.
 Go straight on and turn left at the km marker 72 to enter Chaing Dao - Muang Khong. Drive for 5km to Ban Tham Chiang Dao and turn left again in the direction to Wat Tham Pha plong for 300m, you will find Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary.
ACCOMMODATION
 The only of accommodations here is tent, and unfortunately with very few facilities. Currently there are altogether 4 tent grounds. The first is at Dong Tor, which is along Den Ya Khat route. The second and the third is at Pa Kloui Daeng and Pang Mai Hok, which is along Pang Wua-NaLao route. And the fourth is at Ang Salung, which is the best and most convenient spot to get to the summit.
For more information, contact Doi Luang Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary: Contact : webmaster@tripandtrek.com , Tel . 561-4292 to 706-7
 Doi Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary is open for tourists to trek only from November to March. Moreover, it is necessary to hire a local carrier as a guide. This policy is made in order to help create income for the local. These people will be trained to carry traveler's belonging, guide the way and help facilitate the trip.
 There are some local agencies that could help you organize the trip to Doi Luang chiang Dao with with reasonable price. They will ark for permission to trek in the park, arrange the carriers and guide, as well as preparing foodstuff, cooking equipment and tent. The service costs around 1,800 - 2,500 Baht (or more).

4  Doi Ang Khang
Location: Doi Ang Khang is located in Ban Khum, Mae Ngon sub-district, Fang district
 Although Doi Ang Khang is farther and the road to this hill is steeper than to other hills, it is one of the dream destinations of Chiang Mai. As a part of Daen Lao mountains, Doi Ang Khang is  covered mostly with limestone and shale. Since it sits on the elevation of 1,900m above average sea level, the weather on Doi Ang Khang is comfortably cold all year round.
 In the past, Doi Ang Khang here used to be the area where opium poppies were widely planted. Until His Her Majesty perceived that growing opium poppies did not only destroy the forests, but also produced substance that was harmful to the health of the locals. As a result, there was an attempt to establish cold-climate plant research station according to the Royal Projects in 1969. Today, this station has become the major attraction of Doi Ang Khang, drawing hundreds and hundreds of visitors to the place every year especially in cold season.
RECOMMENDED ATTRACTIONS IN DOI ANG KHANG
Royal Agricultural Station Angkhang Royal Agricultural Station Angkhangis an experimental area to grow and develop cold-climate plants like kiwi, plum, strawberry, raspberry, avocado, radish, artichoke, purple cabbage, lilly, gerbera, roses, etc. The area is divided into many sections, presenting different genres of flora, for instance, Suan  Paet Sip (Britis garden), Suan Hom (garden with fragrant flowers), Suan Somdej (stone garden with poppies), Suan Kham Doi (mixed garden with types of rose or Rhododendron), Reun Mai Dok (flower house), and bonsai garden. Beautiful flowers and rare plants are tended alongside fruit, vegetables and herb gardens. The healthful products of the Royal Angkhang Agricultural Station Project are also available to purchase all year round.
Beauty Spots and Hilltribe Villages on Doi Ang Khang After having visited the Royal Agricultural Station, it is recommended that you go further to Thai-Myanmar border which is only Bkm away. There are a number of wonderful beauty spots and minority villages to see and visit.
Kew Lom Beauty Spot
 Kew Lom is a plain where ones could wonderfully see the villages and the Royal Agricultural Station Nestled in the valley. The community seen from this spot is Ban Khum, a village with Tai Yai, Myanmar and Chinese residents.
Ban Khob Dong Located 4km from the Royal Ang Khang Project, Ban Khob Don is a village of the Black Musers (Lahuna). In old days villagers here used to grow opium poppy, but today they have been encouraged to grow strawberry and produce handicrafts like woven dried grass bracelets instead.
Ban Nor Lae Located 5km from the Royal Ang Khang Project, Ban Nor Lae is a village of the Palong hilltribes who make their living mainly by growing vegetables and roses with the support from the Royal Project. Some of the villagers also produce handmade products and sell to tourists as souvenirs.
Beauty Spot at Thai-Myanmar border At the end of the road is Nor Lae Headquarters where ones could see impressive sunset over Myanmar land. Between December and February, the place will be fascinating with the blooming pink Sakura flowers. Moreover, around the area are some shops selling handmade woven cloth dyed with natural colors by Palong people.
INTERESTING ACTIVITIES ON DOI ANG KHANG1.  Bird Watching: Being a highland area with so much plantations and forest, Doi Ang Khang is one of the best bird watching spots in Thailand. There are more than 1,000 species of birds on this hill, many of which are now rare or endangered. Two interesting bird watching sites are at the back of the Royal station Main Office and around Angkhang Nature Resort.
2.  Mule Riding: Mule riding is another unique activity to experience on Doi Ang Khang. You can ride on its back to explore the Royal Station. Mule riding fee is 300 Baht/hour.
3.  Walking along the Nature Trail: There is a path to see the thousand-year rose (Rhododendron arboreum subsp. Subvayi). The start is around 4.5 from the entrance to the Royal Station. Walk only around 500-800m and you will reach Nern Pan Kao, a mound which sits at the elevation of 1,928m above sea level. Along the way, the red roses (Rhododendron arboreum subsp. Subvayi) will be beautifully blooming, especially from December to February.
4.  Bicycling: In case that you can bring your own mountain bikes, it is also nice to explore the area by pedaling.
HOW TO GET THERE
 Take highway no.107 (Chiang Mai - Fang route). Turn left at an intersection around the km marker 137 (at Mae Kha Market) and proceed to Doi Ang Khang for another 25km. The road is pretty steep and winding, so be very careful while driving.
 You can also get there by taking the route 107, and after passing Chiang Dao district for 6km, turn left at Muang Ngai junction on the same direction to Chiang Dao National Park. Then at the km marker 31 on highway no. 1178, turn right to Ban Arunothai and continue with highway no. 1340 uphill for 45km. Pass Ban Luang, and go further with highway 1249 until you reach Doi Ang Khang. This road is quite narrow but less winding than the first route.
RECOMMEDED ACCOMMODATIONS Royal Agricultural Station Angkhang has 27 houses to accommodate from 2-47 persons each.
 Ang Khang Resort is located the area of Royal Agricultural Station Angkhang. It is a private luxurious resort in Amari Group. T +66 (0) 5322 1130, +66 (0) 5322 1044
 Tent ground could be found around Suan Son, a pine ground 1km away from Royal Agricultural Station Angkhang. There are restrooms and food stalls by the locals. Tenting fee is only 20 baht/night, and tents for rent cost from 200-1,000 baht, according to the size.

