Ob Khan National Park Travel Guide

Riding a motorbike from Chiang Mai to Ob Khan National Park is a rewarding day trip that offers adventure, natural beauty, and local culture. The journey is relatively short (about 30 km one-way) and ideal for 125–350cc scooters or motorbikes, making it popular among both locals and foreign tourists. This guide provides a detailed route plan, seasonal tips, interesting stops along the way, camping advice, fuel and repair info, dining suggestions, and the best spots to snap memorable photos. Whether you’re visiting in the cool season or the rainy months, you’ll find useful recommendations to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride to Ob Khan National Park.

Route Overview

Distance & Travel Time

The park lies roughly 30 km south of Chiang Mai’s city center, which takes about 45–60 minutes to reach by motorbike. It’s an easy half-day ride (round-trip ~60 km) suitable for small and mid-sized motorbikes. Most of the route is on well-paved roads, with only a short dirt section near the park. For a smooth journey, plan to depart in the morning so you have ample time to explore and return before dark.

Recommended Route

From Chiang Mai Old City, head out of the moat toward the southwest. The quickest way is to get onto Canal Road (Route 121) heading south (toward Hang Dong). Ride about 12 km down Canal Road (also called the Outer Ring Road in this section). You’ll pass the city outskirts – this wide road has light traffic and is very motorcycle-friendly compared to the busy Highway 108. Keep an eye out for a road sign for “Grand Canyon” (a local water park in Hang Dong); this sign means you’re almost at the turn-off for Ob Khan. Soon after, you should see the Ob Khan National Park sign on the right. Turn right here (onto the rural road toward Ban Nam Phrae) and cross a small bridge – don’t miss it, as it’s a tiny bridge just before a long white building.

After the bridge, continue following the country road about 10–12 km west through villages and rice fields to reach the park. This scenic rural road winds through gentle hills and is paved for most of the way, making for an enjoyable ride. You’ll pass a local village (Ban Nam Phrae) and even a small school and temple along the way. The pavement is in good condition and shaded by trees in many sections, so you can cruise comfortably. As you approach the park, the road does get narrow and twisty; take it slow on curves. In the final stretch, about the last 500–1000 meters turn to dirt. This unpaved section is bumpy but manageable – cars have to be careful in mud, but on a motorbike you can handle it with no problem. Just ride slowly and watch for potholes. Soon you’ll arrive at the Ob Khan park entrance gate and checkpoint.

Navigation Tip

The route is straightforward, but not heavily signposted. Using a GPS/Maps app can help ensure you don’t miss the turn. The key waypoints are: Chiang Mai city → Canal Road (121) south → Ob Khan turn-off near Nam Phrae (look for park sign) → follow rural road to park. If you reach the park entrance and visitor center, you’ve gone the right way. (The park spans a large area, but the main entrance by the river is where this route leads.)

Road Conditions

Apart from the short dirt road at the end, all roads are sealed. Route 121 (Canal Rd) is a smooth 4-lane road with a shoulder – easy for small bikes. The rural road is paved but quite narrow, so be ready to slow down for oncoming vehicles or the odd wandering animal. Overall, this route is well within the capabilities of a 125cc or 150cc scooter; you don’t need a big bike or off-road tires. Just make sure your brakes and horn are working (for those blind curves) and enjoy the ride.

Seasonal Riding Tips

Chiang Mai’s climate varies through the year, so plan and pack accordingly. Here’s what to expect in each season and how to prepare:

• Cool Season (November–February): This is the best time for a motorbike trip. Days are generally sunny and warm, around 25–30°C, and nights can drop to 15°C or lower. The air is dry and skies are usually clear, offering great visibility of the mountains. In December and January, the mornings can be crisp – you might want a light jacket for the early ride. By midday it’s pleasantly warm. The landscape is green from the past rains, but streams are fairly low. Overall, road conditions are excellent and there’s little rain. Dress in layers (a hoodie or windbreaker for morning, T-shirt by noon) and maybe carry a buff or light scarf if you catch a chill riding at speed. Late in the cool season (Feb), farmers start burning fields in the region, so a bit of haze can appear. However, the major smoke/haze (“burning”) season peaks in March, so November–January mostly stays clear.
• Hot Season (March–April): Expect very hot temperatures – afternoons often reach 35–40°C. The sun is intense, so wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and stay hydrated. This period is also known as the “smoky season” in northern Thailand. Due to agricultural burning, air quality and visibility can be poor in March (often the worst month). Don’t be surprised if distant hills look shrouded in haze. If you have respiratory sensitivities, consider wearing a mask or even postponing the trip to a later month. Despite the heat and haze, Ob Khan is a popular hot-season escape because you can cool off by the river. From March until the first rains, the water level in the Mae Khan River is low and calm, making it safe to wade or dip. Locals often flock to the park on hot weekends for picnics and swimming, so it can get quite crowded on Saturday/Sunday. If you go in April (the peak of both heat and Songkran holiday), try a weekday for a quieter experience. Start your ride early to avoid midday heat on the road, take breaks in the shade, and carry plenty of water. A cooling neck towel and a good ventilated riding jacket will help with the heat. Also be mentally prepared for less stunning views due to the hazy sky – focus on the close-up scenery like the canyon and river, which are still beautiful.

• Rainy Season (May–October): Lush green scenery and cooler temperatures (especially from June to September) are the perks of the monsoon, but you’ll need to plan around the frequent rains. Early rainy season (May–June) is hot and gets occasional storms, then the peak rains come in July–September. Heavy downpours can happen anytime in these months. The good news is showers are often short (1–2 hours) and the rest of the day might be cloudy or partly sunny – but you should be prepared for sudden rain. Always pack rain gear (a waterproof jacket or poncho and pants, or at least a poncho to cover you and the bike). The road to Ob Khan becomes trickier when wet: that final dirt section turns into mud and can be impassable after very heavy rain. In fact, the park doesn’t pave it precisely because it floods – the Mae Khan River can overflow in peak rainy season. Check the weather forecast and avoid riding during or immediately after torrential rainfall. If it has rained a lot, be cautious – the small bridge and dirt track might be slippery. Once at the park, do not swim during/after big rains; the river current gets strong and flash floods are a risk. On the plus side, visiting in the rainy season means the forest is extremely green, the canyon has dramatic water flow, and there are almost no crowds. The park remains open year-round. In fact, you might have the serene river and misty cliffs all to yourself on a weekday. Just know that certain facilities might close for maintenance – for example, the park’s nature trails and campground typically close during the monsoon months and reopen by mid-October. If you go in this season, schedule some buffer days in Chiang Mai in case you need to delay the trip due to weather. Ride slower than usual on wet roads (especially on painted lines which get slick). It’s wise to carry a dry bag or waterproof backpack cover to keep your belongings dry. And after every rain ride, lubricate your bike’s chain (rain can wash out the lube). Don’t let the rain discourage you – with the right gear, a ride in light rain can be enjoyable, and the verdant scenery in Ob Khan is worth it. Just always prioritize safety over schedule if the weather turns bad.

Points of Interest Along the Route

One of the best aspects of this trip is the number of attractions you can visit en route. You can customize your ride to include cultural sites, nature parks, and fun activities either on the way to Ob Khan or on the return. Here are some notable points of interest along the general route (Chiang Mai → Hang Dong → Ob Khan). Consider stopping at a couple to make the most of your journey:

Royal Park Rajapruek

Located off Canal Road about 10 km from the city, this expansive park was originally the site of a world-class horticultural expo. Today it’s a beautifully landscaped botanical garden and cultural park featuring flower displays, international gardens, and the grand Ho Kham Royal Pavilion. It’s a great morning stop for a peaceful stroll among orchids and sculptures. Parking is easy and entry is inexpensive. The Royal Pavilion with its traditional Lanna architecture is very photogenic, especially with mountains in the backdrop on a clear day. (If you’re an early riser, you could visit when it opens at 8AM, explore for an hour, then continue your ride.)

Wat Phra That Doi Kham

This mountaintop temple sits on a hill just west of Royal Park Rajapruek. A small detour up a winding road will take you to this revered temple known for its 24-meter tall seated Buddha overlooking Chiang Mai. It’s popular among locals making merit. From the top, you get a panoramic view of the city and valley. If you have time for a detour and don’t mind a steep road, it’s worth the climb. On clear days you can see the whole cityscape. (Note: There’s a parking area near the top, so you don’t have to climb the long staircase unless you want to.) Doi Kham is a nice spot to take a break, enjoy a coconut or iced coffee from a vendor, and take in the view.

