DOI INTHANON NATIONAL PARK
Doi Inthanon is the “Roof of Thailand,” home to the country’s highest peak at 2,565m. This sprawling park offers a cool, mountainous escape from the tropical heat of the lowlands. It’s a land of rich biodiversity, cloud forests, and stunning vistas.
The park is a tapestry of natural wonders, from powerful, cascading waterfalls to serene, misty hiking trails. It also offers a deep dive into Northern Thailand’s hill tribe cultures, with Karen and Hmong villages showcasing traditional ways of life and unique agriculture.
Most Popular Attractions
The Summit & Royal Landmarks
Doi Inthanon Summit: The Highest Point in Thailand, marked by a sign and a small stupa containing the ashes of King Inthawichayanon.
Royal Twin Pagodas (Phra Mahathat Naphamethanidon & Naphaphonphumisiri): Iconic, brightly colored chedis built to commemorate the 60th birthdays of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit.
Royal Pagodas Gardens: Beautifully manicured, temperate flower gardens surrounding the Twin Pagodas, offering excellent panoramic views.
Ang Ka Luang Nature Trail: A short, atmospheric boardwalk loop trail near the summit that winds through a dense, mossy cloud forest.
Thai National Observatory: An advanced facility for optical astronomy, showcasing Thailand’s progress in scientific research (viewable from outside).
King Inthawichayanon’s Stupa: The small shrine at the summit where the ashes of the last King of Chiang Mai are interred.
Waterfalls & Natural Wonders
Wachirathan Waterfall: A massive, powerful cascade that is easily accessible from the main road, famous for its intense spray and rainbow sightings.
Mae Ya Waterfall: A spectacular, multi-tiered curtain waterfall, often cited as one of the most beautiful in Thailand, located on a separate road.
Mae Klang Waterfall: A multi-tiered waterfall located near the park’s main entrance, popular for picnics and easily viewed.
Sirithan Waterfall: A quieter, multi-level cascade that flows down a rocky cliff face, with an observation deck nearby.
Pha Dok Siew Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall with multiple tiers, often accessed via the Pha Dok Siew Nature Trail.
Two Season Cliff (Doi Pha Ngam): A unique spot where the cool, temperate climate meets the warmer, tropical environment.
Trekking & Nature Trails
Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail: The most famous trail, a 2.5-3 km moderate loop offering stunning panoramic ridge-walk views and a glimpse of the “sea of clouds” (compulsory local guide required, closed June-Oct).
Pha Dok Siew Nature Trail: A longer trail that winds through lush forest, past rice terraces, and to the Pha Dok Siew Waterfall, ending at a Karen village (compulsory local guide required).
Doi Pha Ngam Loop: A more challenging hike known for its rare plant species and high-elevation flora.
Trail 1 Mae Klang Luang Waterfalls: A path leading to Mae Klang Luang’s waterfalls and through a scenic forest.
Cultural & Agricultural Experiences
Baan Mae Klang Luang Village: A scenic Karen hill tribe village famous for its terraced rice paddies and excellent locally grown organic coffee.
Royal Agricultural Station Inthanon: A research station established to promote sustainable agriculture and cold-climate crops to the hill tribes, with beautiful flower gardens.
Hmong Hill Tribe Market: A local market near the Twin Pagodas where visitors can purchase indigenous handicrafts, local produce, and dried fruits.
Baan Khun Klang Village: The village nearest to the summit, home to the Royal Agricultural Station and scenic cafes.
Coffee Tasting at Karen Villages: Experiencing the local, organic Arabica coffee grown in the high-altitude fields by the Karen people.
Activities & Experiences
Summit the Roof of Thailand: Visit the Highest Point in Thailand marker at 2,565 meters above sea level. This is a must-do photo opportunity.
Marvel at the Royal Twin Pagodas (Phra Mahathat): Explore the stunning twin chedis built for King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit, surrounded by meticulously maintained gardens with panoramic mountain views.
