Forest trekking to conquer the peak of ‘Doi Mak Prik’ in Mae Hong Son.
We invite you to explore a unique travel experience, one that’s not exactly “easy” but certainly “not difficult” to embark on with us. It’s a journey through hiking trails, where you’ll immerse yourself in the natural beauty of towering mountains above the sea of mist, surrounded by diverse flora and wildflowers. This is an adventure that connects you with the rich biodiversity of nature, offering a fresh and unforgettable experience. A secret corner of the mountains outside Pai District, Mae Hong Son Province, called "Doi Mak Phrik"
Contact information
Coordinates: Huai Puling Subdistrict, Mueang Mae Hong Son District, Mae Hong Son 58000
Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nY3355wacFzDcpMQA
1. Enter via Pai, contact FB page: การท่องเที่ยวเชิงอนุรักษ์ โดยชุมชนตำบลเมืองแปง
2. Enter via Mae Hong Son city, contact FB page: พาเที่ยวเดินป่า ดอยหมากพริก
The song calls for us to step into the forest.
“If you’re tired, walk into the forest. At least, you won’t encounter a heartless person like you, someone without a heart.” Sometimes, the song and its meaningful lyrics allow us to let our minds wander, embracing the relaxation that comes with nature’s embrace, offering a break from the everyday grind. Life isn’t always paved with beautiful petals, right? If any day you feel your mind isn’t at peace, perhaps it’s time to retreat and recharge your spirit. In the busy working years, time may be scarce, but we all have the same 365 days. Isn’t that right? If not today, then when will you go?
Doi Mak Phrik, the lungs of Pai and the heart of the hill tribes
Doi Mak Phrik is a new tourist destination located in the Huai Ha-Mak Phrik Village, Moo 3, Muang Paeng Subdistrict, Pai District, Mae Hong Son Province. It is a mountain peak in a deep forest with stunning scenery, standing at approximately 1,650 meters above sea level. The peak consists of three interconnected summits, located within the jurisdiction of both Pai and Muang districts in Mae Hong Son Province. The area has long been utilized by the ethnic communities of Hmong, Lisu, and Karen. The name “Doi Mak Phrik” originates from the abundance of wild chili plants that grew naturally in the area in ancient times. It is believed that the highest peak of Doi Mak Phrik is sacred, inhabited by guardian spirits of the forest and mountains that protect the forest and the local communities. According to local tradition, no one is allowed to camp at the summit due to strong winds and the sacredness of the area. A shrine has been built at the foot of the mountain, dedicated to the revered spirits. This information has been shared by the local community to guide travelers wishing to camp on the mountain. Visitors are encouraged to set up camp at a lower altitude, near but not at the highest peak, as a sign of respect for the community’s beliefs and traditions.
Negkassar flowers are in full bloom at Doi San Fa Saraphi.
Doi Mak Phrik is also known by locals in the Muang Paeng Subdistrict, Pai District, Mae Hong Son, as “Doi San Fa Sarapi” (The Ridge of Sarapi Flowers). This name comes from the unique shape of the mountain’s ridge, which resembles the human spine. Additionally, the area is known for the beauty of wild Sarapi flowers that bloom abundantly during the winter, covering the slopes of the mountain in vibrant colors. This natural beauty adds to the allure of the mountain, making it an even more enchanting destination for visitors.
Conquer Doi Mak Phrik in 2 days and 1 night
A trip that adds value to your travel experience when you come to Pai District. It must be full of flavor. You should prepare 2 days and 1 night to give yourself a taste of the true essence of nature and the beauty of the mountains.
เราถึงจุดยอดดอย ความเหนื่อยทั้งหลายจะปลิวหายไปในอากาศ ราญรมณ์ชื่นชมความงามทางธรรมชาติยอดดอย 360 องศา ชมพระอาทิตย์ขึ้นและลับขอบฟ้า สัมผัสความงามของดอกไม้ป่า เต็มที่กับชีวิตไปกับการสูดอากาศบริสุทธิ์ ผ่อนคลายอริยบทไปกับสายลม เสียงสัตว์ป่า และบันทึกภาพปลดปล่อยความประทับใจสู่โลกโซเชียลกัน…เพราะบนยอดดอยแห่งนี้มีครบทุกเครือข่ายสัญญาณโทรศัพท์คมชัด
There are 2 hiking routes.
1. Hard Level ascend the ridge for 1.6 km to reach the three mountain peaks. Enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view from the summit. Camp in the area and retrace your steps down. It’s a test of courage for those afraid of heights.
2. The middle Level For those who love tranquility, hike the 1.4 km trail up the mountain, enjoy a 360-degree view from the summit, and camp in the area. In the morning, climb the two ridges, then return along the same path. Enjoy the serene and shaded atmosphere behind the mountain.
Our journey chose the middle path, neither too tight nor too loose. Haha, we walked and rested on this trip.
Travel to Doi Mak Phrik area
There are 2 service points for tourists entering the area:
1. Tourist reception point, Pai District (Must coordinate with the group 7 days in advance of the trip)
Tours are organized by the Community-Based Ecotourism Group of Mae Pang Subdistrict, Pai District. You can contact them via their Facebook page: การท่องเที่ยวเชิงอนุรักษ์โดยชุมชนตำบลเมืองแปง. There is a pick-up point at the PTT gas station in Pai, where a community tour vehicle with an experienced driver will pick you up. The trip from Pai town to the area takes approximately 2.5 hours. Once you arrive, the hike up to the summit will take about 2 hours. The vehicles used are 4WD, ensuring a smooth journey through the terrain.
2. Tourist reception point, Mae Hong Son District (Must coordinate with the group 7 days in advance of the trip)
Tours are organized by the Ban Nong Khaw Nuea Community Ecotourism Group, located in Huai Pu Ling Subdistrict, Mueang District, Mae Hong Son. You can contact them via their Facebook page: พาเที่ยวเดินป่า ดอยหมากพริก. They offer pick-up services for tourists at the Mae Hong Son Bus Station, Mae Hong Son Airport, and the PTT gas station in Mae Hong Son. The community uses 4WD vehicles with experienced drivers. The journey from Mae Hong Son town to the area takes about 2 hours, followed by a 2-hour hike up to the summit.
The unique experiences that challenge travelers are something many modern tourists desire. These adventurous trails are not for the faint of heart—if you’re not daring enough, you won’t be able to experience them. I once read a comment from a hiker who said, “I know it will be tough, but I still save up and go. Afterward, I might rest for a long while, but it’s all worth it for the next adventure.”
Hiking is truly an adventure that brings excitement and new experiences along every step of the journey. The value of this type of tourism lies in the discoveries you make along the way, making it a worthwhile endeavor. I encourage everyone to try it at least once in their life as a traveler. It’s an opportunity to gain fresh perspectives and inspiration for the work that lies ahead.
