As the sun embrances the horizon in the early morning, its light journeys through a denser atmosphere, scattering blue wavelengths and painting the sky with serene red hues. The simple act of witnessing the sunrise can bring feelings of happiness and contribute to better sleep, thanks to the serotonin boost from its warming rays. 

However, for a peak solar experience, nothing beats watching the morning sun emerge above a sea of mist. The golden glow on cloud-wreathed valleys creates a sight to so magical and inspiring that it draws photographers from all around the world. Lovers, meanwhile, may simply sigh in wonder as they reflect on their deep bond of affection.

Whatever your mood, witnessing the misty landscape of orange-red hues is an incredibly soul-soothing way to start your day.

Here are the top six beauty spots in Thailand – both North and South – where you can experience this spectacular play of Earth, cloud and sun.

Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s tallest mountain, enchants visitors with the heavenly spectacle of the dawning sun gracefully emerging above a mist-clad valley and towering peaks. This sunrise viewpoint is part of the Kiew Mae Pan natural trail, a short and circular trek spanning 3 kilometres. With guiding done by the warm-hearted Hmong people, this trail is an attraction in its own right, offering visitors a journey through 21 stations, each revealing an exquisite panoramic vista and natural beauty. The highlight awaits at Station 9, where a platform offers awe-inspiring mountain views. Early risers and avid sun-gazers gather here between 6 and 7am to bask in the golden hour and witness day break over Thailand’s highest mountain.

Hidden in the pristine wilderness of Yala’s Betong District, the Gunung Silipat Viewpoint is a well-kept secret. For a memorable day trip, start with a thrilling 4WD ride for 3 kilometres before embarking on a 2-kilometre trek through durian orchards, farmland, and lush rainforest. Seeking a more immersive experience? Spend the night at basecamp before hiking for 40 minutes uphill to the pinnacle of Gunung Silipat. Despite its humble elevation of 607 metres above sea level, Gunung Silipat – Malay for “triangular rock mountain” – offers surprisingly dramatic panoramic views. As the clock approaches 6am, you’ll find yourself standing above an ethereal sea of clouds, witnessing the sun’s gradual ascent transform the landscape while painting the sky above Thailand’s southernmost district a mesmerising array of colours.

Phang Nga is celebrated for its pristine tropical beaches on the Andaman Sea, yet a hidden gem lies just 20km north of Thai Mueang Beach. The Khao Khai Nui Viewpoint sits above a mountain valley blanketed by thick morning mist year-round. From the viewpoint, layers of mountain ranges emerge as dark silhouettes against the mist’s canvas, bathed in the soft morning light. Cloud dances gracefully over the tropical forest, gently caressed by the wind, as Phang Nga unveils its natural beauty. To reach the viewpoint, begin your adventure in the village of Baan Thung Ma Phrao with an exhilarating 4WD ride to the summit.

Hunkered among imposing mountains to the north of Chiang Mai, Doi Ang Khang valley is home to the Palong, Rahu, Tai, Akha, and Hor ethnic communities. With such rich ethnic diversity, the area has a storied history. Doi Ang Khang used to be cloaked with endless opium fields, until the transformative Royal Project was launched in 1969. The initiative replaced opium cultivation with flowers, fruits, vegetables, and tourism as new sources of income for the locals. Doi Ang Khang then quickly emerged as one of Thailand’s top winter destinations. Travellers are drawn to this hill station for its breathtaking mountain vistas, vibrant hilltribe culture and, of course, the misty mountain sunrise. The Kiew Lom Viewpoint provides the perfect vantage point. Wrapped in history and folklore, Doi Ang Khang also offers visitors jaw-dropping views of the day being born amid a mountain cloudscape.