Doi Inthanon Visitor Guide (2026)

Why Visit Doi Inthanon?

Doi Inthanon National Park sits 90 minutes southwest of Chiang Mai. You’re here for three things: the summit shrine at 2,565m (highest point in Thailand), the Twin Royal Chedis (Phra Maha Dhatu Naphamethanedol and Naphapholphumisiri), and Vachirathan Waterfall near km 30.

The twin chedis were built in 1987 and 1992 to honor King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit’s 60th birthdays. Ornate tile work, mountain gardens, and views over the valley. King Inthawichayanon’s shrine at the summit is simpler. A small stupa where locals leave offerings.

Climate is cool year-round. January mornings drop to 5-10°C. Bring a jacket. The park covers 482 square kilometers with trails through cloud forest and Hmong hill tribe villages.

Visitor Rules & Etiquette

No strict dress code. This is a national park, not a temple. Cover shoulders and knees at the twin chedis and summit shrine out of respect. Tank tops and shorts work fine on hiking trails.

Photography allowed everywhere. No flash or tripods at sacred sites (summit shrine, inside chedis). Don’t point your feet at Buddha statues. No shoe removal required except inside chedi prayer halls.

Monks visit the chedis occasionally. Don’t touch them. Women should not hand items directly to monks. Place offerings on a cloth or table.

What to See (Top 3 Highlights)

1. Doi Inthanon Summit & King Inthawichayanon Shrine (km 41-43): Drive to the top. Park at the lot. Walk 200 meters to the shrine. Small stupa with offerings. Views are often foggy. Go early for clear skies.

2. Twin Royal Chedis (km 41.5): Separate 100 THB entrance fee per person. Two pagodas with intricate tile mosaics. Gardens with roses and rhododendrons. Walkways connect both chedis. Takes 45 minutes to explore.

3. Vachirathan Waterfall (km 30): Thundering 70-meter cascade. Short walk from the parking area. Spray soaks you if you get close. Best flow during rainy season (June-October).

Bonus: Kew Mae Pan Trail (km 42). Guided 1.5-2 hour hike through cloud forest. Hmong guides required (included in trail fee). Opens November-May only. Closes June-October for reforestation.

Getting There from Chiang Mai

No public buses run directly to Doi Inthanon. Your options:

• Songthaew (shared pickup truck): Negotiate at Bus Terminal 2 or near Chiang Mai Old City. Expect 1,500-2,000 THB round trip for the vehicle (split with others). Drivers wait 3-4 hours while you explore.
• Private car rental: 1,200-1,500 THB/day. Drive Route 1009 south from Chiang Mai (90 minutes). Checkpoint at km 8 collects park entrance fees.
• Guided tour: Easiest option if you don’t drive. Tours from Viator include transport, guide, and lunch (around 1,800-2,500 THB). Skip the hassle of negotiating songthaews.

Parking is free at all major stops (summit, chedis, waterfalls). Roads are paved but winding. Motorbikes allowed but risky in fog.

Visitor Info (Hours, Fees, Timing)

Opening hours: 5:30 AM to 6:30 PM daily. Last entry around 5 PM. Gates close strictly at 6:30 PM.

Entrance fees (2026):

• Foreigners: 300 THB adults, 150 THB children
• Thais: 60 THB adults, 30 THB children
• Twin Royal Chedis: Extra 100 THB per person (pay at chedi entrance)

Best time to visit: Arrive by 7 AM to beat crowds and catch sunrise at the chedis. Weekends see 7/10 crowd levels between 10 AM and 3 PM. Weekdays are quieter. January is coldest (bring a coat). April-May is hot and hazy.

How long to spend: Half-day minimum (4-5 hours). Full day if you hike Kew Mae Pan Trail or visit multiple waterfalls (Mae Ya, Sirithan).

No audio guides available. Hmong-led Kew Mae Pan Trail includes a guide (mandatory). Buy snacks at Hmong Royal Project Market near km 31. Limited food options at the summit.