Chiang Dao is an ideal base for people touring the area, whether on foot, cycling, in rented cars, or on motorbikes. Elephant centres and river rafting are situated close by. A wide variety of hilltribe villages are dotted around the nearby mountains which can be reached independently or as part of a tour or trek. There are also some hiking trails through the forest, or up the mountain.

It is also a great place to unwind. Meditation , relaxing in a hammock, drinking a beer, or reading a book. It’s such a beautiful, peaceful place, doing nothing is always an option.
Chaing Dao Attractions

Doi Luang Chiang Dao
Doi Luang Chiang Dao is a limestone mountain in the Chiang Dao Wildlife Reserve area, Amphoe Chiang Dao. This cone-shaped mountain is 2,195 metres from sea level, which makes it the third highest mountain in Thailand after Doi Inthanon and Doi Pha Hom Pok. Narrow plains on top of the mountain overlook spectacular views that include a sea of fog on the Amphoe Chiang Dao side, Doi Sam Phi Nong, the Chiang Dao mountain range, and the far end of Doi Inthanon. The peak is cool and windy. It is full of rare highland flowers, birds, and butterflies. Visiting Doi Chiang Dao needs an approval letter from the Director of Wildlife Reserve Division, Royal Forest Department. Travel must be arranged at least 2 weeks in advance. Contact tel. 0 2561 2947 for more information.

How to get there
The peak is accessible on foot. At Chiang Dao cave, guides, porters, and chartered transfers to the starting point of the trail are available. Rented local truck costs around 900 baht and, a porter is 300 baht per person. There are no tourist facilities on Chiang Dao Mountain. Visitors must bring their own sleeping bags, food, and water.

Descending the mountain is possible on the trail near Ban Tham, which is located near Chiang Dao cave. The trail is rather steep; nevertheless, it could shorten the walking distance upon descending. It is quite difficult to climb up.
Chiang Dao Cave (Tham Chiang Dao)
Tham Chiang Dao is a charming cave located in Amphoe Chiang Dao. It is situated 72 kilometres from Chiang Mai town, turn left at the entrance route and proceed for 5 kilometres on an asphalt road. Convenient parking is available. Climb a staircase with a zinc roof to reach the cave. The lovely cave greets visitors with various kinds of fish swimming in a stream in front of the cave.

Touring in and around Tham Chiang Dao with a local guide is possible by contacting local guides in front of the cave. A service fee is charged.

Huai Luek Royal Project Development Centre
Location: Ban Huai Luek, Bueng Khong sub-district, Chiang Dao District, Chiang Mai Tel. 0 5345 1116 Fax. 0 5322 9635

The center serves as a demonstrative development model for the hill tribe people based on the philosophy of promoting proper agricultural technology to hill tribe farmers. The site is open for the public to explore pilot plots of vegetables, flowers, fruits, Hmongs plantation and the Poi River. In addition, the Royal Project Foundation has its own shop selling daily fresh produce. Tours complete with a lecturer can be arranged in advance and advanced reservation is recommended for group visits. Toilets and parking areas are also available.

King Naresuan Stupa
Located at Mueang Ngai Village. The locals built the stupa to mark the stay of King Naresuan the Great before he led his troop to invade Angwa in Myanmar in 1604.