The “rainy season” or “green season” is when nature is at its most lush and vibrant compared to other times of the year. It’s also a season with cool, comfortable weather not too hot and not too cold making it a favourite time for hiking enthusiasts. However, hiking in the rain does come with certain risks. Therefore, being well-prepared is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience when exploring rainy season hiking trails.
Get Ready Before You Go
Before heading out for a rainy season hiking trail, let’s look at some important preparations beyond just your physical readiness.
Essential Gear for Rainy-Season Hiking
Since rain is inevitable on these hikes, you should always carry a raincoat in your backpack to keep yourself dry during sudden showers. It’s a must-have piece of gear for any rainy season hiking trail adventure.
Choosing Weather-Appropriate Clothing
Rainy-season hikes mean lots of moisture, so selecting the right clothing is crucial. Your hiking outfit should be breathable, quick-drying and moisture-wicking. Synthetic fabrics are usually the best choice for rainy season hiking trails.
Safety Tips and Precautions
As mentioned earlier, hiking during the rainy season comes with extra challenges. It’s vital to follow all safety instructions from park authorities and be cautious of additional risks like venomous animals, flash floods, and lightning strikes while navigating rainy season hiking trails.
Discover Rainy-Season Hiking Trails
If you’re looking for beautiful nature trails, Kanchanaburi is highly recommended for its rich, vibrant forests. But beyond Kanchanaburi, Thailand has many stunning hiking destinations worth exploring. Let’s check out 9 must-see rainy season hiking trails!
Lam Khlong Ngu National Park
Lam Khlong Ngu National Park is well-known for its adventurous rainy season hiking trails. Here, you can enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and floating along the stream. Don’t miss iconic spots like “Sao Hin Cave” and “Swallow Cave” both featuring impressive natural formations.
Tham Than Lot, Chaloem Rattanakosin National Park
Chaloem Rattanakosin National Park offers two rainy season hiking trails one from Tham Than Lot Noi to Tham Than Lot Yai, where you’ll see stunning stalactites and stalagmites, and another leading to Tharn Ngern and Tharn Thong Waterfalls. Both are equally beautiful and worth exploring.
Erawan Waterfall, Erawan National Park
During the rainy season, the “Erawan Waterfall” is a must-see for lush greenery and powerful water flows. This waterfall has seven tiers, with the lower levels offering opportunities to swim. As you hike to the higher levels, the views become even more rewarding, making it one of the best rainy season hiking trails.
Khao Luang, Sukhothai
Khao Luang in Sukhothai’s Ramkhamhaeng National Park offers four peaks to conquer: Phra Chedi Peak, Phu Ka Peak, Phra Mae Ya Peak, and Narai Peak. The trail is steep, so make sure you’re physically prepared before taking on this challenging.
Sai Thong National Park
If you want to see nature’s beauty unique to the rainy season, head to Sai Thong National Park. Here, you’ll find fields of blooming pink Siam tulips. The park also offers several scenic spots, including Pha Ham Hod, Pha Dad Fa, and several waterfalls, making it a perfect spot for a rainy season
Khao Sok National Park
A hike through Khao Sok National Park during the rainy season offers a different kind of adventure. Explore both land and water trails, with key attractions like the Ratchaprapha Dam Reservoir, Giant Rafflesia flowers, and multiple stunning waterfalls, perfect for rainy season hiking trails.
Phu Soi Dao National Park
For those who love misty mornings, Phu Soi Dao National Park is the place to go. The park features trails filled with stunning views, cool weather, and abundant wildlife. The highlight during the rainy season is the blooming fields of light purple orchids, making this one of the top rainy season hiking trails in Thailand.
Doi Luang Tak
Doi Luang Tak offers another fantastic rainy season hiking trail. With its mix of flat and steep paths, it provides a challenging yet rewarding experience for hikers, allowing you to experience nature’s raw beauty during the rainy season.
Conclusion
Thailand’s rainy season hiking trails offer a unique way to experience the lush, green landscapes that only the rainy season can provide. While these trails can be challenging, with the right preparation and safety measures, you’ll enjoy some of the most breathtaking views that Thailand’s nature has to offer. So, grab your gear and head out to explore the beauty of rainy season hiking trails in Thailand!
For those planning a hiking trip in Kanchanaburi and looking for accommodation after their adventure, we highly recommend River Kwai Jungle Rafts. This floating resort is located along the Kwai Noi River and is surrounded by lush nature, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings. With complete amenities, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy a close connection with nature. The trail is just behind the resort’s shore up to the riverside viewpoint at Reclining Buddha Cave and then hike up to Mon Tribal Village and an elephant camp.