5  Doi Hua Mae Kham
Location: near Thailand-Myanmar border, Mae Salong Nok sub-district, Mae Fa Luang district, 35 kilometers from Ban Thoet Thai, 100 kilometers from Chiang Rai town.
 The highlight of Doi Hua Mae Kham is ranges of mountains covered with the yellowish Mexican Sunflowers that bloom gorgeously toward the end of the year. Look on the other way, there the extremely green tea plantation stretches as far as the eye can see. Along with the scenery, one might also find rustic lifestyle of hilltribe minorities here so simple and yet interesting. Doi Hua Mae Kham is a hill located near Thai-Myanmar border, about 100 kilometers away from Chiang Rai town. In old days, this area used to be a major plantation of opium poppies, until Doi Tung Highland development Project, together with Minorities Foundation of Chiang Rai, came in with infrastructure and first-rated tea seedlings from Taiwan.
 Nowadays, Doi Hua Mae Kham has become the largest tea plantation for both domestic consumption for both domestic consumption and export of Thailand. The summit of Doi Hua Mae Kham sits at the elevation of 1,850m above average sea level. The attractions of this hill are Mexican Sunflower Fields, tea plantation and factories, and some small minorities villages that still preserve their traditions and simply lifestyle very well. Nowadays, Doi Hua Mae Kham is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Chiang Rai.
INTERESTING  ATTRACTIONS ON DOI HUA MAE KHAM
 Namtok Hua Mae Kham Park: Located at Moo 4, Ban Hua Mae Kham, Mae Salong Nai sub-district, Namtok Hua Mae Kham Park is the best spot to watch the vast panorama of Mexican Sunflower fields (Thung Bua Tong), as well as sunrise and Talay Mok. The best time to visit this place is from November to December.
 Ban Doi Hua Mae Kham

Ban Doi Hua Mae Kham is the residence of A-kha and Lisu hilltribe. Although this village is pretty far from town and their house are still built from clay and thatch, they have at least accessed to electricity and other basic comforts. In Thung Bua Tong Festival (around mid-December), villagers here will fully dress in their traditional costume, which will much enliven the place and the atmosphere.
 Hua Mae Kham Waterfall Hua Mae Kham Waterfall is only around 500m from Ban Doi Hua Mae Kham. It is a small waterfall around 15m high where tourists could visit on foot.
 Wat Doi Hua Mae Kham Wat Doi Hua Mae Kham is about 2-3 km from Ban Doi Hua Mae Kham. It is another spot that yields fantastic scenery of Doi Hua Mae Kham.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
  Doi Phaya Phrai You can visit Doi Phaya Phrai conveniently since it is located only around 5 kilometers before reaching Doi Hua Mae Kham. Doi Phaya Phrai use to be an area of slash-and-burn farming, until tea is widely planted and the place becomes the largest area for growing tea in ciang Rai nowadays.
 There are a lot of hilltribe villages on Doi Phaya Phrai, for example La-Hu and A-kha tribes. The largest tea plantation is called Chui Fong, where all necessary machines to produce the best tea leaves are equipped. Today this plantation also accepts tourists to visit and spend the right inside. You can contact the place at Chui Fong Tea plantation, Contact Person : Ms. Shanya Chang

