What is Ang Khang like during the rainy season?

Even seasoned travelers to Ang Khang often miss this question, as they have never visited during the rainy season, the low season, or the green season, when tourist numbers dwindle to almost nothing. Even I have never been to Ang Khang during the rainy season.

Fortunately, in early May, the rainy season, Angkhang Nature Resort invited me to explore Angkhang during the rainy season. They mentioned that it has more to offer than many people realize. This led to my first-ever rainy season trip to Angkhang, which I had never considered before.

This trip further deepened my love for the rainy season.

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As many of you may know, the most convenient way to travel to Doi Ang Khang is by private car. Our vehicle of choice was a motorbike rented from our regular shop at the Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal. However, if you're not as tough as we are, I recommend renting a car instead (haha...). They are easy to find for rent both at the airport and in the city center.

The Three Routes to Doi Ang Khang

There are three routes to the summit of Doi Ang Khang: one direct and two indirect. The direct route, via Highway 1249 in Fang District, is a steep climb that is not recommended for small vehicles or inexperienced drivers. The indirect routes, starting from Chiang Dao or Chai Prakan Districts, meet at Ban Sin Chai before ascending to Doi Ang Khang. These routes have a gentler incline compared to the direct route.

This time, I chose to go up via Chiang Dao. From the main road, Highway 107, I reached the intersection of Muang Ngai with Highway 1178 and turned left. I followed the signs to Ang Khang, passing Sri Sangwan Waterfall, Pha Daeng National Park, and Ban Arunotai. Then, I started to climb the mountain until I reached Ban Sinchai (the junction with the road from Chai Prakan). I continued to climb the mountain to Doi Ang Khang, a distance of about 80 kilometers from the Muang Ngai intersection.

The distance from the starting point at Muang Ngay intersection to the top of Doi Inthanon is similar whether you take the Fang or Chiang Dao route. In fact, the Chiang Dao route is about 4-5 kilometers shorter. However, the Chiang Dao route takes longer due to its narrower and more winding roads. The Fang route, on the other hand, allows for faster travel on a wider road with a steeper incline.

I secretly stopped by Baan Na Lao Mai, Doi Luang Chiang Dao for a night. I left Chiang Dao in the late morning and arrived at the Doi Ang Khang viewpoint near Mon Son around noon. The atmosphere was fantastic. Camping is not allowed at the moment, so it was just the two of us enjoying the view.

This trip's accommodation is Angkhang Nature Resort, managed by The Mosaic Collection, a subsidiary of ONYX, or as we know it, the same group as Amari Hotels. I use the term "managed by" because the actual owner is not Amari or ONYX, but the Royal Project.

The establishment of the Ang Khang Nature Resort was a collaborative effort by various local stakeholders who aimed to provide standard accommodation for visitors, scholars, and international guests who came to study the Royal Project on Doi Ang Khang. Upon completion of the hotel, Amari was appointed to manage its operations. The hotel's land belongs to the Royal Project and is adjacent to the Ang Khang Royal Agricultural Station.

This inquiry seeks to understand why Doi Ang Khang has only one luxury resort and how it came to be established.

The resort's lush surroundings are reminiscent of a royal agricultural station, offering a truly refreshing and invigorating experience. The harmonious integration of nature and design creates a truly immersive and authentic atmosphere.

The temperature during the rainy season is pleasant, making Ang Khang a perfect destination for a refreshing getaway.

The resort offers 76 identical rooms, divided into two zones: Deluxe Mountain, situated on a hillside, and Deluxe Garden, nestled within the landscaped gardens below. Our room was located in the latter zone.

During the low season, rainy season, room rates are up to 50% lower than during the peak season. The Deluxe Mountain Room starts at less than 1,600 baht for two people, including breakfast. >>> https://th.mosaic-collection.com/angkhang

An army marches on its stomach. The restaurant has both outdoor (with a roof to protect from the rain) and indoor seating. You can choose to sit wherever you like. With such pleasant weather, I would prefer to sit outside.

