Seeking stars but finding none, a journey to Phu Soi Dao in search of celestial wonders that remained elusive. This trip was a much-needed escape for weary office workers, a chance to recharge and revitalize. But why choose a challenging adventure when a relaxing beach getaway was within reach? The unanimous response was a desire for novelty, a yearning to break free from the mundane. Thus, the grand expedition to Phu Soi Dao was set in motion. Some, new to such adventures, were unprepared, opting for on-the-spot surprises. Having experienced similar journeys before, I assured my companions that comfort would prevail. With a chuckle, I proclaimed that this first-time experience would either lead to future escapades or a resolute "never again!"

General Information

Phu Soi Dao National Park spans two provinces: Uttaradit and Phitsanulok. Its highest peak, Phu Soi Dao, stands at 2,102 meters above sea level, making it the fourth highest mountain in Thailand. The park's main attraction is the purple flower field known as "Dok Hong Naa Khak," which blooms during the rainy season from August to September each year.

Getting There

Cars traveling from Bangkok to Chat Trakan District, Phitsanulok Province, take Highway 1237 via Ban Bo Phak to connect with Highway 1268, leading to Phu Soi Dao Waterfall in Phu Soi Dao National Park.

Train from Hua Lamphong to Phitsanulok station, then take a three-wheeled vehicle to the bus terminal, and then take a bus to Chat Trakan district. Then take a two-row car to the park.

Things to Know Before Climbing Doi Inthanon

Transportation:

  • Public buses: Choose a bus that arrives at the destination before 5:00 AM to catch the connecting bus to Chae Hom District. Alternatively, consider hiring a taxi or songthaew.

Camping:

  • Renting tents: You can rent tents directly from the park without booking online. The park provides tents, sleeping bags, pillows, and mats with porter service included (tent condition is 80% usable).
  • Porter fees: 30 Baht per kilogram.
  • Garbage deposit: 200 Baht per group.
  • Cooking equipment: Charcoal stoves, gas stoves (canister gas), grilling grates, hand-held pots, and large pots are available for rent.
  • Other kitchen equipment: Bring your own utensils, seasonings, plates, bowls, cups, etc.
  • Park entrance fee: 40 Baht.

Footwear:

  • Hiking shoes are recommended. If unavailable, sneakers are acceptable.

Mobile Network:

  • Only AIS and True have signal coverage.

Food:

  • Doi Inthanon hotpot: 399 Baht per set. Order before arriving at the park. Porters will carry it up and deliver it to you. You will also need to rent a stove and pot for the hotpot (it's actually better to bring your own food).
  • Bring rain gear and a tarp to cover your tent in case of rain.
  • Insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes.
  • Flashlight and lantern.
  • Toilets and showers are available, but you need to collect water from the stream for use.
  • Drinking water: The park provides rainwater specifically for drinking. Alternatively, you can buy bottled water and have it carried up by porters.
  • Prepare water and lunch for the day of your climb.

Opening Date:

  • The summit (2,100 meters) opens on November 1st or depending on weather conditions.

The journey began at 23:00 from Bangkok in a chartered van, ensuring comfort and convenience for the novice hikers on this exciting adventure.

Early in the morning at the Chaichum Market in Chaichum District, Phitsanulok, it is a well-known place for those who are going to Phu Soi Dao to stop by to buy food supplies or anything they need.

The opposite side has a Lotus Express with ready-to-eat food, daily necessities, and pre-packaged fresh ingredients.

The journey from the market to the park headquarters takes approximately 1.5 hours. The luggage for 8 people and 2 nights on Phu Soi Dao is very heavy, 55+ kg.

Rush to contact the staff and weigh the luggage to be carried by the porters, for fear that the porters will be gone and have to carry it up themselves.

The colorful bags are noticeable. Hehe.

The total cost for porters was over 6,000 baht, including the rental fees for three tents from a website. This was quite a significant expense.

We then had breakfast at the welfare shop.

After recharging, we took a group photo before continuing our journey.

Transferring to a pickup truck to reach Phu Soi Dao Waterfall, the starting point for the hike, everyone was understandably excited, as the path ahead remained unknown.

We will walk to the lawn, a distance of 6.5 km. However, the app shows a much longer distance. T_T

Start by walking along the different levels of Phusoidao Waterfall.

Everyone must stop to take a picture at this sign.

There were a lot of iron stairs in the beginning.

Will anyone fall if they cross the bamboo bridge?

Some areas are banana forests, full of banana trees.

Walking all the way to the farewell hill. Honestly, I don't want to say goodbye, but I want to go back with my family. 55+

I caught a glimpse of a red velvet ant. I wonder what would happen if it stung me.

Hikers reach the challenging "Neung Prab Sien" hill, where many take a break and offer words of encouragement to one another.

We continued walking for a while before stopping to eat the lunch we had brought.

Porter's rest stop.

It's always a joy to see a sign.

What kind of fruit is this?

After walking for so long, I've only passed three hills! This is ridiculous!

That is the peak we must reach.

Reached 1000 meters!

Only 1 km away.

Take a break before tackling the final climb.

Although it is brutal, the view is equally breathtaking.

And then…

The journey doesn't end there, as you'll need to continue walking for approximately 500 meters.

Upon arrival, approach the designated personnel to collect your rented equipment and await the arrival of your porters carrying your luggage. Subsequently, select a suitable location and proceed to set up your campsite.

Landmarks have been successfully created: 3 park tents and 1 self-brought tent.

Let's take a look at the bathroom on the mountain.

The water dipper for bathing must not be used for washing dishes under any circumstances.

Tonight, we ended with the shabu-dori that we had ordered. Everything we ate was delicious. 55+

Day 2

The sun rose, but I didn't bother to watch it. I just lay there in my tent, being lazy. When I finally woke up, it was time to prepare breakfast. I had brought plenty of supplies in my bag.

Sun-dried pork and sun-dried beef, both grilled and fried. If not grilled, it is probably not edible now because the pork is starting to smell.

Served with pickled mustard greens.

After hiking around Phu Soi Dao, the rain poured down for an hour, forcing us to take shelter in our tents. However, to our surprise, the tent leaked, causing water to flood in. We requested a replacement tent from the park staff, but unfortunately, all the tents were leaking.

The rainy season has arrived, marking the perfect time for a rally around the mountain. The "Dok Ngorn Nak" flowers, which everyone desires to see with their own eyes, are becoming increasingly scarce.

Walk through from behind the park office.

A meadow of pine trees with a view of the summit of Phu Soi Dao, which is filled with clouds.

Raincoat themes are also available.


Kilometer marker

Aiming for the peak of 2100, we must conquer it again.

At the end of the path, you will find a sign. Turn left to watch the sunset.

One more shot of 2100 before heading back to the tent.

For tonight's dinner, use up any remaining provisions and prepare them for tomorrow's breakfast.

Still no stars on the second night. T_T

It's 4 am and there are still no stars. What a waste of a trip! They say you haven't truly arrived at Phu Soi Dao if you haven't seen the stars. And it seems they were right. Sigh.

Day 3

Prepare breakfast and pack your belongings for the mountain.

When stepping down, please do so gently.

Relax, porter.

Don't miss the temperature display column.

Let's go down, everyone.

And the view that needs to be photographed (if it wasn't captured on the way up), take it now.

Thank you to everyone who has read and enjoyed our journey. Please like, share, and care for us.

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