Phu Chi Fa, Chiang Rai Province

Phu Chi Fa is located in the Theing District of Chiang Rai Province, within a national forest reserve. It stands at an elevation of approximately 1,628 meters above sea level. Unlike most mountains in the region, Phu Chi Fa is not referred to as a "doi" in the local language, but rather as a "phu." This is because the name was given by outsiders who came to the area. In the past, this region was a stronghold of communist insurgents. After the fall of communism, people began to visit the area to appreciate its natural beauty, and it has since become a popular tourist destination. In addition to its stunning panoramic views, Phu Chi Fa is renowned for its breathtaking sea of mist, making it one of the most famous and picturesque locations in Thailand for witnessing this natural phenomenon.


The summit of Phu Chi Fa, the highest peak in the Doi Pha Mon mountain range, features a long cliff that extends towards the Lao People's Democratic Republic. The cliff's 45-degree angle, resembling a finger pointing towards the sky, inspired the name "Phu Chi Fa," which translates to "Sky-Pointing Mountain." The summit offers a flat area of approximately 1 kilometer for exploration. The cliff's edge provides a breathtaking view of the Laotian village of Chiang Tong. Two popular viewpoints are located at the summit and on the plateau before reaching the peak, offering clear views of the pointed mountain.

Travel Season

The summit of Phu Chi Fa boasts a cool climate year-round, becoming particularly chilly during the winter season. This makes it an ideal destination for visitors throughout the year. The opportunity to witness a sea of mist presents itself from early morning until late morning. Even after the mist dissipates in the midday sun, breathtaking views of the Mekong River remain, snaking its way through the lush forests of Laos. Each time of day offers a unique and captivating perspective.

December - January:

This period marks the winter season, offering breathtaking views of low-lying mist. Notably, the trail leading to Phu Chi Fa passes through a forest of cherry blossom trees, also known as "Phaya Sua Kroeng," which bloom with stunning pink flowers. During the New Year, visitors can witness the vibrant New Year celebrations where the Mhong people dress in their traditional attire. A unique highlight of the event is the "throwing of the ball," a playful interaction between young men and women.

February – March: Although it is still winter, the fog may rise high on some days, and there is something equally beautiful: the blooming of the white flowers of the Siamese rosewood tree, also known as the "chankokopa" tree, over a wide area.

April – July: The hot season in Thailand, but the weather on Phu Chi Fa is still cool and comfortable. Although there may be very little to no sea of mist, you can still enjoy the views of the forests and the Mekong River on the Lao side. However, due to the dry weather, there may be wildfires.

August – September: The rainy season arrives, bringing lush greenery back to the trees and grass. The air remains cool and comfortable, with mist floating high above the ground. It is important to be extra cautious when hiking during this period, as the trails become slippery.

October – November: This period marks the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the cool season. The lush greenery from the rainy season continues, and the weather is pleasantly cool to slightly cold. Small snails may be seen occasionally, and fog begins to form in the lowlands. However, there may be occasional rain showers, making the trails slippery and causing the fog to rise.

Souvenirs

As this area is home to the Hmong people, a Thai hill tribe, most of the souvenirs sold here are related to their culture, such as clothing, bags, shoes, and various snacks. These items are available for purchase at the parking lot of the second mountain access road.

Transportation

Cars and Motorcycles

The total distance is approximately 120 kilometers. From Chiang Rai Airport, take Highway 5023 and then Highway 1020 to reach Thoeng District. Then, continue on Highway 1021 and turn left onto Highway 1155. Turn right onto the road leading to "Wanon National Park Phu Sang Waterfall, Ban Huak" on Highway 1093. You will reach a large three-way intersection before reaching Phu Chi Fa, where there are many signs for resorts and accommodations. From this point, there are two ways to reach Phu Chi Fa. If you are on a motorcycle, sedan, or 2-wheel drive vehicle, it is recommended to take the right road, which is the road to Wanon National Park Phu Chi Fa or the road to Ban Huak. This road is paved for 4 kilometers until you reach the parking lot. There are several shops and a large parking area. Then, walk another 750 meters to the top of the mountain. The other road is the road to Ban Pha Tang or Doi Pha Tang, also known as the "Phu Chi Fa Ban Rom Fa Thong" road. The distance is 4.7 kilometers, which is slightly different, but about 1.9 kilometers after the road becomes quite steep and slippery, especially during the rainy season. However, once you reach the parking lot, it is only a 400-meter walk to the top of the mountain. If you have already driven to your accommodation and do not want to drive up to the Phu Chi Fa parking lot, you can contact the accommodation to arrange for a rental car. The accommodation will help you find a car to take you up to Phu Chi Fa.

