Categories > Guides and Tips
Ultimate Guide to Doi Inthanon National Park in Chiang Mai
- Best Time to Go
- Things to Know
- How to Get to Doi Inthanon National Park
- Things to Do in Doi Inthanon National Park
- Try the park’s nature trails
- Angka Nature Trail
- Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail
- Pha Dok Siew Waterfall Trail
- Check out gardens and royal pagodas
- Enjoy viewing waterfalls
- Interact with a hill tribe
- Go camping
- Where to Stay near Doi Inthanon National Park
- Hot Coffee Guest House and Resort
- Mae Chaem Resort
- Mae Chaem Hotel
- Mon Song Keang Camping View
- Baan Kub Doi Mae Chaem
- Where to eat near Doi Inthanon National Park
- Mae Chaem Gate Restaurant
- Sikon Restaurant
- Sompon Restaurant
- Sazomoo Homestay & Restaurants
- Viewpoint at Kew Mae Pan
- What to Expect from Chiang Mai Weather
- Apps to Download for Your Doi Inthanon National Park Tour
Chiang Mai in Thailand is home to some of the best nature trails available in the country and this is definitely the case here at the Doi Inthanon National Park. You can enjoy some of the best hikes and views in Thailand while immersing yourself in the culture!
There are a number of other activities you can experience here, though, so we’ve listed them down in our ultimate guide to Doi Inthanon National Park. Read on to find out more!
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Chiang Mai and check out the Doi Inthanon National Park is from November to February.
During this period, you can expect cool and pleasant weather, which adds to the relaxing vibe of strolling through nature trails and the park’s colourful gardens. However, this means that these months are peak season for tourists as well.
You may also want to visit Chiang Mai during the said months just to be able to witness the province’s festivities. You’ll experience the Loi Krathong Festival in November while the Chiang Mai Flower Festival happens every February.
Things to Know
Currency: Thai Baht
(Check the current exchange rate)
Language: Thai
Calling Code: +66
Address: Ban Luang, Mae Chaem District, Chiang Mai 50270, Thailand
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday, 5:30 AM to 6:30 PM
Fees:
- 300 THB for adults
- 150 THB for children
- 50 THB for Thai adults
- 20 THB for Thai children
Park Tips:
- Doi Inthanon’s summit is the only location in Thailand where you can feel cold without the aid or any air conditioning.
The temperature here can go below freezing point so if you’re planning to climb up the summit, we suggest that you wear warm clothes.4
- The park will require you to do tons of walking in and around its different areas so even if you’re not planning on going on nature trails, we suggest that you wear comfortable shoes.
- You should also bring some drinks and some snacks as there aren’t a lot of stores selling beverages and meals inside Doi Inthanon National Park.
- We recommend that you start with your tour of the park when the park opens (rope drop) at around 6 AM. If you plan on covering the majority of the attractions here, then you will be starting your tour before the clock strikes 9 AM.
- If you want to go on a self-guided tour of the park, don’t forget to drop by the park’s Tourist Service Centre. Here, you can see a map of the park so you’ll know which areas you may want to visit first and where they are located.
How to Get to Doi Inthanon National Park
Motorbike: This is the option for you if you want to get to the park fast. It will only take you around an hour or an hour and a half to get from Chiang Mai City to the Doi Inthanon National Park.
Of course, this will all depend on how many stops you want to take on your way here. You may want to take photos of the beautiful scenery or just take a break from riding to grab a quick bite.
It’s also quite practical since you can rent a motorbike in Chiang Mai City for as low as 150 THB to 500 THB (depending on the motorbike’s engine size). The only downside we see here is that you can’t really bring the entire family with you if you go with this option.
Private car: We recommend that you rent and bring a private car if you want to get to the site in comfort and convenience, especially if you are travelling with your family or younger children. It will take around 1 to 2 hours to get to the park by car.
Going by private car can be quite expensive though, as a small sedan will set you back 1,000 THB per day while a larger vehicle (like an SUV) will cost around 2,500 per day of rental.
Renting a car to get to the park is still something that we’d recommend though especially if you’re feeling a little adventurous. You can stop driving anytime you want and take in the scenic views of the area you are in (along with some selfies as well).
