A nice experience hiking and camping in northern Thailand in this time of the year from 17 to 25 Jan 2026. Weather is dry and cold after the sun sets; it was so predictable that it would not rain, and we have the colourful sunrise and sunset daily. Night time temperature was around 10°C; hence, one needs to bring thermal and fleece jackets, and even down jacket.
Do CLICK HERE to view 232 photos taken by yours truly, KC Leong.
Moon Shadow Resort, Doi Pha Tang
This posting covers the following areas (Chiang Rai and Chiangmai):
1. Doi Pha Tang, Moon Shadow Resort;
2. Pha Tang Hill hiking: Viewpoint 102, 103, 104, 107;
3. Phu Chi Fa Forest Park for sunrise;
4. Phu Chi Dao Viewpoint hiking for sunset;
5. Shrimp Pond Restaurant for lunch (Best Tom Yum Goong and grill prawns in Chiangrai);
6. Singha Park lakeside walk;
7. Khun Chae National Park Registration Office.
Team Members (18 pax):
KC Leong (Team Lead);
Cheng Lai, Jadrien Kum, Nelson Lim, Patrick Soh, Tong San Hee;
Amy Thew, Christine Bong, Catherine Cheong, Cheng Li, Edance Tong, Fong Kwee Moy, Ivy Chin, Josephine Lee, Joanne Low, Shu-Lin, Swee Yong, Vandy Yap.
Best Time:
Best months to go for hiking and camping in norther Thailand are December and January. Other than the dry season, it is cold; and Sakura flowers are blooming.
Feb, March, April, May, June = dry but hot (mountains could be closed because of forest fire);
July, August, Sept = raining season (mountains could be closed because of wet weather);
Oct and Nov = weather improves; still with unpredictable rain and mist in the morning that may affect viewing of sunrise.
Renting camping gear is better as compare to brining them from Kuala Lumpur as they take up space in our luggage bags. If one brings own camping tent, one needs to set up by himself/herself.
Do click here to view the second posting of this trip.
Do click here to view Part 2 (Wawajo) or Part 1 (Phu Kradueng) of Northern Thailand Hiking and Camping trips.
Posted by KC Leong