Gplace > Thailand > Chiang Rai > Thoeng > Phu Chi Fa

“A mountain peak featuring a distinctive cliff point pointing towards the sky, offering an endless panoramic sea of mist that borders the frontier between Thailand and Laos.”

Phu Chi Fa is not just an ordinary viewpoint; it is an icon that anyone visiting Chiang Rai simply cannot miss. The name of the peak is derived from its amazing physical characteristic: a stone cliff with a sharp point pointing towards the sky. The tip of this cliff protrudes into Laos, meaning that when you stand at the peak, you experience standing on the edge of the sky with a clear view of our neighboring country. Originally a historical battlefield, this area has now transformed into a land of peace and beauty sought after by travelers worldwide.

The highlight that made Phu Chi Fa world-famous is the Sea of Mist in the early morning. The feeling of hiking through the darkness to the summit in freezing air, and then slowly seeing the first light of the day sparkle through thick white mist covering the valley below like a giant sheet of cotton is a breathtakingly beautiful and exciting moment. On clear days, you will see the mist slowly flowing past the cliff, clashing with the golden light of the sunrise. This is the perfect moment for content creators and photographers to snap away, as the view is stunning, high-end, and looks truly international.

What makes Phu Chi Fa interesting and far from boring is its botanical diversity. Especially during January and February, the entire mountain blooms with Wild Himalayan Cherry and white Bauhinia flowers across the valleys, adding a gentle touch to the rugged peak. Additionally, the lifestyle around Phu Chi Fa is charmed by various ethnic groups, including the Hmong and Yao people, who still preserve their unique traditions and costumes. You will find local children welcoming tourists with smiles, a cute charm that adds positive energy to the trip.

For young travelers or those seeking excitement, camping or staying at a homestay near the peak to conquer the summit in the morning is a fun and challenging activity. The hike from the parking lot to the summit is about 700 meters; while there are steep sections, it serves as a great workout in the fresh air that you can't find in the city. Once you reach the top, all exhaustion vanishes the moment the cold wind hits your face and you see the panoramic view stretching as far as the eye can see.

We invite you to witness the miracle of this sky-pointing peak. Come immerse yourself in the thick, soft sea of mist and the warm sunlight to find new inspiration for your life at Phu Chi Fa, Chiang Rai

How to Get There

Private Car: From Chiang Rai city, take the Chiang Rai-Thoeng route (Highway 1020), then continue on the Thoeng-Pang Ka route (Highway 1155). Follow the signs to Phu Chi Fa Forest Park. The road is winding and steep; please drive with caution.
Public Transport: There are passenger vans from Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 directly to Phu Chi Fa, running twice a day (morning and afternoon). It is recommended to check for updated schedules before traveling.
Reaching the Peak: After parking at the Forest Park parking lot, you must hike approximately 700 meters to the summit.

Travel Tips

Best Visiting Times: It is recommended to start hiking from 05:00 AM to catch the sunrise and the sea of mist in the morning.
Footwear and Dress Code: Prepare thick winter clothes, beanies, and gloves, as temperatures on the peak can drop to single digits. Wear sneakers with good grip.
Important Gear: A flashlight is essential for hiking in the early morning before sunlight.
Safety: Do not get too close to the cliff edge, especially during heavy mist or strong winds, to prevent accidental falls.