Definition
Doi Lo district (Thai: อำเภอดอยโล, Amphoe Doi Lo) is an administrative district (amphoe) of Chiang Mai province in northern Thailand.
Overview
Located in the western part of Chiang Mai province, Doi Lo district borders the districts of San Kamphaeng, San Sai, San Pa Tong, and Mae Chaem. The district is predominantly rural, with a landscape of mountains, valleys, and agricultural land. It functions under the standard Thai local government system, comprising several sub‑districts (tambons) and villages (mubans). The district’s economy is largely based on agriculture, including rice cultivation, fruit orchards, and livestock farming. Road infrastructure connects Doi Lo with the provincial capital, Chiang Mai, and neighboring districts.
Etymology/Origin
The name “Doi Lo” combines the Thai word doi (ดอย), meaning “mountain,” with Lo (โล), which is believed to be derived from a local place‑name or the name of an indigenous community. The exact origin of “Lo” is not definitively documented, and accurate information is not confirmed.
Characteristics
- Administrative divisions: Doi Lo district is divided into four tambons—Doi Lo, Pong Tam, Ban Luang, and Ban Mueang—further subdivided into a number of villages.
- History: The area was originally part of San Kamphaeng district. It was established as a minor district (king amphoe) on 1 April 1995 and was upgraded to a full district on 15 May 2007.
- Population: The district’s population is estimated to be in the low‑to‑mid‑30,000 range; precise recent figures are not readily available, and accurate information is not confirmed.
- Economy: Agriculture dominates the local economy, with rice paddies in the valleys and fruit orchards (such as longan and mango) on the slopes. Small‑scale livestock raising and local handicrafts also contribute to livelihoods.
- Geography and climate: The district lies within the mountainous terrain of the eastern Thai highlands, featuring a tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Elevation varies, providing cooler temperatures relative to the central plains.
- Transportation: Provincial roads link Doi Lo to Chiang Mai city (approximately 80 km to the east) and to other adjacent districts. Public bus services and local transport facilitate movement of people and goods.
- Education and health: The district contains several primary and secondary schools, and a district hospital that provides basic medical services to residents.
Related Topics
- Chiang Mai province
- Administrative divisions of Thailand (province, amphoe, tambon, muban)
- List of districts of Thailand
- Northern Thailand geography
- Thai local government system
Note: The information provided reflects established knowledge about Doi Lo district; where specific data such as population figures are uncertain, the entry indicates that accurate information is not confirmed.