Head Office & Factory :
97 Moo 8 Pasang, Maechan, Chiang Rai, 57110
Tel : (66) 053 771 563   Fax :  (66)053 956 109

 Ban Phaya Phrai Ban Phaya Phrai is a village on Doi Phaya Phrai, in Thoet Thai sub-district, Mae Fah Luang district. It si the village that has the strongest cooperatives to produce and sell tea products and is the best supplier of tea leaves in chiang Rai. Located close to Myanmar border, Ban Phaya Phrai is also a fantastic beauty spot to watch the vast tea farms and the land on Myanmar side.
 Ban Khun Sa Museum Ban Khun Sa Museum is situated at Ban Thoet Thai, around 30km away from Doi Hua Mae Kham. This house used to be the residence of Khun Sa, the Ratchan (Chan State) fighter and savior that has been called the King of Drugs. Today, this museum also displays evidence and holds an exhibition about the history of Tai Yai people.
 Horse Riding Monks at Wat Tham Pa Asha Wat Tham Pa Asha Thong is located in Ban Mae Salong Nai, Pa Sang sub-district, Mae Chan district. Established by Khruba Siwichai, Wat Tham Pa Asha Thong is the only temple in Thailand whose monks and young novices have to go for food offering by horse. The reason is because the road is too steep to walk. Tourists might stop by and making food offerings to these monks and novices in the morning before getting to the top of Doi Hua Mae Kham.
How to Get There 
From Chiang Rai town, take highway no. 1 (Phahonyothin road) in the direction to Mae Chan district. Then turn left in to Mae Salong junction, pass Ban Pa Sang (turn right to Wat Tham Pa Asha Thong) and Ban Sam Yak E-kor. Then turn right 7km to Ban Phaya Phrai) for another 30km to Ban Pang Mahan (turn right 7km to Ban Phaya Phrai). After that, you will need to continue with dirt road until you reach Doi Hua Mae Kham. The total distance from Mae Chan district is approximately 70km.
RECOMMENDED ACCOMMODATIONS
Namtok Hua Mae Kham Park Namtok Hua Mae Kham Park is a place to watch wonderful Talay Mok in the morning. There is a tenting ground and lodging houses in homestay style in this park (but you should bring along necessary tenting equipment). The homestay package costs 200 Baht/person/house (a breakfast and dinner included).
 As an option, you can also choose to stay over in the lodgings of Hua Mae Kham Highland agricultural Center (0 5391 8101, 0 5360 0531)
 For more information concerning accommodation and restaurant on Doi Hua Mae Kham, contact Miss Malee Sanliao at Ban Hua Mae Kham T.
053 918 101 or 08 1993 0325

6  Doi Suthep - Doi Pui
DOI SUTHEP - DOI PUI NATIONAL PARK
Location: The path up to the two hills is in Chiang Mai town, whereas Phra That Doi Suthep is located at the km marker 15 on Doi Suthep - Phu Phing Road.
 Doi Suthep was previously called Doi Ooi Chang, and was a restricted forest and conserved forest where researches about highland plantation and reforestation took place. Until April 14th, 1981, Doi Suthep declared the 24th national park of Thailand.
 The summit of Doi Suthep and Doi Pui is 1,685m above sea level respectively. Both hills are located very close and they could be conveniently visited by car and within one day. Covering an area of 262 sq.km of Mae Rim district, Hang Dong district, Mae Taeng district, and some part of Chiang Mai town, this luxuriant park does not only have Phra That Doi Suthep and Phu Phing Palace, but it is the home to more than 300 species of birds and nearly 2,000 species of ferns and flowering plants. Some nature trails in the park pass Hmong villages while others lead to small waterfalls where local people come picnicking on weekends. Followings are interesting attractions within the national park.
RECOMMENDED ATTRACTIONS WITHIN THE NATIONAL PARK
Huai Kaew Waterfall

