As the cool season sweeps across Thailand, a fresh travel trend is taking hold—one that has both seasoned adventurers and casual holidaymakers lacing up their hiking boots. According to data released by Agoda on December 23, 2025, there has been an unprecedented surge in travel bookings for hiking destinations, with numbers soaring more than 200% compared to previous years. The digital travel platform’s latest Travel Outlook Report paints a vivid picture of what’s driving this boom: a collective yearning for nature, adventure, and a break from the city’s relentless pace.
This year’s high season, spanning from November 2025 through February 2026, has seen Chiang Mai emerge as the undisputed star of Thailand’s mountain destinations. Agoda’s figures reveal a staggering 254% increase in accommodation searches for the northern province, compared to typical periods. But Chiang Mai isn’t alone in this ascent. Tak province saw a 230% jump, Loei rose by 190%, and Kanchanaburi experienced a 95% uptick. Clearly, the call of the wild is being heard far and wide.
What’s behind this dramatic shift in travel habits? The answer lies in a blend of timing, climate, and changing traveler priorities. As the rainy season gives way to crisp, invigorating air and clear blue skies, Thailand’s mountain trails become a magnet for those eager to reconnect with nature. With the weather neither too hot nor too humid, outdoor activities like hiking, forest trekking, and sunrise watching become irresistible prospects. It’s a season tailor-made for exploration and reflection—a chance to escape the urban grind and experience the country’s natural beauty up close.
Agoda’s Travel Outlook Report adds another layer to the story. In the first quarter of 2025, travel demand across Asia shot up by 35%, a significant leap from the previous year’s 15%. This appetite for travel isn’t just about going farther; it’s about going deeper—seeking unique experiences, cultural immersion, and destinations that were once overlooked. The report highlights that more than one in three Asian travelers now prefer domestic trips over international ones, a notable shift in mindset that’s fueling demand for local gems and lesser-known adventure spots.
“The hiking season in Thailand is a special opportunity to get close to nature,” said Akkapol Rodkhong, Agoda’s Country Director for Thailand, in a statement reported by Brand Inside. “Agoda is committed to making travel easy and accessible for everyone, helping travelers discover memorable experiences and plan their journeys conveniently, whether it’s a challenging trail that tests a hiker’s limits or a relaxed family route. We want every journey into nature to be filled with valuable memories.”
So, where are these travelers heading? Agoda’s recommendations for those craving a brush with the wild include some of the country’s most breathtaking (and sometimes demanding) trails:
First on the list is Kew Mae Pan in Chiang Mai’s Doi Inthanon National Park. This popular nature trail winds for about 3.2 kilometers through mossy forests, open ridges, and cloud-studded vistas. The highlight? A viewpoint where early risers can catch the sunrise over a sea of mist. Due to the park’s safety rules, solo hiking isn’t allowed—visitors must hire a local guide, which adds a layer of insight (and a small fee) to the experience. Many families and beginners praise Kew Mae Pan for its moderate difficulty and the stunning scenery at every turn.
For those seeking a tougher challenge, Doi Tu Lay in Tak province beckons. Rising to about 1,350 meters, its trails cut through dense forest and misty ridgelines, offering panoramic views for those willing to push their limits. The main Tule trail is famously steep and demanding, while the Mon Klui route provides a slightly gentler alternative for less experienced hikers.
In Loei, Phu Kradueng is a rite of passage for many Thai trekkers. Known for its flat-topped summit, this sandstone mountain stands at 1,316 meters above sea level. The climb is tougher than it looks, with steep, rocky paths that test even the fittest visitors. But the reward—sweeping forest views, dramatic cliffs, and the chance to witness both sunrise and sunset above the clouds—makes every step worthwhile.
Lastly, Khao Chang Phueak in Kanchanaburi offers one of the country’s most exhilarating ridge walks. Topping out at 1,249 meters, this peak is the highest in Thong Pha Phum National Park. The 8-kilometer trek to the summit takes about six hours, but the effort pays off with a 360-degree panorama and the heart-pounding thrill of crossing the knife-edge ridge known as San Khom Meed. Hikers are advised to follow park rangers’ instructions closely to ensure safety, especially on the narrowest sections.
These destinations are not just about physical endurance—they’re about stories, culture, and the unique sense of achievement that comes from stepping outside the ordinary. As Agoda notes, lesser-known locations are gaining traction, thanks to affordable accommodation options and the promise of distinctive local experiences. Travelers are increasingly drawn to places where they can sample regional cuisine, learn about indigenous traditions, and support small communities along the way.
Behind the numbers, there’s a broader shift in how people approach travel. The pandemic years taught many to value domestic adventures and to seek out destinations that offer both safety and authenticity. The current boom in hiking travel reflects a desire for meaningful escapes—moments that linger long after the journey ends. Whether it’s a family’s first sunrise at Kew Mae Pan, a group of friends conquering Phu Kradueng, or a solo traveler finding peace on a misty ridgeline, these experiences are shaping a new era in Thai tourism.
Looking ahead, the momentum shows no sign of slowing. Agoda predicts that demand for hiking and nature-based travel will continue to grow into 2026, as more people discover the joys of exploring their own backyard. With digital platforms making it easier than ever to research, book, and customize trips, the barriers to adventure are falling away. The mountains are calling—and this season, it seems, Thailand is answering with open arms and open trails.
As the cool winds of winter breathe new life into the country’s highlands, one thing is clear: the Thai hiking renaissance is here, and it’s only just begun.
