9 Iconic Hikes in Thailand with Breathtaking Views
Thailand offers a variety of stunning hikes that showcase its rich landscapes, from lush jungles to dramatic mountain ranges. Here are nine iconic hikes in Thailand that offer breathtaking views:
Krabi's Tiger Cave Temple: Best Hike to a Temple
This short, steep climb takes you to the 278m-high limestone outcrop that overlooks Krabi Town, with stunning views of the emerald forest and sprawling blue sea. The hike is 1km long and takes around half a day to complete, with a moderate level of difficulty.
Khao Yai National Park: Best Hike in a National Park
Established as Thailand's first national park in 1962, Khao Yai is the best place for a jungle trek near Bangkok. With over 50km of hiking trails teeming with wildlife, this park is a must-visit for nature lovers. The hike distances vary, but expect to spend around 2-3 hours exploring the park, with an easy level of difficulty.
Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail: Best Hike in Thailand
This short circular trail offers breathtaking panoramic views of Doi Inthanon National Park, with a chance to see one of the most beautiful sunrises in Thailand. The hike is 2.7km long and takes around 2-3 hours to complete, with an easy level of difficulty.
Khao Sok National Park: Best Jungle Trek
Skirting the southern side of Cheow Lan lake, this dense forest and towering limestone karsts make for an unforgettable jungle trek, with plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities. The hike distances vary, but expect to spend around 2-3 hours exploring the park, with a moderate level of difficulty.
Koh Jum: Best Island Hike
Explore this paradisiacal atoll on foot, with a flat trail that flits between coves and quiet beaches, and a steep climb up Khao Koh Pu hill for stunning views. The hike distances vary, but expect to spend around 4-6 hours exploring the island, with an easy to moderate level of difficulty.
Um Phang: Best Multiday Hike
Overlooked for more popular provinces, Um Phang and Tak offer spectacular hiking with a fraction of the visitors. With multiday treks that take you deep into the jungle, this is a great option for experienced hikers. The hike distances and times vary, but expect to spend around 4-6 days exploring the region, with a moderate to hard level of difficulty.
Phanom Rung: Best Hike to an Ancient Temple
This 10th-century Khmer temple is built from pink sandstone and stands on the rim of a dormant volcano, with an ancient walkway flanked by Naga heads. The hike is 1km long and takes around half a day to complete, with an easy level of difficulty.
Phu Kradueng National Park: Best Hike to a Peak
Climb to the main peak in the namesake national park of Loei Province, with a campsite at the top offering stunning sunset and sunrise views. The hike is 9.5km long and takes around 4-6 hours to complete, with a moderate to hard level of difficulty.
Bangkok Phra Pradaeng Loop: Best Hike near Bangkok
Known as the "Green Lung" of Bangkok, this walking trail and bicycle path offers a rare opportunity to see how the Thai capital looked a few decades ago. The hike is 12km long and takes around 3 hours to complete, with an easy level of difficulty.
Each of these hikes offers a unique experience, showcasing Thailand's natural beauty and providing unforgettable views. Whether you're an experienced trekker or a casual hiker, there's a trail in Thailand that will take your breath away.