Located near the Chiang Mai Zoo, at the foot of Doi Suthep, Namtok Huai Kaew is a small waterfall approximately 10m high. Originated from a stream called Huai Kaew, this waterfall is a pleasant place to picnic and relax. At this spot, visitors can also do bird watching and trek along the nature trail to Wang Bua Ban and Pha Ngeb.
Monthathan Waterfall: Located at the km marker 7 on the road up to the summit, Monthathan Waterfall is one of the most beautiful falls in this park. Although it is only a small waterfall, it has altogether 9 levels with Sai Yoi Waterfall as the highest level.
 Beauty Spot (km 13.5): Before reaching Phra That Doi Suthep, there is a small parking lot at the km marker 13.5, which also serves as a marvelous beauty spot. From here, the entire Chiang Mai town could be seen wonderfully, especially at dusk when the town begins to glow with colorful lights.
 Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is one of the most important religious buildings and the most famous landmarks Chiang Mai. It was built in 1384 during the reign of King Keuna, the 6th king in Meng Rai Dynasty. This temple is located on the top of Doi Suthep so tourists have to climb a Naga staircase comprising 290 steps. It has a genuine Lanna-style pagoda or "Chedi" that houses Lord Buddha's relics. The Chedi made of tin covered with gold plates stands on the octagonal base with indented corners. Moreover, the marble-tiled terrace around this pagoda is also a perfect spot to get a bird's eye view of the city.
 Phu Phing Palace (Royal Winter Palace): Phu Phing Palace or the Royal Winter Palace is located further up near Doi Buak Ha, approximately 6km from Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and 4km from national park office. Set at the elevation of 1,500m above sea level, this palace was built is 1962 in traditionally Thai style of architecture. Its landscaped gardens are decorated with plenty of colorful, exotic flowers which will be exceptionally beautiful during cold season.
 Before going further to the summit of Doi Pui, around 3km from Ban Maew Doi Pui you will find another attraction called San Khu. San Khu is an ancient site where ruins of a pagoda and Vihara building were discovered. These ancient construction were estimated to be built for more than 300 - 700 years.
 Doi Pui Summit: Doi Pui Summit is around 1km away from San Khu. Being the highest spot of Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, the place is as high as 1,685m above sea level. Up there on the mountaintop, the weather is very fine and the area is brilliant to watch scenery. Doi Pui is covered with vast hill pine forest, and thus is the feeding ground of more than 300 species of birds. No wonder it is another magnificent bird watching site, especially in cold season when migratory birds arrive.
 Doi Pui Hmong Village: The village presents the typical lifestyle of the minority hilltribe called Hmong, and offers impressive view of Doi Inthanon. Here you can also buy souvenirs from local tribesmen, for instance, fresh products from their farms of hill tribal clothes and decorations. Near this village is a hilltribe museum, cold-climate park, and a small yet lovely waterfall.
How to Get There
 From Chiang Mai town, take Huai Kaew Road pass Chiang Mai University and Chiang Mai Zoo up the hill to the summit of Doi Suthep. Phra That Doi Suthep is located at the km marker 15, whereas the national park office is approximately 300m further.
 To get to Phu Phing Palace, drive up further for 4km and another 2km to Hmong Village. The road is pretty well-paved and not too difficult to drive. As an alternative, you can also board or hire a whole red bus to Phra That Doi Suthep or to the top of Doi Suthep. These buses could be found around Chiang Mai town, but it is easiest to get one at the front of Chiang Mai Zoo or the foot of the hill.
RECOMMENDED ACCOMMODATIONS
 As this hill is pretty close to town, most tourists choose to stay in town and visit Doi Suthep as a one day, or even half a day, trip. However, for those who are interested in living close up to nature, Doi Suthep-Pui National Park has 11 houses for 8-12 persons, a large hotel building, tent ground, and some tents for rent.
T. 0 5321 0244   Fax 0 5321 2065   E-mail
doisuthep_pui@hotmail.com
To mark a house reservation and rent a tent in this national park, call 0 2561 0777 to 1743, 1744 
 
7  Doi Pha Tang - Phu Chi Fa 
Doi Pha Tang is a part of Doi Pha Mon. Today after the communists receded from this area, Doi Pha Tang has become one of the mot-visited hills in the North of Thailand.
 Location: Doi Pha Tang is a part of Doi Pham on, located in Ban Pha Tang, Po sub-district, Wiang Kaen district, 24km from Phu Chi Fa.
 Doi Pha Tang - Phu Chi Fa are considered quite news mountain attractions when compared with Doi Inthanon or Doi Suthep - Pui. The reason is that they used to be stronghold of the communists, and therefore was open to tourists only a few decades ago. The height of Doi Pha Tang and Phu Chi Fa is 1,800m and 1,600m above sea level respectively. The fame of the two hills comes from the unique shape of Phu Chi Fa, which points up to the sky as its name suggests. Right now, it is pretty easy to get to Phu Chi Fa, since ones could get to the foot of the hill by car and need to walk up for a while for the beauty spot at the top.
Doi Pha Tang Doi Pha Tang means the hill with standing cliff. In old days, this hill used to be the living space that the government provided for the Chinese soldiers. This hill is right now a side attraction for those who visit Phu Chi Fa, since it has a few beauty spots, especially Pha Bong and Chong Khao Khat.
 From the road that cuts along the hillside of Doi Pha Tang, you can walk and appreciate the scenery very well until you reach the hilltop. At the top, there is a large stony cliff with a cut in the middle. This is why it is called Chong Khao Khat, meaning the parted cliff.
 If you wish to have the best scenery of Pha Tang, you should a night at the foot of this hill and get up early to watch sunrise at the summit in the early morning. The scenery of Talay Mok (misty sea) here is really second  to no other mountains in Thailand.
Sakura Route The road that cuts from Doi Pha Tang to Phu Chi Fa is called Sakura Route, as it is fascinating with the blooming Sakura flower.
Phu Chi Fa Location: Phu Chi Fa is located in Ban Rom Fa Thai, Tup Tao sub-district, Thoeng district. Although it sounds far from Doi Pha Tang as it is located in different sub-district, Phu Chi Fa is actually only 24km away from Doi Pha Tang.
 After having finished with scenery at Doi Pha Tang, take your time traveling along the well-paved road to Phu Chi Fa. When you reach Ban Rom Fa Thai, the foot of the hill, you will find plenty of accommodations where you are to spend the night in order to watch the scenery in the next morning.
 Right now it is very easy and convenient to visit Phu Chi Fa since the road already cuts to almost the summit. This spot is nice for watching scenery both in the morning (to see Talay Mok and sunrise) and in the afternoon (to see the land of Laos and Mekong River running far below).
 Apart from the beauty spots at the summit, tourists could also visit nearby attractions like A-kha hilltribe village, and Doi Pha Mon Highland Development Center, which is located in Ban Lao U, 12km away from Phu Chi Fa. To get there, drive in the direction to Chiang Kham district, pass Ban Rom Po Thong and Ban Rom Po Thai. This Center grows cold-climate flora which will bloom fantastically in cold season between December and January.
 However, please note that Phu chi Fa might be crowded with tourists in cold season, especially during the long holidays. So if you want to see the beautiful hill in more peaceful atmosphere, we recommend that you avoid such a prime travel period.
How to Get There 

