Doi Inthanon National Park
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Address:
119 Ban-Luang Chomtong
50160 Chiang Mai, Thailand
Phone:
+66 53 28 6728
NileGuide Expert tip:
It can get surprisingly cold on the mountain, so take some warm clothes.
Description:
Standing at a height of 2565 meters, Doi Inthanon is the tallest peak in Thailand. Now named after King Inthawichayanon, who was also known as King Inthanon - the mountain has been had several names over the centuries including Doi Luang, meaning 'big mountain', and Doi Ang Ka, meaning 'crow pond peak', as there was once a pool popular with crows near the summit. Part of the mountain range that seperates Burma from Thailand (Loi Lar Mountain Range or Daen Lao Range), Doi Inthanon features numerous 'must see' sights, including cascading waterfalls, an abundance of hiking trails, some beautiful views and a pair of impressive chedis, built in honor of the contemporary King and Queen. When you arrive at Doi Inthanon head for the park's administration centre. Here you can find all the information you need to plan your day. There is also a food court where you can fuel up before hitting the trails. You may also notice another example of the Royal Project, where hill tribes are learning to sustain themselves through agriculture rather than poppy farming. Make sure you check out the beautiful waterfalls surrounding Doi Inthanon, the most impressive of which is Mae Yai Falls. There is also a Karen weaving village in this area, Ban Pha Mon that is worth visiting. To get to Doi Inthanon from Chiang Mai (about 90 minutes) take route 108 towards Chomthong. Follow this road for 57 km (35 miles) and turn right onto route 1009 (Chomthong-Doi Inthanon Road). Take this road for 31km (19 miles) and you will arrive at the park entrance.
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