Doi Inthanon, at around 2,565 m, is Thailand's highest peak — the 'Roof of Thailand' — set in a national park about 90 km southwest of Chiang Mai (a roughly 2-hour drive). Its highlights include a moss-draped cloud forest and the Ang Ka Luang boardwalk near the summit, the Royal Twin Pagodas honoring the King and Queen, and waterfalls such as Wachirathan. It is among the coldest places in Thailand, with occasional winter frost.
Thailand's highest-point marker and the summit stupa holding the ashes of King Inthawichayanon, the last ruler of Chiang Mai
Ang Ka Luang Nature Trail — a short (~400 m) summit boardwalk through an ethereal cloud forest carpeted in moss and rare sphagnum bog
The Royal Twin Pagodas (Phra Mahathat Naphamethanidon and Naphaphon Phumi Siri), with landscaped gardens and sweeping views
Powerful waterfalls like Wachirathan, plus a scenic mountain drive — the paved road reaches the summit and is doable by car or motorbike
Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail — grassland and ridge viewpoints, walked only with a local guide and open seasonally
Good to know
SeasonSummit temperatures run roughly 4–10°C year-round and around 6°C in winter (Nov–Feb), sometimes dipping below freezing with frost at dawn. Pack a warm jacket, hat and gloves, and dress especially warmly for sunrise.
RulesThe Kew Mae Pan trail requires a local (Hmong) guide and is closed during the rainy-season restoration (roughly June–October), typically reopening on November 1. Guides are assigned on-site, so confirm the current opening status and fee before you go.
MannersThe Royal Twin Pagodas and the summit stupa are sacred, royal-honoring sites. Cover shoulders and knees, keep your voice down, and avoid disrespectful photo poses. Thailand enforces strict lese-majeste laws, so be especially mindful around royal monuments.
CautionIn Chiang Mai, some songthaew (red truck) and taxi touts push a 'direct to the summit' pitch at inflated prices. Always agree the fare for the whole group (not per person) before departure, and compare against tours or Grab.
SafetyAlthough paved to the top, the road has sharp bends, steep grades and frequent fog that cuts visibility. Drive slowly if riding a motorbike or renting a car, and take care on wet, slippery rocks and boardwalks around the waterfalls.
RulesPark entrance fees, the separate pagoda charge, opening hours (roughly early morning to dusk) and vehicle fees can change. Verify current fees, hours and rules from official sources just before your visit.
Practical info
Most visitors come as a day trip from Chiang Mai by rental car, motorbike, tour or songthaew. The park entrance fee (foreign-adult rate), plus separate pagoda and Kew Mae Pan guide fees, are extra — verify current prices, hours and trail openings before going. The summit is cold, so bring warm layers.
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