Nestled amidst the natural beauty of Ang Khang, the resort offers a unique dining experience with fresh produce sourced almost entirely from the Royal Project and local farmers. Each season brings its own culinary highlights. During our stay in May, the highlight was the abundance of peaches (though we prefer to call them plums).

Indulge in a delectable peach-themed menu, featuring savory peach-glazed pork ribs, sweet peach ice cream crepes, and refreshing peach smoothies. Complete the experience with a side of spicy nam prik ong dip. This culinary journey promises an explosion of flavors.



After a delicious meal, we headed to our spacious 36-square-meter room. The room was well-equipped with all the amenities you would expect from a hotel in the Amari chain, including a refrigerator, kettle, work desk, hairdryer, safe, bathrobes, and more. The bathroom featured a hot and cold shower system.




This room does not have air conditioning because it is not necessary. What we need more is this... a bed with an electric blanket for warmth, controlled by a remote control. This is a great feature.

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The balcony outside the room offers chairs for relaxation, allowing you to immerse yourself in the view of the lush green garden surrounded by mountains. This is the essence of the refreshing atmosphere of Ang Khang.


We took a stroll through the park, where we were greeted by an abundance of flowers and birds, particularly the red-whiskered bulbuls, also known as the crested mynas. These birds flew in flocks of dozens, captivating our attention. Initially, I had planned to visit the Royal Agricultural Station or another nearby attraction, but upon witnessing this spectacle, I realized there was no need to venture further. Simply observing the birds around our accommodation proved to be an incredibly fulfilling experience.



The resort is home to a vast number of Japanese cherry blossom trees, which burst into full bloom during the winter months, particularly in December and January.

Strolling through the garden, we arrived at the Royal Garden, which is adjacent to the Angkhang Royal Agricultural Station. This area is a collection of trees planted by various members of the royal family, including foreign dignitaries.

I took photos until my memory was almost full. I had so much fun that I forgot the time. When I looked at my watch again, it was already 6:30 pm. For dinner, I ordered local dishes: Yunnan spiced fried chicken, roasted pork salad, and stir-fried Aang Khang mushrooms. The mushrooms were small, chewy, and perfectly tender. All the dishes were delicious, especially with the fresh vegetables. It was amazing.

The weather tonight is perfect at 22 degrees Celsius. A light drizzle around 9 or 10 pm gives us more hope of seeing a sea of fog tomorrow. Taking a warm bath and getting into a comfortable blanket, let's wait and see tomorrow morning.

Just after 5 am, I set the alarm because it gets light quite early these days. The rain stopped in the middle of the night, so no need to worry about showering. In this kind of weather, why do I shower so often? (lol...) After getting dressed, I rushed straight to Mon Son. I almost screamed because even though it wasn't full coverage today, the sea of fog came as promised.

We admired the sea of mist at the Ang Khang Base of Operations, a military unit located next to Mon Son. We chose this spot because it offered a more scenic angle and was slightly closer to the mist.

However, this is not our final destination. We will continue our journey to the summit of Doi Ang Khang, which stands at 1,928 meters above sea level and offers breathtaking views of the mist-shrouded mountains. The trail to the summit begins near the base camp and is a well-maintained nature trail created by Doi Pha Hom Pok National Park. The hike is approximately 640 meters long and takes about 40 minutes at a leisurely pace. Remember to bring a bottle of water for each person before embarking on this adventure.

The initial ascent is a steep uphill climb, which will undoubtedly be tiring. However, once you reach the shoulder of the hill, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the base camp and the Mon Son viewpoint below. The stunning vista will surely alleviate the fatigue of the climb.

With each step, the path became clearer and less strenuous. The absence of danger, coupled with the breathtaking sea of mist beside us, made the fatigue fade away.


We have reached the summit of Doi Ang Khang, a peak nearly two thousand meters high. This is a must-visit destination for adventure enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views and a challenging climb.




The most extraordinary aspect of the entire experience was the breathtaking beauty of the sea of mist, visible from both the base camp and the summit of Doi Ang Khang. We were the only two people present, with no other tourists in sight. Imagine the sheer bliss of having this breathtaking scenery all to ourselves.

