Doi Angkhang - A hidden gem in Chiang Mai province

Doi Angkhang is largely unknown to foreign tourists but a famous destination for Thai tourists is a wild and mountainous frontier range which lies at the edge of the Thailand Burma border. Sitting at one of the most remote corners of Northern Thailand you will definitely feel you’re at the end of the road on a wild precipice.  As remote as it may be, this cluster of peaks and valleys is also home to colourful hilltribes such as the Palong, Lahu, Lisu and Hmong who still keep to traditional ways of life. Here you can visit their villages, schools, enjoy the idyllic location, views, cool climate and fresh mountain air.   Next to the villages is a Thai military base camp situated on a ridge at the edge of the border you can look out over no mans land and the sweeping expanse of Myanmar and its remote Shan states. With binoculors you can even see the waving Burmese flag indicating the Burmese military base on the other side.   Another attraction here is the Royal Agricultural Centre where beautifully manicured gardens host a colourful array of flowers, there are also greenhouses where the serious cultivation stuff goes on growing organic crops normally found in colder climes such as strawberries, rhubarbs, persimmons. More than just a beautiful site this place bears particular significance as this is a showcase for the success of the King’s initiative which started 30 years ago to wean the hilltribes off growing opium to more productive crops.