Public Transportation

Route Colors:

  • Purple: Follows the same path.
  • Blue: Goes towards Phu Chi Fa Forest Park or Ban Huak.
  • Pink: Goes towards Ban Pha Tang or Ban Rom Fa Thong.
  • Dotted Line: Indicates the walking distance.

Method 1: High Season (October - February)

From Bangkok, you can travel by plane to Mae Fah Luang International Airport (Chiang Rai Airport) and take a taxi from the airport to Chiang Rai Bus Terminal. There are two mini-vans per day to Phu Chi Fa, departing at 7:00 AM and 12:30 PM, and returning at 9:30 AM and 3:00 PM. The journey takes approximately 2 hours. The mini-van will stop at the village before the ascent to Phu Chi Fa, at the second point (Phu Chi Fa Forest Park or the road to Ban Huak). From there, you can take another car up the mountain for 30 baht per person each way, making the round trip 60 baht per person.

Method 2: High Season (October - February)

From Bangkok, take a bus to Chiang Rai Bus Terminal and then take a van to Phu Chi Fa, similar to method 1.

Method 3: Both High and Low Seasons

From Bangkok, take a bus to Thoeng District. Alternatively, from Chiang Rai, take the Chiang Rai-Thoeng-Chiang Kham bus line to Thoeng. From Thoeng, there are shared taxis available to take you to Phu Chi Fa. However, during the low season, shared taxis may be scarce. In this case, you can hire a private car for approximately 1,200-1,500 baht.

Journey to Phu Chi Fa



This is a translation of the Thai phrase "บันทึกการเดินทาง ภูชี้ฟ้า" which means "Journey to Phu Chi Fa".

Phu Chi Fa is a mountain peak located in the northern province of Chiang Rai, Thailand. It is known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, as well as its unique rock formations.

The phrase "บันทึกการเดินทาง" can be translated as "journey record" or "travelogue". This suggests that the text may be a personal account of someone's trip to Phu Chi Fa.

From Chiang Rai Airport, rent a motorbike and head towards Thoeng District to Phu Chi Fa, a total distance of 120 kilometers, taking approximately 2 hours. Along the way, enjoy the scenic views of lush green trees and mountains on both sides of the road.


We arrived at our booked accommodation, "Phu Chi Fa Homestay Baan Prajan", located about 1 kilometer before the three-way intersection leading to Phu Chi Fa. There are numerous accommodations available near the Phu Chi Fa ascent, and you can choose the one that best suits your needs. Most accommodations charge per person, with a rate of 500 baht per person, including dinner and breakfast. However, during the low season, some accommodations may be closed for renovations, so it's advisable to contact them before your arrival. As for us, we opted for a place with a great view and close proximity, which was perfect considering we had our own vehicle.

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House

There are a total of 6 houses, during the high season (October - February) the price per house is 1,200 baht including breakfast, which is rice porridge, bread and coffee. During the low season, the price per house is only 500 baht, but breakfast is not included. The view is very beautiful, you can see the wide scenery. As soon as you open the front door, you can see the beautiful view.


Upon entering the house, you will find a gas stove with a kettle on it. You can cook here (however, during the low season, gas may not be installed). There is also a sink for washing dishes.


The bathroom features a gas-powered water heater, ensuring a warm and comfortable shower experience. The two beds are designed for maximum comfort, with thick blankets, a TV, a fan, and a dressing table.


If you'd like to cook, there are stoves available for free. You just need to buy charcoal, which costs 50 baht per bag (a large bag that lasts for 2 days). Grilling grates are provided, and if you'd like to have a "moo kata" (Thai BBQ), there are also pots and pans available to borrow, along with plates and spoons.

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In addition to accommodation, the resort also offers food, beverages, and transportation to Phu Chi Fa. It's worth noting that the owners and staff are incredibly friendly and welcoming.

For inquiries, please contact 081-980-4306 / 081-706-1137.

