With wistful, misty peaks, ancient hidden temples, otherworldly karst outcrops, and dense jungle teeming with wildlife, Thailand offers a veritable feast for hikers.
Whether you want to conquer mountains, circumnavigate stunning sandy islands, or simply make your way to Thailand’s biggest waterfall, there’s plenty to pick from. Additionally, with a superb transport system, it’s easy to reach most hiking trails independently—though there are plenty of excellent trekking guides available too.
1. Krabi’s Tiger Cave Temple
Best hike to a temple
1km (0.6 miles), half a day, moderate
It’s a short, steep climb up to the 278m-high (912ft) limestone outcrop that overlooks Krabi Town, but hikers who tackle the 1260 stairs to the summit are rewarded with access to Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple) and some stellar views. The temple takes its name from the belief that tigers once dwelled in the surrounding caves. There are no prowling big cats here now; instead, golden stupas and a large seated Buddha silently keep watch over the emerald forest and sprawling blue sea below.
Carry enough water for both the ascent and the humidity. Also, wear culturally appropriate clothing (trousers or long skirts and tops that cover your shoulders) as it’s a Buddhist temple. A hiking pole can be useful to assist in climbing and to keep the resident monkeys at a distance.
2. Khao Yai National Park
Best hike in a national park
Distances vary, 2–3 hours, easy
Established as Thailand’s first national park in 1962, Khao Yai is the best place for a jungle trek near Bangkok. It boasts more than 50km (31 miles) of hiking trails that teem with wildlife such as macaques, gibbons, civets, barking deer, and endemic bird species including the great hornbill.
A couple of short, circular trails begin near the park’s headquarters. However, wild elephants are often spotted in the reserve, so guides are required for venturing deeper into the rainforest. Avoid visiting on weekends and public holidays as traffic can fill the roads to the main sights, including the 150m-high (492ft) Haew Narok waterfall and Haew Suwat cascade, known for its stunning drop that dazzled millions in Danny Boyle’s cult film The Beach (2000).
3. Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail
Best hike in Thailand
2.7km (1.6 miles), 2–3 hours, easy
The short Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail offers hikers a chance to see one of the most beautiful panoramic views in Thailand. Located inside Doi Inthanon National Park near Chiang Mai, the Kew Mae Pan mountain stands only a few hundred meters south of Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s highest peak.
The trek itself is a short circular trail with boardwalks. It begins inside a forest of mossy trees and ferns that bursts with red rhododendrons between January and March. After passing the Mae Pan waterfall, the thicket opens into a lush grassland and leads hikers to the Kew Mae Pan Viewpoint (Station 9), known for its breathtaking sunrise views. Guides are required here.
4. Khao Sok National Park
Best jungle trek
Distances vary, 2–3 hours, moderate
The dense forest and towering limestone karsts of Khao Sok make the national park one of the best jungle treks in southern Thailand. With 48 mammals roaming the forests, there are plenty of excellent wildlife spotting opportunities, including gibbons and macaques. Elusive species such as sun bears and clouded leopards have also been spotted.
Several trails, each around 12km (7.5 miles) long, begin from Khao Sok village and wind through the dense forest, passing tumbling waterfalls until reaching the southern shore of the lake.
5. Koh Jum
Best island hike
Distances vary, 4–6 hours, easy to moderate
Motorcycles are the only vehicles allowed on the low-key island of Koh Jum, just off of Krabi. The western coast has a flat trail flitting between coves and quiet beaches for 6km (3.7 miles), while the steep climb up Khao Koh Pu hill offers views as far as Ko Phi-Phi on clear days.
Two trailheads lead to the 400m-high (1312ft) summit, and locals are available to guide and transport guests up for a fee.
6. Um Phang
Best multiday hike
Distances and times vary, moderate to hard
Um Phang and Tak offer spectacular hiking with fewer visitors. All treks start in and around Um Phang Wildlife Sanctuary and utilize the Mae Klong River for deeper jungle exploration.
The region is perfect for multiday hikes, allowing travelers to explore the hills, stay in Karen villages, and hike toward the Three Pagodas Pass at Sangkhlaburi, formerly a critical supply line during WWII.
The highlight is Thailand’s largest waterfall, Nam Tok Thilawsu. From the wildlife sanctuary, it’s a two-hour hike to the stunning cascade. Advanced hikers can attempt the grueling 20km (12.5-mile) trek to Mount Kagerla, Thailand’s fourth-highest peak.
7. Phanom Rung
Best hike to an ancient temple
1km (0.6 miles), half a day, easy
Though not a traditional hike, few places are more inspiring than the Phanom Rung complex near Buriram. Standing on the rim of a dormant volcano, this 10th-century Khmer temple, built from pink sandstone, offers an awe-inspiring experience.
The climb follows an ancient walkway flanked with serpent guardian heads, leading to the plateau where the main temple and its impressive doorways await.
8. Phu Kradueng National Park
Best hike to a peak
9.5km (5.9 miles), 4–6 hours, moderate to hard
Phu Kradueng (Bell Mountain) is the main peak in the national park located in northeast Isan. While the climb starts easy, it becomes more challenging as hikers near the plateau-like summit. A campsite at the top allows hikers to spend the night, offering the chance to witness stunning sunsets and sunrises.
The descent can be tough on the knees; it’s advisable to use walking sticks available for rent.
9. Bangkok Phra Pradaeng Loop
Best hike near Bangkok
12km (7.5 miles), 3 hours, easy
Known as the “Green Lung” of Bangkok, this trail starts at the Bang Krachao Pier and is protected from high-rise developments. Hiking here offers a glimpse of how the Thai capital appeared decades ago.
The route follows suspended pathways above a mangrove swamp and is best explored on weekends when local markets operate, offering delicious street food and various goods.
This article was first published Sep 7, 2021, and updated Dec 27, 2023.