Chiang Mai Night Safari

Right next to Rajapruek (and on the way to Wat Doi Kham) is the Night Safari park. During daytime they have an open zoo and animal exhibitions (the actual night safari tram operates after dusk). If you’re interested in wildlife, you could stop by in the late afternoon to see some animals. It’s not a must-do for everyone, but families might enjoy it. Keep in mind if you stop here and want to do the night tour, you’d be riding back to the city in the dark (not advisable on a scooter through unfamiliar roads). So, this is more of a mention than a strong recommendation unless you plan to stay in the area overnight.

Wat Ton Kwen (Wat Intharawat)

This is a historic Lanna-style temple located near Ban Ton Kwen in Hang Dong, just a short hop off the main route (near where Canal Road meets the rural road to Ob Khan). Wat Ton Kwen is one of the few remaining traditional wooden temples around Chiang Mai, featuring exquisite teak architecture and a peaceful courtyard. The elegant wooden hall of Wat Ton Kwen was the inspiration for the design of the Royal Pavilion at Rajapruek. It’s a quiet, non-touristy temple – often you’ll have it to yourself except for maybe a monk or a caretaker. If you appreciate architecture or want a dose of local culture, stop by this temple either on your way out or on return. Dress modestly (knees and shoulders covered) when entering temple grounds. This stop only takes 15–20 minutes but offers great insight into Northern Thai heritage.

Chiang Mai Grand Canyon (Hang Dong Canyon)

About midway to Ob Khan, near the Nam Phrae area, lies the so-called “Grand Canyon” of Chiang Mai. It’s an old quarry pit filled with turquoise water, surrounded by high earthen cliffs. This spot has become a popular attraction for swimming and adventure. There are two main sites: one side is a free viewpoint and local swimming area, and the other side is a developed Grand Canyon Water Park (which charges an entry fee but includes large inflatable water toys, zipline, slides, etc.). Even if you don’t swim, it’s cool to stop and look – the contrast of red cliffs and blue-green water makes for unique photos. You can park your bike and walk to the edge to safely view the canyon. If you’re feeling daring, some people do cliff-jumping from designated points (ensure the water park staff are present and it’s allowed). There are a few cafes overlooking the canyon where you can relax with a cold drink. Because it’s so close to the Ob Khan route, many riders pair these two destinations. Midday can be scorching here with little shade, so a quick stop is best. If you want to spend more time and perhaps swim, you might plan to come back here after Ob Khan, when it’s a bit cooler in the late afternoon. The Grand Canyon is about 5 km from the Ob Khan turn-off, so it’s a minor backtrack to include it, but very doable and worth a look.

Wat Phra That Si Mueang Pong

For those interested in a short side adventure and panoramic views, consider a detour to this new hilltop temple. It’s located off Route 1269 (Samoeng Road), which intersects near our route. Recently a large white chedi (stupa) has been constructed on a hill here, visible from the road. You can ride up a small road directly to the base of the white tower. From the hill, you’ll be rewarded with a 360° view of the surrounding countryside, including a clear view of Doi Suthep in the distance. The temple is still being completed, so it’s quiet – basically a viewpoint with a shrine. The vista is especially beautiful in the green season (around November) when the rice fields below are lush and the mountains are vivid green. This detour is only recommended if you have extra time or really love temple views, as it’s a bit out of the direct way. But those who went have said they were not disappointed by the scenery. There are even more attractions in the Hang Dong/Samoeng area (waterfalls, caves, etc.), but the ones listed above are the most convenient and worthwhile stops for this specific trip. If you plan to hit all of them, you might want to spread the journey over a full day, or even camp overnight to continue exploring next day. Otherwise, pick 1–3 spots that interest you most. A common itinerary is: ride to Ob Khan in the morning, enjoy the park, then stop by the Grand Canyon and Wat Ton Kwen (or a cafe) on the way back. Tailor the plan to your interests – nature, culture, or a mix.

