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Chiang Mai National parks

Our most recommended Chiang Mai National parks

Chiang Mai: Doi Inthanon National Park & Elephant Sanctuary

1. Chiang Mai: Doi Inthanon National Park & Elephant Sanctuary

Discover the beauty of the Doi Inthanon National Park, see the Wachirathan Waterfall, and feed elephants at an elephant sanctuary. Choose from a tour with a centrally-located meeting point in Chiang Mai or a tour with convenient pickup and drop-off directly at your accommodation in Chiang Mai.  Hop aboard a comfortable van or bus and relax the drive to the southwest of Chiang Mai. Stop at one of the largest and most beautiful waterfalls in the country, Wachirathan Waterfall. This waterfall is more than 80 meters high, creating a refreshing mist that nourishes the surrounding vegetation.  Continue your journey to admire the stunning Twin Royal Pagodas. Take in gorgeous panoramic views with a terraced flower garden and the summit of Doi Inthanon Mountain. Walk on an ancient fern forest trail and have a delicious lunch at at local restaurant. Drive through the mountains and hill tribe village to the Elephant Village. Once you arrive, put on a traditional Karen tribe t-shirt and get ready for your jungle adventure. Pickup some fruits to feed the elephants. Learn about Asian elephants and the village's background. Find out how to approach elephants and the correct ways to feed them. Go on a forest hike with the friendly elephants through the lush vegetation and breathtaking mountains. Observe elephants roaming and foraging for food freely in the wild.  Swim with the elephants at the hidden waterfall where you can take some amazing picture. Have free time for a cool shower, to dry off, and to change back into your own clothes. Leave the Elephant Village and travel about 1.5 hours back to Chiang Mai City. 

From Chiang Mai: Doi Inthanon National Park Day Trip

2. From Chiang Mai: Doi Inthanon National Park Day Trip

Get picked up from your hotel in Chiang Mai city center for a day to explore one of Thailand’s original national parks and highest mountain, Doi Inthanon. This tour will feature picturesque landscapes, remote villages, and incredible viewpoints. After getting picked up from your hotel in Chiang Mai, head to your first stop, one of the largest and most beautiful waterfalls in the country, Wachirathan Waterfall. Over 80 meters high, the power of this waterfall creates a refreshing mist that feeds the surrounding vegetation. Next, stop at the stunning 50-meter cascade, Sirithan Waterfall, which is fed by the Mae Klong River.  Then, stop at the famous twin pagodas: the Napamatanee Don and Napaphon Bhumisiri. Built for the Royal King and Queen, they are located at the highest point in Thailand. Round out the tour with a visit to the Karen Tribe locale. Learn a bit about the hill tribes people’s culture and way of life in their village of Sobhad.

Chiang Mai: Doi Suthep Temple and Sticky Waterfall Tour

3. Chiang Mai: Doi Suthep Temple and Sticky Waterfall Tour

Get picked up from your hotel or accommodation in Chiang Mai and drive up the curvy mountain roads to Doi Suthep - Pui National Park. You will visit the most important temple here. Walk up 306 steps (or, if you prefer an easier method, take a funicular ride) to the temple, which sits at 1,100 meters above sea level. The famous golden pagoda is stunning and the temple contains the relic of the Lord Buddha. Here, you'll also have the chance to get a holy blessing from a Buddhist monk and participate in a wrist tiding ceremony. From the balcony, enjoy a panoramic view of Chiang Mai. Next, you'll continue to Bua Tong waterfalls. Swim around the clear water or climb the "sticky" limestone and enjoy the gorgeous natural scenery.

Chiang Mai: Ethical Elephant Observation Nature Park Visit

4. Chiang Mai: Ethical Elephant Observation Nature Park Visit

Discover the beauty of these majestic creatures while also supporting their conservation efforts. This half-day tour offers a unique and ethical experience where you can observe the elephants in their natural habitat without riding or hurting them. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by an expert guide who will provide you with a brief introduction to the park and the elephants. Then, you’ll have the opportunity to watch the elephants roam freely, play in the mud, and even interact with them from a safe distance. You'll also learn about the park's mission to protect and rehabilitate elephants that have been rescued from harmful situations. The knowledgeable guide will share insights about the elephants’ behaviors, personalities, and history, which will enhance your understanding and appreciation of these magnificent creatures. At the end of the tour, you'll have the chance to feed the elephants and say goodbye to them before being transported back to your hotel. This is an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a newfound respect for these gentle giants and memories that will last a lifetime.

