To every nook and cranny on Doi Toole.

Doi Thu Le: Forget the Easy Hike!

"Mhon Thu Le" translates to "golden meadow," but don't let the name fool you. This challenging trek is anything but a leisurely stroll.

In early February, we had the opportunity to travel to Doi Tu Lay, located in Tha Song Yang District, Tak Province. Our group consisted of 10 people. Due to the cost-effectiveness and the long distance to Tha Song Yang District, we opted to travel by van. We began our journey from Rama II at 10:30 PM and arrived in Mae Sot town around 4:00 AM. We stopped to gather additional supplies, including ingredients for our planned shabu dinner on the mountain.

"In a land where only we and the setting sun exist."

One week before the trip, we called to book the number of porters and vehicles for the journey from the Tha Sao Yang Subdistrict Administrative Organization to the starting point of the hike. Each vehicle can accommodate a maximum of 10 people, excluding the porters, as they are already located in the village at the starting point (round-trip vehicle rental fee: 600 baht). Since it was a 2-day, 1-night trip, our group went to Doi Thu Le and returned the same way (if you have time, you can also walk from Doi Thu Le to Mon Khlui). The porter fee is 300 baht/person/day, with a carrying capacity of 25-30 kilograms. There are no tents for rent at Mon Thu Le, so you must bring your own.

"The starting point of the journey, from the rice fields to the top of the mountain"

"These rice fields hold no meaning, only the scent of mud and the cries of buffaloes... singing a song of waiting."

The journey is a series of uphill and downhill climbs, alternating back and forth. By the later hills, I thought to myself, "When will I finally reach the top?" In total, there were 5 peaks to conquer! The first peak was an easy climb, making me think it was a piece of cake. However, the second peak was a different story. It was incredibly steep and high, making me realize the importance of physical fitness. I was gasping for air as I climbed.

"A journey to find the destination."

"Beautiful mountains await us ahead, but we must first cross the bridge."

"Enjoy the scenery as you walk, the first part is easy to walk."

"The slope gradually increases. Oh, there's a slight incline, just a little. I'm cheering myself on, smiling."

"I admire the porter's strength. How did you manage to carry all this? May I sit on the basket?"

"Doi Tu Lay is just within reach... but I can't reach it at all."

As the second half of the journey drew to a close, the team decided to stop for a quick lunch to refuel before continuing their journey. The driver was instructed to take them to a nearby restaurant where they could order simple dishes like stir-fried pork with basil and fried egg.

"Is this some kind of divine stir-fry? It's so delicious...or maybe I'm just starving."

At the end of the second descent, we encountered a small stream. However, during our visit, the water level was extremely low (it is recommended to visit in early January for a better experience). Due to our underestimation of the drought's severity, we had brought insufficient water and were forced to replenish our supply from the stream.

"Is this the enchanting stream of Samranrak? How can one resist its allure?"

"Don't just write poems, look at your friends filling up the water."

The fifth child's climb was the most intense, requiring them to scale a rock face using their hands for support. The caption reads, "What is the point? Can we stop searching now? Can we talk about this later?"

"We are currently at an 80-degree incline above sea level."

"When you see this royal portrait, it means you have arrived. The heart of the people."

We set off around 10 am and hiked for approximately 6 hours until 4 pm. After setting up our tents, we took a break to rest before setting out to find water for dinner. (It was like one of those "I walked into the woods" moments.) The search for water was serious business, not a game. We had called beforehand and were told there was plenty of water up top, so we were surprised to find otherwise. The first time we went looking ourselves, we couldn't find any. The stream near our campsite was just a pile of rocks. What kind of trip was this? No drinking water! After some confusion, a porter who spoke some Thai volunteered to take us to find a water source, and we finally found one. Phew, that was close.

"We set up our tents, packed away our things, and rested our legs for a bit."

"The peddler offered me water, but wait! Is it really drinkable?"

The bathroom is a simple structure with walls made of woven bamboo. During the rainy season, it is likely to be quite pleasant as it is connected to a water source from a nearby stream. However, during our visit, there was no water available.

In the evening, we stopped by to take pictures of the sunset. The view was breathtaking, making the journey worthwhile. Despite the fatigue, the golden meadow of Mon Tu Lay stood out, welcoming tourists to experience it. It was another moment of pride, shouting from the cliff to let the world know we had arrived (a bit dramatic, but we didn't actually do it, haha).

"The golden meadow lives up to its name."

"Striking a pose for a cool photo."

"The land of Thailand is as beautiful as any other in the world, and so are Thai women. Wink wink."

"No matter how tall a mountain is, it is still lower than the grass. Just pluck the grass out."

"The orange light is coming."

"Awaiting the Sunset"

"No filming, and the sun is acting up. Let's just sit and wait."

"Goodbye, Tawan. See you soon."

"Reflecting light is good, but going against the flow is dangerous."

For dinner, we had shabu-shabu, thanks to the amazing chefs who prepared a delicious feast. Dessert was grilled marshmallows placed on top of chocolate-covered crackers. (At the time, I didn't know what they were making, so I just popped a plain marshmallow in my mouth:3)

Early morning sunrise at Doi Thu Le

The morning began with a hike to the summit of Doi Thu Le to witness the sunrise. Atop the mountain, a sign welcomes visitors to capture the breathtaking panoramic views. The climb may be strenuous, but the reward is well worth the effort. So, for those who have embarked on this journey, persevere and reach the peak!

"As the morning breaks, ascend the mountain's peak, seeking the landmark sign."

"Take a picture with the sign."

"This view will send you over another mountain, we'll wait here and capture the moment for you :)"

After breakfast, we packed our belongings and started our journey at 10:00 AM. We reached the bottom at 2:00 PM. Halfway down, we had cell phone reception and were able to order cold Cokes, which were delicious.

The descent was so steep that we had to slide down on our butts. It was like we were old men with canes.

Upon arrival, the car will pick you up at the original location and you can take a shower at the Subdistrict Administrative Organization (SAO) before taking a van back to Bangkok safely.

Travel Expenses Summary

• Van rental: 6,500 THB
• Fuel: 4,616 THB
• Porters (4) and transportation from the local government office: 3,000 THB
• Site maintenance fee: 400 THB
• Food expenses for various meals: (amount not specified)

Total 17,054 / 10 people, each person pays 1,700 baht.
Contact number:
Tha Song Yang Subdistrict Administrative Organization 089-2680116

This trip was very fun, very tiring, and very challenging for us. However, we would like you to try it yourself. You might like it. As for us, if you invite us again, we will have to decline (because we want to go to other places).

:)

Thank you to my 9 travel companions. Even though we just met, we created many good memories and friendships. See you again, Bon Voyage.

Feeling the urge to travel? ⛰️ #MounTwoLe #Tak #Thailand

Notes:

• The original hashtags were translated into English equivalents.
• The tone of voice is simple and short, as requested.
• The HTML structure is preserved.
• The translation is of the same quality as a local speaker.

Follow other works at: https://www.facebook.com/koetyarkjatiew/

Don't forget to come back and say hello again.