Doi Pha Tang is a less popular mountain destination on the Laotian border. The English translation of its name means “mountain cliff vertical” if that gives you any indication what Doi Pha Tang is all about.

The main place to stay in the area is the village that’s also called Doi Pha Tang.

Here you’ll see gorgeous cherry blossoms and fields of green cascading down the mountain. Chinese Haw, Hmong and Yao tribes all inhabit the area. Once you reach this village, you’ll have several options for your hike.

Popular viewpoints include Pha Bong Door, the Chinese Pavilion, Chong Pra Krad and Sea Mist 102. However, the most beautiful of the viewpoints is Sea Mist 103, which offers excellent panoramas and misty morning sunrises.

Local maps will tell you where each viewpoint lies, and all involve an easy walk along the mountain ridge. To see all the viewpoints, you will need approximately 4 hours.

From Chiang Rai take Route 120 to the Mae Korn intersection. Turn left onto Route 121. In Thoeng, turn left onto Route 1155. After 25 kilometers, turn onto Route 1093. The entrance to Doi Pha Tang will appear after another 25 kilometers. (Coordinates: 19.931118, 100.519395)