4-Hour Doi Suthep & Hmong Hill Tribe Village from Chiang Mai

5. 4-Hour Doi Suthep & Hmong Hill Tribe Village from Chiang Mai

Depart Chiang Mai and travel to the temple of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep on Doi Suthep mountain. Follow in the footsteps of the pilgrims who climb up 309 steps to the stupa on the hilltop. Get spectacular views of Chiang Mai city and its surroundings. Then, visit a village and museum of the ethnic Hmong hill tribe, located inside the boundaries of the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. Learn more about the life of the tribe, known for their colorful costumes and handicraft traditions. Return to Chiang Mai and get dropped off at your hotel.

Chiang Mai: Customizable Chiang Mai Surrounding Areas Tour

6. Chiang Mai: Customizable Chiang Mai Surrounding Areas Tour

See what's outside Chiang Mai on this customizable guided tour. Visit the roaring Wachirathan Waterfall, relax in the calming San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, or see indigenous Thai plants at the Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden. Enjoy pickup from your downtown Chiang Mai accommodation in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver. Meet your guide in the car and head out. You can opt for a guide who speaks English, German, or Spanish. When you checkout, choose 3 to 4 sights or attractions that you must see, with a few additional optional sites so that your guide has several options to craft the best schedule for you based on geography and diversity. Nature-loving customers might enjoy the Doi Inthanon route, with a hike in the Doi Inthanon National Park, and a visit to Wachirathan Waterfall. If you’re thinking of taking the Mae Rim or Mae Taeng route, visit Mon Jam Highlands and Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden. Adventure and relaxation enthusiasts will love San Kamphaeng Hot Springs and Ban Mae Kampong Village. To help keep your travel time down, consider sights within 3 different routes. Doi Inthanon Route: • Doi Inthanon National Park (Doi Inthanon summit and Angka Nature Trail)• Wachirathan Waterfall• Twin Royal Pagodas (Napamatanee Don and Napaphon Bhumisiri)• Inthanon Royal Agricultural Station (Royal Project)• Mae Klang Luang Village (Hill Tribe Village, Pha Chor Canyon, Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong) Mae Rim and Mae Taeng Route: • Mon Jam Highlands• Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden conservation center for indigenous Thai plants with a canopy walkway)• Pongyang Zipline and Jungle Coaster• Mae Sa Waterfall, Wat Pa Dara Phirom Temple• Nong Hoi Royal Project Development Center• Plai Fa Strawberry Farm, Mae Taman Elephant Camp• Baan Tong Luang Hill Tribes Village (long-necked Karen village)• Wat Ban Den• Bua Tong Waterfalls (Sticky Waterfalls)• Nam Phu Chet Si Spring• Chiang Dao Cave San Kamphaeng and Ban Mae Kampong Route: • San Kamphaeng Hot Springs• Ban Mae Kampong Village (ziplining activity and cafes)• Mae Kampong Waterfall• Wat Mae Kampong (hidden temple)• MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum• Muang On Cave, Baan Jang Nak (Museum of Elephant Wood Carvings)• Bo-Sang Handicrafts Centre• San Kamphaeng Saturday Walking Street (Saturdays only)

From Chiang Mai: Doi Inthanon National Park Hiking Tour

7. From Chiang Mai: Doi Inthanon National Park Hiking Tour

Travel deep into the National Park stopping off at some of the most scenic waterfalls in the region on this one-day Doi Inthanon hiking tour. Experience a gentle 4km hike along a nature trail and learn about the flora and fauna along the way and enjoy the highest point in Thailand. The tour begins with a visit to the summit of Doi Inthanon – the highest spot in Thailand and an area rich in biodiversity and unique flora and fauna. Walk along a short hiking trail on the summit before heading to the start of the main hike. A local guide will take you through a pine restoration area, deep into a shady, forested valley and into farmland before reaching the Karen hill tribe village, which was founded 150 years ago. As you walk along the trail, you may spot snakes, lizards, and if you’re very lucky one of the resident gibbons. Upon reaching the village you will enjoy a local lunch and try a free coffee that is grown in the region. One final waterfall awaits on the way back to the city, beautiful all year round, and caps off a fun sightseeing day.

From Chiang Mai: Doi Inthanon National Park Day Trip & Hike

8. From Chiang Mai: Doi Inthanon National Park Day Trip & Hike

Explore the Thai jungle and embark on a guided hike on this day trip from Chiang Mai. Marvel at Thailand's highest mountain, visit pagodas and the rainforest, and feast on a delicious lunch as you go. Begin your experience in Chiang Mai and meet our guide for the drive to Doi Inthanon National Park. The park is home to Thailand's largest mountain which rises 2,565 meters above sea level, and has air that is cool year-round. Upon arrival, take a walk around the Angka Nature Trail. Experience an authentic rainforest environment filled with rare flora, animals, and birds. Continue on to visit 2 pagodas, built in honor of the King and Queen of Thailand for their 60th birthdays. There, take a stroll through the Hmong Market, and shop for local products like vegetables and seasonal fruits. Next, head to the Royal Project restaurant for lunch. Load up on energy to get ready for your afternoon hike. Have peace of mind knowing that free drinking water is also available during your experience. Begin your hike along the scenic Pha Dok Siew Nature Trail. Trek through shady forests and authentic jungle. Absorb a panoramic view of the rice terrace, and learn all about rice paddies. Conclude your hike at the Karen Hill Tribe Village, and find out about the villagers' way of life. Savor some freshly ground and brewed coffee before your return journey back to Chiang Mai.

