Doi Inthanon is a beautiful national park in Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai. One of its most famous landmarks are the TWIN Pagodas overlooking the entire thailand atop Doi Inthanon the highest mountain in all of Thailand.
Endearingly known as “The Roof of Thailand” – kind of reminds us of the part in Lion King – “Look Simba, everything the light touches is our kingdom” . It’s perfect for a two or even three-day trip from Chiang Mai, Check out our top list of things to do in this incredible national park – Doi Inthanon
The entrance fees for Doi Inthanon National Park in Thailand are as follows:
- International visitors: 300 Baht for adults, 150 Baht for children (ages 3–14)
- Thai nationals: 60 Baht for adults, 30 Baht for children
- Vehicles: 30 Baht for cars, 20 Baht for bikes
Additionally, there is a separate 100 Baht entrance fee to visit the Royal Twin Pagodas. The park’s main ticket provides access to a variety of attractions within the park.
Getting to Doi Inthanon from Chiang Mai and How much it cost
There are several ways to reach Doi Inthanon, depending on your preferences for convenience, adventure, and the type of experience you’re looking for.
- By Car (Self-Drive) – We did this!
We wanted the flexibility of moving off and stopping as and when we wanted to – so we rented a car for our 2 days 1 night trip to Doi Intanon – Yes, we stayed one night under the stars and had a campfire dinner! so trust us when we say, Renting a car is one of the most flexible and convenient ways to reach Doi Inthanon. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours from Chiang Mai, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The road to the summit is well-paved, and you’ll pass through scenic villages and forests along the way. This option allows you to explore the area at your own pace and make stops at viewpoints or attractions along the route. This cost us +/- 1000baht including gasoline.
- By Motorbike – its similar to driving but we didn’t do this.
For those looking for a more adventurous and budget-friendly option, renting a motorbike is a great way to reach Doi Inthanon. While driving up in our car, we saw many riders! The journey offers the thrill of winding roads and stunning landscapes. It’s a popular choice for solo travelers or those who want a more personal experience with nature. As always, Be sure to ride carefully, especially as the road can get steep and winding near the summit. Daily rental of a bike is from 250baht and up depending on the shop, and the capacity of the bike you choose. - Private Ride – We did this once when family visited us in Chiang Mai
When our family visited in August 2024, of course we had to bring them up the Tallest mountain in all of Thailand – Doi Inthanon! This is a hassle-free option, although it can be more expensive than renting a car or motorbike. It’s the perfect option if you prefer a comfortable, door-to-door service without worrying about navigation. Aside to this, a taxi can take you directly to Doi Inthanon and wait for you to return, or you can arrange a round-trip ride – remember to negotiate a comfortable price and agree on the stops ( see below for things to do) before getting on! Here’s the link to our driver we booked on Facebook via messenger – her was reliable and on time, and collected payment only after the day was over. The driver spoke English and was easy to communicate with. We hired a private driver and a minivan for the day starting from 8am picked up directly from our accommodation, and ending at around 5pm the same day with drop off at an agreed location for 3500baht (including Gasoline) – at time of writing November 2024. - Guided Tours – We did this and Highly recommend it!
A totally no-frail experience. No planning needed except to commit to a date and time and off you go! This is perfect for everyone with not much time to research and yet want to “cover all bases” without haveing to plan. We highly recommend this tour we took via Klook – you can read more on the positive reviews when you click here. Booking a guided tour from Chiang Mai is an excellent choice if you want a more organized experience – a great option for those who want to learn more about the area’s history, culture, and nature without worrying about logistics. - Public Transport (Songthaew or Minivan)
If you’re on a tighter budget and enjoy a more local experience, you can take a songthaew (a shared red truck) or a minivan from Chiang Mai’s central bus station. These options are affordable but less comfortable and can be crowded – costing only 40 Baht, it offers a unique, non-touristy way to get to Doi Inthanon. Do note that They may not take you directly to the summit, so you may need to arrange additional transport once you arrive at the base – and if there are no one else to share the cost, you might have to rent a private driver afterall. (shared 150baht, or private 1200baht – at time of writing November 2024)
No matter how you choose to get there, the journey to Doi Inthanon is an experience in itself, offering stunning views and a chance to connect with the natural beauty of Thailand’s highest peak.
Doi Inthanon Things to Do
NUMBER ONE on the list for us is The Twin Pagodas - Royal Twin Chedis
Pro Tip: Visit at 4 PM to experience something truly magical
This is our top recommendation and a must-visit stop on Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s highest peak: the Twin Pagodas, officially named Phra Mahathat Naphamethanidon and Phra Mahathat Naphaphon Bhumisiri. Built to commemorate the 60th birthdays of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit, these pagodas stand as a magnificent tribute to Thailand’s royal heritage.
