Readme before you journey
Doy Huai Tu: A New Forest Trail for Thrill Seekers
The weather forecast for August 18-19, 2018, the date we planned to hike in Doi Huai Tue, Tak Province, predicts widespread rain with a 100% chance of precipitation, ranging from heavy to very heavy.
Although I knew it was the rainy season, I was determined to go hiking. I was fully aware of what I might encounter, but... how could it be so unfortunate? I was caught in a sudden downpour, as if the heavens had opened up and commanded the rain to fall relentlessly. It was a complete deluge. After the 19th, however, the skies cleared and the rain stopped. It was a welcome change.
With unwavering determination, we forge ahead, unfazed by the relentless onslaught of rain and wind. Amidst the throngs of supporters, we find solace in the unwavering love of our companions. Despite the adversity, we are blessed with an abundance of good fortune.
A video showcasing the exciting atmosphere of the event. https://youtu.be/x3i2IyPNuG4
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On the evening of August 17, 2018, we embarked on a journey from the bustling metropolis of Bangkok to Khun Pa Tong's residence in Tung Krasae sub-district, Ban Tak district, Tak province. Arriving just after 3:00 AM, we were greeted by Pa Tong's warm hospitality. He assured us that we could find a comfortable place to rest, regardless of the time, and that we would gather at sunrise. The property offered a variety of options for relaxation, including upper and lower floors, as well as space for tent camping.
At around 6:00 AM, our group of 11 woke up and prepared for our journey. The Pa Tong Homestay offered various amenities, including multiple bathrooms and breakfast service (details will be provided later). After breakfast, the host urged us to board the vehicle promptly, as we had to travel for nearly an hour to reach the starting point of our trek to the Lisu village.
Take a pickup truck from Khun Pa Tong's house to Lisu Village...
A little after nine o'clock, we arrived at the Lisu village. On the way, as we sat in the back of the pickup truck, the rain began to send a warning signal that today would be a heavy one.
Doy Huai Tu sign at Lee Suu village before starting the trek...
At Lisu Village, we meet our porters and guides. After packing our belongings and taking photos with the sign to check the condition before and after the hike, we set off without any ceremony. The starting point is the Doi Huai Tu sign. We have a watch to measure distance and altitude, so we start recording here.
The initial phase of the trek involved traversing a village and entering a cornfield. Since it was not yet planting season, the landscape appeared barren and monotonous, with only a few patches of green visible. Despite the lack of visual diversity, the walk remained pleasant and breezy, accompanied by laughter and intermittent photo stops. A lingering question arose: where had the rain gone?
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Having traversed the cornfield, it's time to enter the forest and confront the real deal. When I asked earlier where the rain had gone...hehe, the rain is waiting ahead. It's coming in...well...full force, with both wind and rain. Come on, let's go!
The initial path is like walking through a lavender field. Hehe... From now on, it's the real deal.
The trail enters the dense forest, with the path becoming steeper and the first drops of rain falling. Small leeches are present, and the route alternates between banana groves and thick, humid jungle. The air is cool and comfortable, but the increasing incline demands more effort. The wet ground becomes muddy and slippery, adding to the challenge and excitement.
It took about an hour to climb the last hill and pass the first forest line. We stopped for lunch, and it was raining the whole time, sometimes heavily, sometimes lightly. We hardly took any pictures. We didn't feel comfortable sitting down to eat because there were leeches lurking everywhere, waiting to attack. The forest was incredibly lush and humid, so we didn't have to worry about encountering leeches; we were sure to find them, and we did throughout our journey. Let's continue.
A thrilling, steep, muddy trail teeming with leeches.
After finishing lunch amidst a swarm of leeches and a drizzle, we continued our trek. The next section was particularly challenging, involving alternating uphill and downhill climbs, with some sections requiring us to traverse along the edge of cliffs. This was the most grueling part, with strong winds and heavy rain, as if a storm had been brewing since time immemorial. The wind was incredibly strong, almost lifting us off our feet. While walking through the open grassland was manageable, traversing the cliffs was nerve-wracking due to the intense wind. Thankfully, the wind was blowing inwards; if it had been blowing outwards, we would have been unable to proceed and would have had to wait for the wind to subside. Visibility was poor, forcing us to take each step cautiously. It was an exhilarating experience, to say the least. Before the final stretch, we entered a forest again, leading to the campsite. This section was also marked by heavy rain and leeches, making for a truly adventurous experience.