Camping Options

If you love the outdoors, camping at Ob Khan National Park is a fantastic experience. The park offers a designated campground by the Mae Khan River, allowing you to sleep under the stars with the sound of flowing water in the background. Here’s what you need to know about camping there and nearby

• Ob Khan National Park Campground: Right inside the park, just a short walk across a little bamboo footbridge from the parking area, is a riverside campground. This is a grassy area along the bank of the Mae Khan River, set aside for visitors who want to pitch a tent. Camping is free of charge – currently the park does not charge an entry fee or camping fee. Basic facilities are available: there are toilets (bathrooms) at the visitor center which campers can use, and they are maintained clean. There’s also a park ranger station and an information center nearby, so you’re not totally alone in the wilderness. At times, especially on weekends or holidays, local families might camp out as well, but on a typical weekday you might be one of just a few campers.
• How to arrange camping: It’s quite informal – you don’t need an advance reservation in most cases. If you arrive and decide to camp, inform the park officer at the entrance booth or visitor center. They will take your details (and note your license plate) for safety. If you didn’t bring your own tent, ask the rangers – some Thai national parks have tents to rent. Since Ob Khan is still not heavily developed, rental gear may or may not be available, so it’s best to bring your own tent and sleeping gear. There are plenty of flat spots to set up. In the cooler months, nights can be chilly by the river, so have a blanket or sleeping bag. In the rainy season (or if rain is forecast), you might reconsider camping – the park closes the campground during the heavy rainy period (usually mid-year) for safety and to let the area recover. Typically, it reopens by mid-October once flooding risk is over. Always check the latest status; you can call the park or check their official Facebook page for announcements on closures.
• Campground amenities: Don’t expect luxury – this is simple camping. There is no electricity at the campsite, so bring flashlights or headlamps. There are no fixed barbecue pits, but you can bring your own portable stove or charcoal grill if you wish to cook (just be very careful with fire and clean up afterward). The park sometimes has a small snack kiosk or canteen near the office that might sell instant noodles, drinks, or firewood, but it’s not guaranteed to be open. Water from the river is not for drinking, so have your own drinking water. The toilets are a short walk back by the parking area – they are basic squat and flush toilets, but generally kept clean. There are also outdoor showers (not heated). All in all, it’s a pretty convenient camping setup for a national park: beautiful nature, and basic needs covered.
• Camping experience: Camping at Ob Khan is quite safe and very tranquil. You’ll likely be treated to a brilliant night sky (on clear nights, stars are visible since you’re away from city lights). The ambiance of the river gorge at dusk and dawn is magical – morning mist, birds chirping, and the sunlight filtering through the trees. It’s an awesome way to immerse yourself in nature without traveling far from Chiang Mai. Do keep your food securely packed as there might be curious critters (squirrels, stray dogs, etc.) that would rummage through an open bag. Monkeys are not common at this park, so that’s less of a worry compared to some other Thai parks.
• Outside/nearby camping: If for some reason the park campground is closed or you prefer more facilities, there aren’t many established campgrounds immediately near Ob Khan, since it’s close to town. However, a few kilometers before the park (in Nam Phrae subdistrict) there are some private resorts and farm-stays that might allow camping or have gardens for tents. For example, Lanna Resort (where Valley Coffee is located) has large grounds – you could inquire if they allow camping or rent a bungalow. Another idea is the Grand Canyon Water Park – they don’t have official camping, but they do have accommodations (like small huts or dorms) if you wanted to stay by the canyon overnight. Generally, though, most travelers either camp at Ob Khan itself or just return to Chiang Mai city to sleep, given the short distance.

In summary, if you’re equipped and love camping, spending a night at Ob Khan National Park is highly recommended. It turns a quick day trip into a mini-getaway. Just remember to leave no trace – carry out all your trash, and respect the park’s rules (e.g. quiet at night, no loud music, etc.). Waking up to the gorge and having a morning hike before the day-trippers arrive is a special treat that you can brag about to fellow travelers back in Chiang Mai!

