KNOW THE DOI INTHANON NATIONAL PARK

Located about 100 km from Chiang Mai  , Doi Inthanon National Park is one of the most famous and important natural parks in Thailand. With its summit, the highest in the whole country with 2560 m, the visit to the Doi Inthanon, is one of the best day trips that we can do around Chiang Mai. On this visit we can find famous pagodas, ethnic diversity and spectacular waterfalls to rest and relax in our visit.

If your idea is to know the area we leave you all the information you need to know what to do and how to go to the Doi Inthanon National Park in Chiang Mai for free.

In your visit to the park you can visit the following points of interest.

WHAT TO DO IN THE NATIONAL PARK DOI INTHANON

  • Visit the Twin Pagodas:  Near the top of Doi Inthanon are the twin pagodas of Phra Mahathat Napha Methanidon and Phra Mahathat Naphaphon Phumisiri. Built in honor of the Bhumibol and Srikit kings, the pagodas offer incredible views of the area. Inside we can enjoy several relics or images of Buddha and especially the beautiful gardens that surround them.
  • Visit the top of Doi Inthanon:  With its 2880 m, the Doi Inthanon is the highest peak in Thailand. From its top, apart from being able to enjoy the incredible views we can make several simple walks to enjoy the surroundings.
  • Know the waterfalls that are in the park:  The Doi Inthanon National Park, is famous for its beautiful and spectacular waterfalls. Easy to access by road, these waterfalls allow us to refresh and rest on our day of visit. The most important waterfalls would be Wachirathan, Mae Ya and Mae Klang.
  • Trekking in the park:  Inside the Doi Inthanon National Park we can make several walks or trekkings . For the more adventurous you can make a route of almost 4 hours known as Kiu Mae Pan while for the less adventurous you can take a one-hour hike on the trail known as  Michaels Path  (located just at the top of the mountain).
  • Visit the local market:  Located at the entrance to the park, near the offices or interpretation center, we can visit the local market, buy souvenirs (especially handicrafts and local textiles) and get an idea of ​​the different ethnic groups that inhabit the park , especially Mon and Karen

HOW TO GO TO THE NATIONAL PARK DOI INTHANON

The best way to go to the Doi Inthanon National Park is by free, both on a motorcycle or rental car and on a hired excursion. Being so far from Chiang Mai is very difficult to go by public transport.

As you can see, the visit to Doi Inthanon National Park is perfect to enjoy a full day excursion around Chiang Mai. The entrance fee to the park is 300 bth per person.

BACKPACKING TIPS

  • If your idea is to go on a motorcycle remember to do it only if you already know how to drive one.
  • If your idea is to make a long trek, you should ask for information at the park offices. There you will be assigned a guide to make the tour.
  • The best time to enjoy the park is from the months of October to April. It is when the area is greener and the waterfalls are full of water. Remember that you will reach more than 2000 m altitude. That makes it possible to do something cold or foggy. Travel with a raincoat or something to warm up a bit.
Author's Bio: 

Angelina is a regular contributor at The Independent.