In December 2022 I was on a tour of duty in North Thailand and after Doi Ang Khang our next destination was Chiang Dao National Park (=entrance fee). Doi Chiang Dao, located in Chiang Mai province in North Thailand, is a mountain range with limestone peaks reaching 2.186m above sea-level. The name Chiang Dao means City of Stars, as at night it is so dark there that you can very good see the stars (Dao). The real town is located outside the mountain area. The mountains of Doi Chiang Dao from far away look like elephant sleeping. Although Chiang Dao is a National Park there are a few small mountains villages where minorities are still living their traditional way of life. In and around Doi Chiang Dao is accommodation like homestays, guesthouses but also boutique resorts. Just before the entrance of Chiang Dao National Park is Wat Tham Chiang Dao, a beautiful temple at a cave. The road (route 3024) leading to the wildlife sanctuary goes steep into the mountains with sharp curves, stunning views and passing huge trees (selfie moment).
Driving route 3024 you will be passing viewpoints and small villages and some directions signs of Points of Interest to visit. But route 3024 leads after about 30km of curves to the village Ban Mueang Khong, until 7 years ago an insignificantly village in a like-wise valley along Doi Chiang Dao. But it has developed itself into a kind of village that was Pai 30 years ago. The village is along maze of small rivers like Mae Taeng, Mae Moen and Mae Khong. The latter is a bit weird as there is of course also the Mekong River that in Thai is called Mae Nam Khong. Nowadays about 10 homestays and of course a few coffee shops. A great place to stay, relax and enjoy the view. Highly recommended to go but you will need your own transport.
This travelogue follows my traveling in Thailand (and beyond) with in between information that might help you when traveling in Thailand. If you are interested to visit Chiang Dao or any other place in Thailand and need some information then feel free to contact me by email at The Little Elephant Traveling in Thailand.
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| View looking over the Mae Khong |
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| View from the bridge crossing the Mae Khong |
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