Fuel and Repair Information

Even though Ob Khan is not far from the city, it’s important to plan for fuel and be prepared for minor mechanical issues, especially if you’re renting a bike. Here’s what you should know:

• Fuel (Gasoline/Petrol): Start with a full tank in Chiang Mai. The round trip is only ~60 km, but if you plan detours or encounter traffic, you don’t want to run low. In the city, gas stations are everywhere – the major chains like PTT, Shell, Caltex, etc., are all fine to use. On the route to Ob Khan, you will find a few gas stations in the outskirts before you get to the rural area. For example, there’s a PTT station on Highway 108 (Hang Dong Road) near Mae Hia, and another PTT near Hang Dong town, as well as small stations on Route 121 near the Canal Road intersection. One convenient stop for last-minute supplies is the 7-Eleven on Canal Road just before the turn-off to Ob Khan – many riders stop here to grab water, snacks, or top up gas if needed. Once you turn off Canal Road toward the park, there are no big petrol stations on that small country road. In the villages, at most you might see local shops selling petrol in old whiskey bottles – these can work in a pinch for a litre or two, but it’s pricier and not always 91-octane quality. So it’s best to fill up at a major station before heading into the last 10 km stretch. A motorbike typically will not use more than 1–2 liters for this whole trip, but it’s good practice to have at least half a tank when you go into areas without stations.
• Repair Shops: The route is close enough to town that any serious mechanical issue can be resolved by heading back toward the city. However, for minor troubles like a flat tire or loose chain, you can often find help in the local area. Thai neighborhoods usually have a small motorbike repair stall (look for signs with a motorbike picture or Thai words like “ซ่อมมอไซ” or “ปะยาง” which mean tire repair). Along Route 121 near Hang Dong and in Nam Phrae village, keep an eye out for tiny garages or even houses with a bunch of tires and tools out front – these are local mechanics who can patch a tube or fix a puncture for a very small fee. If you get a flat tire on the rural road, you might even flag down a local – people are generally helpful and might point you to the nearest repair shop. For more serious issues (engine problems, etc.), it’s best to slowly ride back toward Hang Dong town, where there are proper motorcycle service centers and dealerships. Hang Dong has a Honda and Yamaha service if your bike is from one of those brands.
• Tools and spares: If you’re renting, check if your bike has a toolkit under the seat (most Thai rental scooters include a basic tool kit). It’s smart to carry a tire inflator spray or a patch kit if you have space – though not absolutely necessary for such a short trip, it could save a long walk if you’re unlucky. Also ensure your phone is charged so you can call the rental company – many rentals in Chiang Mai offer some roadside assistance or can send someone if you break down within a certain radius. Save their number before you go. Phone reception out at Ob Khan is generally okay (you’re not too far from the city).
• Gas usage and refill on return: Ob Khan has no fuel for sale inside, so you’ll use a bit of fuel going in and out. On your way back to Chiang Mai, you can stop again at the 7-Eleven or gas station on Canal Road (at the junction near the park turn) to top up if needed. This is recommended if you’re low, because Chiang Mai city traffic can be heavy and you don’t want to run out while crawling in traffic. There’s also a PTT station with Amazon Cafe on Canal Road further north if you continue straight, which is a nice place to refuel both your bike and yourself (coffee break!).

In summary, fuel up in town or at the last big station, and don’t worry too much about repairs – the route is populated enough that help is not far. Basic prep like checking your tire pressure and brakes before departure will minimize chances of incidents. And as always with motorcycling: expect the best, prepare for the worst. A little planning ensures you can focus on enjoying the ride through the countryside.

Best Places to Eat

No road trip is complete without sampling some delicious food along the way! Fortunately, the Chiang Mai to Ob Khan route offers options ranging from local street food to cozy cafes. Here are some best places to eat or grab a drink during your journey:

• Picnic at Ob Khan National Park: One of the joys of Ob Khan is having a picnic by the river. If you’re spending a few hours at the park, consider bringing your own lunch. There are picnic tables and plenty of scenic spots to sit on mats near the water. The surroundings are perfect for it – imagine eating Thai sticky rice and fried chicken with your feet dipped in the cool stream! The park sometimes has a small snack stall run by the rangers, but it’s not guaranteed to be open or well-stocked. Occasionally on weekends, local vendors set up a grill (you might find a grilled chicken (gai yang) or papaya salad cart), but this is hit or miss. Therefore, bringing your own food is the safest bet. You can stop by a market or 7-Eleven in the morning to pick up supplies. Some ideas: grab some fresh fruit, sandwiches, or khao soi (curry noodles) packed to-go from Chiang Mai. If you prefer, you can even bring a small portable BBQ; the family-friendly atmosphere allows for cooking on-site as long as you’re responsible. Just remember to clean up all trash. A picnic lets you dine with a view of the canyon and river – a truly memorable mealtime. And nothing beats a cold drink by the water on a hot day, so bring a cooler with ice if you can.
• Valley Coffee @ Lanna Resort: If you’re looking for a sit-down meal or coffee in a lovely setting, Valley Coffee by Lanna Resort comes highly recommended. It’s located in a small green valley off Route 1269 (Samoeng Road), not far from Ob Khan turn-off. This cafe-restaurant is part of a resort but open to the public. The setting is beautiful – surrounded by forested cliffs and a stream. You can enjoy authentic Thai dishes here; their curries and stir-fries are tasty. They also serve coffee, smoothies, and Western dishes if you’re craving something familiar. The atmosphere is very relaxing – shaded garden seating, the sound of water, and often very few people around. It’s an ideal stop after visiting Ob Khan, to cool off and fill up. Prices are reasonable for the quality and setting. Also, the resort grounds have nice landscaping, so you can walk around the garden after your meal.
• Lanna Rock Garden (Restaurant): This is another riverside restaurant in the same general area as Valley Coffee. Lanna Rock Garden is known for its nice ambiance by the stream and good Northern Thai food. It had a great reputation among locals; however, be aware that it sometimes closes without notice. If it’s open, you can expect dishes like grilled pork, som tam (papaya salad), and curry noodles served in a lush garden. It’s a bit of a hidden gem (when operational). If you want to try your luck, it’s in the Nam Phrae area near the canyon. If closed, just head to Valley Coffee, which is nearby and reliable.
• Tuang Thong Canyon View: For those stopping by the Grand Canyon, this local eatery is located right by the quarry lake (hence “canyon view”). It offers simple Thai food and drinks with a direct view over the water. You can munch on fried rice or noodle dishes while looking at people ziplining across the canyon. It’s not fancy, but the view and convenience make it a popular stop for lunch. Also, near the Grand Canyon entrance there are food stalls selling grilled meats, papaya salad, and fruit shakes – a very Thai experience to eat from a plastic basket table with a panoramic vista of the canyon.
• Hang Dong Town & Kad Farang: On your way in or out via Highway 108, you pass through the Hang Dong area which has plenty of food options. If you want a quick bite in a local setting, look for open-air restaurants along the road (many have signs in English/Thai and pictures of food). Dishes like Khao Kha Moo (stewed pork leg on rice) or Kuay Teow (noodle soup) are often found at roadside eateries. For a more international palate, the Kad Farang Village (a community mall on 108) has a variety of restaurants – from Thai to pizza to a Starbucks – and a western supermarket (Rimping) if you need any groceries. Kad Farang is a bit off our main route, but if you happen to be staying in Hang Dong it’s worth knowing.
• Fajitas Tex-Mex and Other International Fare: Surprisingly, in the Hang Dong/Samoeng road area, there are a couple of Western food spots run by expats. One noted by travelers is Fajitas TexMex (on Route 1269) which offers Mexican-inspired cuisine. There’s also Little Italy Pizza Garden and Francesca’s Pizzeria if you crave pizza (these are in Hang Dong). While it might feel odd to eat pizza on a nature outing, these options exist if you or your riding buddies want something different. They are typically closed on some weekdays, so check hours. Such places are more for residents, but they do have good food. For example, Fajitas TexMex has been praised by expats for an authentic burrito and cold beer after a day out – something to consider if you’re a long-term traveler missing a taste of home.

In short, you won’t go hungry on this trip. For a truly local experience, grabbing street food and picnicking by the river at Ob Khan is unbeatable. If you prefer a comfortable seat and a menu, the Valley Coffee cafe or similar spots in Hang Dong will satisfy you with delicious Thai dishes in scenic environments. And don’t forget dessert – maybe stop by a roadside stand for sweet ripe mango or a bowl of tub tim krob (water chestnut dessert) on your way back. Fuel for your bike is important, but fuel for you makes the ride all the more enjoyable!