From the moment we arrived, we were captivated by the serene surroundings and the breathtaking panoramic views of Doi Inthanon National Park. The pagodas, with their intricate golden designs and towering presence, shimmered in the afternoon sunlight, radiating both elegance and reverence. We arrived just before closing time, which turned out to be perfect—we had the entire place to ourselves and witnessed the most mesmerizing sunset amidst the gardens.
We spent hours simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and admiring the fine craftsmanship.
Opening Hours & Entry Fee:
The site is open from 6 AM to 5:30 PM. The entry fee is 100 THB
If you purchase a ticket at 4 PM, it grants you access until 9 AM the next day, allowing you to enjoy both the sunset and the sunrise when the lighting is at its best.
Free parking is located slightly above the entrace to the Twin Pagodas – and a free buggy takes you directly to the bottom of the stairs leading up to the Pagodas.
IF a more relaxed climb is preferred, there are escalators going up! – We took the escalator! (no shame)
But the real magic happened when we stepped outside. From the pagodas, we could see the entire valley unfolding below us—a photographer’s paradise. The mountains seemed to stretch endlessly into the horizon, their peaks barely visible through the mist. It was a sight so breathtaking, we had to return the next day just to experience it again.
The surrounding gardens added to the charm, with colorful flowers and meticulously landscaped paths leading us through a tranquil haven. Each step we took through the gardens felt like a peaceful escape from the world, a moment to simply breathe in the fresh air and admire the beauty that surrounded us.
Visiting the Royal Twin Pagodas wasn’t just a trip—it was an experience that left us in awe, so much so that we couldn’t resist coming back to relive the magic. It was a place where nature, culture, and history came together in the most stunning way possible
NUMBER TWO on the list for us is The Kew Mae Pan Natural Trail
This trek isn’t just a hike—it’s an unforgettable experience packed with stunning views, magical landscapes, and plenty of photo moments to capture along the way. It’s the perfect blend of nature, adventure, and a touch of fantasy!
Embarking on this trek is like stepping straight into an adventure story—but with one important rule: you must have a guide! Local villagers from the Hmong Tribe serve as your knowledgeable and friendly companions, making the journey even more special. The best part? It’s just 200 Baht per group (up to 10 people), covering both the guide and the entrance fee.
Before setting off, grab a walking stick from the reception if you like (not necessary, but it does make you feel adventurous). Don’t forget to check out the map showing all 21 stations along the trail. These stops are marked on signboards throughout the route, so you won’t miss a thing.
The trail itself is a photographer’s paradise, with loads of photo-worthy moments at every turn. The path winds through serene greenery, bubbling streams, and towering trees, making you feel like you’ve entered a magical forest.
As you venture further, the evergreen thickets give way to sprawling pastures that seem to stretch forever. During the rainy season, these fields are a rich, vibrant green, while the dry season turns them into golden-brown meadows—each version equally stunning for photos.
Walking through the tall grass can feel a bit tricky at times, but the breathtaking scenery keeps you going. The trail, though manageable, gives you a sense of accomplishment as you navigate its winding paths. And then comes the pièce de résistance—the viewpoint.
Here, the magic truly unfolds: a panoramic view of the valley below, cloaked in mist and clouds, with sunlight piercing through like golden threads. The scene feels like something out of a dream, and the valley stretches endlessly toward the horizon. Clouds float lazily over the mountains, creating a backdrop so stunning it’s impossible to put your camera down.
And just when you think it can’t get better, it does. The descent after the viewpoint takes you through a part of the trail that feels like it’s straight out of Lord of the Rings. . It’s the kind of place where you half expect Gandalf to come strolling by at any moment.
Don’t miss the iconic Pha-Ngam Noi Rock, a twin granite formation standing as a testament to nature’s artistry after years of water erosion. It’s the perfect spot for a final photo op to commemorate your adventure.
A quick tip: the trail is open from 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM, so plan accordingly. And keep in mind it’s closed during the rainy season (June 1 to October 31).
NUMBER THREE on the list for us is The Ang Ka Luang Nature Trail
Don’t let the word “trail” fool you! This was a super easy loop on a well-built wooden platform through a mossy jungle! It was one of the most enchanting walks we’ve ever experienced. The trail stretches about 340 meters in a looped boardwalk, guiding you through a magical marshland hidden deep in the valley. It felt like stepping into a painting, with rays of sunlight streaming through the leaves and branches, casting a golden glow along the path.
