Planning Your Huay Tung Tao Lake Nature Walk

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For current hours, prices, and announcements, start with UNESCO World Heritage Centre.

There is a small entry fee for all international visitors. You will pay this at the main security gate entrance. The cost is usually fifty baht per person for adults. Keep your ticket handy as you may need it later.

There are several free nature spots in Chiang Mai worth visiting. However, this lake offers many more facilities than most parks. You will find clean toilets and many small snack shops. It is a very convenient choice for a family outing.

10 Best Activities for a Huay Tung Tao Lake Nature Walk

The main loop around the lake is about four kilometers long. Walking the entire circle takes roughly one hour at a steady pace. You will pass various themed zones and beautiful rest areas. It is a diverse route with many things to see.

Many people prefer to walk during the cooler morning hours. The light is perfect for taking photos of the straw animals. You can also stop at a hut for a cold drink. The path is shared by walkers, runners, and some cyclists.

If you want more variety, consider visiting nature spots with no entry fee nearby. But for a complete experience, this lake is hard to beat. It combines art, nature, and local food in one place. Here are the top things to do during your walk.

1. Giant Straw King Kong and Animal Sculptures
   • Type: iconic photo sight
   • Why go: see massive straw art
   • Best for: photographers and families
   • Where: northern lake shore
   • Time: thirty minutes needed
   • Cost: included in entry
   • Getting there: walk from parking
   • Tip: climb the internal stairs
2. Relaxing in Private Lakeside Bamboo Huts
   • Type: local cultural experience
   • Why go: enjoy peaceful water views
   • Best for: groups and couples
   • Where: dotted around perimeter
   • Time: one to two hours
   • Cost: free with food
   • Getting there: walk the main path
   • Tip: choose a quiet corner
3. Full Perimeter Loop on the Paved Trail
   • Type: scenic nature walk
   • Why go: get some light exercise
   • Best for: active travelers
   • Where: entire lake edge
   • Time: sixty minutes total
   • Cost: no extra charge
   • Getting there: start at entrance
   • Tip: walk in counter-clockwise direction
4. Feeding the Sheep at the Local Farm
   • Type: unique animal experience
   • Why go: interact with friendly sheep
   • Best for: children and families
   • Where: near the straw animals
   • Time: twenty minutes needed
   • Cost: small fee for grass
   • Getting there: follow the farm signs
   • Tip: go before noon daily
5. Photography at the Floating Wooden Pontoons
   • Type: scenic viewpoint
   • Why go: get great water photos
   • Best for: social media fans
   • Where: western side area
   • Time: ten minutes needed
   • Cost: free to use
   • Getting there: walk the shoreline
   • Tip: watch your balance here
6. Dining on Fresh Fish at Lakeside Restaurants
   • Type: local food experience
   • Why go: taste authentic Thai dishes
   • Best for: hungry hikers
   • Where: southern restaurant zone
   • Time: one hour duration
   • Cost: moderate meal prices
   • Getting there: walk or drive
   • Tip: try the grilled tilapia
7. Riding ATVs Through the Forested Trails
   • Type: adventurous outdoor activity
   • Why go: explore the back woods
   • Best for: thrill seekers
   • Where: designated track area
   • Time: thirty minute sessions
   • Cost: separate rental fee
   • Getting there: near the farm
   • Tip: wear clothes for dirt
8. Renting a Swan Shaped Paddle Boat
   • Type: fun water activity
   • Why go: see lake from center
   • Best for: romantic couples
   • Where: main pier area
   • Time: thirty minutes rental
   • Cost: small rental fee
   • Getting there: follow pier signs
   • Tip: wear a life jacket
9. Visiting the Nearby Huay Keaw Waterfall
   • Type: easy day trip
   • Why go: see natural cascades
   • Best for: nature lovers
   • Where: ten minutes away
   • Time: forty-five minutes
   • Cost: usually free entry
   • Getting there: drive south slightly
   • Tip: visit after rain
10. Hiking the Scenic Monk's Trail Nearby
    • Type: mountain hiking trail
    • Why go: reach hidden temples
    • Best for: serious hikers
    • Where: base of mountain
    • Time: two hours total
    • Cost: free of charge
    • Getting there: short taxi ride
    • Tip: wear proper shoes

What to Expect During Your Visit

The path is mostly paved and very easy to walk. You will encounter some dirt sections near the farm. Most of the route is flat with no hills. This makes it accessible for people of all ages.

You might see local birds and small lizards today. The area is home to many different species. Keep an eye on the trees for colorful wings. Nature is very active in the early morning.

For more information on the area, visit our main travel site. We offer many tips for exploring Northern Thailand. You can find maps and transport advice there. It is a great resource for planning.

Best Times for Hiking and Walking

The best time to visit is before ten am. The sun is not too hot during this time. You will also avoid the largest afternoon crowds. It is the quietest time for a walk.

Late afternoon is also a very popular choice. The temperature starts to drop after four pm. You can watch the sunset over the mountains. The golden hour light is perfect for photos.

Check out the Ang Kaew reservoir sunset spots for comparison. That lake is closer to the university area. Both spots offer unique views of the sky. You should try to visit both locations.

Other Nature Spots Near Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai has many wonderful green spaces to enjoy. You can find many free nature parks in Chiang Mai nearby. Each park has its own unique charm and feel. Some are better for running than others.

If you enjoy water, visit the Huay Keaw waterfall visiting guide. It is a very short drive from the lake. The waterfall is a great place to cool off. It is very popular with local students.

For a more challenging hike, try the Monk's Trail walking route. This trail leads you up the mountain side. You will see beautiful temples along the way. It is a very spiritual and quiet path.