Thailand Travel Guide To

Chiang Dao

HIGHLIGHT
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Chiang Dao, with its towering limestone peaks, hidden caves, and peaceful hill tribe villages.

cHIANG DAO

The Hidden Heart of Northern Thailand

Chiang Dao is where Northern Thailand slows down and lets you breathe. Towering limestone mountains, misty mornings, and tiny villages set the scene, with Doi Luang Chiang Dao — Thailand’s third-highest peak — watching over it all.

This area has been home to the Lanna people for centuries, and today you’ll still find a mix of cultures here — from local Thai communities to Lahu, Akha, Hmong, and Karen hill tribes — each adding their own flavors, food, and traditions.

What to do? Hike or camp on Doi Chiang Dao for epic sunrise views, wander through the cave temple at Wat Tham Chiang Dao, soak in natural hot springs, chase waterfalls in Pha Daeng National Park, or spend a day in the local markets tasting northern dishes you won’t find anywhere else.

If you have time, visit the surrounding villages and stay in a homestay — it’s the best way to experience the slower rhythm of life

What's the weather like?

When to visit Chiang Dao

Chiang Dao is beautiful year-round, but the cool, dry months from November to February are pure magic — crisp mornings, clear skies, and perfect trekking conditions. The rainy season (July–October) turns everything lush and green with dramatic waterfalls, but bring a raincoat. March through May can get hot and smoky, so plan around burning season if you can.

30 - 36

°C

27 - 31

°C

218

Summer

March to May

Monsoon

June to October

13 - 28

°C

Winter

November to February

Summer

March to May

Monsoon

June to October

Winter

November to February

Example Trips

Book Your Tour

Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.

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Sticky Waterfalls' Review

I really like this tour so much.. everthing just perfect.. Annie is very talented guide and she will serve you the best experience in this tour.. One of must-do in Chiang Mai..

Yulianto, Jarkata, Indonesia

Sticky Waterfalls' Review

The highlight of my trip to Thailand! What a unique experience. Annie made the entire thing. She’s so sweet and helps the group connect - great if you’re a solo traveler like me! She also showed us the all the locals only spots. Lunch was awesome and I felt so calm and whole by the end of it 🥹 highly recommend!!

Maddie, Los Angeles, CA

Sticky Waterfalls' Review July 2025

I highly recommend this tour!! Annie was an amazing host. Everything ran perfectly smoothly, was super well organized, and felt like we were taken care of. Annie shared some really special places with us and told us history/stories. The experience was incredible and to top it off the lunch was also great! We really enjoyed our time and are so happy we chose to tour with Annie.