Mindfulness Hill - Breathe, Walk, & Reflect Your Way to Inner Peace

My friend really wanted me to take me on one of his favorite hikes, in Chiang Mai Thailand.  Unfortunately I’d hurt my knee before arriving for my holiday, and it was still tender, and a bit iffy.  However, bad weather was coming through from the Philippines, so he wanted to show me this spot and walk/hike before that came through, and ruined the chance.

I agreed – after all, I love hiking, and as we live in different countries, we haven’t had a chance to catch up like this for years.  So onto the back of the scooter I got, and off we went. 

The drive up is quite windy, with both bikes and cars and vans/busses etc. making liberal use of both sides of the road.  (See our blog Supreme Master Director of Traffic (in Thailand) for more information on riding/driving in Thailand.) 

I took the photo below of the view from a look-out point on the way up (and down).  Really pretty, with lots of people stopping to take photos.

This popular Mindfulness Hill is right next to a Buddhist temple (up the top), so there are a number of decorative different colored flags along the way, which are quite pretty, as well.   (See the photo further down, showing the sign, along with a couple of the flags on the way up the hill.)

The first half of the hike up was extremely rocky – not ideal when your knee might give out at any moment.  So I was VERY careful, and took my time, checking out each step on the path carefully, and the best way forward, so I didn’t fall or slide, and reinjure my knee.

As I was taking so long, and was so focused on each step, my friend went off ahead, leaving me behind, so I could take my time.  I didn’t mind, as this also allowed me to the time and space to enjoy the walk, the peace and quiet, and take photos, rather than rushing up, and increasing the risk of hurting my knee again. 

I was able to check out all the rocks on the ground (especially those love heart messages – just for me!  😊), admire the vegetation along the path, listen to the birds, watch the butterflies (I managed to take a couple of photos of them, below), and take my time, while walking up the path at my own pace.  This is mindfulness in motion – being in the present moment, and being aware of, and grateful for, all that is around me, right at that particular moment.

This is a popular trail, for both locals and visitors.  Despite getting there reasonably early, there were still quite a few people, going up and down - with most passing me, as I was going so slow.  Having said that, there were three young Thai guys who caught up to me, however one of them wasn’t very fit, so kept stopping.  I’d then pass them, and then I’d stop to take a photo, and they’d pass me.  So we played tag partway up the mountain, smiling at each other, noting it was reasonably steep, and that we weren’t as fit as some of the people who ran up or down the down.  It was a nice communication and companionship for part of the way up.

A way down the track (half way perhaps?), there was another path off to the side – mentioning a temple. I recall my friend saying he would meet me at the temple, but I didn’t get a name.   I wasn’t sure which way to go, and ended up choosing the path which mentioned a temple.  It was quite a bit steeper than the earlier track, and I was wondering if I was on the right path, when I saw a girl who had passed me earlier running down.  She questioned whether I was on the right path.  I said I wasn’t sure, explained that I’d chosen the path with the sign for the temple, and that I was meeting a friend at the top.  She explained that the path I was on got steeper (and clearly thought that I couldn’t do it, limping and being as careful as I was), and suggested that I go back, and return to the other track.  Which I must admit, I was grateful to do, as the path I was on was getting difficult with my limited mobility.

(And luckily this is was the right decision, as I met my friend up the top of that path.  He thought it was obvious which way to go – and looking at the sign now (below), it indicates that the side path is steep, but I didn’t notice that the first time!  So if you’re doing this trail – I suggest you keep going straight (top path), not the steeper path to the left (bottom path in the sign below).  Hope that helps avoid any confusion for others doing the same trail!  😊)

So once I got back onto the main path, I continued – until I saw a wild dog.  In the middle of the path.  Watching me.  And walking toward me.  I’d seen and heard that some of the wild dogs bite (I’ve seen scars on hands and feet from wild dogs in Thailand), and I didn’t want to experience that.  I’ve also seen a few aggressive dogs around, and am aware that people get bitten by some of them.  I was in no condition to defend myself if required, so I hesitated, and moved to the side of the path, waiting, and hoping the dog would ignore me.  A few minutes later, a group came down the mountain, and was able to move past the dog.  I took the opportunity to walk past, and hoped for the best.  It worked – although the dog kept following me up the path for some time.   🙄

A little bit further on, there was a bubbling brook alongside the path, with some pretty vegetation alongside.  I took the opportunity to rest, and admire the scenery.  I felt the breeze, and enjoyed the peace, and the energy of the Mindfulness Hill, and the monks who lived up the top.  I did some energy work while I was up there - releasing the past with love, and allowing in the new, for the highest good.  I expressed gratitude, and offered forgiveness.  Felt the peace offered by the trees, felt the gratitude for being alive, and being able to travel, and walk up this Mindfulness Hill (even though my knee was a little iffy).

