Why are entrance fees being introduced for hiking trails in Chiang Mai, and how does it impact locals and tourists?

Question

For anyone thats ever been to chiang mai, you've probably hiked the monks trail to wat palad. This trails been around for over 200 years, from before Rama 1 (its the route he took to get to wat doi suthep before there were roads.

Well from October 1st, you'll need to pay to go for a walk in the forest now. 100 baht for foreigners, 2 for thais.

This in light if continuing news about decline tourist numbers, recessions, and vacant hotels. When there's less people coming let's raise prices and put fees on everything to make up for the loss.

For me, I've lived in chiang mai for the last 4 years. 2 years ago they closed Doi Pui and all the trail systems up there (even the paved roads). Last year they started putting entrance fees on Doi Pui access points. This year they're doing it with Doi Suthep. Many national parks in chiang mai have reservation systems, require permits or guides to access, and are closed over 6 months of the year.

Most people live here for the access to nature, thais and foringers. Restrictive policies and over regulations ruin most places in the west, its sad to see it happening here too.

Ask Thailand · Answer

Starting October 1st, visitors to the monks trail to Wat Palad in Chiang Mai will be required to pay an entrance fee of 100 baht for foreigners, while Thais pay only 2 baht. This decision has sparked discussions about the impact of declining tourist numbers and increased fees in Thailand, particularly affecting access to nature for both locals and foreigners. The implementation of fees follows a trend of closing off trails and parks in Chiang Mai, raising concerns among residents and visitors about the diminishing accessibility to natural attractions.

Felix **** · Answer

Why? Makes sense. Less visitors = increase price = the few people that visit pay more = profit!! flawless logic ❤️

Sam ************** · Answer

Hang on, did I read this right ? U have to pay to enter Doi Pui ?

Carlos ********* · Answer

Amazing Thailand😆

Michael ******** · Answer

Cash only sounds like just a money making excercise for officials rather than goverment

Jo ********** · Answer

i fully agree with you. great thought. Fortunately there are many hiking trails which are more wild in Mae On and Mae Wang

Mark ********* · Answer

Many countries charge these fees. They help to maintain the trails, pickup garbage, etc. I have travelled a fair bit and so many places charge entry and trail use in parks. There is no way my rice farming Thai family could afford 100 baht just to walk on a trail. That is enough to feed someone for a day or buy enough food from the market for MA and PA's dinner.

Brandon ************ · Answer

They expect us to pay to almost kill ourselves? I almost died on that trail! But I guess having to pay would've kept me safe because I would've avoided it.

Sad to hear about Doi Pui. I drove up there in the middle of Covid and was the only person around. It was so beautiful and peaceful. I don't think I'd go back if I had to pay.

Why are entrance fees being introduced for hiking trails in Chiang Mai, and how does it impact locals and tourists?

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