Doi Inthanon National Park

Exploring Doi Inthanon National Park, Thailand

The highest mountain of Thailand “Doi Inthanon” or Mountain Inthanon was at first known in the northern vernacular as “Doi Luang Ang Ka”, which conveys its immense range and topography. Mythology has it that Inthanon National Park once controlled a vast lake or “Ang” in Thai. This reservoir was where crows or “Ka” habitually came to drink water. So the locals named the mountain the “big crows’ reservoir mountain”. Subsequently the 7th ruling prince of Chiang Mai, Chao Intha Wichayanon, who once came to explore the mountain passed away, his daughter, Chao Dara Ratsami, buried her father’s ashes here to fulfill his wish. Then Doi Luang Ang Ka was change the new name “Doi Inthanon”. In 1972, Doi Inthanon was declared the 6th national park of Thailand.

The highest mountain in Thailand is named Doi Inthanon and it is situated in Chiangmai province. The forests encircling the montane were classified as a National Park in 1954, and Doi Inthanon is one of the 14 original National Parks of Thailand. The top of the montane is at 2565 m. (8415 feet) higher than sea level. The complete national park mantle a massive space covering 482 sq km (300 sq miles) of land. Doi Inthanon National Park has become one of probably the most favorite tourist destinations in Thailand, and it is a favorite destination for Thai nationals as well. In 2012 it was rated the top park for hiking in Thailand.

Inthanon National Park is situated in the Thanon Thong Chai Mountain massif, covering an area of 1,005 sq km and being 2,565 m over sea level, Doi Inthanon National Park is the highest mountain of Thailand and oneof many popular national parks of this country. The hills at 1,800 metres and up are regularly shrouded in fog, exceptionally in the wet time of year. Doi Inthanon, One of the must see places in Thailand, is well known for its become cool climate all year round, its ancient forests, frozen dew (Mae Kha-ning), Delavay’s Rhododendron (1,000-year roses), mountain flowers, wildlife, hilltribe customs and step farming.

Doi Inthanon National Park is home to some hilltribe village, as the Karen or Hmong . While these drifting from the beginning lived them a inactive life is now probable through the crop growing of fruits, vegetables, coffee and flowers as well as the cultivation of rice. On 1 of the trips to the national park maintenance is frequently made in one of the villages that the girls are generally practical in the weaving of fabric. You should not miss to be funny a freshly brewed coffee from the highlands. In the markets of the region should venture out under any conditions without buying - The variety of nuts, almonds and dried fruit - of mangos more bananas strawberries - are all worth a sin.

A side from the tourists who enjoy Doi Inthanon,the Park is also the habitation of above 3,000 tribal people who live in villages scattered more than the slopes. Largely of these natives are each Karen or Hmong and there is a large Hmong village close to Inthanon National Park Headquarters at Baan Khun Glang. Many other smaller villages are accessed by small, rough roads so, not part of the normal "tourist scene" but don't hesitate to take a look if you want. The hill tribe peoples regular welcome courteous and respectful tourists.

Trekking in Doi Inthanon is a real jungle trek for nature lovers and for people who wanted to learn about nature, culture, and walking for botanical, birds, insects and butterflies. Otherwise it's suitable for people who want to have plenty of time to spend in the forest and in the villages, to be with people with no botanical, birds, insects and butterflies. Otherwise it's suitable for people who want to have plenty of time to spend in the forest and in the villages, to be with people with no rush and away from civilization

Eco-Trekking Trails That Showcase Nature’s Wonders

Eco-trekking in Doi Inthanon National Park offers a variety of trails that cater to both beginners and seasoned hikers. The Pha Dok Seaw Nature Trail is a beautiful example of eco-friendly tourism in action. This trail, situated near Ban Mae Klang Luang, meanders through rice terraces, rich forests, and alongside a beautiful waterfall. The community-based approach allows local villagers to serve as guides, ensuring a low-impact, culturally respectful experience for visitors. At the end of the trail, hikers can enjoy locally grown coffee, providing an opportunity to support the sustainable agriculture of the Karen hill tribe.

For an even closer look at Doi Inthanon’s unique highland environment, the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail is a must. Managed with strict eco-guidelines, this trail limits visitor numbers and requires a local guide to ensure the preservation of its rare flora and fragile landscape. The trail is a favorite for eco-conscious adventurers due to its panoramic viewpoints, especially stunning at sunrise, and the rare high-altitude forest where moss and rare orchids thrive. The path provides breathtaking views of the valleys and offers a glimpse into a unique ecosystem found only in the high mountains of Chiang Mai.

For advanced hikers, the Doi Pha Ngam (Two-Season Cliff) trail is an exhilarating choice, with its dramatic climate shift as you ascend. Named for the way its climate changes from warm and dry to cool and lush, this trail provides a stunning showcase of Thailand’s natural diversity in one hike. The eco-trekking approach encourages visitors to take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints, preserving the pristine beauty of this biodiverse park.

