Phu Soi Dao

Facts

• Elevation: 2,120 m (6,955 ft)
• Prominence: 1,686 m
• Ribu category:  Tinggi Sedang
• Region:  Northern Lao /  Northern Thailand
• Coordinates: 17.7312, 101.0072
• Rating: (Bagged it? Be the first to rate it)
  Loading...
• Other names: ภูสอยดาว
• World Ribus ID: 68521

Phu Soi Dao is the highest peak of the Luang Prabang Range straddling the Thailand–Lao border, and one of the region’s most prominent mountains. The Thai side is protected within Phu Soi Dao National Park, which also spans into Sainyabuli Province in Lao.

The ascent route is relatively accessible and well-used from Thailand. It begins 1.5km beyond the park office at Phu Soi Dao Waterfall (approximately 670 m elevation), with a clearly maintained trail of approx 5.5 km, rising through five named slopes – including “Death Hill” – to a pine forest plateau and the summit ridge. The true summit may be around 100 metres south of the summit monument and signs. Good views are possible from the top.

The round-trip takes about 8 hours and involves metal stairs, ridge walking and occasional rope-secured sections. Though popular in Thailand, it’s less visited from the Lao side where access is more challenging and formally undocumented.

Practicalities

• • Getting there: The standard route starts in Thailand. From Nan, drive around 3 hours to the national park, register at the park office then take park transport to the waterfall trailhead. Trailhead parking is available and the route passes several waterfalls before ascending.

• • Permits: Required at the park gate on the Thai side. The entrance fee is around 200 THB + deposit. Camping reservations are limited to a quota per day during peak season. Rangers oversee waste return for deposit refunds.

• • Water sources: Fresh streams near the waterfall trailhead and at the waterfall en route; on plateau, limited access to spring-fed water – campers usually bring full supplies.

Local Average Monthly Rainfall (in Chiang Mai)

Location