Plizio Visual Lab
Doi Inthanon National Park
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
national-park
Weather…
Water temperature…
Doi Inthanon National Park is a remarkable feature of the geography and culture of Thailand. Known as the 'Roof of Thailand'. A journey here is like ascending into the clouds, past mossy forests and towards twin pagodas that pay homage to the sky. Contains Thailand's highest peak, Doi Inthanon. Temperatures can drop to freezing at the summit. Site of the twin Royal Pagodas, Naphamethinidon and Naphaphonphumisiri. This natural area reflects the scenic diversity of Thailand, from the Mekong basin to the islands of the Andaman Sea. Like many notable places in Thailand, it combines regional character with the legacy of the Chao Phraya, the Mekong and Buddhist tradition. Thus, this place contributes to the diverse profile of Thailand, between the Andaman coast, rice paddies and tropical forests.
- Location: Thailand
- Top sights: Doi Pha Lai · Elephant Camp Chi · Elephant pride sanctuary
- Nearby: Pai (21 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 21 | 23 | 26 | 29 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 24 | 22 | 20 |
| Rain mm | 15 | 5 | 24 | 60 | 185 | 137 | 157 | 216 | 215 | 126 | 32 | 12 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The 'Roof of Thailand' is typically accessed via a well-paved main road winding up from Chiang Mai. Many visitors opt for organized tours, rent a scooter, or hire a local songthaew for the steep, continuous ascent.
Best season
The cool and dry season from November to February is widely considered the best time to visit, especially to see the morning frost. The rainy season brings lush greenery, but trails can be slippery and views obscured.
Terrain & paths
The landscape changes dramatically from lower deciduous forests to dense, mossy cloud forests at the summit. Walkways around the twin pagodas are paved, but nature trails like Kew Mae Pan involve stairs and steep sections.
What to bring
Warm clothing is absolutely essential, as temperatures at the highest peak can drop to near freezing, especially in the early morning. Comfortable walking shoes and a light rain jacket are recommended year-round.
Parking
There are several established parking areas near the summit, the twin pagodas, and the main waterfalls. These parking lots can become extremely congested during weekends and national holidays, requiring patience.
Safety
The roads leading up are steep and winding, so ensure your vehicle is in good condition, especially the brakes. Altitude sickness is generally not a major issue here, but the sudden temperature drop can catch people off guard.
Time needed
A comprehensive day trip from Chiang Mai, lasting around 8 to 10 hours, is the most common way to experience the highlights. Nature enthusiasts might consider staying overnight nearby to explore the trails thoroughly.
Geography
Facts
- Known as the 'Roof of Thailand'. A journey here is like ascending into the clouds, past mossy forests and towards twin pagodas that pay homage to the sky.
- Located within the Kingdom of Thailand.
- Shaped by the monsoon climate of Southeast Asia.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Doi Inthanon National Park (5)
Elephant pride sanctuary📍 landmark
An ethical camp focusing on observing and feeding rescued elephants without riding.
🌐 m.facebook.com🕒 Fr-Su 00:00-24:00; Mo-Th 07:00-22:00
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How cold is it at the summit?
It can drop to 5 degrees even when it is warm in the valley.
How long is the drive from Chiang Mai?
Expect about 2 hours for the drive.
Are the waterfalls easy to reach?
Yes, the main ones are easily accessible from the road.
Is a rental car recommended?
Yes, for more freedom, having your own car is well-suited.
Is there food there?
There are snack stalls at the park entrances and at the summit.
Doi Inthanon National Park: where is it located?
Doi Inthanon National Park is located in Thailand.
Doi Inthanon National Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Doi Pha Lai, Elephant Camp Chi, Elephant pride sanctuary.
Doi Inthanon National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Doi Inthanon National Park: why is it worth visiting?
Doi Inthanon National Park is a remarkable feature of the geography and culture of Thailand.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Thailand →
Nearby cities
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a city in mountainous northern Thailand, known for its walled Old City and hundreds of Buddhist temples.
Mae Hong Son
Mae Hong Son is a remote town in the mountains of Northern Thailand, known for its morning mist and strong Shan cultural heritage.
Pai
Pai is a laid-back mountain village in Northern Thailand, famous for its bohemian atmosphere, hot springs, and stunning natural scenery.
Sangkhla Buri
Sangkhla Buri is a picturesque border town known for its multicultural atmosphere and Thailand's longest wooden bridge.
Tak
Tak is a town in western Thailand, bordering Myanmar, serving as an important trading post.
History & landmarks
Nature
More places
Mae Ya Waterfall
One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Doi Inthanon National Park, cascading down a 260-meter wide rock face.
Doi Suthep-Pui National Park
A mountain sanctuary overlooking the city of Chiang Mai.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
A sacred Buddhist temple on Doi Suthep mountain, near Chiang Mai.
Doi Luang Chiang Dao
A distinctive limestone mountain in northern Thailand, considered the country's third highest and part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Doi Chiang Dao
A massive limestone monolith known as 'City of Stars'.
Ping River Valley
The valley in which the city of Chiang Mai is located, irrigated by one of the two main headwaters of the Chao Phraya River.
Bo Sang Umbrella Village
A craft village near Chiang Mai famous for producing handmade umbrellas from saa paper and silk, an example of local, tourism-focused ind…
Doi Pha Hom Pok
The second highest mountain in Thailand, known for its geothermal hot springs and rich flora, including rare orchids.