Mae Ping National Park
Mae Ping National Park is the park located on the west of the ping river.
Geography
Mae Ping National Park is characterized by a mountainous terrain, primarily composed of fold mountains running north to south. The highest peak, known as, "Don Huai Lao," reaches an elevation of 1,334 meters. The western boundary of the park is defined by the Mae Ping River, a significant waterway in the region. Several smaller creeks and streams originate from these mountains, eventually feeding into the Mae Ping River. These waterways contribute to the diverse habitats within the park, ranging from dry dipterocarp forests to lush evergreen forests and grasslands.The park located in the northern part of Thailand, Mae Ping National Park experiences a climate typical of the region, with three distinct seasons: rainy, cold, and hot. The presence of the mountains and extensive forest cover influences the local climate, resulting in variations in temperature and rainfall within the park itself. The average temperature in the higher elevations hovers around 25 degrees Celsius, while the lower regions near the Bhumibol Dam are slightly warmer, averaging 27 degrees Celsius. The park receives an average annual rainfall of 1,060-1,184 mm, with September being the most humid month. This seasonal variation in rainfall contributes to the dry deciduous nature of the forests, which are prone to wildfires during the dry season.
History
The initial push towards the park's creation emerged in 1978 when the Tourism Promotion Board of Lamphun passed a resolution, advocating for the establishment of a forest park within the Mae Hat – Mae Ko National Reserved Forest. This resolution aimed to harness the tourism potential of the area while implementing measures for controlled and organized activities. This marked the beginning of a series of surveys and assessments to determine the area's suitability for protection.Following the resolution, the Chiang Mai Regional Forest Office commissioned Mr. Chaliao Nimnuan to conduct an initial survey. His findings supported the establishment of a forest park, prompting a report to the Royal Forest Department. Subsequently, in 1979, the National Park Division of the Royal Forest Department tasked Mr. Sampan Midewan, another Forestry Officer, to thoroughly investigate the area.
On August 8, 1981, they officially designated the area encompassing Mae Hat and Mae Ko Forests as Thailand's 32nd national park.