10 Best Hiking Trails in Thailand for You to Explore

Thailand isn’t just about golden beaches and bustling street markets. Tucked between jungle-draped mountains and ancient temple ruins lie some of Southeast Asia’s most rewarding hiking trails. 

Whether you’re after a tough climb, a gentle forest walk, or a trail that ends at a hidden temple, here are ten unforgettable hikes that will satisfy your cravings.

Also read: Top 10 Hiking Destinations in Southeast Asia for 2025

Doi Inthanon, Chiang Mai

Thailand’s highest peak, Doi Inthanon (2,565 metres), sits within a national park of the same name and is famed for its cool temperatures, misty cloud forests, and striking twin royal chedis near the summit. 

While you can drive up, the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail offers a stunning 3 km loop with sweeping views, blooming rhododendrons in winter (November–February), and wooden boardwalks through evergreen forest. Go early to avoid the crowds and catch the sea of clouds at sunrise.

Best for: Beginners to intermediates, nature lovers

Round-trip Duration: ~2 hours

Khao Chang Phueak, Kanchanaburi

Found in the wild terrain of Thong Pha Phum National Park, this strenuous 8km ascent to a ridge line at 1,249 metres tests your capacity for heights. 

Narrow trails snake along the spine of the mountain with sheer drops on either side, rewarding those brave enough with panoramic views of the Tenasserim Hills. It’s a full-day affair and requires advance registration, but the sense of achievement at the summit is unmatched.

Best for: Experienced hikers

Round-trip Duration: ~6–8 hours, full-day hike

Doi Suthep Monk’s Trail, Chiang Mai

Starting from the foothills just west of Chiang Mai’s old city, the Monk’s Trail is a well-worn forest path leading to the golden Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. 

Orange monk robes tied to trees guide you uphill. The trail is peaceful, spiritual, and not too strenuous. As a bonus, stop halfway at Wat Pha Lat, a serene jungle temple with trickling waterfalls.

Best for: Casual hikers and temple seekers

Round-trip Duration: ~2–3 hours

Also read: Thailand Crowned as the 2025 Destination of the Year

Dragon Crest Mountain (Khao Ngon Nak), Krabi

Tucked within the Khao Ngon Nak Nature Trail, this hike is one of Krabi’s most exhilarating day treks. The trail begins just north of Ao Nang and winds its way through shaded forest paths filled with towering dipterocarp trees, tangled vines, and the occasional rustle of wildlife. 

The route is 3.7 km each way, with a steady incline that becomes steeper in the final kilometre. Just before the summit, you’ll emerge onto a narrow ridgeline where iconic photo spots, like the famed “cliff ledge shot”, offer stunning views over the Andaman Sea, Phi Phi Islands, and rolling jungle valleys. 

Best for: Intermediate hikers, photographers

Round-trip Duration: ~3–4 hours

Also read: A Solo Hike in Khao Ngon Nak: Krabi’s Dragon Crest Mountain

Tiger Cave Temple, Krabi

This one’s not technically a trail, but 1,260+ steps carved into a limestone cliff make it a challenging “urban hike”. At the top, a massive golden Buddha overlooks Krabi’s plains and peaks. 

It’s a sacred site, so dress respectfully. Also, be sure to watch for troops of cheeky monkeys near the base.

Best for: Fitness fanatics, spiritual seekers

Round-trip Duration: ~1.5–2 hours

Khao Sok National Park, Surat Thani

One of Thailand’s most biodiverse rainforests, Khao Sok is home to ancient jungle, giant rafflesia flowers, gibbons, and hornbills. Several trails depart from the park headquarters, including the popular Bang Hua Rat Nature Trail, which can be done independently or with a guide. 

Multi-day treks deeper into the park, including boat access to floating lake camps, are ideal for the adventurous.

Best for: Wildlife lovers, rainforest adventurers

Round-trip Duration: ~ 2–6 hours or overnight options

Khao Khitchakut, Chanthaburi

This mountain is a seasonal pilgrimage site, home to a revered Buddha footprint at the summit. The trail opens only a few months a year (usually Jan–Mar) and winds through thick forest to spiritual shrines and viewpoints. 

Combine your hike with a visit to the tiered Krathing Waterfall nearby if you have the time!

Best for: Pilgrims, cultural travellers

Round-trip Duration: ~3–4 hours

Phu Kradueng, Loei

An iconic trek in Thailand’s northeast, this trail involves a 5.5 km uphill climb followed by several more kilometres of gentle walking across a pine-covered plateau. 

Many choose to stay overnight in national park bungalows or tents at the top to enjoy the gorgeous sunrise from the famous Pha Lom Sak cliff. In the cool season (November–February), wildflowers, waterfalls, and chilly nights add to the magic.

Best for: Trekking and overnight camping
Round-trip Duration: ~6–8 hours for ascent and plateau walk

Koh Jum, Krabi

Koh Jum remains one of the Andaman coast’s hidden gems. The hike to Khao Koh Pu, the island’s forested peak, is relatively short but offers splendid views of the surrounding sea and islands. 

The trail is rough but quiet, perfect for those wanting a more secluded experience. Don’t miss the sunset from the beach after your trek.

Best for: Off-the-beaten-path hikers

Round-trip Duration: ~2 hours

Phu Chi Fa, Chiang Rai

Short but spectacular, this pre-dawn trail leads to one of northern Thailand’s most iconic viewpoints. Perched on a cliff facing Laos, Phu Chi Fa is the place to watch the sunrise above a sea of clouds. 

The gentle path is suitable for most fitness levels, and in the cool season, the surrounding hills come alive with blooming flowers and crisp mountain air.

Best for: Sunrise lovers and casual hikers

Round-trip Duration: ~1 hour

Also read: Best Places to Go in Thailand with Family: A City-By-City Guide

Grab those hiking boots

Hiking is one of those pursuits where the journey truly earns the destination. With every step uphill and every moment you wonder why you started in the first place, you’re also moving closer to a stunning view that is intensely rewarding.

In Thailand, where trails carve through ancient jungle, cloud forests, and sacred mountains, reaching the top feels like entering a whole other world. And nothing beats that kind of magic.