Grab: The easiest and most convenient way to catch a ride going to this park is by booking a Grab car which will run you around 1,100 THB one way.
It’s the most expensive option but it’s also the most convenient and relaxing since you don’t have to worry about driving and navigating the roads heading to Doi Inthanon National Park.
Things to Do in Doi Inthanon National Park
Try the park’s nature trails
Doi Inthanon National Park is well-known across the country for its amazing and scenic nature trails. You can try some of these trails on your own but for longer ones, you need to hire a tour guide who can show you points of interest that only locals know.
Below are some of the popular nature trails here:
1. Angka Nature Trail
If you want to take a stroll through the beauty of nature instead of hardcore hiking, then Angka Nature Trail is your best bet. It’s located under Doi Inthanon’s summit and you can take your time strolling through this moss-covered trail while taking in the view.
This trail is also ideal if you’re just a beginner in terms of hiking as it’s easy and relatively short, taking just around 30 minutes to finish.
We recommend that you visit during the rainy season as it looks wonderful during this period. Just be careful, though, as it can get quite slippery.
2. Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail
One of the most popular nature trails in the park, Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail is a strip of nature that is pure magical bliss. It will lead you through a 2.5-kilometer path into some lush greenery before you get to an opening with a fantastic scene of the forest below.
While walking to the said opening, keep an eye out for some of the posted information along the trail. You may encounter some wildlife so keep your eyes peeled especially for the rarely seen Chinese goral (a goat-like animal calling this jungle its home).
3. Pha Dok Siew Waterfall Trail
From the main road, this is the easiest trail to access and can also be the very first trail you can try out here in the park. It’s a fantastic area where you can enjoy the beautiful views of the multi-tiered waterfall that draws thousands of tourists each year.
You’ll also get the chance to stroll through some pine trees while reading through some of the trail’s posted information pertaining to the flora and fauna of the area. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime hike you shouldn’t miss- it’s enchanting, and educational as well!
Check out gardens and royal pagodas
Once you reach Doi Inthanon’s peak, you’ll see 2 royal and breathtaking pagodas surrounded by beautiful gardens. These two pagodas were erected in honour of the King and the Queen and you’ll notice that one is a bit larger than the other.
The larger pagoda is dedicated to the King while the smaller one is in honour of the Queen. After checking out these pagodas, walk around the gardens surrounding the King’s pagoda to ease your mind and take in the beautiful surrounding jungles.
The good news is that there are escalators leading up to this area so you don’t really have to climb or walk up to appreciate these awesome structural wonders!
Enjoy viewing waterfalls
You’ll need more than a few hours to enjoy all the waterfalls this park has to offer. Some of the more popular ones you need to visit include Siritharn, Wachirathan, Mae Klang, and Mae Ya.
Mae Ya is the most popular one but it’s not that easy to access coming from the main entrance of the park. To get to this waterfall, you need to plan your trip into the park to get to this highly sought-after area.
However, you can also go for the waterfall that is easiest to access: Wachirathan Waterfalls. After parking your rented vehicle, just hop out and walk a few steps to the area where this waterfall is located – so convenient if you ask us!
Interact with a hill tribe
Next, you can elevate your trip to the next level by further immersing yourself in the local culture by visiting one of the hill tribes of the park. You can visit their village, observe their daily routines, and even meet and greet the locals themselves.
These hill tribe locals also grow and prepare their own coffee beans. You can purchase some to have your loved ones and friends back home try this local coffee variant.
Go camping
If you’re the outdoorsy type, then camping at Doi Inthanon National Park is one activity you should definitely try out. The park has Dong Song Campground where you set up camp just 10 minutes away from Doi Inthanon’s peak.
The camping area is also surrounded by pine trees that are tall enough to block the view of the surrounding jungle. The same trees, though, will give you some good shade to protect you against the heat of the sun and the strong winds in the area.