After enjoying the white mist to our heart's content, we returned for breakfast. During the low season, the resort typically has less than five rooms occupied and serves a la carte breakfast. However, we were fortunate to have a small group staying at the resort, so we were treated to a buffet breakfast.

The food here may not be as diverse and extravagant as five-star hotels or resorts in tourist cities, but it is suitable for staying on Doi Ang Khang. Hot shiitake mushroom porridge, ham, sausages, egg dishes, various breads, rice, side dishes, and stir-fried vegetables.

Fresh vegetable salad is a surefire way to avoid disappointment.

A variety of seasonal fruits are grown in the Royal Project, offering a diverse selection depending on the time of year.

The peach (plum) is the protagonist of this month, while the plum (which one?) is the supporting character. The signature dish is the carrot orange salad.

In addition to its vibrant color, the dish boasts a delightful flavor.


Today, have a hearty breakfast as we have an activity to walk and explore the nature trail on Doi Ang Khang. The Ang Khang Nature Resort is striving to elevate this activity as a recommended activity for general tourists, not just for those who come to see the mist, enjoy the cold weather, take pictures, and then return as they normally do.

The Trails of Angkhang Nature Resort

Angkhang Nature Resort offers a variety of short, interconnected trails, allowing for customized tours tailored to the preferences and needs of each visitor. Whether you choose a half-day (3-4 hours) or full-day (6-7 hours) adventure, the resort's experienced guides will lead you through the stunning natural landscape.

For more information on specific activities, costs, and local guide availability, please contact the resort directly at www.facebook.com/Angkhang.Nature.Resort or by phone at 053450110 or 0884114640.

As an avid hiker, I embarked on a challenging 10-kilometer journey through the diverse landscapes of Ang Khang. The trail commenced at the assembly hall of the Royal Agricultural Station, winding through nature trails and emerging at the 2000 Tea Plantation. Continuing along the road, I reached Ban Nor Lae before venturing into the community forest and culminating at Ban Khop Dong. The route traversed a mosaic of planted forests, regenerating forests, community forests, concrete roads, agricultural areas, and villages, offering a glimpse into the region's rich biodiversity. The terrain varied, with steep sections interspersed with gentler slopes.

The rainbow hawk is gliding over the scenic viewpoint of the lower pine forest trail, with beautiful scenery along the way. It is a pine forest trail that I like very much, and I recommend this trail as a must-see.

Below the 2,000-rai tea plantation lies a goat farm. If you visit in the morning (whether on foot or by car), you may be able to witness the farm's goat milking process and even try it yourself with permission.


We stopped for lunch at the Angkhang Tea Factory, a tea roasting and production facility run by the Royal Project. We enjoyed the beautiful scenery and delicious food prepared by the resort, including the famous Dara Ang (polite term for the Palong people) chili dip, which was perfect with the blanched vegetables.

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At this point, we are walking in Ban Nor Lae. Villagers are searching for cicadas, which are making a loud noise in the forest, to fry and eat. The simple method is to apply glue to the end of a bamboo stick and touch it to the cicada's wings. That's all it takes. Those with good eyesight can find a lot.



We started our journey at ten o'clock in the morning and arrived at our destination, Baan Khop Dong, around four o'clock in the afternoon. We took a shortcut to avoid some of the more challenging sections of the trail. We were fortunate to meet Khru Riem Sing, a dedicated volunteer teacher who has devoted her life to helping children in the mountains, following the royal wishes of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great (Rama IX), who said, "I entrust these children of the mountains to you. I am far away, but please take care of them."



Unfortunately, we had limited time, and the teacher also had limited time due to commitments in Bangkok. Therefore, our conversation with Teacher Ream was brief. We hope to have the opportunity to meet again in the future.

The resort's car picked us up at the house. Seeing that we still had some time, we stopped by the Ang Khang Royal Agricultural Station to take pictures with the beautiful flowers. No matter the season, the flowers here are always stunning.