The lush evergreen hills, teeming with tropical and warm-climate plants, added to the vibrant, jungle-like atmosphere. Nature showed off its artistic flair with layers of algae, moss, and other organic wonders draped across the tree trunks and branches. The highlight, though, was the rare Sphagnum Moss—a spongy, vibrant green moss that only grows in perfectly balanced, moisture-rich conditions over 2,000 meters above sea level. It was truly a scene straight out of a dream!
NUMBER FOUR on the list for us is GLAMPING
A trip to Doi Inthanon feels incomplete without spending at least one night there in our opinion! For our overnight adventure, we embraced the magic of glamping at Inthanon Mountain Camp, a charming retreat nestled in the serene mountainscape.
What made our stay unforgettable? For starters, we pre-arranged a delicious mookata dinner, the Thai-style barbecue and hot pot combo that’s perfect for cool weather. Picture this: sitting under a canopy of twinkling fairy lights that added an extra touch of magic to the evening, the warmth of the sizzling grill in front of us, and the cool mountain air creating that perfect “sweater weather” vibe. It was pure enchantment!
The cozy glamping setup blended comfort with nature, making it feel like a true escape. Waking up to a stunning sunrise over Doi Inthanon with a hot cup of coffee in hand was the perfect way to start the day.
Whether you’re chasing adventure or simply looking to relax under the stars, staying overnight at Doi Inthanon—complete with fairy lights and mountain magic—is an experience you’ll never forget. Highly recommend it! (We paid approx 1000 baht for a glamping tent – but the price varies according to your selection and your dates)
NUMBER FIVE on the list for us is GO CHASING WATERFALLS
We had the chance to visit three very different waterfalls on Doi Inthanon, and we highly recommend ALL, each offering its own unique experience!
Since we had our own transport, we first headed to Mae Ya Waterfall, which is much less crowded, making it feel like a hidden gem. It requires a slight detour, as it’s located off the beaten path with no other major attractions nearby and no public access, keeping it peaceful and serene. The waterfall cascades gracefully down a 30-story-high cliff, covering over 260 meters of rocky surface. During the rainy season, the water spreads like a delicate white curtain before flowing into the basin below. The multi-tiered cascade is massive and mesmerizing, and the surrounding jungle only adds to its magic. This waterfall is perfect for those who enjoy a quiet, tranquil nature experience without the crowds.
Our next stop was the Wachirathan Waterfall, the most famous and easily accessible on the mountain, located right near the start of the park. It’s a true gem of Doi Inthanon, with water thundering down 80 meters into a rocky basin below, creating an incredible spray that glistens in the sunlight. The sound of rushing water, the vibrant greenery surrounding it, and the sheer power of the fall made it an unforgettable sight. It’s no wonder this waterfall is a popular stop for visitors, offering prime spots for photography.
Another waterfall we visited was the Mae Klang Waterfall – another stunning gem located within Doi Inthanon National Park, known for its serene beauty and accessibility. Unlike some of the other waterfalls in the park, Mae Klang is relatively easy to reach and is often less crowded, making it a great stop for a peaceful moment in nature.
The waterfall cascades down in a series of smaller steps, creating a series of beautiful pools and rocky areas perfect for photos. The surrounding lush jungle and tropical vegetation add to the tranquil atmosphere, making it a lovely spot to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. The waterfall is particularly beautiful during the rainy season, when the flow is at its peak, but it’s an enjoyable sight year-round.
Mae Klang Waterfall is also a great spot for picnics or just soaking in the beauty of Doi Inthanon’s natural landscape, with easy access for visitors of all ages. It’s a lovely stop to add to any itinerary for those exploring the area, offering a quieter alternative to the more popular waterfalls in the park.
Is Doi Inthanon worth it?
Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s highest peak, is a must-visit destination that beautifully blends natural beauty, cultural significance, and outdoor adventure, making it one of the reasons we love Chiang Mai. While exploring this stunning area, be sure to check out the awe-inspiring waterfalls, including the famous Wachirathan and the peaceful Mae Ya. Visit the Royal Twin Pagodas, a tribute to the Thai monarchy, for breathtaking views and serene gardens. For a unique experience, try glamping at Inthanon Mountain Camp, where you can enjoy cool mountain air and starry skies. Don’t miss the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail for stunning vistas and a chance to immerse yourself in the mountain’s lush environment, or the Ang Ka Luang Trail for a short, peaceful walk through moss-covered forests. With so much to offer, Doi Inthanon truly captures the essence of Chiang Mai’s natural charm.
Lovely blog!