There are two ways to get to Phu Chi Fa as follows;
 1.  From Mae Korn Intersection in Chiang Rai town, take highway no. 1020 (Chiang Rai - Thoeng route) for 64km to Thoeng district. Then continue with highway no. 1021 (Thoeng - chiang Kham route) for 6km and turn left into highway no. 1155 at km 94. When you reach the km marker 25 turn right into highway no. 1093, drive pass Ban Cheng Meng (a Hmong village) and head up to Phu Chi Fa.
 2.  From Chiang Khong district, take highway no. 1020 (Chiang Khong - Thoeng route) for 15km and turn left into highway no. 1155. Pass Vieng Kaen district and Ban Pang Hat junction up to Doi Pha Tang, then continue for around 24km to the nearby hill, Phu Chi Fa.
Recommended Accommodations Most accommodations on Phu Chi Fa are temporarily arranged since the hill to open for tourists only for a few months in cold season. They are mostly organized by the locals, so be sure to find friendly service and reasonable room rates. For those who would like to spend the night in camping style, there is also a wonderful tent ground within Phu Chi Fa Park, from which you could easily get to the peak.
Phu Chi Fa Park Office: T 0 5371 4914   Fax 0 5371 1961   E-mail reserve@dnp.go.th
Thoeng District Tourist Information Center: 0 5379 5259

Phu Chi Fa Resort: T. 081-952 2519,080 034 0306, 083 565 8669,087 788 3204
8  Doi Tung 
Location:  Mae Fa Luang district
 Located in Mae Fa Luang district, Doi Tung is a part of Nag Non Mountain which lays along the Thailand - Myanmar border. In the past, the condition of Doi Tung was not so different from other hills in the North that had been destroyed by slash-and-burn farming and opium poppy growing; the soil deteriorated quickly and hill grew bald and dry. Until 1987, Doi Tung Development Center was erected according to the vision of the Princess Mother in order to restore the fertilities of the soil and water source of Chiang Rai.
 Nowadays, Doi Tung has become the land with plenty of lush forests and the home to many hilltribe residents. The scenery from the top of Doi Tung is very stunning, and weather here is cool all year, so that sometimes it is called the Switzerland of Thailand. Moreover, Doi Tung also has many wonderful attractions tourists could visit as followings;
INTERESTING ATTRACTIONS ON DOI TUNG
Phra Tamnak Doi Tung or Doi Tung Royal villa Also located on Doi Tung is a beautiful royal residence known as Phra Tamnak Doi Tung or Doi Tung Royal Villa. It is a royal winter retreat for the Princess Mother, who had originally built on the project to make the locals stop their oplum cultivation. Although the Princess Mother has already passed away in 1995, ones could still visit Her office and other rooms to see Her beautiful, simple and affectionate way of living. In front of this villa is Suan Mae Fa Luang or Mae Fa Luang Botanical Garden, another famous attraction you should not pass by.
Mae Fa Luang Botanical Garden Another major attraction for visitors at Doi Tung is Suan Mae Fa Luang or Mae Fa Luang Botanical garden. The beautiful landscaped garden is filled with more than 70 different kinds of plants and flowers. The park is named Mae Fa Luang, meaning the Royal Mother from Heaven, in honor of the Princess Mother who established Doi Tung Development Project in 1987. In the middle of the park is the sculpture of children getting together to form a high tower. This sculpture is named 'Continuity' by the Princess Mother.
 Mae Fa Luang Botanical is open daily from 07.00am to 06.00pm.
The Princess Mother Museum The Princess Mother Museum is established to collect and display the work and simple way of living of the beloved Princess Mother, who has been praised by the UNESCO as a 'World Great Personality of the 20th Century' and by the locals as Mae Fa Luang or the Royal Mother from Heaven.
Doi Chang Mup Located around 7km from Doi Tung Royal villa, Doi Chang Mup is the highest point of Nang Non Mountain with an elevation of 1,509m above sea level. In old days, the forest in this part of the mountain had been in the worst condition, until it was restored by the project of the Princess Mother in 1992. Today, this place has become a lush green garden with a number of beautiful plants, both regional and foreign species. This garden is also fantastic beauty spot to watch sunset, Doi Mae Salong, the land in Myanmar and the Golden Triangle.
 Only around 1km away from this garden is another view spot called Doi Chang Mup Military Base. It gives a 180-degree panorama of mountainous surroundings, as well as sunrise, sunset, and Talay Mok in the morning.
Phra That Doi Tung Phra That Doi Tung is located at the km marker 17.5 on the same road to Doi Tung. Constructed since the 10th Century, Phra That Doi Tung was renovated by Chiang Rai's most famous roler King Mengrai during the 13th Century and by the famous Chiang Mai Monk, Khru Ba Siwichai, at the turn of the 20th Century. The temple comprises twin Lanna style pagodas or Chedis, one of which is believed to contain the left collarbone of the Lord of Buddha. Nowadays, this ancient temple is one of the most respected temples for all Thai, Laos and Myanmar people.
Hilltribe Villages on Doi Tung For those who are interested in cultural tour, there are many hilltribe villages you can visit on Doi Tung. The major minority groups are A-kha, Lahu, Tai Yai, and Chin Hor (Chinese). These hilltribesmen have their own culture, and they mainly make their living by growing cold-climate plants, coffee, macadamia and nuts, and producing handicrafts as supported by the Royal Project.
How to Get There From Chiang Rai town, take highway no. 1 (Phahonyothin Road) pass Mae Chan district and Ban San Kong. Before reaching Mae Sai at the km marker 870 - 871, turn left into highway no. 1149. Go further for 17km, and there you are at Doi Tung.
 You can also choose to board local bus Chiang Rai - Mae Sai from the bus terminal in Chiang Rai town and get off at ban San Kong. There will be a minibus going up to Doi Tung which costs around 60 baht/person. For more information, call Doi Tung Travel Co., Ltd. (0 5366 7433)

