Mae Ngao National Park ‘Wanna touch the cool water drizzle of the river?’ 

Visiting a national park is a good idea if you want to escape from hot weather, as it consists of many trees, water sources, and mountains. Therefore you can relax your stress. And if you don’t know which national park you should go, then let’s this following one be your choice.

Mae Ngao National Park: An Unforgettable Natural Retreat in Mae Hong Son

Nestled in the serene Sop Moei District of Mae Hong Son Province, Mae Ngao National Park spans approximately 412.2 million square meters, offering a sanctuary of lush forests, towering mountains, and pristine rivers. This expansive park is a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking tranquility and adventure alike.​

Geography and Climate

The park’s landscape is dominated by high mountains, serving as the source of numerous rivers that flow into the Salween River in Myanmar. The terrain’s complexity contributes to a diverse ecosystem, with mixed deciduous and evergreen forests blanketing the area. Mae Ngao experiences three distinct seasons:​

• Rainy Season (June to October): Characterized by lush greenery and abundant rainfall, with an average annual precipitation of 1,120 mm.​

• Winter (November to February): Featuring cool, foggy mornings and comfortable daytime temperatures, ideal for trekking and outdoor activities.​

• Summer (March to May): Marked by warmer temperatures, with highs reaching up to 35°C.​

Flora and Fauna

Mae Ngao National Park boasts a rich biodiversity:​

• Flora: The park’s forests are home to valuable tree species such as teak (Tectona grandis), redwood (Xylia xylocarpa), and various species of Shorea. Understory plants include ferns, ground orchids, and diverse grasses.​

• Fauna: Wildlife sightings may include wild boars, Asiatic black bears, gibbons, and a variety of bird species like red junglefowls and blue magpies.​

Attractions of Mae Ngao National Park

• Olohgro Waterfall: This magnificent waterfall plunges over 150 meters from a cliff into the dense forest below. The sight of water cascading down the rocky face, combined with the sound of rushing water, creates a mesmerizing experience.

• The Two-Colored River: A natural marvel where two rivers converge, each with its own distinct color. This unique phenomenon showcases nature’s artistry in a simple yet captivating form.

• Doi Pui Viewpoint: Standing at an elevation of 1,000 meters, this viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views of the park’s mountainous landscape. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunrise and witness the sea of mist that blankets the valleys.

• Mae Wa Luang Waterfall: This serene waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery, offers a tranquil escape for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the peaceful ambiance of the forest.

Activities to Experience

• Rafting Along the Ngao River: Drift along the clear waters of the Ngao River on a bamboo raft, surrounded by the park’s dense forests and towering mountains. This activity offers a unique perspective of the park’s natural beauty. The best season for rafting is between June and January, when water levels are ideal. Rafting trips can range from short excursions lasting a couple of hours to multi-day adventures with overnight stays in nearby villages.

• Trekking Through Teak Forests: Explore the park’s ancient teak forests on a guided trek. The trails lead visitors through dense foliage, offering opportunities to spot wildlife and learn about the park’s rich biodiversity. Trekking routes vary from beginner-friendly day hikes to challenging multi-day treks that take adventurers deep into the wilderness, allowing for overnight camping under the stars.

• Waterfall Exploration: Discover the park’s many waterfalls, including Olohgro Waterfall and Mae Wa Luang Waterfall. Each waterfall provides a different perspective of nature’s power and beauty. Some waterfalls require a short hike through the jungle, while others are accessible via longer treks, offering more immersive experiences.

• Doi Pui Peak Adventure: Hike to the summit of Doi Pui Peak, which rises to an elevation of 1,600-1,700 meters. The viewpoint offers an unparalleled view of the surrounding landscape, especially during the cool season when the sea of mist is most prominent. Camping at the peak is an option for those who want to experience the magical sunrise above the mist-covered valleys.

• Wildlife and Bird Watching: The diverse ecosystems in Mae Ngao National Park make it an excellent location for spotting wildlife and bird species. Visitors can see various bird species, including blue magpies and hornbills, as well as mammals such as deer, wild boars, and even elusive gibbons swinging through the trees.

• Cultural Experiences in Karen Villages: Some trekking and rafting routes pass through traditional Karen villages, where visitors can learn about local customs, weaving techniques, and traditional herbal medicine. Engaging with local communities adds a cultural dimension to the adventure, offering insights into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for generations.

Facilities, Entrance Fee, and Opening Hours

Mae-Ngao National Park offers basic facilities, including campsites, restrooms, and picnic areas. The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with an affordable entrance fee. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and water, as amenities are limited within the park.

How to get there 

Mae Ngao National Park is located at Ban Mae Ngao, Mae Suad District, Sob Moei County, Mae Hong Son Province.

You may start your trip from the heart of Chiang Mai. If you go along the Highway No.108, you can switch to the Highwat No.105 instead as soon as you reach Mae Sariang County. Then, keep going for another 25 kilometres until you reach Sob Moei County. Finally, the last 15 kilometres will be complete in no time and you will reach Ban Mae Ngao.