Doi Inthanon National Park

Those who love the cool climate should visit the park during winter (between December and February) as you will have the opportunity to observe and admire the Siamese cherry blossoms blooming across the area.

Doi Inthanon National Park is known as one of Thailand's largest national parks with many rare, precious flora and fauna species. The park is indeed an eco-tourism area famous for dozens of natural waterfalls, caves and old forests. Located about 60 km from Chiang Mai city center, Doi Inthanon National Park was established in 1954, the first among a total of 14 National Parks in Thailand. In 1972 and 1974, Doi inthanon was expanded to an area currently up to 482.4 km². Within its boundaries are the impressive Mae Klang Falls, Wachiratan Falls, Siriphum Falls and Mae Ya Falls. Many rivers, including the Maenam Mae Nam Ping River, Mae Klang, Mae Pakong, Mae Pon, Mae Hoi, Mae Ya, Mae Chaem and Mae Khan are also worth mentioning.

Doi Inthanon National Park complex

The National Park has different areas subjected to different climate and ecology. Therefore, if tourists have spare time, it is highly recommended to stay and explore the park for a few days to fully be amazed by the beauty that nature offers. The park is impressively spacious. As such, tourists should plan in advanced the prominent destinations to visit before starting your trip to the park.

The park comprises various sections. Waterfalls are the prominent features of the park that are most visited by tourists. Wachirathan Stream is one of the favorite stops for travelers. Due to hunting for many years, some animals such as tigers, elephants no longer live here. Currently, this National Park has about 65 species of mammals, or fortunately visitors only come across a snake. Namtok Mae Klang is a 100 meter high waterfall that usually attracts visitors. From the junction of National Highway No. 1009, turn left into a paved road of 500 meters and you will reach the destination.

Namtok Mae Klang Waterfall at Doi Inthanon

Namtok Siriphum is another amazing waterfall that branches from a steep cliff in two streams. You can observe the falls on the way to Doi Inthanon. At kilometer 31 of national highway 1009, turn right 2 km and the waterfall is right in front of your sight. After taking scenic pictures at the waterfalls, tourists can stop by Tham Bori Chinda. This is a large cave located near Namtok Mae Klang, with an impressive formation of stalactites and stalagmites.

If you are interested in getting to know the floral species here, Doi Inthanon Royal Project is a must-visited site. Located in Khun Klang village near Doi Inthanon National Park headquarters, the project was initiated in 1979 to help mountainous ethnic minorities grow other industrial crops instead of opium and train them to practice modern agriculture. Most products here are temperate plants. Flower plantations and a research lab plant of the mountainous ethnic group are open to visitors to fully explore and open your sight.

Doi Inthanon National Park

Doi Inthanon National Park

The park also possesses temples just like any other destination or city in Thailand. If you are seeking for serenity, stop by Phra Mahathat Napha Methanidon and Phra Mahathat Naphaphon Bhumisiri. This is a twin temple built to celebrate the birthday of the fifth cycle of King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit. Located on two peaks close to each other, both temples are of similar size, design, color and are connected by a walking path. The two sacred places house the relics of Buddha and the Buddha image, which is thereby visited by many tourists in Doi Inthanon National Park.

Doi Inthanon Peak has a cool climate all year round. This is also the place where the Inthawichayanon stupa is located. He was the last king of Chiang Mai. Inthawichayanon, this king is concerned about the importance of forests and wanted to protect forests for future generations. He was very familiar with the place so he offered to keep a part of his ashes here.

Trekking route at Doi Inthanon

Trekking is one of the most ideal activities for tourists when coming to Doi Inthanon Park. One of the trekking roads has a length of 360 meters, passing through the cold lush valley area. Forests are covered with lichens and forest orchids. Native plants along with organic matter, and rare bird species can be seen lively along the path. Hiking trails of about 1 to 8 km long display the convivial life of plant species; the origins of caves, agricultural tribes, and birds, thereby helping tourists immerge in the peaceful sceneries and appreciate the pure beauty of Mother Nature.

The entrance fee to the park is 300 Baht per visitor. Tourists can get to the park by Song Thaeo bus.