Doi Hua Mot is a moderately low limestone mountain stretching across several connected ridgelines. Located in Umphang District, it is a popular scenic spot often included in travel routes that pair with a visit to Thi Lo Su Waterfall. The mountain’s signature charm lies in its bald-mountain terrain, where no large trees grow, leaving the slopes covered by short grasses, shrubs, and naturally formed rock clusters that create the appearance of a vast green carpet when viewed from below.

Origin of the Name:

The term “Hua Mot” refers to the mountain’s bare, open appearance, where the rocky ridges and layers of limestone are clearly visible—distinct from other forested mountains in the Umphang area.

Viewpoints:

Several viewpoints line the ridgeline, but the most popular spot is Peak No. 3, renowned as the best location in Umphang for witnessing both the sunrise and the sea of mist. On clear days, visitors can enjoy 360-degree views of mountain ranges stretching endlessly into the horizon. During the evening, this same ridge offers beautiful sunset views, making it possible to capture both the day’s first and last light from a single location.

Seasonal Beauty:

• Winter: The best season for thick, silky layers of sea mist that blanket the valleys.

• Rainy Season: The mountain becomes lush and vibrant, covered with blooming pink mountain balsams.

• Summer: The slopes turn white with clusters of blossoming shaea flowers.

In summary, Doi Hua Mot is a scenic destination that can be visited year-round, offering unique beauty in every season while maintaining its charm throughout the year.

Travel:

• Reaching Doi Hua Mot requires following the Umphang – Ban Palatha route for approximately 10 km. Along this route, there are two main access points to viewpoints:

• KM 9: Hike uphill for about 20 minutes to reach the ridgeline viewpoint.

• KM 10: Turn left toward the parking area, then walk only 5 minutes to the main viewpoint.

Additional Tips:

• From the parking area, visitors can easily walk along the connected ridgeline to reach multiple peaks. It is recommended to arrive before sunrise, between 05:00–06:00, to prepare your equipment and choose the best viewing spot.

• The best time to see the sea of mist is winter, especially around 05:00–06:00.

• Rainy season is ideal for viewing pink mountain balsams, while summer brings white shaea blossoms along the ridgeline.

• Bring a warm jacket, as early mornings can be quite cold.

• Carry a flashlight or headlamp if hiking before dawn.

• Wear proper hiking shoes, as certain sections can be slippery or steep.

Admission Fee:

• No admission fee, as the viewpoint is part of the Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary area.

Opening Hours:

• Open: 05:00 – 18:00 (Most visitors begin hiking before dawn to enjoy sunrise and sea-of-mist views.)