In the winter time, most of the travelers like to head up to northern Thailand to a find a breath of fresh air in the cooler climates and feel the cool mist on the mountains. Doi Khun Mae Ya, Mae Hong Son is an interesting attraction marked as one of the rare natural features of Thailand. Renowned as a new and great spot to take a rest, tourists can enjoy photographing the majestic spectacular beautiful pink cherry blossoms – a brief explosion of blooming color on the mountain.
In Thailand, the cherry blossoms (locally know as Nang Phaya Sue Krong) normally bloom in late December to mid January and bloom 8-14 days. They might bloom either earlier or later than this time depending on the weather. Thai cherry blossom trees not only illustrate a beautiful panoramic site , but are also a benefit to nature and the animals. The roots become saturated with water that helps avoid soil erosion on the mountainside. Furthermore, the fruit can be eaten and the bark can be used as an herb to decrease bruising, coughing, joint pain, and nasal congestion.
A great time to be on Doi Khun Mae Ya is in the early morning, watching the big red sunrise slowly appear above the mist on the horizon behind the mountains and the birds are starting to sing. Visitors will find the scenery refreshing with the display of the color of nature such as green pine trees, red maple leaves and pink cherry blossoms. The various shades of pink of the vibrant cherry blossom petals on the dark brown branches is a beautiful contrast from the clear blue sky.
At night, the only light is coming from the moon and the stars. The atmosphere is calm and peaceful. Some people like to come at this time of day to enjoy socializing, star-gazing and drinking hot beverages or laying back, and listening to the sound of nature. Even if it is cold, visitors still wish to spend the night under the pink canopy and camping here to have a rest among nature.
To get to Doi Khun Mae Ya, it is 10-15 km. from the Pai district, Mae Hong Son. To travel from Chiang Mai, take route no. 107 from Chiang Mai to Mae Malai Market and then turn left to the route no. 1095 (Mae Malai – Pai). After you get to Huay Nam Dang National Park and drive about 2 km. more you will see the sign of Water Resources Management Unit, turn left there. From there, it is another 8 km. along the steep and twisty road to the cherry blossom spot of Doi Khun Mae Ya.
For visitors there is a campground area that has tap water and bathrooms at no charge. However, campfires are not allowed but cooking is allowed if using a gas or charcoal BBQ.
For more information or to check for Cherry Blossom blooming period, please call Chiang Mai Water Resources Management Office +(66) 53-221095.
By Chutima Buaprom
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