A Spicy Feast at Ang Khang Nature Resort: Exploring the Trend of Mala Hotpot

Nestled amidst the breathtaking scenery of Ang Khang Nature Resort, our dinner tonight takes center stage with a dish that perfectly captures the current culinary trend: Mala Hotpot.

For those unfamiliar with this fiery delight, Mala refers to a unique blend of Chinese spices and herbs that has taken the Thai culinary scene by storm. Its popularity is evident in its widespread availability across markets throughout the country.

But Mala is more than just a trendy ingredient. It offers a complex and tantalizing flavor profile, characterized by its intense spiciness and the numbing sensation it leaves on the tongue. This unique combination has captivated the palates of many, making Mala Hotpot a must-try for adventurous foodies.

As we gather around the steaming pot, the aroma of Mala fills the air, promising an unforgettable culinary experience. The vibrant red broth, infused with the essence of Sichuan peppercorns, chili peppers, and various other spices, beckons us to dip our carefully selected ingredients.

From tender slices of meat to an array of fresh vegetables, each morsel eagerly awaits its encounter with the fiery broth. As we savor the explosion of flavors, the heat dances on our tongues, followed by the tingling numbness that is the hallmark of Mala.

This culinary journey through the world of Mala Hotpot is not just a meal; it's an exploration of the ever-evolving landscape of Thai cuisine. It's a testament to the country's openness to new flavors and its ability to adapt global trends to its own unique palate.

So, as we raise our chopsticks to this trendy dish, let us appreciate the culinary adventure that awaits and embrace the fiery embrace of Mala.

The spicy broth tingled on the tip of the tongue, the fresh vegetables and mushrooms, sausages, ham, and vermicelli noodles all coming together in a satisfying set. We slurped the soup and blew on it, enjoying the heat. Usually, we eat jjimjilbang with an Isaan flavor or something that leans towards sukiyaki, but when we encountered the mala soup flavor, it was truly delicious.

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The last day of my trip to Doi Ang Khang during the rainy season. After enjoying the beautiful sea of mist yesterday, I decided to spend the morning sleeping in, which was actually an excuse to avoid the ten-kilometer hike (haha…). I woke up late and went for a walk in the garden to breathe in the fresh air before having breakfast.

I enjoy the rainy season because everywhere I look is green. It is a season where we can breathe in the freshest scent of soil and grass. It is even better when we are surrounded by mountains like this. Most importantly, it is quiet and there are few people. We can travel and take pictures wherever we feel comfortable.

We checked out at noon as scheduled and rode our motorbikes back to Chiang Dao district via Mae Taeng and Mae Rim, returning to the Chiang Mai Passenger Transport Station. We still had time to open the door to a Thai massage parlor and spend an hour relaxing our fatigue.

During the rainy season, Ang Khang is stunning, peaceful, and a wonderful place to visit. It resembles other forests and mountains in Thailand in that I prefer the lushness of the green season to the dryness of the winter. As someone who enjoys nature, this is my preference.

Just come and see for yourself. If you want to fall in love with the rainy season like me.

8 Reasons to Visit Ang Khang During the Rainy Season

  • Resorts and accommodations are more than half price. Contact Ang Khang Nature Resort >>> https://th.mosaic-collection.com/angkhang or www.facebook.com/Angkhang.Nature.Resort or 053450110 , 0884114640
  • Fewer tourists, quiet atmosphere, shops and restaurants may be open less, but at least we don't have to fight for food, sightseeing, or taking pictures with anyone.
  • Easy driving, convenient parking, no traffic jams on the mountain.
  • There is a chance to see a sea of fog every day if the weather is good in the morning and there is no rain.
  • The flowers at Ang Khang Royal Agricultural Station are as beautiful as in the winter.
  • There are various products that are only available during the rainy season. You won't get to eat them in the winter.
  • The nature trails are fresh and lush with green. You can choose a suitable trail to walk. For more information, please contact Ang Khang Nature Resort at 053450110 , 0884114640 or Ang Khang Royal Agricultural Station Tourist Service Center at 053969489.
  • Get to experience the friendly and close-knit way of life of the people on Ang Khang. During this season, the villagers themselves do not have to compete for income from tourism.

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