Khao Thewada — or Doi Thewada — is the highest mountain in Suphan Buri Province, reaching 1,123 metres above sea level. Located within Phu Toei National Park, near the Karen village of Taperng Kee, it is a rewarding climb for anyone looking to experience a wilder and quieter side of Thailand.
This isn’t one of those mountains where you simply park the car and stroll to the summit. Getting there is part of the adventure.
The journey takes you deep into the countryside and eventually onto increasingly rough mountain roads before reaching the Taperng Kee ranger station and camping area, which serves as the starting point for the climb.
From the camping area, the summit trail is approximately 1 kilometre. The first section is relatively straightforward, but the trail then becomes considerably steeper, with steps, exposed roots and sections where ropes are provided to help with the ascent. It is a short climb, but the steepness makes it more demanding than the distance might suggest.
And then, suddenly, you’re there.
At the summit, the forest opens up to broad views across the surrounding mountains and valleys. On a clear morning, the combination of mountain ridges, forest and changing light makes this an especially rewarding location for photographers. Early starts can also provide the opportunity to see mist and sunrise over the surrounding hills.
Visitor Information
Opening Hours
Khao Thewada is reported to be accessible throughout the year, although conditions and access can change according to weather and park management. The mountain is within Phu Toei National Park, so it is advisable to check with the park before travelling, particularly during periods of heavy rain.
For practical purposes, allow yourself plenty of daylight. Older visitor information recommends reaching the Taperng Kee camping area by around 5:00 pm, as the final approach is a mountain road.
Admission Fee
The commonly published national-park admission fee is:
- Thai visitors: 20 baht adults / 10 baht children
Foreign visitors: 100 baht adults / 50 baht children
Vehicle fee: Additional vehicle charges may apply. - Vehicle: 30 baht
- Camping: 30 baht per person per night
There is no separate fee for climbing Khao Thewada.
Fees can change, so it is sensible to confirm the current rates with Phu Toei National Park before travelling.
Recommended Attire
Wear proper walking or hiking shoes with good grip. The trail becomes steep and can be slippery, particularly after rain.
Recommended:
- Lightweight shorts or trousers
- T-shirt or breathable hiking shirt
- Hiking or trail shoes
- Hat and sunscreen (not mandatory though)
- Light rain jacket (for those who don’t like getting wet, but I would suggest quick dry clothes instead)
- Small backpack
- Sufficient drinking water
- Insect repellent
- Walking poles if you normally use them
Long trousers are particularly practical for a forest trail. Avoid jeans, which can become uncomfortable and heavy during a climb.
Location
Khao Thewada, Phu Toei National Park
Taperng Kee Village, Wang Yao Subdistrict
Dan Chang District, Suphan Buri Province, Thailand
The mountain is located in the Taperng Kee area of Phu Toei National Park, approximately 137 km from Suphan Buri town according to published travel information.
Getting There
From Bangkok, travel towards Suphan Buri and Dan Chang, continuing towards Phu Toei National Park.
Once inside the park, the route to Taperng Kee Ranger Station (Unit 3) involves approximately 20 km of mountain roads. The final section includes concrete and dirt roads with steep and rough sections, and a 4WD vehicle or suitable pickup truck is recommended.
If you don’t have a suitable vehicle, arrangements can sometimes be made for a park vehicle to take visitors up to the camping area. Older published information quotes around 2,000 baht for a return vehicle, although this should be confirmed directly with the park as charges can change.
From the Taperng Kee camping area, the trailhead for Khao Thewada is roughly 1 km away, with the final approach becoming a steep walking trail.
Recommended Visit Duration
For the climb itself, allow approximately 2–3 hours if you want to walk at a comfortable pace and spend time taking photographs.
However, Khao Thewada is better treated as a full-day or overnight mountain experience rather than a quick attraction. Allow additional time for the journey to the mountain, the drive to Taperng Kee, the climb, photography and stops along the way.
Camping is available at the Taperng Kee area, making an overnight stay particularly worthwhile if you want to photograph sunrise, mist and the early-morning mountain landscape.
The Reward
Khao Thewada isn’t an especially long hike, but it feels like a proper adventure.
There is the long drive into the hills, the rough mountain road, the forest trail and finally the steep climb towards the summit. By the time you reach the top, you’ve earned the view.
And standing there above the forests of Suphan Buri, with the mountains stretching away into the distance, it’s easy to understand why this place has earned its name — Khao Thewada, the Mountain of the Gods.