Description
Doi Angkhang has a mix of evergreen forest, pine-oak forest, agricultural land, and scrub. This provides varied habitats for both resident and migratory birds. Doi Angkhang is a reliable site for a number of highly sought-after species like Hume's Pheasant (Though shy and difficult to spot, it is a key target bird for many visitors, often seen near pine forest areas), Giant Nuthatch (has a restricted range, found in the larger pine trees), Spot-breasted Parrotbill and Grey-headed Parrotbill.
During winter, various thrushes, including Black-breasted Thrush, Eyebrowed Thrush, and Grey-sided Thrush are often seen, sometimes at specific feeding stations. Species such as White-browed Laughingthrush, Silver-eared Mesia, and Scarlet-faced Liocichla are regularly encountered. The location is also notable for a confusing array of wintering Phylloscopus warblers and several flycatcher species like Hill Blue Flycatcher and Rufous-bellied Niltava.
Top Birding Locations:
Km 21 Trail & Firebreak Trail (1): This area is particularly productive, offering dense forest and open ridge views. It's excellent for mixed feeding flocks, warblers, and babblers.
Mae Phur Valley Trail (2): Following a stream through wetter forest and bamboo, this trail is a good spot for species like Lesser Shortwing, White's Thrush, and nocturnal birds such as Mountain Scops Owl or Hodgson's Frogmouth.
Ban Nor Lae Army Camp/Viewpoint (3): This military outpost near the Myanmar border provides good open views and attracts various species to the flowering bushes, including Crested Finchbill and Daurian Redstart.
The Royal Agricultural Station (4): While often busy with general tourists, specific unmanaged areas and flowering trees near the restaurant can be a magnet for sunbirds, bulbuls, and thrushes when they are feeding on scraps or fruit.
Chinese Cemetery and Fields (5): This open area with scrub and orchards is an excellent spot for Brown-breasted Bulbul, wintering buntings, and open-sky raptors.
Details
Access
Doi Angkhang is located in the Fang district in the far north of Chiang Mai province, Thailand, close to the border with Myanmar. There is no direct public transportation to Doi Ang Khang, so the best way to reach it is by private vehicle or chartered transport. The nearest major airport is Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX).
A vehicle is necessary to navigate the various sites, as the distances between good birding spots can be significant. Hiring a driver and private car for the entire journey from Chiang Mai is a popular option, costing around 2,900 THB for a round trip with a driver.


