Si Lanna National Park, National park in Chiang Mai Province, Thailand
Si Lanna is a national park in Chiang Mai Province covering mountainous terrain with waterfalls, caves, and mineral springs scattered throughout. The highest peak, Doi Chom Hot, reaches about 1,718 meters (5,636 feet), and the Mae Ngat Somboon Chon Reservoir cuts through the landscape providing water and scenic views.
The park was established in 1989 as Thailand's 60th national park, created to protect the region from logging and deforestation. This designation marked a turning point in shielding the ecosystem from human exploitation.
The Karen and Lahu peoples have inhabited these forests for generations, and their traditional villages remain visible throughout the forested areas. Walking through the park, you encounter their settlements and see how daily life follows patterns passed down through centuries.
The park features multiple hiking trails of varying difficulty and guesthouses near the reservoir for extended stays. Plan for plenty of time since the trails wind through dense forest and hilly terrain that rewards slower exploration.
The Mae Ngat Somboon Chon Reservoir serves as a critical water source for surrounding communities and offers surprisingly calm water surfaces amid the mountains. Many visitors overlook this aspect while focused on hiking trails, unaware that the water also enables quiet reflection and other recreational pursuits.
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