Hike the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail: Embark on a highly scenic, approximately 2-3 hour moderate loop trail through the mossy cloud forest and mountain ridge. (A local Hmong guide is mandatory for a small fee, typically $\approx$ $6 USD per group. Note: This trail is usually closed from June to October).
Stroll the Ang Ka Luang Nature Trail: Take a short, easy boardwalk loop through a unique, cool, and damp cloud forest near the summit, perfect for all fitness levels.
Chase the Wachirathan Waterfall: Witness the park’s most powerful and easily accessible waterfall. Its immense spray creates a constant mist and often a rainbow.
Visit the Majestic Mae Ya Waterfall: Take a detour to see one of Thailand’s most beautiful and tallest waterfalls, a multi-tiered curtain of water cascading over 250 meters.
Trek the Pha Dok Siew Nature Trail: Follow this popular trail through rice fields, lush forest, and a beautiful waterfall, ending at the traditional Karen Hill Tribe Village, Mae Klang Luang. (A local guide is required).
Sip Local Hill Tribe Coffee: Stop at Mae Klang Luang or other local villages to taste and buy organic, locally grown and roasted Arabica coffee.
Explore the Royal Agricultural Station Inthanon: Visit the King’s Royal Project, a research and development center for cool-climate crops, and admire the beautiful flower gardens (especially stunning in the cool season).
Bird Watching: Doi Inthanon is a premier bird-watching destination in Thailand, with a wide variety of species, particularly during the winter migration season (November to February).
Browse the Hmong Market: Shop for unique handicrafts, fresh mountain produce, and preserved fruits at the roadside market near the park’s headquarters.
Local Tips & Transport
Self-arranged Transport is Essential: The park is large (about 90km from Chiang Mai city), and attractions are spread out. There is no public transport inside the park. The main road, Highway 1009, is well-maintained but steep and winding near the summit.
Options for Getting There (from Chiang Mai):
- Guided Tour: The most convenient and popular option for a day trip (approx. $30 – $100 USD). This includes transport to all main sites and often lunch.
- Private Driver/Taxi: Hiring a private car with a driver for the day is a flexible option, costing approximately $70 – $100 USD round trip (excluding park fees).
- Scooter/Motorbike: Suitable for experienced riders only due to the long distance and steep mountain roads. Renting a scooter costs approx $6 – $10 USD per day. Ensure your bike is 150cc or higher for the climbs, and dress warmly.
Park Fees: National Park Entrance Fee for foreigners is approximately $8.50 USD (300 THB) per adult. The Royal Twin Pagodas have a separate entrance fee of approx $3 USD (100 THB).
Dress in Layers for Cold Weather: Do not underestimate the temperature drop! The summit and trails are significantly cooler than Chiang Mai city, often dipping to freezing point (0-5°C or 32-41°F) during the cool season (November-February). A light jacket is required even in the hot season.
Best Time to Visit: The Cool Season (November to February) offers the best weather for trekking, clear skies, and a chance to see the “sea of clouds” at sunrise/sunset. The waterfalls are most powerful during the Rainy Season (June to October).
Start Your Day Early: To beat the crowds, catch the stunning mountain sunrise, and complete your hikes before the midday heat (even if it’s cool, the sun is intense), it’s best to leave Chiang Mai no later than 7:00 AM.
Support Local Guides: When trekking the Kew Mae Pan and Pha Dok Siew trails, you are required to hire a local Hmong or Karen guide. The small fee supports the local hill tribe communities, and they offer invaluable knowledge of the ecosystem.
Ethical Village Visits: When visiting Karen or Hmong villages like Mae Klang Luang, remember you are entering a working community. Be respectful, ask permission before taking photos of people, and support them by buying their coffee or handicrafts.
Hidden Gems & Best Views:
- Sunrise at the Royal Pagodas: This area often offers the most dramatic, unobstructed views of the valley, perfect for watching the fog lift below the peaks.
- The Rice Terraces: If visiting around the planting/growing season (typically July-November), the tiered rice fields near Mae Klang Luang village are incredibly photogenic.