RECOMMENDED ACCOMMODATIONS For those who wish to absorb to Doi Tung and Talay Mok scenery here, we recommend that you spend some nights here on this hill. There are some lodgings of Doi Tung Development Center and tent ground around the beauty spot, as well as choices of private accommodations. Ton Nam House is located near Doi Tung Royal Villa. The room costs about 1,36700 Baht in low season and 2,500 Baht in high season. T. 0-2186-3186 Fax 0-2186-3182 www.Thai2Travel.Com
 Doi Kham Resort is located near the way up to Doi Tung Royal Villa. The room rate is 400 - 2,000 Baht/night. Call 053-266550, 053-266-551, 053-266-552,053-304-487, 053-266555, 053-245069

9  Doi Khun Tarn 
Location: Doi Khun Tarn covers an area in Tha Pla Duk and Mae Tha district in Lapmphun province, and Hang Chat district and Lampang town in Lampang province.
 Doi Khun Tarn used to be a national preserved forest area until it was announced the 10th national park of Thailand on March 6th, 1975.
 This park covers an area of 255.29 sq.dm in the middle and lower part of Phi Pan Nam  Mountain, at the elevation of 1,374m above average sea level.
 Doi Khun Tarn is embraced by ranges of mountains and the weather on the hill is also cool all year round. It is recommend that you have at least 3 days 2 nights in order to make an unhurried trip around Doi Khun Tarn. This is because this place has altogether 4 interesting spots, especially the summit (Yor 4 or Mon Song Klong) where ones could wonderfully see the scenery over Lampang and Lamphun. Alogn the way to the top, ones will find many kinds of forests and some tourist attractions as followings;
RECOMMENDED ATTRACTIONS AT DOI KHUN TARN
 Khun Tarn Tunnel, Khun Tarn Tunnel, with the length or 1,352m, is the longest tunnel and also the steepest railway of Thailand. Khun Tarn construction started in 1907 by a German railway engineer. However, due to the World War I, there was a cessation since the German engineer had to be sent out of the country. After that, Krom Phra Kampaengphet Akkharayothin, the father of Thai Railway, had resumed the work until it was completed in 1918. Around Khun Tarn Railway Station, there is Khun Tarn Shrine and the monument of the German engineer, surrounded by a lovely flower park.
 The 4 Resting Points: Along the 5,500m up to the summit of Doi Khun Tarn, there are many kinds of forests from evergreen forest, hill evergreen forest, deciduous forest, and pine forest. Common plants of the area are teak, makhaa (Afzelia xylocarpa), Mounlmein cedar, Burmese emony (Pterocarpus macrocarpu), Ceylon oak, Pinus merkusil, P. kesiya (pinaceae), Schleichera oleosa (Lour.), and bamboo.
 The four resting points are named Yor 1, Yor 2, Yor 3 and Yor 4, around in order of the height. In fact, the word Yor is the initial of the strategic point in Thai. So these four spots used to be the battleground during the World War II, in the time of General P. Piboonsongkram. Today, however, these spots are the location of lodging house and tent ground for tourists instead.
 Yor 1: Yor 1 is around 1,500m from the national park office and is approximately 900m above sea level. This place used to be the resting place for Krom Phra Kamphaengphet Akkharayothin during the railway construction in 1917.
 Right now there are some lodgings for tourists built by the State Railway of Thailand. From the beauty spot around the area, the valley of Ban Mae Tha in Lamphun district could be fantastically seen amidst the misty atmosphere.
 Yor 2: From Yor 1 walk through the pine forests for around 800m, you will find Yor 2 which is located at the elevation of 1,035m above sea level. After the World WarII, this place was bought by the former Prime Minister, Mom Rajawong Khukrit Pramot, who built a resort and planted wonderful cold-climate garden here. The place is so beautiful that His Majesty had visited and stayed over in the lodgings twice by in 1969 and 1973.