Coffee beans…
The raw, fresh beauty that can still be harvested along the way...
It took us over 3 hours to reach the camp, covering a distance of approximately 6 kilometers. From the moment we started walking, the rain was merciful, giving us breaks to set up our tents, cook rice, and prepare meals. However, the leeches were relentless, constantly bothering us both physically and mentally. **To paint a picture, we are currently in the middle of "Leechville," where escape or avoidance is futile. We must accept them as our close friends and companions.**
Upon arrival at the camp, the journey itself needs no further description...
After dinner, we sat around talking about our troubles, feeling a bit down. The rain started to drizzle, so we decided to call it a night and head to our tents. But we believe that every hike has its ups and downs, and the bad luck won't last forever.
The chef and assistant chef, along with the central kitchen, at the Tak Harnsa Village…
The atmosphere at the Doi Huai Tu Campsite...
A new day dawns, and the heavens seem to smile upon our determination to experience and connect with nature. Today, we are greeted by the sun, its rays illuminating the sky as it ascends towards its zenith. We behold the surrounding landscape, the breathtaking beauty of the forest, and the wonders of the natural world...
A new day dawns with an incredibly beautiful atmosphere.
Today was incredibly lively. The fatigue, discouragement, and despair from yesterday were nowhere to be seen. In the morning, we had a combined breakfast and lunch, packed up our camp, and prepared to ascend to the highest peak of Doi Huai Tu.
After a short hike of about half an hour from the camp, we arrived at the summit of Doi Huai Tu, standing at an altitude of 1356 meters above sea level. The view before us was breathtaking. The sky was clear, with no sign of rain. According to our guide and the porters, we were the first group of tourists to witness this view. Doi Huai Tu has only recently been opened to tourists, and only about 10 groups before us had attempted the climb, all of whom were disappointed due to the weather conditions.
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On a clear day, we were the first group of tourists to reach the summit of Doi Huai Tu. We were overjoyed.
The sky allows us all to gather every good feeling from here and take it home, even though it is a short time, it is enough before the large group of clouds moves in again, it is a signal to say goodbye...
Being a couple comes with sweet moments like this, doesn't it? Adorable…
Coming alone can be just as enjoyable...
Descending from the mountain peak, we encountered a rainstorm as we passed through the meadow on our ascent, obscuring the surrounding scenery. However, on our return, the skies cleared, revealing the breathtaking beauty of the lush green meadow. The sight was truly magnificent.
Lush green forest before returning home. Good...
Many forests and mountains have been traversed, each path offering unique beauty and distinct experiences. This time, at Doi Huai Tu, the ordinary trail transformed into a grueling challenge due to the unpredictable weather. The relentless rain and the struggle to survive in the village of Tak Harn brought moments of despair. However, the reward was a breathtaking encounter on the mountaintop when the skies finally cleared. Every aspect of this journey will forever remain a magnificent and cherished memory.
This journey has brought back many good things. The existence of nature is right there. Once we just asked to touch it, to admire it, to absorb it, and bring back only the impression and driving force of life. It's really good… Another thing is that nature is unpredictable, but nature is not really cruel.
Clue...
To reach Doi Huai Tue, contact Khun Pa Tong at 093 8162949.
No matter where you are in Thailand, bring yourself to Khun Pa Tong, Tung Krasae Subdistrict, Ban Tak District, Tak Province.
The cost of transportation from the meeting point to the starting point of the Li Su village trek is 1500 baht for 10 people.
Guide fee: 1200 baht
Porter fee: 1200 baht per 20 kilograms
Breakfast/lunch on the day of the hike, dinner on the return day, bathroom use, and sleeping accommodations are 300 baht per person.
Garbage fee 300 baht
Let's travel together.
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Wednesday, February 26, 2025 8:00 PM
