9 of the best hikes in Thailand

29.12.2023 - 09:17 / lonelyplanet.com

With wistful misty peaks, ancient hidden temples, otherworldly karst outcrops and dense jungle teeming with wildlife, Thailand offers a veritable feast for hikers.

Whether you want to conquer mountains, circumnavigate stunning sandy islands or simply make your way to Thailand's biggest waterfall, there's plenty to pick from. What's more, with a superb transport system, it's easy to reach most hiking trails independently – though there are plenty of excellent trekking guides available too.

So grab a heavy-duty insect repellent, pack some sunscreen and buy some leech socks – we’re about to set off. These are the best hikes in Thailand.

0.6 miles (1km), half day, moderate

It's a short, steep climb up to the 278m-high (912ft) limestone outcrop that overlooks Krabi Town, but hikers who successfully tackle the 1260 stairs to the summit are rewarded with access to Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple) and some stellar views. The temple takes its name from the belief that tigers once dwelled in the surrounding caves. Unfortunately, there are no prowling big cats here; instead, golden stupas and a large seated Buddha silently keep watch over the emerald forest and sprawling blue sea below.

Carry enough water for both the ascent and the humidity. Also, remember to wear culturally appropriate clothing (trousers or long skirts and tops that cover your shoulders) as it’s a Buddhist temple. A hiking pole can be useful – both to haul yourself up and to keep the resident monkeys at bay. 

Distances vary, 2–3 hours, easy

Established as Thailand's first national park in 1962, Khao Yai is the best place for a jungle trek near Bangkok. It boasts more than 50km (31 miles) of hiking trails that teem with macaques, gibbons, civets, barking deer and endemic bird species such as the Great Hornbill. 

There are a couple of short, circular trails that begin near the park’s headquarters. However, as wild elephants are often spotted in the reserve, guides are required for venturing any deeper into the rainforest. Avoid visiting on weekends and public holidays as cars often fill the roads to the main sights, including the 150m-high (492ft) Haew Narok waterfall and Haew Suwat cascade, whose 25m-high (82ft) drop dazzled millions in Danny Boyle's cult film The Beach (2000).

2.7km (1.6 miles), 2–3 hours, easy

The short Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail offers hikers a chance to see one of the most beautiful panoramic views in Thailand. Set inside the Doi Inthanon National Park near Chiang Mai, the 2200m-high (7218ft) Kew Mae Pan mountain stands only a few hundred meters south of Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s highest peak at 2565m (8415ft). 

The trek itself is a short circular trail with boardwalks. It begins inside a forest of mossy trees and ferns that