Photography and Scenic Spots

Bring your camera (or phone), because this journey is filled with great photo opportunities. From sweeping landscapes to hidden gems, here are the best spots to capture those Instagram-worthy shots

• Ob Khan Gorge and Mae Khan River: The star attraction is, of course, the dramatic Ob Khan canyon inside the park. Here, the river cuts through towering cliffs of layered rock, creating a mini-canyon that’s very photogenic. You can get excellent shots of the rock formations and clear pools of water. A tripod will help if you want to do long exposure shots of the flowing stream. There’s a suspension footbridge about 800m into the nature trail – from there, you have a beautiful perspective looking down the gorge. Also, on the banks, you’ll find interesting angles where the sunlight hits the textured rock walls. The best times for photography at the canyon are morning (around 9–10 AM) when the sun is not directly overhead, or late afternoon. In the evening around 4–5 PM, the lighting in the canyon is warm and golden, and the surrounding area becomes very atmospheric. If you go during the week or early in the day, you might have no people in your shots; on weekends, you may need to wait for a clear moment as swimmers and picnickers can wander into frame.
• Scenic Road through the Countryside: Don’t stow your camera until you reach the destination – the ride itself offers scenic vistas. The rural road to Ob Khan runs past rice paddies, teakwood orchards, and villages. In the late rainy season (Aug–Nov), the rice fields are vibrant green and make for excellent pastoral photos. You might spot farmers working or water buffalo grazing. There are also stretches where tall trees arch over the road, creating a natural tunnel effect – a great opportunity for an action shot of you or your friends riding through. If you have a GoPro or action cam, mounting it on your helmet or bike will let you capture these winding road scenes. A notable photo-op is near the Ban Pong village school (you’ll see a colorful flower bed and a cute sign). It’s little moments like that which capture the charm of rural Thailand. Feel free to pull over (where safe) to snap these shots – just use your hazard lights or hand signals to let any other vehicles know you’re stopping.
• Wat Ton Kwen Temple: For cultural photography, Wat Ton Kwen is a gem. The ancient wooden viharn (prayer hall) with its multi-tiered roof and ornate carvings makes for a striking subject. Photographers love how the late afternoon sun lights up the front of the hall, and how the building’s dark teak contrasts with the bright sky. If you have a wide-angle lens, you can capture the whole temple compound (including the white chedi and the wooden gallery around the yard). This temple often has no one around, so you can take your time composing shots of its architecture without distractions. It’s especially beautiful if you catch it when a few monks are present in their orange robes – the color contrast is stunning. Remember to be respectful when photographing in active temples.
• Panorama from Wat Phra That Si Mueang Pong: As mentioned, this hillside temple offers a panoramic lookout. If you venture there, you can capture a wide shot of Chiang Mai’s countryside with Doi Suthep mountain in the distance. On clear days, the details of the landscape – villages, forests, and fields – stretch out below you. This is a fantastic spot for a sunset photo if you time it right (just be cautious driving back after sunset). The white chedi itself can be an interesting foreground subject against the sky. A traveler who visited in November noted that the surrounding small mountains were very green and the view was not disappointing at all. If you have a drone (and the area is not a no-fly zone), this hilltop would be a safe place to launch and get some aerial shots of the valley. Always check local drone regulations though.
• Grand Canyon Cliff View: If you stop at the Chiang Mai Grand Canyon, bring your camera there too. The contrast of red-earth cliffs and emerald water makes for eye-catching images. There is a designated viewpoint where you can safely stand on a ledge (with barriers) to shoot the panorama of the water-filled quarry. If you catch someone mid-air jumping off a cliff into the water, that can be a fun action shot. The water park’s colorful inflatables can also add a fun element to your photos. Keep in mind midday sun can blow out the highlights (the rocks can look pale), so morning or late afternoon is better here as well for richer colors. Even without pro equipment, phones do a decent job capturing this scene due to the vibrant natural colors.
• Miscellaneous: Other scenic subjects include the Mae Khan River’s calm section beyond the gorge (upstream, where it widens – very peaceful scenery for nature shots), and the bamboo bridge at Ob Khan (makes a nice rustic photo with the river underneath). If you’re a bird watcher or macro photographer, Ob Khan has interesting flora and fauna – you might catch butterflies, wild orchids, or birds near the river. In late dry season, the rock formations themselves create abstract art-like images with their swirling patterns – worth capturing if you’re into geology.

