Doi Luang National Park Park
Mountainous national park in Phayao province
Phayao's Doi Luang National Park contains evergreen forest, waterfalls and the Doi Luang summit; visitors hike trails, visit hill‑tribe villages and watch birds.
Doi Luang National Park at a Glance#
Address: Doi Luang National Park, Phayao Province, Thailand
Exploring Doi Luang National Park#
Doi Luang National Park covers 1,170 sq km, its size the result of amalgamating the Champa Thong, Pha Gled Naak, Pu Kaeng and Wang Kaew waterfall parks. Officially established in 1990, it spans parts of three provinces: Chiang Rai, Phayao and Lampang.
Waterfalls and water. The Wang and Lao rivers and Phayao Lake account for most of the park’s water. The waterfalls are among its finest sights: Wang Kaew is one of the largest, reputedly with over 100 tiers; Pu Kaeng has nine levels and is more easily reached; and Champa Thong is the most challenging to ascend.
Forests and trekking. Vegetation ranges from evergreen and moist evergreen forest to mixed deciduous and dry dipterocarp forest. Trekking is high on most visitors’ lists, and trails usually pass through small villages along the way. November is the best month for the waterfalls, while the cool season from November to February is ideal for hiking and camping; beware of leeches along the trails in the rainy season.
How to Get to Doi Luang National Park#
Doi Luang is reached from Phayao town and from nearby districts by road; local buses head to park entry points and private transport or guided tours simplify access to trailheads and remote areas.
Tips for Visiting Doi Luang National Park#
- Hire a local guide for treks to the park's higher ridges-trails can be indistinct and local knowledge speeds navigation.
- The park includes forested and montane terrain; mornings can be foggy, so pack warm layers.
- If aiming for Doi Luang peak, allow a full day and check park regulations and permits at the visitor center.
Best Time to Visit Doi Luang National Park#
Visit during the cool season (November-February) for the most comfortable trekking conditions and clearer views.
Weather & Climate near Doi Luang National Park#
Doi Luang National Park's climate is classified as Tropical Savanna - Tropical Savanna climate with hot summers (peaking in April) and mild winters (coldest in December). Temperatures range from 13°C to 35°C. Abundant rainfall (1184 mm/year), wettest in August with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 13°C. The driest month with just 4 mm and mostly sunny skies.
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February
February is mild with highs of 31°C and lows of 14°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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March
March is warm with highs of 34°C and lows of 18°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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April
April is the hottest month, feeling like 30°C. Moderate rainfall (78 mm).
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May
May is hot, feeling like 30°C due to high humidity. Significant rainfall (175 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is hot, feeling like 30°C due to high humidity. Significant rainfall (126 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Significant rainfall (199 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). The wettest month with heavy rain (227 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Significant rainfall (188 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is warm with highs of 29°C and lows of 21°C. Significant rainfall (103 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 17°C. Moderate rainfall (39 mm).
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December
December is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 13°C. Light rainfall.