Doi Inthanon National Park

Doi Inthanon National Park protects the mountain forests around Thailand’s highest summit in Chiang Mai Province. The peak rises to 2,565 metres above sea level. The mountain was once called Doi Luang, or “great mountain”; its present name honours King Inthawichayanon, a ruler of Lanna who valued the preservation of the region’s forests. A memorial stupa stands near the summit, while the twin royal chedis, Noppamethanedon and Noppaphonphumisiri, occupy a nearby ridge. Their landscaped grounds and viewpoints look across wooded ranges and valleys.

The park covers a broad area with sharp changes in elevation and climate. Tropical forest on the lower slopes gives way to cool evergreen and cloud forest higher up, where mosses and ferns cover the trees. Streams and rivers begin in these mountains; waterfalls, nature trails, viewpoints and hill-community villages are spread across the park. Highway 1009 climbs from the Chom Thong area toward the summit, passing through several distinct landscapes. Allow time for the distances between stops: the royal chedis, waterfalls, forest walks and highest-point area each offer a different view of Doi Inthanon. Conditions at the upper viewpoints can feel cool and damp even when the lowlands are warm, so a light waterproof layer and shoes with good grip are useful for walking.

Address

Chom Thong District, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand

Website

Website

On the map