Where to Stay near Doi Inthanon National Park
Hot Coffee Guest House and Resort
Address: 64/1 Moo 5 แม่นาจร Mae Nachorn แม่แจ่ม Mae Chaem Chiang Mai 50270, Thailand
Phone: +66 81 163 2525
Pricing: $
This place is the definition of old-school cool. If you want something modern or sleek, then Hot Coffee Guest House and Resort might not be for you but if you want to stay in the middle of the jungle without the usual creature comforts, check this place out!
You’ll be given a tropical cottage under the canopy of the jungle. The rooms don’t have air conditioning but it’s cool enough thanks to the shade provided by the tall trees surrounding the area– it gives you an authentic vibe of staying in a rural area.
It’s also located right beside the Mae Cham River, perfect if you want to enjoy the scenic beauty of its relaxing stream. You should bring some insect repellent here though, as being this close to nature also means mosquitoes and the occasional fly.
Mae Chaem Resort
Address: Chang Khoeng, Mae Chaem District, Chiang Mai 50270, Thailand
Phone: +66 81 163 2525
Pricing: $$
The Mae Cham Resort can offer you and your family some relaxing accommodations and beautiful surroundings to make your trip to Chiang Mai truly unforgettable. First, you can get one of their cottages to chill out and relax after a long day of travelling.
Next, you can lounge by the pool to cool down while your kids enjoy the water slides with their playmates. Lastly, you get a fantastic view of the mountains and the rice fields around it, along with a beautiful view of the river.
The resort is also an ideal location if you’re a foodie as it has access to most of the restaurants surrounding the river. Take your phones and cameras out to vlog about the local cuisine you can try out on this side of Chiang Mai.
Mae Chaem Hotel
Address: 104 4, Chang Khoeng, Mae Chaem District, Chiang Mai 50270, Thailand
Phone: +66 53 828 025
Pricing: $
“Traditional” and “Budget-friendly” are some of the words we can use to describe the Mae Chaem Hotel. It has rustic bungalow-style accommodations that are well-maintained, and clean and has the usual TV and refrigerator.
Their cheaper rooms don’t have any air-conditioning though, but each one has its own electric fan and will only cost you around 400 THB. You also opt to get their more expensive rooms with AC but it will run you around 600 THB per bungalow.
You’ll also get access to their swimming pool once you book a room here although you’d have to pay extra to use this amenity (around 40 THB per person). They also offer traditional and delicious local dishes here so you don’t have to always eat out.
Mon Song Keang Camping View
Address: 1192, Camping View, Mae Chaem District, Chiang Mai 50270, Thailand
Phone: +66 81 784 8226
Pricing: $
Mon Song Keang Camping View can give you and your loved ones a truly unforgettable experience here in Chiang Mai. You can book an A-frame type or cabin cum tent where you can get an open-air view of the surrounding countryside.
This spot is also popular for its tasty Thai food and refreshing smoothies, specifically mango-flavoured ones. The best part is that the mangoes they use come from their very own mango trees, ideal if you want something natural and not from a juice box!
The chill and relaxing vibe is also heightened by the owners’ warm attitude and their pet dog’s (Tia) welcoming gesture toward the hotel’s guests. Don’t forget to ask the owners for some tips on what spots you should visit around the area next!
Baan Kub Doi Mae Chaem
Address: 58/14หมู่4 ช่างเคิ่ง Mae Chaem District, Chiang Mai 50270, Thailand
Phone: +66 80 675 2195
Pricing: $
Baan Kub Doi Mae Chaem is an oasis of calmness and peace right in the middle of the Me Chaem District. It can offer you basic accommodation at an affordable price but without certain other bells and whistles that you might not notice at first glance.
First, the hotel has a small but very welcoming pool that is perfect if you want to cool down after a long day of hiking through nature trails. Next, the hotel is just a few minutes away from 7-11 where you can buy most (if not all) of your basic needs.
Lastly, the hotel can give you and your loved ones a relaxing place to stay as it’s a safe distance away from the nightclubs and bars around the district. If you’re working while on vacation, taking a Zoom call while in this hotel isn’t going to be a problem.
Where to eat near Doi Inthanon National Park
Mae Chaem Gate Restaurant
Address: 1192, Tha Pha, Mae Chaem District, Chiang Mai 50270, Thailand
Phone: +66 85 671 3061
Pricing: $
A great fusion restaurant in the Mae Chaem District, Mae Chaem Gate Restaurant serves up some Western cuisine with a local twist. For example, their pizzas may look standard but you’ll notice that some of the toppings are locally sourced.
