Monday, May 26, 2025
Phu Soi Dao National Park in Thailand reopens this July, inviting tourists to explore rejuvenated pine trails, wildflower fields, and highland camping escapes.
Phu Soi Dao’s Majestic Pine Forest Trail Reopens 1 July for Trekking and Camping Adventures
Phu Soi Dao National Park, one of Thailand’s most treasured natural retreats, is set to welcome visitors back to its renowned pine forest ground starting 1 July 2025. This reopening follows the annual seasonal closure designed to allow the environment to regenerate during the dry months and to minimize the risk of forest fires. For nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, the return of access to the park marks the beginning of another thrilling season of highland trekking, misty vistas, and eco-friendly camping.
Situated at an elevation of 1,630 metres, the Larn Paa Son—a sweeping plateau blanketed in pine trees—is the crown jewel of Phu Soi Dao National Park. This elevated forested area offers a unique camping experience amid serene surroundings, and it will remain open to visitors until 10 January 2026. The park’s seasonal closure, in place from 10 January to 30 June, serves a dual purpose: it gives nature time to heal after periods of high tourist activity, and it addresses safety concerns during Thailand’s driest months, when wildfires are more likely to occur.
With the environment now refreshed and conditions safe for exploration, trekkers can once again experience the region’s rich biodiversity and panoramic scenery. Trails meander through dense pine forests and open flower meadows, with sweeping views of fog-draped peaks and cascading streams. During the rainy season, the park comes alive with vibrant flora, including the celebrated Dusita flowers, which bloom across the plateau and add bursts of color to the verdant landscape.
Phu Soi Dao National Park is more than a scenic retreat—it is a vital ecological sanctuary. As such, its reopening comes with a renewed emphasis on sustainable tourism and conservation-focused travel. Visitors are reminded that the number of daily entrants is limited, and permits for trekking and camping must be secured in advance. These measures aim to protect the park’s delicate ecosystems while allowing people to enjoy its wonders in a responsible manner.
Travelers intending to hike and camp within the park should be well-prepared. The trek to Larn Paa Son involves a challenging ascent and extended walking at high altitudes. As such, physical fitness is important, and visitors are expected to carry their own camping gear and supplies. There are no permanent facilities or commercial vendors along the trails, making self-sufficiency an essential part of the experience.
The park gets its name from Phu Soi Dao Mountain, which towers at 2,120 metres, ranking as the fifth tallest peak in Thailand. This dramatic mountain forms part of the Luang Prabang Range, a majestic chain of peaks that stretches along the Thai-Lao border. The park itself spans areas of both Uttaradit and Phitsanulok provinces, encompassing a diverse range of ecosystems from rugged cliffs and evergreen forests to tranquil pine meadows.
Beyond its trekking trails and scenic viewpoints, Phu Soi Dao is home to numerous waterfalls, rare plant species, and wildlife, including birds, amphibians, and small mammals adapted to the cool highland climate. Its status as a protected area highlights its environmental significance and the need for careful stewardship.
The reopening of this iconic destination is not just a call for adventure—it also represents Thailand’s ongoing efforts to balance tourism growth with ecological responsibility. By observing guidelines and embracing low-impact travel practices, visitors play a crucial role in preserving the park’s natural beauty for future generations.
As July approaches, Phu Soi Dao National Park stands ready to enchant once again with its crisp mountain air, dramatic landscapes, and wild serenity. Whether drawn by the thrill of the climb, the peace of the pine forests, or the bloom of wildflowers under monsoon skies, travelers will find a truly unforgettable experience in this highland haven.
Phu Soi Dao National Park boasts expansive pine forests that offer a peaceful, almost meditative environment for visitors. Surrounding the highland area of Larn Paa Son, visitors will also find wide-open grasslands and gently sloping pinewood meadows. This area is particularly famous for hosting Thailand’s largest natural display of Crested Naga flowers (Murdannia giganteum), which bloom in delicate shades of purple during the rainy season, transforming the landscape into a vibrant sea of color.