It felt right to walk up the mindfulness hill with a mindful attitude, giving appreciation, and releasing what no longer serves me. And while it was a gentle adventure (as my knee was still recovering from an injury), it was (mostly) peaceful, and respectful, and a chance to communicate and relax with nature, while giving my body a chance to appreciate the fresh air and movement.

When I finally got to the top, there were a few temples, as well as a wider creek.  Everybody up there seemed to appreciate the peace and quiet, and we were all respectful of the space and the people.  The flowing water, statues, temples, and garden were all contributing to this beautiful and tranquil atmosphere.  We walked around for a while, and took a few photos before heading back.

On the way back, my friend pointed out that there were a few signs, and one of them mentioned the temple he meant.  Hopefully if you end up taking this walk, you’ll know which way to go!  😉

Do you have something like a Mindfulness Hill near you?  A hill where you feel the peace, and your focus is on the path, the rocks, the trees, and the water?  Where you feel the peace around you, living in harmony with nature?  Where you admire the butterflies, exchange smiles with others on the path, and give thanks for all you have?

Wouldn’t it be amazing if we all had a great place, where we can recharge our minds, bodies, and souls?  Where we can recalibrate, and rebalance, releasing what we don’t need, and embracing all the good around us?  I’d love to hear what you do to recalibrate or rebalance!

If you get a chance to hike up Mindfulness Hill in Chiang Mai, Thailand, I highly recommend it.  Hiking boots are helpful, as it is quite rocky at the start, but good sneakers/runners could also work.  I suspect if it has been raining, that the trail could get quite muddy, so take that into account if that is relevant.

And I should note that while I did the walk while my knee was still recovering from a bad sprain, I know my body extremely well, and walked extremely carefully.  I am not recommending you do the walk if you or your body are in any way impaired.  Having said that, you know your own body best - but sometimes medical advice is helpful.

And if you’re able to be mindful while walking up mindfulness hill, you get bonus points!  😊  It’s a great place to relax, and enjoy the peace, while seeing the scenery, and getting some exercise.

1. What is Mindfulness Hill?
Mindfulness Hill is a peaceful spot near Chiang Mai’s temples, offering a serene walk with breathtaking views. It’s a perfect place to connect with nature, practice mindfulness, and find inner peace.

2. How long does the walk take?
The walk typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on your pace.  (It took me a lot longer, as I was nursing my knee, and kept stopping for photos.  And for the dog to keep moving.  And going up the wrong path.)  It's a reasonably gentle, meditative walk that allows time for reflection and relaxation.

3. Is the walk suitable for beginners?
Yes, the walk is fairly easy, and accessible for most fitness levels (although it is uphill to get to the top).  The path is reasonably smooth (excluding the numerous rocks at the start) and gradual, making it a great option for people looking to practice mindfulness in nature.

4. Can I meditate on the hill?
Yes, you sure can!  The peaceful environment makes it an ideal place to sit and meditate. Many visitors choose to pause and reflect at the top of the hill, enjoying the calm and beautiful surroundings.

5. Do I need to bring anything with me?
It’s a good idea to bring water, comfortable shoes, and a hat or sunscreen. If you plan to meditate, a small cushion or mat might be helpful. (And if rain is on the cards, you might like to take a rain-jacket as well.)

6. Is it safe to walk alone?
The walk is considered to be safe, and often visited by other tourists and locals. However, as with any outdoor activity, it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, and take additional actions if you ever feel unsafe (eg. stop/walk away if you are scared of a dog on the trail).

7. When is the best time to visit Mindfulness Hill?
Early morning or late afternoon is ideal for cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds. These times also offer the best lighting for great photos of the temples and views.

8. Are there other activities nearby?
Yes, there are. After your walk, you can visit the nearby temples, explore local cafes, or relax in the peaceful gardens around the area. Chiang Mai is full of mindful activities to enjoy – including walking around the Chiang Mai University Lake, which I also loved doing!

If you’re not able to walk up a mindfulness hill, perhaps you might like our free Meditation for Beginners 7-Day Challenge instead.  Alternatively, you might like our Walking into Wellness with Gratitude Guide.  Each of these offers different ways to experience mindfulness.

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https://mindtrip.ai/attraction/chiang-mai/mindfulness-hill/at-N7LfSlHg

https://feastoftravel.com/hiking-the-monks-trail-in-chiang-mai-thailand/

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The views and experiences shared in this blog post are based on my personal journey and reflections during my walk up Mindfulness Hill in Chiang Mai, Thailand.  While I share insights that have been meaningful to me, please note that these experiences may differ for others.  The information provided here is intended for inspiration and personal exploration only.  I am not a licensed professional, and the content in this post should not be interpreted as medical, or professional advice.  Always consult with a relevant expert for specific guidance regarding your own well-being.