The top 9 hiking trails in Thailand

With enchanting, misty peaks, ancient hidden temples, surreal karst formations, and lush jungles brimming with wildlife, Thailand presents a true paradise for hikers.

Whether you're aiming to summit mountains, circle breathtaking sandy islands, or simply visit Thailand's largest waterfall, there's an abundance of options. Plus, thanks to an excellent transport network, you can easily reach most hiking paths on your own—though many fantastic trekking guides are also available.

So grab some heavy-duty insect repellent, slather on sunscreen, and don your leech socks—we're ready to embark on an adventure. Here are the best hikes in Thailand.

1. Tiger Cave Temple in Krabi

Ideal hike to a temple 1km (0.6 miles), half a day, moderate difficulty

It's a brief yet steep climb to the 278m (912ft) limestone peak that overlooks Krabi Town. Hikers who conquer the 1260 stairs to the top are rewarded with access to Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple) and breathtaking views. The temple's name is derived from the belief that tigers once roamed the nearby caves. While no big cats are present today, golden stupas and a massive seated Buddha stand vigil over the lush green forest and expansive blue sea below.

Be sure to bring enough water for both the climb and the humid conditions. Additionally, wear culturally appropriate attire (trousers or long skirts and tops that cover your shoulders) since it's a Buddhist temple. A hiking pole can also be handy—for both support on the way up and to keep the local monkeys at bay.

2. Khao Yai National Park

Top hike in a national park Distances vary, 2–3 hours, easy difficulty

Designated as Thailand's first national park in 1962, Khao Yai is the ideal spot for a jungle adventure close to Bangkok. It features over 50km (31 miles) of hiking trails filled with wildlife, including macaques, gibbons, civets, barking deer, and unique bird species like the great hornbill.

A few short, circular trails start near the park's headquarters. However, since wild elephants are often seen in the reserve, it's necessary to hire guides to explore deeper into the rainforest. It's best to avoid visiting on weekends and public holidays, as roads to popular attractions can become congested, particularly to the 150m-high (492ft) Haew Narok waterfall and the Haew Suwat cascade, known for its 25m (82ft) drop that captivated audiences in Danny Boyle's film The Beach (2000).

3. Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail

Top hike in Thailand 2.7km (1.6 miles), 2–3 hours, easy difficulty

The Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail offers a brief yet stunning opportunity to experience one of Thailand's most breathtaking panoramic views. Located within Doi Inthanon National Park near Chiang Mai, the 2200m-high (7218ft) Kew Mae Pan mountain is just a few hundred meters south of Doi Inthanon, which at 2565m (8415ft) is the highest peak in Thailand.

This trek is a short circular route featuring boardwalks. It begins amidst a forest of moss-covered trees and ferns, which come alive with vibrant red rhododendrons from January to March. After passing by the Mae Pan waterfall, the trail opens up to lush grasslands, leading hikers to the Kew Mae Pan Viewpoint (also known as Station 9), offering sweeping views of the entire reserve and renowned for its spectacular sunrises. Guides are required here (200B per group).

4. Khao Sok National Park

Top jungle trek Distances vary, 2–3 hours, moderate

The southern edge of Cheow Lan Lake is flanked by the lush forests and towering limestone cliffs of Khao Sok, making this national park one of the premier jungle trekking destinations in southern Thailand. With 48 species of mammals inhabiting the woods, it offers plenty of chances to spot wildlife. While you'll primarily encounter gibbons, macaques, and barking deer, more elusive creatures like sun bears, clouded leopards, and even tigers have been sighted.

Multiple trails, each approximately 12km (7.5 miles) long, originate from Khao Sok village at the park's southern edge. These paths traverse dense jungles and lead past cascading waterfalls, eventually arriving at the southern shore of the lake.

From October to December, you can witness the blooming of the Rafflesia kerrii, known as the world’s largest (and smelliest) parasitic flower, which is a spectacular sight. After your hike, consider staying at one of Cheow Lan's floating homestays, nestled among the towering karsts that emerge from the lake, providing a unique way to experience both the lake and the northern part of the reserve.