Website: http://www.phucheefahhomestay.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PhuCheefahHomStay



Rest before nightfall, then climb to the top of the mountain to enjoy the sunset. Take the shorter route to Doi Pha Tang to avoid a longer hike. However, the road is slippery, especially during early mornings or evenings when fog descends. If it rains, the road becomes even more treacherous.


In the late afternoon, you can enjoy a different kind of beautiful view. There is a little fog, but you can clearly see the scenery below.


It was already evening when we returned to our accommodation. We stopped to buy a few more things to make a hot pot for dinner, having already purchased the main ingredients from the Lotus supermarket in Thoeng district. It was delicious, relaxing, and satisfying. Everything was perfect. As the night wore on, the air grew increasingly cooler. Sitting around the hot pot in the cool evening air was a truly wonderful experience for us.



The heavy rain started at 6 am, so I waited for it to stop before opening the door to enjoy the view. I saw mist floating around the mountain range visible from the house. Seeing such a beautiful view early in the morning is truly refreshing.


Due to the slippery conditions on the original ascent route, we opted for an alternative path today. We reached a three-way junction and turned right onto the Phu Chi Fa Forest Park road. This route boasts well-maintained asphalt throughout, offering a significantly safer and more comfortable driving experience. The car park is spacious, but the walk to the viewpoint is slightly longer, covering a distance of 750 meters. Nevertheless, this distance is considered manageable.

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During the rainy season, until the end of the rains and the beginning of winter, you may encounter hammer-headed worms or hammerhead slugs. These belong to the same group as liver flukes, but they are not harmful to humans or other living things. This is because they cannot enter the bloodstream. Therefore, there is no need to worry about this species posing any danger to human life. However, there may be a few leeches lurking along the paths.


This morning, the fog was very thick, floating high and covering everything. It was beautiful, and the air was cool and comfortable. Even though it was already 8 or 9 am, the fog was still everywhere.


Upon reaching the summit plateau, visitors will encounter the Phu Chi Fa sign and the boundary marker. While exploring the area, it is crucial to exercise caution and avoid venturing near the cliffs, despite the presence of rope barriers. Tragically, there have been instances of fatal falls from these cliffs.


The vibrant colors of the local Thai hill tribe people, dressed in their beautiful attire, add to the charm of this location. These young guides, who sing and dance for tourists as they ascend to the viewpoint, provide a unique and memorable experience.


Before leaving, we captured another breathtaking view from the top of the mountain. The scenery was equally stunning, offering a sense of floating amidst the clouds.


Along the way up and down, you can also see wildflowers of various colors. If you are afraid of getting tired from walking, try looking at the flowers and leaves along the way. It can also help you enjoy yourself and forget about being tired.



After descending from Phu Chi Fa, we stopped for lunch at a nearby restaurant near the entrance. The view was beautiful, the prices were reasonable, and the food was delicious.


The two dishes we ordered, along with drinks, came to a total of 110 baht.


The view from the restaurant is breathtaking, offering a delightful dining experience with stunning scenery.


Next, we stopped by a roadside cabbage farm. The farm was vast, and we happened to arrive as the locals were harvesting the cabbages. We inquired about purchasing some, and were initially told that each kilogram cost 10 baht, with no minimum purchase. We requested one head, thinking it would be enough for our dinner that night. However, the kind farmers generously selected a large head weighing 2 kilograms! They only charged us 10 baht and even allowed us to take photos freely. Out of respect, we only took a few quick pictures before leaving.


The farm was situated on a steep slope, resembling a backdrop at a party. The incline was so sharp that it made one wonder how the farmers managed to plant and harvest crops. Their dedication and skill are truly admirable.


On our last night in Phu Chi Fa, we decided to have another barbecue (haha!). We bought pork, instant noodles, and dipping sauce at Phu Chi Fa shop, a large grocery store located on the left side of the road leading up to Phu Chi Fa. The shop is owned by the same people as Phu Chi Fa Homestay. However, we arrived late in the evening, and there was no pork, chicken, or meatballs left. We were almost discouraged until we tried asking the restaurant where we had lunch earlier. Luckily, the owner sold us some and even gave us half a bag of meatballs for free! Our trip to Phu Chi Fa was amazing. The views, the accommodation, the barbecue, and the kindness of the people here were all unforgettable. This was actually our second visit after coming with my mother and sister earlier this year, and we are already planning a third trip. ^^



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