Full Day Hike & Bike at Doi Suthep Mountain National Park

9. Full Day Hike & Bike at Doi Suthep Mountain National Park

At 9:00 AM, begin the day with a hotel pick-up and ride to the base. Once arrived, you'll have your safety briefing and be kitted out in safety gear. Then you can begin the hike up to the old Hmong Hill Tribe Village at the summit of Doi Pui National Park. The trek takes you through a stunning highland jungle, filled with huge indigenous Mai Yai trees. After about 3 hours of steady walking, you'll reach your destination: the summit of the National Park, reaching an elevation of 1400m. At the peak, your bikes and gear will be waiting for you in the nearby village. After a well-earned lunch break, begin your descent through the National Park on your mountain bike toward Lake Huay Tung Tao, an approximately 2-hour ride away. In contrast to the hike up, gravity rewards you now with a cool ride downhill with views of the beautiful Mae Ping Valley.  Awaiting you lakeside is a proper late lunch with cool drinks. Take a dip before it’s time to jump back in the truck and head out of the National Park. After a fun day out, you will be delivered back to your hotel around 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM.

Chiang Mai: Doi Suthep & Inthanon National Park Day Tour

10. Chiang Mai: Doi Suthep & Inthanon National Park Day Tour

Start your day of adventure at 8:00 AM when your private guide and driver picks you up from your hotel. You'll drive through the west of Chiang Mai to the Doi Suthep Temple, the most famous landmark in Chiang Mai and a sacred site among the locals. Thai people say you haven’t truly been to Chiang Mai if you haven't visited Doi Suthep. At the top of the temple, marvel at the shining gold and jeweled pagoda made in the Lanna architecture style. Listen to the chanting of the monks while you admire the panoramic views of the whole city of Chiang Mai from the viewing platform.  Next, you'll head to Doi Inthanon National Park where Thailand's highest peak is located. The area is covered by lush green preserved forests and has become one of the country's best parks. Stop at the halfway point up to the peak where you can admire the beautiful Wachirathan Waterfall and enjoy the flavors the real Thai food for lunch. After lunch, continue the drive up the mountain and enjoy the amazing views along the way. At the summit, visit the King, and Queen Pagoda and the beautiful surrounding gardens.  On the return trip, you'll make a final stop at a local market on the way down the mountain before heading back to your hotel in Chiang Mai.

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Frequently asked questions about Chiang Mai National parks

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What people are saying about Chiang Mai

Overall rating

4.8 / 5

based on 470 reviews

This was a very good tour! Our guide, “Poon,” was extraordinarily personable, knowledgeable, and proactive. He answered all of our questions, and gave us great recommendations. He even offered to give me friend and I an independent tour of the waterfalls the following day (which we were unfortunately unable to do). The highlight of this trip for me was definitely the pagodas. They were among some of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited. One recommendation for future travelers, is to bring a light jacket and/or pants. This is because when you reach the highest point of the mountain, it actually does get a little chilly– don’t let the Chiang Mai heat fool you! All in all, great tour!

We booked the private tour. They picked us up at our hotel in a roomy, comfortable fan. The guide was outstanding, providing us with a great deal of information about Chiang Mai and Thailand in general. The Hmong village is interesting, and our guide really brought it to life. The village gardens are amazing. It’s mostly a fantastic shopping experience. We came back down a little ways on the mountain to finish the tour at the Temple, and, again, our guide really brought it to life. It is truly glorious. The driver also did a first rate job keeping us comfortable as he navigated the windy mountain road. Definitely recommend this tour.

Absolutely stunning strip! Would definitely recommend. It was so well planned. The taxi driver and tour guide were so lovely and friendly. They stopped enough times for snacks and toilet breaks. Our guide was super helpful sharing knowledge about the sites we were seeing and the culture of Thailand and its people. We really enjoyed this.

An informative, well-organized and entertaining tour! Udom, the guide, went to a lot of trouble, answered all of our questions and ensured a great atmosphere throughout. A very special compliment to him! An all-round successful day with stops worth seeing and a prudent driver.

Très belle découverte et très bon moment

Small group, fun & friendly tour guide (I had Jackie!) and well planned itinerary :)