Doi Inthanon Summit is the highest point in Thailand, with an elevation of 2,565 meters above sea level. Located in Doi Inthanon National Park, this mountain is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The park is known for its lush forests, hill tribe villages, and royal projects.
The summit is named after King Inthawichayanon, one of the last kings of Chiang Mai, and is a tribute to him and his wife, Queen Suthachan. The park was established in 1972 to honor the king’s 60th birthday. Today, the park is a popular destination for visitors who want to explore the natural beauty of Northern Thailand.
Doi Inthanon Summit offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area, including Chiang Mai, and is a popular spot for watching the sunrise and sunset. The park is home to several hill tribe villages, including the Hmong and Karen tribes, who have lived in the area for generations. Visitors can learn about their culture and way of life by visiting their villages and participating in cultural activities. The park also offers opportunities for trekking, birdwatching, and exploring waterfalls.
Getting to Doi Inthanon Summit
Doi Inthanon Summit is located in Doi Inthanon National Park, which is 90 km from Chiang Mai city center. The park is accessible by private tours, and visitors can also drive themselves by car or motorbike.
Private Tours
Private tours are a popular way to get to Doi Inthanon Summit. Tour companies offer a variety of options, including half-day and full-day tours that include transportation, entrance fees, and a guide. Some tours also include a visit to other attractions in the area, such as the Bhumibol Dam and the Ping River.
Entrance Fees
Visitors to Doi Inthanon National Park are required to pay an entrance fee. The fee is 300 baht for foreigners and 50 baht for Thai nationals. The fee allows visitors to access the park for the entire day.
It is important to note that the park only accepts cash for entrance fees, so visitors should make sure to bring enough cash with them.
Driving to Doi Inthanon Summit is also an option for visitors. The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours from Chiang Mai city center. Visitors can take Route 108 towards Chomthong for 57 km, then turn right onto Highway 1013 and follow the signs to the national park entrance.
Once inside the park, visitors can drive to the summit viewpoint parking area, where they can park and take one of two short trails to the summit. The trails are well-marked and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Overall, getting to Doi Inthanon Summit is relatively easy, whether visitors choose to take a private tour or drive themselves. With its breathtaking views and stunning natural beauty, a visit to Doi Inthanon National Park is a must-see for anyone traveling to Northern Thailand.
Exploring Doi Inthanon Summit
Doi Inthanon Summit is the highest point in Thailand, standing tall at 2,565 meters above sea level. It is a must-visit destination for hikers and nature lovers, offering a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Northern Thailand. The summit is located in Doi Inthanon National Park, which is about two hours away from Chiang Mai.
Trails
There are several hiking trails that lead to the summit, each offering a different experience. The Giew Mae Pan Nature Trail is a popular choice among hikers, as it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail is about 3.2 kilometers long and takes about two hours to complete. Another popular trail is the Pha Dok Siew Nature Trail, which takes hikers through a pine forest and a sphagnum bog.
Waterfalls
Doi Inthanon Summit is also home to several stunning waterfalls, including the Wachirathan Waterfall and the Sirithan Waterfall. The Wachirathan Waterfall is one of the most popular attractions in the national park, offering visitors a chance to cool off in the refreshing water. The Sirithan Waterfall, on the other hand, is a hidden gem that is less crowded and offers a more peaceful experience.
Chedis
At the summit of Doi Inthanon, you will find two chedis that were built in honor of King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit. The chedis are beautifully designed and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Flora
Doi Inthanon Summit is home to a diverse range of flora, including pine forests, cloud forests, and sphagnum bogs. The national park is also home to several royal projects that aim to preserve the natural habitat of the area.
Wildlife
Doi Inthanon Summit is home to a wide variety of animal species, including deer, wild boar, gibbons, and several bird species. Bird watching is a popular activity in the national park, with over 300 species of birds recorded in the area.
Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a nature lover, Doi Inthanon Summit is a must-visit destination in Northern Thailand. With its stunning waterfalls, diverse flora and fauna, and beautiful hiking trails, it offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the region. So, grab your camera and hiking boots and head over to Doi Inthanon National Park for an unforgettable adventure.
Cultural Significance of Doi Inthanon Summit
Doi Inthanon is more than just a mountain. It is a place of great cultural significance for the people of Thailand. The summit is home to several monuments and traditions that are deeply rooted in Thai culture.
Monuments
One of the most significant monuments at Doi Inthanon is the Chedis of the King and Queen. These two stupas were built to honor the memory of King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit, who were both beloved by the Thai people. The chedis are adorned with intricate carvings and beautiful gardens, making them a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Another important monument at Doi Inthanon is the Royal Agricultural Station. This research center was established in 1979 to promote sustainable agriculture in Thailand. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction where visitors can learn about the latest agricultural techniques and see a wide variety of crops and plants.
Traditions
Doi Inthanon is also home to several traditions that are deeply rooted in Thai culture. One of the most important is the tradition of offering food to the monks. Every morning, local villagers bring food to the summit to offer to the monks who live there. This tradition is a way for the villagers to show their respect for the monks and to give back to the community.
Another important tradition at Doi Inthanon is the New Year’s Day pilgrimage. Every year, thousands of people make the trek to the summit to pay their respects to the king and queen and to enjoy the beautiful scenery. This tradition has been going on for decades and is an important part of Thai culture.
In conclusion, Doi Inthanon is a place of great cultural significance for the people of Thailand. The summit is home to several monuments and traditions that reflect the country’s rich history and traditions. Whether you are a local or a tourist, a visit to Doi Inthanon is an opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Northern Thailand.