Doi Phu Kha National Park

Doi Phu Kha National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติดอยภูคา) is the largest national park in Northern Thailand, covering 1,704 km² in the Luang Prabang Range of northeastern Nan Province. Established on 17 June 1999, the park spans eight districts and protects a vast area of montane rain forest. Its namesake peak, Doi Phu Kha (1,980 m), and the nearby Doi Phu Wae (1,837 m) are the park's most famous trekking destinations. The park is named after chomphu phu kha (Bretschneidera sinensis), a rare tree with striking pink flowers that grows only in this park within Thailand, along with other endemics such as Caryota gigas and Acer wilsonii.

The park's elevation creates a cool climate year-round. The cool season (November–February) is the best time to visit, with clear skies and temperatures ranging from 10–25°C. Early mornings often produce the famous sea of mist over the valleys. The rainy season (June–October) brings lush vegetation but trails can be muddy. The park headquarters is about 70 km north of Nan town, accessible via Rte 1080 and Rte 1256.

By Plane

Fly to Nan Airport (NNT IATA). From Nan, the park is about a 2-hour drive north via Rte 1080 towards Pua and then Rte 1256 east.

By Train

There is no train station. The nearest railway station is Den Chai in Phrae Province.

By Car / Road

From Nan town, take Rte 1080 north through Tha Wang Pha and Pua, then turn onto Rte 1256 east towards the park. The mountain roads are winding but paved. A private vehicle is essential as public transport is infrequent. 4WD is recommended in the rainy season.

A 4WD or high-clearance vehicle is recommended for accessing the park's interior and viewpoints. The park has several walking trails, from short nature walks to multi-day treks. Hiring a local guide is advised for longer routes.

• Doi Phu Wae — A 1,837 m peak with dramatic rock formations and panoramic views. The trek takes 3 days and 2 nights. The reward is a spectacular sea of mist and mountain views.

• Doi Phu Kha — The park's 1,980 m namesake peak, a challenging but rewarding climb.

• Caves — The park contains numerous limestone caves, some of which can be explored with a guide.

• Bretschneidera sinensis (chomphu phu kha) — Rare pink-flowering tree that grows in only this park within Thailand, blooming around March–April.

• Wildlife — The park is home to diverse bird species, making it a destination for birdwatchers. Mammals include gibbons, macaques, and wild boar.

• Multi-day trek to Doi Phu Wae (3 days, 2 nights) — the park's signature experience.

• Day hikes on shorter nature trails around the park headquarters.

• Birdwatching — the park is part of the Luang Prabang montane rain forests ecoregion with rich avian diversity.

• Camping — the park has designated camping areas. Bring your own tent and supplies.

• Photography — sunrise mist views from the high peaks are the park's iconic image.

The park headquarters has a basic canteen serving simple Thai dishes during daylight hours. For a wider selection, eat in Pua or Nan. Bring your own food for trekking.

Bring sufficient drinking water, as the park has limited facilities. Bottled water can be bought at the headquarters.

• Camping: The park has camping areas near the headquarters. Tent rental is available, or bring your own. Camping fee: 30 baht (Thai), 100 baht (foreigner).
• Park bungalows: Basic bungalows are available for rent at the headquarters. Book in advance through the Department of National Parks.
• Outside the park: Guesthouses in Pua (40 km southwest) offer more comfortable options for those not camping in the park.

There are no shops inside the park. Stock up on food, water, and supplies in Pua or Nan before visiting.

• Pua (40 km west) — Gateway town with Wat Phra That Bueng Sakat and Doi Samer Dao viewpoint.
• Khun Nan National Park (north) — Adjacent park on the Lao border with Sapan Waterfall and the Wa River.
• Bo Kluea (30 km north) — Mountain district with ancient salt wells and scenic Rte 1256.
• Nan town (70 km south) — Provincial capital with historic temples, Wat Phumin, and the National Museum.