Sri Nan National Park – Nan – Thailand – photo by James-Antrobus on Flckr CC

Thailand’s Best Locations for Hiking and Cycling

Thailand is perhaps best known for its varied street food and astounding temples, but it’s also a popular destination among people who want an active holiday. Every year, adventurous travelers seek out Thailand flights, pick their dates and escape to this wondrous country. Visiting for the first time? Here are some of Thailand’s best hiking and cycling locations to try out on your holiday.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is Thailand’s most popular and best-known hiking destination. Set up camp in this charming city before setting off on a hike in the neighbouring mountains. Depending on how seasoned you are as a hiker, there are many different paths to choose from. For those who are less experienced, a circular hike is the best way to start but if you’re experienced then hire a guide in the town before setting off into the mountains for a few days.

To experience the real Thailand, visit one of the local tribes who have crafted a home for themselves in the mountains. The people in Lahu village originally emigrated from Tibet and Southwest China. Savour peaceful village life and make the most of the time that you spend with these intriguing and humble people.

Koh Tarutao Island National Park

Koh Tarutao Island National Park is a collection of 52 islands of natural bliss. One of the main islands, Tarutao, is protected by its National Park status and has been preserved in its original state, meaning that there are very few signs of industrial development. Instead, thick forests, pristine white beaches and mountainous peaks surround the island. These offer the perfect conditions for avid cyclers and hikers who want to explore the island to its fullest.

Follow a 3 kilometer hiking trail through the forest, upstream to Lu Du waterfall and you may even see some of the island’s many creatures on your way. Lizards, boars and rare birds are all known to frequent the forest. Once you reach the Lu Du, you’ll see clear green pools at the base of the waterfall. Take a swim in the waters to cool off after your walk and if you have a snorkel handy then you can spot some of the island’s colorful marine life!

Feeling inspired for an active break? Check out LashWorldTour’s Cycling and Hiking in Bali guidebooks to get a taste of another possible destination to add to your travel wish list.

Nan

Nan is a small town in the North of Thailand which is renowned for its natural beauty. The area has several National Parks to explore and is also a good location for visitors who want to try out rafting. During Thailand’s wet season the rivers are particularly strong, so time your visit depending on the activities you want to get involved in. Nan is still relatively undiscovered by tourist companies, so if you truly want to get off the beaten track then Nan is the place to visit. 

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