Doi Inthanon National Park

Doi Inthanon National Park, home to Thailand's highest peak, is a destination for hikers and bird watchers. The park includes various elevations, offering different climates and ecosystems.

Located in Chiang Mai Province, Doi Inthanon National Park covers 482 square kilometers (186 square miles) and features the peak of Doi Inthanon at 2,565 meters (8,415 feet). Its range of plant and animal life includes evergreen forest at lower altitudes and a sphagnum bog near the summit.

Visitors can explore several waterfalls; Mae Ya, Wachirathan, and Siriphum are the most well-known. The twin pagodas, Phra Mahathat Naphamethanidon and Naphaphonphumisiri, were constructed in honor of the King and Queen's 60th birthdays and offer peaceful views.

A network of trails fits various fitness levels, providing short walks and demanding hikes. The Ang Ka Nature Trail is an accessible boardwalk that highlights the high-altitude wetland. The park is also a top place for bird watching, with over 300 species recorded.

The park offers insight into the culture of the Karen and Hmong hill tribes. Their markets and the Royal Agricultural Station Inthanon, which focuses on sustainable farming, are open to visitors.

Doi Inthanon is a destination that can be visited all year, but the time from November to February offers the most pleasant climate for outdoor activities. It's wise to bring warm clothing, as temperatures can drop, especially at higher elevations.