Hill Tribes and Trekking in Thailand

An Introduction to the Hill Tribes of Northern Thailand

Traditionally, Thailand’s hill tribes have lived as subsistence farmers. There are seven main tribes, known as the Akha, Lahu, Karen, Hmong/Miao, Mien/Yao, Lisu and Palaung. However, as the term collectively refers to all of the ethnic minority groups living in the region, it fails to distinguish the important differences between them. Although different hill tribes share some festivals, they each have their own cultures and languages. Here's a closer insight into the main hill tribes you can expect to encounter when trekking in northern Thailand.

Karen

The Karen Hill Tribe is the largest in Thailand, with a population numbering in the millions. There are several different subgroups of Karen, each of which also have their own customs, dress and language. The most recognizable is the long-neck Paduang or Kayan Lahwi. Women of this hill tribe are known for wearing stacks of metal rings around their necks, which have been placed since birth and distort and elongate the appearance of their necks. They also traditionally wear sarongs and a colorful cloth headpiece.

Hmong

Also known as Miao, the Hmong Hill Tribe have migrated from the mountainous southwest of China to northern Thailand, Laos and Vietnam. With a population of around 125,000, they are the second largest hill tribe in Thailand and have three subgroups: the Black Hmong, White Hmong and Striped Hmong. Each subgroup is distinguished by their costume, however the easiest way to recognize a Hmong village is by their wooden houses. Unlike the raised stilt bamboo houses of other tribes, the Hmong build on ground level.

Lahu

Numbering around 60,000, the Lahu hill tribe originally lived on the Tibetan Plateau before migrating to the Chinese Province of Yunnan. Under pressure of Chinese domination, they then moved to northern Thailand in the late 19th century. Similarly, the Lahu have around five subgroups including the Red Lahu, Yellow Lahu, White Lahu, Lahu Sheleh and the Black Lahu. The latter of which are the largest subgroup, with distinctive costumes of black cloaks with cream stripes and bright red on their sleeves.

Akha

The Akha Hill Tribe have a population of around 40,000 in Thailand and just two subgroups, the Loi Mi and the U Lo. The women of this hill tribe are famous for their traditional costumes, with their colorful patterns and elaborate headdresses which define the age and marital status of the wearer. Each headdress is unique and decorated by the owner with embroidery, beads, shells, feathers, coins, bells and much more. Whereas the Loi Mi wear a distinctive metal plate on the back of their headdresses, the women of the U Lo subgroup wear headdresses of a conical shape.

Chiang Mai

Situated in a lush valley on the banks of the Ping River, Chiang Mai is known as Thailand’s second city. Founded in 1296, it was once the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom and its long history is evident in the array of wats and temples that remain today. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is the most famous, with its gleaming gold stupa overlooking the city.

The surrounding area offers green countryside and pristine rainforests, with markets, waterfalls and, of course, peaceful hill tribe villages. And once you’ve finished exploring or trekking, Chiang Mai also has an abundance of restaurants and street food to enjoy.

Chiang Rai

Drive 3-4 hours further north from Chiang Mai and you’ll discover the city of Chiang Rai. Overlooking the Kok River in the highlands, Chiang Rai is often hailed as Chiang Mai’s smaller sister. Its sights include the historic Wat Phra Kaew, the most important temple in the city, and the unconventional White Temple, with paintings of modern characters such as Superman inside.

The hills and mountains surrounding Chiang Rai are dotted with hill tribe villages. And if you’re looking for more outdoor activities besides trekking, you can enjoy a scenic ride along the river in a traditional longtail boat or visit the Golden Triangle, for views of the intersection where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet.

Staying in a Community-Run Lodge

Another option for visiting Thailand’s hill tribes is to stay at a community-run lodge such as the Hmong Hilltribe Lodge, found a one-hour drive from Chiang Mai.

From the lodge, guests can explore the surrounding countryside and visit nearby hill tribe villages. In the evening, there’s a BBQ dinner before Hmong people from the village of Mae Khi come to perform and communicate their culture through song, rituals and dance.

Other lodges offer an insight into different hill tribes, with differing levels of involvement with the local community and a range of prices. Staying at a community-run lodge provides employment and a source of income for these communities, whilst you enjoy the comforts of your accommodation.

Trekking and Homestays

The difficulty rating of these treks can vary, however, as you will be visiting hill tribes, the routes certainly won’t be flat. Longer treks may also incorporate porters to carry the main luggage, any equipment and food needed for the duration. Overall, 3-day 2-night itineraries are the most popular choice, with additional activities included such as visiting waterfalls and bamboo rafting.

Best Time for Hill Tribe Trekking

Thailand’s hill tribes can be visited year-round, however, between March and May, slash and burn agriculture can cause a great deal of smog. Rainy season then runs from June to October, when wet conditions can cause some of the trekking routes to be closed.

The best time for hill tribe trekking is therefore from November to March. This is also the cool season in Thailand, so be sure to pack some warmer clothing as the evenings can get chilly in the north.

Getting Off The Beaten Track

Hill tribe trekking is one of the most popular activities in northern Thailand, so trails can get crowded during busy times, particularly those starting less than two hours’ drive from Chiang Mai. If you’re looking for a more remote experience, the best destinations are the towns of Pai or Mae Hong Son.

Whereas Pai has a distinct backpacker atmosphere, Mae Hong Son sees fewer visitors due to the 5.5-hour twisting drive to get there from Chiang Mai. Depending on your chosen trekking route, it is possible to visit all of Thailand’s hill tribes from these towns.