Doi Inthanon National Park is a 1000-sq-km protected area in the Chiang Mai province, home to the highest mountain in Thailand. The park is part of the Himalayan range, and offers a variety of landscapes, climates, and ecosystems. Whether you want to hike through the mossy forest, admire the majestic waterfalls, visit the sacred temples, or spot the rare wildlife, you will find something to suit your taste and interest in Doi Inthanon National Park.
In this article, we will give you a comprehensive guide to Doi Inthanon National Park, including its history, attractions, activities, accommodation, transport, and weather. We will also share some tips and insights to help you plan your trip and make the most of your visit. By the end of this article, you will be ready to pack your bags and head to Doi Inthanon National Park, the roof of Thailand.
Things to Do in Doi Inthanon National Park
Doi Inthanon National Park is a paradise for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts. There are so many things to see and do in the park, that you will never get bored or run out of options. Here are some of the most popular and recommended attractions and activities in the park:
1. Phra Mahathat Naphamethanidon & Naphapholphumisiri
These are two stunning pagodas dedicated to the late King and Queen of Thailand, located near the summit of Doi Inthanon. The pagodas are surrounded by beautiful gardens, and offer panoramic views of the mountains and valleys. You can also visit the nearby museum, which displays the history and achievements of the royal couple.
2. Ang Ka Luang Nature Trail
This is a scenic and easy hike through the mossy forest, where you can spot rare birds and plants. The trail is about 360 meters long, and takes about 30 minutes to complete. Along the way, you will encounter wooden bridges, boardwalks, and signs that explain the flora and fauna of the area.
3. Wachirathan Waterfall
This is a majestic waterfall that plunges from a height of 80 meters, creating a misty and refreshing atmosphere. The waterfall is accessible by a short walk from the parking lot, and has a viewing platform where you can take photos and enjoy the scenery. You can also explore the nearby trails, which lead to other smaller waterfalls and streams.
4. Royal Project Inthanon Restaurant
This is a cozy and delicious restaurant that serves fresh and organic dishes made from local ingredients grown by the hill tribes. The restaurant is part of the Royal Project Inthanon, a development initiative that aims to improve the livelihood and well-being of the local communities. You can also visit the nearby market, where you can buy souvenirs and products from the project.
These are just some of the highlights of Doi Inthanon National Park, but there are many more to discover. You can also visit the Doi Inthanon summit, the highest point in Thailand, where you can see a monument and a shrine dedicated to the former king. You can also visit the Siriphum Waterfall, a beautiful cascade with a backdrop of mountains. You can also visit the Karen and Hmong villages, where you can learn about the culture and traditions of the hill tribes.
How to Get to Doi Inthanon National Park
Doi Inthanon National Park is located about 100 km southwest of Chiang Mai city, the largest and most popular city in northern Thailand. There are several ways to reach the park from different locations, depending on your budget, preference, and convenience. Here are some of the most common and affordable transport options:
By car: This is the easiest and most flexible way to explore the park, as you can drive at your own pace and stop at any place you want. The driving time from Chiang Mai city to the park entrance is about 2 hours, and the road is well-paved and signposted.
By public bus: This is a cheap and adventurous way to travel to the park, as you can experience the local life and scenery along the way. The bus ride from Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal to Chom Thong district, the nearest town to the park, takes about 3 hours, and costs about 50 baht per person. From Chom Thong, you can hire a songthaew, a local truck, to take you to the park entrance, which takes another 30 minutes, and costs about 200 baht per person.
By tour: This is a convenient and hassle-free way to enjoy the park, as you don’t have to worry about the logistics and arrangements. You can book a full-day or half-day tour from various operators in Chiang Mai, or online. The tour usually includes transport, guide, entrance fee, and lunch. The cost of joining a tour ranges from 1000 to 2000 baht per person, depending on the itinerary and the quality of the service.
When to Visit Doi Inthanon National Park
Doi Inthanon National Park is open all year round, from 6 am to 6 pm, but the best time and season to visit the park depends on your preference and expectation. The park has different weather and conditions throughout the year, and each season has its pros and cons. Here is a comparison of the different seasons and their advantages and disadvantages:
Dry season (November to February):
This is the best time to visit the park, as the weather is clear, cool, and pleasant. The average temperature is around 12 degrees Celsius, but it can drop to below zero at night, especially at the higher altitudes. The park is also full of color and life, as the flowers are in full bloom, and the birds are more active. However, this is also the peak season, so you can expect more crowds and higher prices. You may also have to book your accommodation and transport in advance, as they may be fully booked or sold out.
Hot season (March to May):
This is a good time to visit the park, as the weather is warm and sunny. The average temperature is around 25 degrees Celsius, but it can rise to above 30 degrees Celsius during the day, especially at the lower altitudes. The park is also less crowded and cheaper, as this is the low season, and you can find more deals and discounts. However, this is also the burning season, as the farmers and villagers burn the fields and forests to clear the land for cultivation. This may cause some haze and smoke that may affect the visibility and air quality. You may also have to bring sunscreen, hat, and water, as the sun can be very strong and dehydrating.
Doi Inthanon National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Thailand. The park offers a variety of attractions and activities, such as hiking, waterfalls, temples, and wildlife. The park is also easy to reach from Chiang Mai, and has different weather and conditions throughout the year. You can choose the best time and season to visit the park, depending on your preference and expectation.
We hope that this article has given you a comprehensive guide to Doi Inthanon National Park, and has inspired you to plan your trip and make the most of your visit.