5. Koh Jum

Top island hike Distances vary, 4–6 hours, easy to moderate

On the laid-back island of Koh Jum, located just off Krabi, motorcycles are the only vehicles permitted. The best way to explore this tropical paradise, however, is by foot. The western coastline features a flat trail that meanders through coves and serene beaches for 6km (3.7 miles). For breathtaking views extending to Ko Phi-Phi on clear days, challenge yourself with the steep ascent up Khao Koh Pu hill.

There are two paths leading to the summit at 400m (1312ft). The most straightforward route begins at the 2.9km marker on the circular road encircling the hill. While navigating the unoccupied rubber plantations can be tricky, locals often offer guided hikes for around 1000B.

6. Um Phang

Top multiday trek Distances and durations vary, moderate to challenging

Often overshadowed by the more visited Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son regions, Um Phang and Tak boast breathtaking hiking opportunities with significantly fewer crowds. All treks commence in and around the Um Phang Wildlife Sanctuary, utilizing the Mae Klong River as a convenient route for deeper jungle exploration.

This area is perfect for multiday hikes, allowing travelers to spend a week traversing its hills, staying in Karen villages, and hiking south along the Myanmar border to the Three Pagodas Pass at Sangkhlaburi, a historical supply route for the Japanese during the construction of the Thailand–Burma railway in WWII.

However, most visitors are drawn to Thailand's largest waterfall, Nam Tok Thilawsu. From the wildlife sanctuary, it’s a two-hour trek through dense palms, towering bamboo, and strangler figs to reach this stunning cascade, complete with swimmable pools. For seasoned hikers, the demanding 20km (12.5-mile) journey to Mount Kagerla, Thailand's fourth-highest peak at 1428m (4685ft), presents a serious challenge.

7. Phanom Rung

Top hike to an ancient temple 1km (0.6 miles), half a day, easy

While it may not fit the mold of a traditional hike, few destinations can match the inspiration offered by the Phanom Rung complex near Buriram. Perched on the edge of a dormant volcano, approximately 200m (656ft) above the rice paddies of Isan, this 10th-century Khmer temple is crafted from pink sandstone.

Beyond being a remarkable archaeological site, the ascent to Phanom Rung follows an ancient pathway adorned with Naga (serpent guardians) heads, enhancing its charm. From the parking area, the route transforms into a staircase leading up to the plateau where the main temple and its 15 doorways await.

8. Phu Kradueng National Park

Premier hike to a peak 9.5km (5.9 miles), 4–6 hours, moderate to hard

Phu Kradueng, known as Bell Mountain, is the highest point in the eponymous national park located in Loei Province in northeast Isan. The initial climb is manageable, but it becomes more challenging as hikers near the plateau-like summit. At the top, a campsite allows for overnight stays and offers bicycle rentals for those who wish to explore the surroundings at a leisurely pace.

While locals often complete the hike in a single day, an overnight stay at the summit provides an opportunity to witness a stunning sunset over the Mak Dook cliffs, with sunrise views over the Nok Aen cliffs being equally captivating. The descent can be tough on the knees, so it's wise to borrow one of the available walking sticks.

9. Bangkok Phra Pradaeng Loop

Top hike near Bangkok 12km (7.5 miles), 3 hours, easy

Often referred to as the “Green Lung” of Bangkok, this scenic walking and biking trail begins at the Bang Krachao Pier (or Bang Kachao) and is safeguarded by strict regulations preventing the construction of high-rises in the area. Hiking here offers a rare glimpse into the past of the Thai capital.

The majority of the route traverses elevated pathways above a mangrove swamp, featuring several stilted homes. It's best to visit on a Sunday when the Talad Bang Nam Phueng market is bustling with tasty street food and a variety of goods, including pearl earrings and coconut pancakes.