So instead of pepperoni, you may taste some Thai pork sausages instead. It’s a fantastic culinary treat that you shouldn’t miss when in Chiang Mai, especially at such an affordable price point.
Sikon Restaurant
Address: 3 หมู่ 3, Chang Khoeng, Mae Chaem District, Chiang Mai 50270, Thailand
Phone: +66 87 067 8193
Pricing: $
After enjoying your hike through Doi Inthanon’s different nature trails, grab a snack and some refreshments here at the Sikon Restaurant. This place serves authentic and affordable local cuisine with a great (and often) busy street view.
We highly recommend that you try out their fried pork with some egg-fried rice as it is delicious and really filling. If you want something refreshing, grab one of their freshly made coconut shakes, perfect if you want to regain your energy for the next hike!
Sompon Restaurant
Address: Chang Khoeng, Mae Chaem District, Chiang Mai 50270, Thailand
Phone: +66 93 045 4873
Pricing: $
Sompon Restaurant is located just down the hill from Doi Inthanon National and is the perfect quick stop if you want to grab a quick bite to eat. Their meals here are phenomenal thanks to the freshness of their ingredients (especially their fish).
It can also give you a nice view of the creek right behind the restaurant which can be quite relaxing while you’re having a mid-day meal or snack. The price is also quite affordable so you don’t have to break the bank if your entire family eats here.
Sazomoo Homestay & Restaurants
Address: 155 1, Chang Khoeng, Mae Chaem District, Chiang Mai 50270, Thailand
Phone: +66 64 145 6518
Pricing: $$
You know it’s a good joint if the locals themselves are lining up to eat and drink here. This is exactly the case with Sazomoo Homestay & Restaurants where you can enjoy authentic Thai dishes and enjoy some live music while drinking with family and friends!
Plus, you get to dine in one of the most unique-looking restaurants in the area, thanks to some old photos and mementos on display. We recommend that you try their tom yum and pair it with their deep-fried fish as the combination of these two is just perfect.
Viewpoint at Kew Mae Pan
Address: 1009, Ban Luang, Mae Chaem District, Chiang Mai 50160, Thailand
Phone: +66 89 953 9120
Pricing: $$
As the name of the place implies, you’ll pass by this restaurant while walking through your nature trail going up Doi Inthanon Peak. It offers local cuisine that you can order a la carte and share with your family while enjoying the views around the trail.
You can order their grilled meats (pork and chicken) and try some of their freshly brewed coffee if you need a little wake-me-up drink before heading back up to your hike. Don’t forget to take pictures here as some of the views here are spectacular!
What to Expect from Chiang Mai Weather
Cool Season: Chiang Mai’s cool season covers the months of November to February. During this time, the weather is just perfect for tourists as it is cool and comfortable enough for you and your family to tour the area.
However, the months of December and January of the cool season can bring in large throngs of crowds due to the New Year’s celebration. Expect heavy traffic and prepare to do some itinerary planning to make the most of your time during these months.
Hot Season: The hot season in Chiang Mai runs from March to May. The air can be especially dry during these months and this is also the hottest season here.
If you visit during April, you’ll notice a very festive vibe across Thailand as locals will be celebrating their Thai New Year or Songkran. To cool down, you can engage with the locals in some good old-fashioned Songkran water splashing!
Rainy Season: The months of June to October are mostly rainy here in Chiang Mai. August and September are the worst in terms of rain as heavy downpours can happen all throughout the day during this period.
You can still enjoy your time here despite the rain as the temperature is definitely much more comfortable compared to the summer season. Also, expect the greenery to be much more lush– perfect if you want that vibrant green background in your selfie!
Apps to Download for Your Doi Inthanon National Park Tour
Grab: Ride-hailing, food, grocery, and delivery services
Line: Call and messaging, file sharing
Klook: Book tours, attractions, tickets, restaurants, hotels, and other activities
Agoda: Book hotels, flights, and other activities
Google Translate: Translate various languages