 The highlight of Yor 2 is the hill pine forest that grows abundantly, offering the shady and beautiful atmosphere. Tourists could spend the night at this spot in the resort of Mom Rajawong Khukrit Pramot, in the nearby lodgings, or pitch a tent at the pine ground which is the national park tent ground.
 Yor 3: The path from Yor 2 to Yor 3 cuts along the ridge of the hill, approximately 3,500m long. Despite the distance, the path is pretty easy to walk and along the way are innumerable types of wild orchids, for instance, for instance, Dendroblum Monkhai and Dendroblum Linleyi. The most interesting orchid is Sam Poi Doi Khun Tarn Orchid which is uniquely found here. The genuine specie has stronger and more colorful petals compared with the general Sam Poi Orchids (Vanda denisoniana). This orchid normally blooms between November and February. After Doi Khun Tarn was declared a national park, it is illegal to collect orchids from forest. Therefore, local people started to grow and develop orchids by themselves and sell them to tourists around Khun Tarn Railway Staion.
 Yor 3 is located at the elevation of 1,225m above sea level, so it is a wonderful place to watch the scenery over Doi Suthep-Pui and Doi Inthanon. The most beautiful view spot is at the balcony of the restaurant of the resort built by the American Christians. This resort was constructed after the railway was completed, and is currently under the administration of Payap University in Chiang Mai.
 Yor 4: around 1km from Yor 3 along the pretty steep road is Yor 4 or the summit of Khun Tarn hill. At the elevation of 1,373m above average sea level, the place is a small plateau from which Lamphun and Lampang province could be wholly seen, as well as Khao San Kampaen, Doi Suthep, and Doi Inthanon of Chiang Mai province.
 In the middle of Yor 4 is a concrete base about 1m high, which is built for setting theodolite and drawing maps during the World War II. This is why this spot is also called Mon Song Klong, meaning a place to look through the scope. Please note that nowadays the national park does not permit tourists to stay overnight at the spot.
 Tat Mei Waterfall: Along the path between Yor 2 and Yor 3 is a left turn to Tat Mei Waterfall which you can visit in case you still have time and want to cover all the attractions. The distance is approximately 2.5km but the bath is pretty steep and the forest overgrown. You can also get to this fall by taking another path along the way to campsite 1. Although it takes longer time, the path is flat, more well-paved and safer.
 Tat Mei Waterfall is a small waterfall approximately 10m high. It is suitable for relaxing and absorbing the beauty of nature. The best time to visit this fall is around late rainy season to early cold season.
How to Get There 

There are two ways to get to Doi Khun Tarn, by car and by train. By car, take highway no. 11 and make a turn into Khun Tarn National Park at the km marker 46 - 47 for around 18km. By train, get off the train at KhunTarn Train Station and walk up to the national park office which is around 1.3km away. For more information, call Hua Lam Phong (Bangkok Railway Station): 0-2220-4444,0-2220-4272,0-2222-0175-Call Center 1690 or Chiang Mai Railway Station:  0 5324 2094.
RECOMMENDED ACCOMMODATIONS
 Khun Tarn National Park offers altogether 26 lodgings for groups of tourists from 2 - 9 persons, as well as tent ground, outdoor activity ground and restaurant.

Bungalow Train offers 3 hours that can accommodate from 8 - 12 persons each. However, tourists will need to bring along foodstuff since around the area there is no restaurant here.
Call:  5354 6335 (VoIP), 08 1032 6341 (staff)   E-mail doikhuntan@hotmail.com
Resort for Mom Rajawong Khukrit  Pramot has some lodgings and tent ground for tourists at Yor 4.
Missionary Resort at Yor 3 offers houses and tents as well as cooking facilities.

