Doi Inthanon National Park
Park Thailand's highest mountain within biodiverse national park
Thailand’s highest national park, Doi Inthanon protects the country’s tallest peak, cloud forest, waterfalls and hill-tribe villages; hikers, birdwatchers and photographers come for mountain trails and cooler temperatures.
Doi Inthanon National Park protects Thailand’s highest mountain, Doi Inthanon, and surrounding montane forest in Chiang Mai Province. The summit reaches 2,565 metres above sea level and the park is one of the country’s major natural reserves.
The mountain and surrounding forests were designated as a national park to conserve unique high-elevation ecosystems and cultural sites; the area has long been inhabited and used by local hill tribe communities. Infrastructure for visitors has developed to provide access to waterfalls, viewpoints and short nature trails.
The park lies in northern Thailand’s Chiang Mai Province, southwest of the city of Chiang Mai; the summit is reached by a mountain road that ascends from the surrounding valley.
- Highest peak: The mountain's summit reaches 2,565 metres above sea level, making it the highest point in Thailand.
- Ecology and communities: The park protects montane rainforest and cloud forest habitats and is noted for highland biodiversity and hill tribe communities within its boundaries.
What to See #
- Doi Inthanon summit: Summit of Doi Inthanon at 2,565 metres above sea level, the highest point in Thailand and a focal point for hiking and short summit walks.
- Royal chedis: Twin royal chedis near the summit that serve as visible landmarks and viewpoints over the surrounding forested slopes.
- Major waterfalls: Notable waterfalls within the park, including Wachirathan and Mae Ya, which are accessible by road and short walks from parking areas.
How to Get to Doi Inthanon National Park #
Doi Inthanon National Park is about 60-80 km southwest of Chiang Mai city; by car it takes roughly 1.5-2 hours via the main highways toward Chom Thong and then up the mountain on Route 1009. Regular day tours and private drivers depart Chiang Mai; public minivans/buses leave from Chiang Mai’s Arcade Bus Station to Chom Thong, where you can change to a local songthaew or hire a taxi for the climb into the park. Many park attractions (visitor centre, summit) require a short drive from the main park entrance.
Tips for Visiting Doi Inthanon National Park #
- Head to the summit at first light to enjoy clearer views, cooler air and to beat the day‑trip minibuses and weekend crowds that arrive later.
- Make time for the Ang Ka (mossy forest) boardwalk near the summit and the royal pagodas (Naphamethinidon/Naphaphonphumisiri) - these high‑altitude spots are often missed by visitors who only stop at one viewpoint.
- Plan your route: if you want waterfalls (for example Mae Ya) include them on a separate part of the day rather than trying to combine everything at the summit, and expect park entry fees at the main park office.
Best Time to Visit Doi Inthanon National Park #
Best in the cool, dry months (November-February) for clear views and comfortable hiking, with summit temperatures notably cooler than lowlands.
Weather & Climate near Doi Inthanon National Park #
Doi Inthanon National Park's climate is classified as Tropical Savanna - Tropical Savanna climate with hot summers (peaking in April) and mild winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 11°C to 33°C. Abundant rainfall (1048 mm/year), wettest in August with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 11°C. The driest month with just 2 mm and mostly sunny skies.
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February
February is mild with highs of 29°C and lows of 13°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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March
March is mild with highs of 32°C and lows of 16°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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April
April is the warmest month with highs of 33°C and lows of 19°C. Moderate rainfall (58 mm).
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May
May is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 20°C. Significant rainfall (168 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is warm with highs of 28°C and lows of 20°C. Significant rainfall (114 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 20°C. Significant rainfall (133 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 20°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (188 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 20°C. Significant rainfall (180 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 18°C. Significant rainfall (123 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 16°C. Moderate rainfall (42 mm).
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December
December is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 12°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
