Doi Mon Jong: A Mountain Paradise in Chiang Mai

Nestled in the heart of Chiang Mai's Omkoi district, Doi Mon Jong stands as a majestic peak, its grassy slopes resembling a lion's head. Reaching an impressive 1,929 meters above sea level, this mountain offers breathtaking panoramas of rolling hills and distant mountain ranges. As dawn breaks, a mesmerizing sea of mist envelops the landscape, creating a truly ethereal experience.

Traveling from Chiang Mai City to Mon Jong

Transportation:

• Minivan:
  • Departs from Chiang Mai Gate.
  • Costs 200 baht per person.
  • Requires advance booking by calling 053271244.
  • Drops off at the Mon Jong Tourist Service Center.
  • Travel time is approximately 4 hours.
  • Distance is over 200 kilometers.

At this point, we need to register and contact the porters with 4WD vehicles who will transport us to the starting point of the trek. Sleeping bags and tents are available for rent. For inquiries, please contact 080-133-3970.

Across from the service center, there is a restaurant selling rice with 2-3 curry dishes. Eating with a group of people is considered inexpensive. There is also a market in the village where you can buy fresh food to cook at home.

The journey begins with a 4WD vehicle for a distance of 8 km. The pick-up and drop-off service costs 2,500 baht for groups of up to 5 people and 3,000 baht for groups of 6-10 people.

Let's take a moment to capture some photos before continuing our 4km trek.

The trail features rolling hills with some slippery sections, so be cautious.

After walking for a while, we took a break to catch our breath and enjoy the view. We took a deep breath and continued our journey.

This point is called "Phu Hin Chor". If you have reached this point, it means you have completed half of the journey! (Feeling a little more motivated now!)

After escaping the forest, we encountered the "Dog-Panting Hill" (so steep that even dogs would struggle, let alone humans who have been panting since the first kilometer!). This incredibly steep incline practically requires climbing. However, once you reach the summit, you'll be rewarded with vast, grassy slopes perfect for capturing stunning photographs.

After a long climb, I finally reached the top of the hill. From here, I could enjoy a panoramic view of the rolling green hills. The scenery was breathtaking.

The view from this hillside is breathtaking. In the distance, you can see the majestic Lion's Head peak.

After taking photos and resting to recover from fatigue, we continued walking a short distance before reaching the campsite.

Our campsite will be in a forested area slightly down from a small hill. Upon arrival, the porters will have already set up their tents and lit a fire. The porter service costs 600 baht per person and can carry up to 20 kg of weight.

Accommodation with electricity is available, but food is not provided. You can cook your own meals. It may seem inconvenient, but the atmosphere at that time was very enjoyable.

After preparing the food, we walked out to watch the sunset together.

As the sun began to set, the grassland gradually turned golden.

Watching the sunset with friends as the sky gradually changes color is truly a beautiful experience.

The cool air contrasts with the warm atmosphere, creating a truly special feeling.

The final light finally arrived, and the air gradually grew colder.

After waiting until the stars appeared, we finally walked back to our accommodation (the weather was so cold and windy that we couldn't stay any longer).

Upon returning to the tent, we warmed up the prepared food and began our dinner under the lamplight.

After breakfast, we set off to watch the sunrise and conquer the mountain peak.

Stepping outside, I was immediately greeted by the beautiful morning light.

The towering peak that stands out is the Lion's Head Rock, our destination this morning.

Immerse yourself in the morning atmosphere and capture stunning photos of the golden light at Pha Hua Sing.

The area also boasts stunning views of the mountains and the morning mist.

Lost in the moment, I didn't realize how quickly the sky had become fully illuminated.

From the top of the mountain, we can see a long path stretching out, resembling a cape. This point is called Khao Nang Nang.

We have finally reached our destination, the summit of Doi Mon Jong, standing at an impressive 1929 meters above sea level. The final ascent is a steep and rocky climb, even steeper than the infamous "Dog's Panting Hill." Please be cautious as you make your way to the top.

This concludes our trip to Mon Chong. Thank you to everyone who watched. I will share other trips in the future. I apologize for any mistakes or omissions.