Planning a trip to Chiang Mai but unsure of where to visit? Consider heading down to Doi Inthanon National Park in Chom Thong District, one of Thailand’s most famous national parks that boasts a diversity of unique flora and fauna. With an entrance fee of 300THB for adults and 150THB for children aged 3-14, tourists can trek up the highest mountain and admire some of Thailand’s most spectacular waterfalls, making Doi Inthanon the ideal place for those who wish to relax and reconnect with nature.
#1 The Highest Spot in Thailand
Known as the “Roof of Thailand”, Doi Inthanon has claimed its title of being the mountain in Thailand with the highest peak. Elevating 2565 meters above sea level, it is about a quarter as high as Mount Everest.
Scaling the summit might feel like a daunting feat with the need to overcome steep treacherous climbs, but fear not as it is not the case at all. Your vehicle will do the most challenging part of the ascent and upon reaching the car park, all that’s left for you is a manageable 5-10min walk to the top.
For the adventurous, you can use an alternative route to the highest spot if you do not fancy the assistance of a vehicle by embarking on the Kew Man Pan Nature Trail. The ethereal landscape will take your breath away.
Your successful ascent will be celebrated by a large sign stating that you have reached the highest spot in Thailand. This is the best opportunity for you to put on your creative hat and capture the most iconic pictures for the ‘Gram!
#2 Go for a walk at Ang Ka Luang Nature Trail
After visiting the highest point, go for a boardwalk at Ang Ka Luang Nature Trail, just below the summit. It is only 400m in length, and the moss-covered forest will make you feel as if you stepped into another dimension.
#3 Royal Twin Pagodas
Situated along the main road 5-minutes’ drive down the summit, the Royal Twin Pagodas are famous historical landmarks that were built in honour of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit’s 60th birthdays. Surrounded by the lush green mountains of Doi Inthanon National Park, the majestic grandeur of these pagodas is a sight not to be missed.
Apart from the impeccable design of the pagodas surrounded by gorgeous gardens endowed with colorful flower beds, inside you will also see beautiful artwork depicting various Buddhist stories. You could easily spend an hour here snapping photos and taking in the magnificent views.
#3 Wachirathan Waterfall:
As you make your way down the mountain, you will inevitably pass by the massive Wachirathan Waterfall. Not only is it a great place to take breathtaking pictures, the multi-levelled waterfall is bound to shower you with its powerful spray if you stand close enough.
#5 Royal Project Inthanon Restaurant
Visitors can enjoy a well-deserved respite with a meal at Royal Project Inthanon Restaurant Chom Thong Chiang Mai, a popular restaurant for a quick stopover.
Dishes here feature fresh premium produce from the Royal Project, an initiative of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand, that aims to solve problems of deforestation, poverty and opium production by promoting alternative crops.
#6 Buy local products at Thai Hmong Community Market
Your trip is only complete with a visit to the friendly Hmong villagers at the Thai Hmong Community Market, where you can find lots of local produce such as fruits, vegetables, nuts and liquors. Although many vendors are selling similar products, you can help yourself with the samples before deciding which stall to make your best purchase.
With all these amazing places to visit in Doi Inthanon, we hope you have been inspired to visit Thailand. For more recommendations on what to do around Thailand, visit https://tourismthailand.sg/ or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.