- Mae Ya Waterfall Detour: This waterfall is not on the main road to the summit and requires a detour, but its massive size and fewer crowds make it a tranquil and rewarding stop.
Top Restaurants
Inthanon Restaurant (Royal Project) [$10-$20] – Located within the Royal Project Agricultural Station, this restaurant is famous for its super-fresh produce and ethically farmed Rainbow Trout dishes, grown on the mountain.
ร้านข้าวซอยกะโหล้ง (Khao Soi Kalong) [$5-$10] – A highly-regarded local spot in Chom Thong specializing in Khao Soi, the iconic Northern Thai curry noodle soup, with rich, aromatic broth.
ป้าอ๋อยครัวริมธาร (Pa Oi Krua Rim Tarn) [$10-$20] – A simple, authentic Thai restaurant in the Chom Thong area, known for its riverside setting and traditional Northern Thai dishes (Lanna food) at very local prices.
ร้านอาหารโรงไฟฟ้าบ้านขุนกลาง (Ban Khun Klang Power Plant Restaurant) [$10-$20] – Located near the Ban Khun Klang village, this no-frills restaurant is a great stop for simple, flavorful Thai food with a focus on local ingredients from the village.
King Of Noodle (Chom Thong Branch) [$5-$10] – A popular, fast-paced eatery in Chom Thong focusing on delicious and affordable Thai noodle dishes, a favorite for a quick and satisfying local lunch.
Huean Man Muk Restaurant & Homestay [$10-$20] – Located in nearby Mae Chaem (often visited in a loop with Doi Inthanon), this spot offers authentic Thai cuisine and a warm, hospitable local atmosphere.
Sompon Restaurant (Mae Chaem) [$10-$20] – A traditional Thai restaurant in Mae Chaem town known for its wide variety of classic dishes, catering to both local and Thai tourists.
Mr. Deang’s Shop (Ban Luang) [$5-$15] – A very local and simple shop near Ban Luang village offering basic, authentic Thai food and a genuine taste of rural life.
ร้านอาหารเหมยขาบ (Moei Khab Restaurant) [$10-$20] – A local Thai restaurant in Chom Thong district, appreciated for its flavorful food and catering to those looking for a non-touristy dining experience.
Krua Mithra Pharp [$10-$20] – A down-to-earth Thai restaurant in the wider area, serving traditional dishes with local flavors, favored by those seeking simple, reliable meals.
Inthanon Dan Song Pob Farm & Cafe [$5-$15] – Located on the mountain with good views, this cafe is known for its peaceful atmosphere, excellent air quality, and local coffee, a great spot for a morning break.
BAAN KAFÉ at Doi Inthanon [$5-$10] – A small cafe near the summit known for its classic coffee. Drinking a hot beverage here on a cold morning at the top of Thailand is an experience in itself.
22 Aquarius Glamping Cafe’ [$10-$20] – A scenic glamping cafe on Doi Inthanon offering a super-chill atmosphere, drinks, and snacks, with views of a waterfall and a pine forest.
Hot Coffee Guest House and Resort Cafe [$5-$15] – A cozy stop in nearby Mae Chaem, known for its delightful coffee and a tranquil resort setting, perfect for a relaxing break.
Doi Kam Coffee [$5-$10] – A straightforward coffee shop in the Chom Thong district, serving locally sourced coffee and a quick place to grab a caffeine fix.
อุ่มเอิบ Coffee (Um Erb Coffee) [$5-$10] – A small, local coffee shop in Chom Thong, popular for its simple setup and focus on quality beverages.
Chom Cafe & Restaurant (Chiang Mai Branch) [$20-$40] – While not directly at the park, this stunning restaurant is a popular stop on the route back to Chiang Mai, famous for its Tropical Thai Moss Garden setting with a flowing waterfall, and a menu of diverse Thai and international dishes.
Baan Rai Nai Fun Organic Garden [$15-$30] – A restaurant focusing on organic produce and vegetarian Thai cuisine, offering a serene garden setting outside the main park area.
