Look Up! The Best Places to Go Bird Watching in Northern Thailand

Bird watching is a cherished hobby for many. As children, we often found joy in spotting birds soaring through the sky. We’d even crane our necks to catch sight of them, watching their every move and where they would land. Many of us even dreamed of emulating our favourite superheroes because we were fascinated with flying.

Whether you’re new to bird watching or a pro, The Beat Asia is here to help you discover the best spots to go bird watching in Northern Thailand.

Doi Inthanon National Park

Renowned as one of Thailand’s most popular parks, Doi Inthanon National Park is celebrated for its stunning waterfalls, scenic trails, secluded villages, and picturesque viewpoints. The park is a haven for birdwatchers, boasting an impressive record of around 500-510 bird species, the highest count in Thailand. Among these species are unique finds such as ashy-throated leaf warblers, dark-breasted rosefinches, and collared grosbeaks, some of which are exclusive to Doi Inthanon in the country.

Location: Doi Inthanon National Park, 19 Ban Luang, Chom Thong District, Chiang Mai 50160, Thailand

Huay Tung Tao

A vast recreational area managed by Thai soldiers, Huay Tung Tao is surrounded by woodland and mixed farmland that has produced a variety of species. Given its proximity to Chiang Mai, a place known for its diverse bird species, Huay Tung Tao makes for a perfect birdwatching location. Expect to see species such as the rufous-winged buzzard, a small hawk with demonic-looking pale eyes, and the Chinese francolin, which has white cheeks and a white patch throat.

Location: Huay Tung Tao, 283 Moo 3 Don Kaeo Amphoe Mae Rim, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50180, Thailand

Fang Hot Springs

Nestled in Chiang Mai province lies Fang Hot Springs, a serene haven in Doi Pha Hom Pok National Park. Here, you’ll discover ancient rocks, lush trees, and soothing thermal pools perfect for a dip after a long hike. Surrounded by hills and trees, Fang Hot Springs offers not just relaxation but also beautiful scenery perfect for birdwatching.

There’s an abundance of birds here that will wow your eyes, from flocks of spot-winged grosbeaks that frequent the area during November to March, to the distinctive Eurasian jay with its white face. Asian barred owlets are common sightings, along with wintering long-tailed minivets, vibrant golden-fronted leafbirds, and various species of barbets. Don’t forget to bring binoculars for a closer observation of these beautiful flying creatures.

Location: Fang Hot Springs, X583+9P6 Chiangmai 4050 Road Amphoe Fang, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50110, Thailand

Chiang Dao Rice Paddies

Rice paddies in Northern Thailand serve multiple purposes beyond rice cultivation, including providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching. One such example is the Chiang Dao Rice Paddies, a small area of wet rice agriculture located in Chiang Mai province. In addition to attracting wetland birds, these paddies are also frequented by species such as the grey-headed lapwings and wire-tailed swallows. Observing these birds in their natural habitat is not only ideal for photography enthusiasts but also offers a captivating glimpse into their behavior.

Location: Chiang Dao Rice Paddies, 273 Moo 5 Chiang Dao, Amphoe Chiang Dao, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50170, Thailand

Mae Ping National Park

Located in the province of Lamphun, Mae Ping National Park features a mature dry dipterocarp forest, offering a serene birding experience along its quiet access road to the campsite. With miles of peaceful trails, the park boasts some truly spectacular bird species. Woodpeckers are particularly abundant here, with both the white-bellied woodpecker and the black-bellied woodpecker easily spotted throughout the forest, often seen flying gracefully from tree to tree.

Location: Mae Ping National Park, 81 Mae Lan, Li District, Lamphun 51110, Thailand