Photography Tips: To get the best results, consider the time of day – for example, if you want that soft lighting in the canyon, aim for early morning or late afternoon. Also, weekdays or early hours have fewer people, making it easier to shoot landscapes without crowds. Always secure your camera while riding. And remember, respect the environment: don’t climb where it’s unsafe or prohibited just for a photo. The beauty of this trip is that it’s naturally photogenic – you’ll find plenty of gorgeous backdrops for your travel memories.

Weather

Conclusion

The journey from Chiang Mai to Ob Khan National Park is a perfect blend of easy riding and rich experiences. In a single day you can ride through lovely landscapes, visit a royal garden, see a hilltop temple, swim in a canyon, enjoy local food, and relax by a river. It’s a trip that’s off the typical tourist trail but very accessible. Foreign tourists often cite this as a highlight of their Chiang Mai visit because it offers a glimpse of local life and natural beauty so close to the city. With this guide in hand, you’re well-equipped to explore confidently. Pack your day-bag, charge your camera, strap on your helmet, and hit the road – an adventure to Ob Khan National Park awaits! Enjoy the ride and remember to soak in every moment. Ride safe and have fun!

Sources

• Thai National Parks (English/Thai) • Link: https://www.thainationalparks.com/ • Details: Officially maintained site containing an overview of Ob Khan National Park, including directions, general park information, and nearby attractions.
• Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (Thai) • Link: https://portal.dnp.go.th/Content/nationalpark?contentId=1464 • Details: Thai government portal with park-specific policies, conservation details, closures, and camping regulations for Ob Khan and other national parks.
• Tourism Authority of Thailand – Ob Khan National Park (English) • Link: https://www.tourismthailand.org/Attraction/ob-khan-national-park • Details: Offers basic descriptions of the park’s highlights, location, and travel tips, emphasizing sightseeing and seasonal weather considerations.
• Pantip Travel Forum (Thai) • Link: https://pantip.com/tag/ออบขาน • Details: A popular Thai-language discussion forum where travelers share trip reports, photos, driving directions, and firsthand experiences of camping or day-tripping to Ob Khan and surrounding areas.
• TripAdvisor – Chiang Mai Forum (English) • Link: https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowForum-g293917-i9325-Chiang_Mai.html • Details: Contains threads about short motorbike routes around Chiang Mai, including user questions and answers on how to reach Ob Khan, recommended stops, restaurant tips, and best times to visit.
• Chiang Mai Buddy Travel Blog (English) • Link: https://chiangmaibuddy.com/ob-khan-national-park • Details: Independent blog focusing on lesser-known Chiang Mai sites. Offers practical info about road conditions on Canal Road, recommended gear for scooter riders, and photos of the gorge and picnic areas.
• Review Chiang Mai (English/Thai) • Link: https://www.reviewchiangmai.com (search “Ob Khan”) • Details: Local lifestyle and tourism website. Contains articles in both English and Thai about weekend getaways near Chiang Mai, plus user-submitted reviews on camping experiences and scenic routes.
• Amazing Thailand – French Edition (French) • Link: https://www.tourismethaifr.com (search “Ob Khan”) • Details: French-language portal for Tourism Authority of Thailand. Provides insight into Thai destinations for francophone travelers, including park visits and motorbike route notes.
• Thailand Reisetipps (German) • Link: https://www.thailand.reisen/reisetipps/ob-khan-nationalpark • Details: German-language travel tips website about Thailand, covering natural attractions around Chiang Mai. Offers guidelines for visitors on scenic viewpoints, best season for photography, and typical weather around Ob Khan.
• Chiang Mai Local Rider Forums (Thai/English) • Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/chiangmailocalrider • Details: A Facebook group where local and expat motorcyclists discuss road conditions, share GPX tracks, swap repair shop recommendations, and post photos from day rides to Ob Khan, Samoeng, Hang Dong, and related areas.