Excursion to the heart of the Lahu mountains in Chiang Mai
In summary
-
Sports
-
Duration2 days
-
LevelConfirmed
-
DestinationAsia / Thailand
-
AgeFrom 12 - 80 years
-
CO₂-Emissions23.79 kg CO2
-
Type of stayIndependent traveler
-
Languages
English
In a few words
Embark on a 2-day trek in the heart of the Lahu highlands , on the final section of the TMT.1 trail , near Chiang Dao National Park . This hike takes you into the highest tribal area of Chiang Mai province , where several peaks rise above 1,700 meters .
From the Mae Taeng River, the route forms a demanding loop , punctuated by numerous ascents and descents, through spectacular landscapes. The highlight of the adventure: the ascent of Pha Sam Liam , nicknamed the "Triangle Mountain," an iconic peak reaching 1,700 m .
The night is spent immersed in local life , in a Lahu village perched high in the mountains. You are welcomed into magnificent bamboo huts for an authentic exchange, experiencing local traditions firsthand.
This trek combines sporting challenge , magnificent panoramas and cultural encounter , in one of the wildest and most scenic sections of the TMT.1.
The highlights
-
The magnificent Huay Satan waterfall (30m high)
-
The Lahu highlands and their charming bamboo villages
-
The climb and the view from the summit of Triangle at 1700m
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
This hike is of intermediate to strenuous difficulty (3 to 4/5), due to significant elevation gain and loss, as well as some technical sections (rocks, steep slopes). While you don't need to be an athlete, a reasonable level of fitness is essential.
In figures
Trekking
- Average duration/day: 6h30
Management
English
All our guides are Thai nationals (in accordance with local legislation) and certified by the Tourism Authority of Thailand. They all speak English and, depending on availability, can also speak French or German (service not guaranteed).
Program
-
From the Mae Taeng River to the highland Lahu villages
- Transportation Minibus - 01h30 - 60km
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Your trek begins along the Mae Taeng River , in the heart of a valley bordered by rainforest . The trail follows the riverbank and quickly plunges into dense jungle. In some sections, the use of a machete is necessary to progress.
After about 5km , you leave the main course to follow a tributary. The terrain becomes easier and you progress at a more consistent pace, with several river crossings . You reach a 25m waterfall , where a break allows you to recover before the main climb.
The longest climb of the day, between 600 and 700m of elevation gain , takes you to the Lahu village of Kup Kap . You have lunch there in a bungalow overlooking the valley.
In the afternoon, the trail becomes easier with a few gradual climbs. You reach the village of Pha Daeng , perched high up, with unobstructed views of the surrounding mountains and the route for the next day.
Day 1 -
Ascent of Pha Sam Liam and long descent into the valley
- Transportation Minibus - 01h30 - 60km
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
The village of Pha Daeng , perched on a ridge at 1,100m , offers an unobstructed view of the surrounding valleys. After spending the night with a local family, you'll have breakfast overlooking the mountains before continuing your trek through fields and hills.
As you pass through a small Lahu village, you catch sight of Doi Pha Sam Liam in the distance, today's objective. The ascent begins, climbing nearly 700 meters to the summit at 1,650 meters . The steady climb alternates between rainforest and pine forests, following a distinct ridge before the final, steeper section.
At the summit, the panorama opens up onto a succession of verdant ridges and the villages passed through the day before. You take a break to enjoy the meal prepared by your host family.
The descent is long, from 1,650m to 450m . You first reach Kup Kap , then continue towards the Huay Satan waterfall for a break before the return and the last section of the trek.
Day 2
Note
Enhance your trip by booking this excursion. However, we do not recommend flying for such a short duration.
You can store your luggage at our agency located in downtown Chiang Mai during your stay. If needed, you can also take a shower at our agency after your stay.
Accommodation
Perched on a ridge at an altitude of 1,100 meters, this small, isolated Lahu village is a true haven of peace. Preserved from tourism, it offers us the privilege of enjoying absolute tranquility.
The view is spectacular, with an unobstructed panorama of the surrounding valleys and mountains, enhanced by breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.
We will spend the night in bamboo huts, furnished with comfortable bedrooms and beds, which we built alongside a local family with whom we have collaborated for over ten years. Our hosts will prepare delicious traditional dishes for us in a warm and friendly atmosphere… making us feel almost at home.
Access
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- The trip will be supervised by a guide certified by the Tourism Authority of Thailand.
- Homestay accommodation in a Lahu tribal village
- Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Chiang Mai (city center)
- All meals mentioned in the program
- Drinks, bars and snacks
- Entrance fees to national parks
The price does not include
- Alcoholic beverages and personal expenses
- Anything not listed under "Price includes"
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
- Backpack (20 L)
- Trekking or trail running shoes
- 2 outfits (socks, trousers or shorts and t-shirt)
- Waterproof jacket
- Warm underwear
- Swimsuit
- Headlamp & Power bank
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, shower gel
- Microfiber towel and flip-flops
- Sunscreen and mosquito repellent spray
