Learn about human history on this prehistoric adventure near Chiang Mai at Ob Luang National Park
Crazy about cave men? Fascinated by the stone age? Ob Luang is the place for you! It was, in large part, designated a national park due its ties to human history. Housed in an on-site museum are many preserved artifacts that are older than great-great-great-grandpa. Along the hike are many other items to keep an eye out for, including an ancient burial site!
Ob Luang National Park could be the perfect family day trip from Chiang Mai for you!
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High above the gorge
Open to visitors all year-round, Ob Luang is a fascinating place for naturists, budding geologists, and historians. One thing it is not for, are people afraid of heights! Famous for its tall and narrow gorge, at about 150 meters into the trail, you will be met by a rather high, narrow bridge. These few steps that take you over the raging waters below provide an exhilarating experience for family members of all ages. The bridge is well-built and hangs about 100 meters above the gorge. It provides the only access to the trail of ‘The Land of Prehistoric Humans.’
A grave site & rock paintings
Following the path upwards to the left, you’ll find yourselves in the refreshing forest, traversing near tremendous boulders, wondering how in the world did these get up here? The path will take you past a prehistoric burial site and prehistoric rock paintings too. Everyone will enjoy trying to make out what they once were. On the hike you may also see some plants and flowers that look like they come from another planet, or from the ancient past. Arrowheads, jewelry and other tools have been found in this region and carbon dated back to around 28,000 years ago!
The viewpoint at Ob Luang National Park
Following on from here, there will be options to see a natural salt lick. Wildlife still comes from around to lick this one particular rock. I suppose if patient and quiet enough, you might see a creature come for a lick! From here, it’s on to the viewpoint. The extra effort to climb up here is definitely recommended. The view of the gorge far below is stunning. From here, trace your steps back a bit and take the left path. It will wrap back around to the bridge which you will have to cross once again. Once back from the hike, definitely make a stop in the first building on the left for a look around the museum to learn more about human history in the area.
What to bring to Ob Luang National Park
- For a day trip, pretty much everything you would need is available just outside the park entrance. Be sure to stock up on water and snacks before you pay the entrance fee. There is a coffee shop and 3-4 restaurants to purchase meals, snacks and drinks. Once inside, there are no food stalls.
- There is a washroom past the entrance, but the opportunity to use a man-made toilet vanishes once you begin the trail! Always consider bringing a small medic kit and trusty TP!
- Be sure to wear proper shoes for the hike. Hiking boots are not required, but closed toed shoes should be worn.
- If it’s the rainy season, then an umbrella or light rain jacket are definite goodies to pack.
How to get to Ob Luang National Park
Getting here by car or by motorbike is the quickest way. Approximate travel time is 2 hours along route 108. From the city, find your way to the 108 Rd which heads south towards Hang Dong. You will stay on the 108 the entire trip. Look for signs showing that you’re heading towards Chomthong and then Hot. At about the 90 km point, there will be signs for a turn off towards Mae Hong Song. This is where the 108 veers off to the right around a fancy roundabout! Wrap around it and head towards the gas station which means you’re going the right way. The park headquarters is approximately 17 km from the roundabout. The road follows the scenic river the entire way.
Get your family a private songtaew! Maybe you’ve made some friends who’d like to enjoy the day out together. Songtaews are great if there are more than 4 people joining. You can easily fit everything you need in the truck with you. The cost is approximately 2,000 baht but likely negotiable.
You could also take the bus. This is more of a we’re on a budget option and it’s certainly not the quickest route. The bus takes about 2-4 hours from Chiang Mai’s Chang Phuak station to Hot. From Hot, you’d have to catch a songtaew to the park which takes about another hour.
Things to consider
While there is no swimming allowed in the park itself, during a certain time of year you may wonder why there are lots of cars parked along the sides of the road leading to Ob Luang Park. During the end of March to the beginning of May when the river’s waters are low, locals set up bamboo huts all along the river. BBQ stalls quickly follow and you’ve got yourself the perfect spot to eat with your feet in the water. Kids can safely swim, and if the current is just right, float down the river! Sometimes there are even fish to feed and fresh water crabs to catch. This is a great way to spend the rest of the day after getting sweaty from the hike.