Other Attractions

Peaks of Doi Inthanon

Not quite at the peak of the montane the road will terminate at a car park from here it's a short 5 minute walk to Thailand's high peak point and the veritable peak of Doi Inthanon. There may be a big sign marking this posit and having your picture taken under this seems to be the hottest activity. The summit is still well woody so there are no views from this point, you will get better views a bit further down the mountain at Ang Ka and the Royal Pagodas.

Angka Nature trail

Ang Ka (km 48), a mixture of the highland peat swamp and hill evergreen forest located at the mountaintop, features a unusual eco-system found nowhere else. Follow a 400-metreslengthy wooden bridge; you will be induct to a exclusive atmosphere of the Himalaya ancient high lichen-clad trees hidden amid seas of fog and rare species of flora and animal together with hundreds of birds have enticed tourist to the Ang Ka for many years.The birds’ once a year feast begins in the cool season when wild flowers, especially red Rhododendrons, mottled the jungle. Green-tailed sunbirds, chestnut-tailed minlas, rufous-winged fulvettas and several others are commonly found here. This is a real bird lovers’ paradise.

King and Queen Pagoda

Phra Mahathat Napha Methanidon and Phra Mahathat Naphaphon Bhumisiri, a twin chedi placed at Km. 41.5. They were created to fame the fifth cycle birthdays of Emperor Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit. Sitting on two close to high peak, both pagodas divide the similar dimensions, design and color linked with a walking path. The chedi protect Lord Buddha’s relics and idyllic Buddha images.

Trible Market

The Hmong market is a good selection for everyone who is searching for products or souvenirs created by members of this hill tribe. This market is located seventeen km before the summit of the mountain. It should be noted that there are several different Hmong villages on Doi Inthanon National Park.

Royal Agricultural Research Station

Doi Inthanon Royal Project is in Khun Klang village close to the park headquarters. The project was start in 1979 to support the hill tribes to implant cash crops exclusive of opium and guide them on modern agricultural practices. Mainly produces are depend on areas plants. Flower orchards, a plant upbringing study lab and flower orchards of hilltribe (Karen) are unlock to traveller.

Siriphum Waterfall

The Siriphum waterfall (pronounced "See-Ree-Poom") was an excitingly tall falls that we observed was accompanied by another thinner but just as tall companion waterfall. This was the third or uppermost of the foremost cascades on the way up to Doi Inthanon's mountaintop (not counting the Sirithat cascade, that unfortunately we didn't go to view), but we worked our way down from the summit so that Siriphum was our first waterfall stop in the park.

Vachiratharn Waterfall

Wachirathan (kilometres 21) is a large cascade that can be reached by a short path from the yard location. Close to the falls, the slippery wood pathway leading to the cliff is every time damp and shrouded in mist. Number 1 of the most visited cascades in Doi Inthanon is Wachirathan cascade. This 70 meters cascade is just off the main road which makes it way up Ito inthanon's peak and are usually found near the 22 kilometres marker.

Ban Sop Had

Just a short length on the main road beyond Wachirathan is the small Hmong hill tribe village, Ban Sop Had. Turn right just past the bridge and you will discover the village a few 100 m. up the cloud inlet road.

Join us for this favorite Chiang Mai day trip to the country’s high peak mountain, the Doi Inthanon, part of a National Park. Individuals can survey the lovely nature and the evergreen jungle at the summit. Stop at refreshing falls, and take a short trek on the nature trail. There are several different choices for those who want to explore Doi Inthanon. To make it simple on yourself and make sure you don't miss anything, see our Tours to Inthanon National Park.

Probably the most smoothly way to visit Doi Inthanon National Park is joining a guided tour party. But getting there by yourse. lf is also pleasurable. Follow Highway 108 from Chiangmai. At Km. 57 just 1 km. before Chom Thong District, turn right to Highway 1009 for 8 km. to the fork and turn right to the summit. The total distance is 106 kms. As some portions of the road are steep, a high-quality vehicle and an knowledgeable driver are considered necessary. From Chiang Mai town, you may also get a bus to Chom Thong which leaves regularly from just inside the Chiangmai Gate at the south moat. From Chom Thong, you will find usual songthaeos (mini-buses) to Mae Klang Waterfall, where you'll be able to take another songthaeo to Inthanon National Park. 

Opting for a Doi Inthanon national park tour that emphasizes sustainable tourism is a great choice, as these tours often include environmentally responsible transport options and guide services led by locals. Alternatively, Doi Inthanon private tours can be booked with operators who prioritize eco-friendly practices, allowing visitors to explore the park at their own pace while minimizing their environmental footprint.