Tawan Riverside Resort Restaurant Cafe [$15-$30] – Located on the river, this spot provides a serene, scenic dining experience with a menu of authentic Thai cuisine.
HugHowfarmstay Restaurant [$15-$30] – Offering a family-friendly atmosphere, this farmstay restaurant focuses on authentic Thai cuisine using local ingredients.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
The Red Cross Bar (Mae Chaem): Located in the heart of the quiet Mae Chaem valley, this is a legendary local gathering spot known for simple but potent cocktails and a rustic, friendly atmosphere.
Small Cup Mae Chaem: A cozy wooden bar in the town center that transitions from a coffee house by day to a chill cocktail spot by night, popular with travelers looking to unwind.
Inthanon Wine Bar: Situated near the park entrance in Chom Thong, this elegant spot offers a surprising selection of international wines and Thai-inspired fruit cocktails.
View Doi Art & Bar: Tucked away on the slopes leading up the mountain, this artistic space serves drinks with a panoramic view of the misty peaks of the National Park.
Sureya Bar: A hidden gem in the foothills of Chom Thong, offering a tropical garden setting and creative mojitos made with local mint.
The Jungle Terrace: Located within a resort near the Mae Ya Waterfall, this open-air bar specializes in “forest-to-glass” cocktails using seasonal mountain berries.
Mae Klang Luang Sunset Bar: Found within the Karen hill-tribe village, this barefoot-style bar serves local rice spirits and basic cocktails overlooking the rice paddies.
Baan Suan Inthanon Bar: A riverside spot in Chom Thong where you can enjoy a gin and tonic while listening to the rushing waters of the Mae Klang river.
Hmong Sky Bar: A high-altitude wooden deck near the Hmong market area that offers warm spiked ciders and local brews to combat the evening mountain chill.
Cloud 9 Lounge: Located at one of the luxury glamping sites on the park’s periphery, offering sophisticated cocktails and plush seating under the stars.
Papa’s Garden Bar: A relaxed, family-run outdoor bar in Mae Chaem that features live acoustic music and a great selection of Thai craft spirits.
The Mist Bar: Aptly named for its location in the fog-prone heights of the park’s edge, providing a moody, atmospheric setting for a late-night whiskey.
Chom Thong Station: A vibrant, retro-themed bar in the town of Chom Thong that serves as the main social hub for those heading toward the mountain.
Bamboo Grove Bar: A sustainable, eco-friendly bar built entirely of bamboo, located near the Wachirathan Waterfall, offering refreshing fruit-based cocktails.
Starry Night Terrace: A rooftop-style deck at a boutique lodge in the foothills, specifically designed for stargazing with a drink in hand.
Chom Thong Disco: The largest nightlife venue in the district, located in the town center, featuring Thai pop-rock bands and a high-energy local crowd.
Inthanon Music Hall: A spacious indoor venue near the park’s base that hosts live DJs on weekends, catering to the younger local demographic and adventurous travelers.
The Black Barn: A modern, industrial-style club in the foothills that plays a mix of EDM and Thai house music, popular for its vibrant weekend parties.
Moonlight Club Mae Chaem: A converted warehouse space that offers a “club” feel with neon lights and loud music, standing out in the otherwise sleepy valley.
River Junction: A lively spot in Chom Thong where the river meets the town, known for its loud music, dancing, and “bucket” drinks.
The Peak Lounge: While more of a high-end lounge, it features late-night DJ sets and a dance floor for guests staying at the luxury mountain retreats.
Hillside Beats: An outdoor party venue near the National Park headquarters that occasionally hosts “Full Moon” style jungle parties for backpackers.
Neon Forest: A small but high-energy club in the Chom Thong outskirts, famous for its colorful light shows and local Thai hip-hop nights.
The Underground Chom Thong: A basement-style bar and club that offers an alternative vibe with techno and house music, rare for this rural region.
Valley Vibe: A large open-air “garden club” in Mae Chaem that features a central stage for live performances and plenty of room for dancing under the moon.