10  Doi Mae Salong 
Location: in Mae Salong Nok sub-district, Mae Fa Luang district
 There trip to Doi Mae Salong could be arranged together with the trip to Doi Tung and Doi Hua Mae Kham, since the three hills are located pretty close to each other. Doi Mae Salong sits at the elevation of 1,200m above average sea level. It is now considered one of the most interesting attractions of Chiang Rai. The road to this hill is not too steep to drive, the scenery here is second to no other hills in the North, and there are plenty of gourmet restaurants and tea shops that have brought so much favorable reputation to this hill. Moreover, if you wish to see various minority hilltribes of Thailand, this place should be an interesting destination for you, since there are  many hilltribe vallages scattered around this hill, especially the Akha, Lahu, Yao (Lisu) and Chin Hor (Chinese).
INTERESTING ATTRACTIONS ON DOI MAE SALONG
The 101 Tea Plantation The place you cannot miss whether you are a casual tea drinker or not is the 101 Tea Plantation. This is the largest tea plantation of Doi Mae Salong, and it is estimated that there are more than 2 millions tea or Camellia sinensis growing in this area. In fact, there are many other similar tea plantations on Doi Mae Salong, where you can do tea farm sightseeing, visit the factories to learn about the process of making tea, as well as trying some hot tea and buying some home. Here, the most selling tea of all time is Oolong tea.
The Tomb of General Tuan Located around 1km away fromm Khun Nai Pon Resort, the Tomb lf General Tuan is a marble ground and a building built since 1980 in commemoration of General Tuan. This great man is the founder of Santi Khiri village, a large Chinese community of Doi Mae Salong. Inside there are stories and work of the General, whereas around the place could be fabulous beauty spot over the land below since it is located approximately 1,300m high.
 Santi Shiri village is a community settled by the former Chinese 93rd Division who moved from Myanmar to reside on Thai territory in 1961, under the leader Tuan Chi Wen or General Tuan. The village became well known for its enchanting scenery and tranquil atmosphere. Today it is a major tourist attraction with its small-town ambience, delicious native Chinese dishes, small hotels and guesthouses, as well as tea, coffee and fruit plantations. The scenery would be particularly wonderful between December and January when Sakuras flowers are their in full bloom.
Phra That Sinakarindhra Located around 4km away from Santi Khiri village, Phra That Sinakarindhra (full name Phra That Sinakarindhra Sathit Mahasanti Khiri) is one of the major attractions of Doi Mae Salong. Standing at the elevation of 1,500m, this pagoda is a wonderful scenery spot to watch sunset, as well as Santi Khiri village and the winding road below. Established since 1996 in order to bestow to the Princess Mother, this is a 30m high pagoda in applied Lanna-style, standing on the square base around 15m wide.
Sakura Road
 From December to February, the road that cuts up to Doi Mae Salong will be exceptionally fascinating with the blooming Sakura flowers. Although Sakura is not a regional plant of this area, it has already become another well-known symbol of Doi Mae Salong now.
How Get to There To get there: It is best to bring your own car since the road to Doi Mae Salong is pretty easy to drive. There are two routes to choose from as following.
 1.  From Chiang Rai town, take highway no. 10 pass Mae Chan district and enter highway no. 1089 (Mae Chan-Tha Thon route) pass Pa Teung Hot Spring, Lan Thong Village and Ban Huai Hin Fon. At Kew Satai junction (km 55), turn right for around 15km to Doi Mae Salong. This route is easier and less steep than the second route.
 2.  Take highway no. 10 pass Mae Chan and Mae Sai districts. At the km 860, turn left to Doi Mae Salong, pass many hilltribe villages until you reach Ban Pa Miang (km 10). Turn right at the junction of Hilltribe Minority Development Center into highway no. 1338 to the royal villa or Phra Tamnak Doi Tung. Then turn left into highway 1234 for 25km, pass Ban E-kor Sam Yaek (km 9) and turn right up to Doi Mae Salong around 16km. However, for those who do not want to drive by yourself, you can also board a bus from Chiang Rai town to Mae Chan district and continue with green minibus from Mae Chan market to Tha Thon and Kew Satai in order to get to Doi Mae Salong. On your return, you can wait for the bus at the front of Khum Nai Phon Resort.
RECOMMENDED ACCOMMODATIONS There are a number of moderate-rated and economic accommodations on Doi Mae Salong.  Most of which are located along the hillside, enabling guests to watch superb scenery from the balcony. Some also offer traditional Chinese restaurant within the resort area. However, be sure to book the room in advance it you are going in prime travel period like long weekend in cold season.
Mae Salong Resort: 0 5376 5014, 0 5376 5018 or www.maesalong-resort.comKhum Nai Phon Resort: T. 053-765000-4,765085 Fax 053-765004HILLTRIBE FESTIVALS ON DOI MAE SALONG
 If you want to see the lively and colorful festivals of minority hilltribes of Doi Mae Salong, it is recommended that you should come here during their festive periods as follows;
Hmong New Year, late December to early January,
Lisu New Year, late January to early February,
Akha New Year (top spinning festival), late December,
Akha Swing Festival, late August to early September.