Full-Day Doi Inthanon Nature Tour from Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai , Thailand

Full-Day Doi Inthanon Nature Tour from Chiang Mai

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About this experience

Reconnect with nature in the cool heights of Doi Inthanon. This full-day private tour from Chiang Mai takes you to Thailand's highest mountain, where crisp air, dramatic waterfalls and vibrant flora offer refreshing escape from the city.

Doi Inthanon is home to nearly 400 species of birds, making it paradise for wildlife and nature lovers. Visit iconic royal twin pagodas, Phra Mahathat Napha Methanidon and Phra Mahathat Naphaphon Phumisiri, built to commemorate King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit's birthdays, offering magnificent mountain scenery.

Discover colorful rhododendrons and Royal Project villages, then enjoy traditional Thai lunch at local restaurant before continuing scenic journey to Karen ethnic minority village. Later, admire impressive Wachirathan Waterfall and, if time allows, explore sacred relics in Chomthong before returning to Chiang Mai around 4pm.

Perfect for those seeking cool air, cultural insight and natural beauty without crowds.

Available options

Season 2025/2026

Pickup included

What's included

A full day tour with a professional English-speaking guide.

All applicable taxes and service charges

Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver.

Lunch at a local restaurant is included (food only)

All entrance fees for visits as mentioned in the description.

Detailed itinerary

The tour starts with enjoying mountainous scenery on the way up to the National Park and preserved forest that runs all the way to the peak of the mountain and offers a very cool climate all year round. The Air Force Radar Station as well as King Inthawichayanon’s stupa is located, commemorating the last king of Chiang Mai. It is known that he was concerned about the importance of forests and wanted to preserve the forests for future generations. Being attached to the area that he asked that part of his ashes be kept here and still bear a special place for the local community that live around the mountain.

Stop 2

Birders will certainly be pleasantly surprised about the plethora of winged habitants. Doi Inthanon is a site of unique biological interest and supports a fascinating variety of different vegetation types and a higher bird species total than any other protected area. Of the total of 382 species of birds so far known from Doi Inthanon, at least 266 species are residents or were formerly residents on the mountain. Doi Inthanon is of particular conservation importance for those species which inhabit the moist hill evergreen forests of the upper slopes.

Continue to visit Phra Mahathat Napha Methanidon and Phra Mahathat Naphaphon Phumisiri, twin pagodas were built to commemorate the fifth cycle birthdays of King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit. Both pagodas share the similar bases as well as a two-level walking path that surrounds them. The pagodas enshrine Lord Buddha’s ashes and Buddha images, and overlook the magnificent scenery of Doi Inthanon.

Then continue to visit Karen hill tribe village and the Royal Project, where lunch will be served.

Enjoy a short walk to visit Wachirathan Waterfall before we head back to Chiang Mai. If time permits, we stop a local hill tribe village and a temple, containing holy relics in the small town of Chom Thong.

We expect to be back at your hotel at around 4 pm.

What's not included

Personal expenses such as meals, drinks, tips and gratuities, shopping, portage fees

Hotel accommodation in the destination of commencement.

Compulsory Christmas, country-specific festival and/or New Year dinner at included hotels

Single supplement charges for single travellers, where applicable

Any airline tickets, visa fees, additional transportation cost from and to the general meeting point

Transfers from any airport or resorts located outside the general pick-up and drop-off locations

Travel insurance coverage for customers (highly recommendable)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.1

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This tour is operated on full private basis with English-speaking guide. Other languages are on request / subject to availability and supplementary charges may apply

Transfers are only operated within the downtown Chiang Mai areas and restricted to main hotels only. Regions outside the central business district such as Mae Rim, Hang Dong, Doi Saket, Mae Taeng and Chiang Mai International Airport are excluded and supplementary charges apply

We will do all possible to comply with any dietary requirements during this excursion; it may not always be possible to confirm your wishes in advance based on the choice of local restaurant.

We always will make efforts to confirm the exact pick-up time upon reservation. For any operational issues in which are not able to confirm the exact pick-up time in advance, we reserve the right to inform you the day before the departure of the tour.

Please note pickup and drop-off services may not be confirmed for customers staying at private residences, apartment complexes, or other non-registered tourism accommodations. Customers may be asked to meet at a nearby hotel for pick-up and drop off.

Natural elements of any kind have a destructive effect on electronic equipment. It is the customer’s own responsibility to ensure that any camera, mobile telephone or other device is properly wrapped and protected against these elements. We cannot be held responsible in any way for negligence and/or not following suggestions for any damage related to this.

Please ensure that you bring sunglasses, a hat /cap and sunblock with a high SPF factor when traveling with us on this tour – even when it is cloudy, the sunrays still have an immense power.

The protection of the country’s flora and fauna is of immense importance for us. We will not pursue any activities for guests that are not in line with our animal, wildlife and environment protection principles.

It is the responsibility of the customer to provide us with the correct hotel information, should pick-up and drop-off services be included in the package. Any changes in accommodation outside 24 hours will be handled accordingly: changes within 24 hours may be on request.

In the event of no-show or change of accommodation without prior consent and confirmation from us within 24 hours may result in the applicable cancellation charges as outlined in the terms and conditions.

We recommend bringing a light jacket / sweater with you on this tour as part of this excursion brings customers high up in the mountains, where the average temperatures can drop to lower levels.

Important notes

Our office hours are from 08:30 hrs until 18:00 hrs from Monday to Friday.

- Please contact Asian Trails at least 72 hours before your activity date to confirm your reservation and arrange transportation. Changes within 24 hours may be on request.
- Pick-up times for excursions will be reconfirmed one day prior to commencement of your booked excursion. As an indication, the pick-up time from your accommodation is scheduled 30-60 minutes prior to the confirmed starting time.
- Please be ready and waiting in your hotel lobby 15 minute prior to your scheduled pick up time.
- Upon pickup, please present your confirmation/voucher or photo ID in exchange for your activity.
- We recommend bringing a light jacket / sweater with you on this tour as part of this excursion brings customers high up in the mountains, where the average temperatures can drop to lower levels.

In the event of no-show or change of accommodation without prior consent and confirmation from us within 24 hours may result in the applicable cancellation charges as outlined in the terms and conditions.

About Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a historic and cultural hub in Northern Thailand, known for its ancient temples, vibrant night markets, and lush mountain surroundings. It offers a blend of traditional Lanna culture and modern amenities, making it a favorite destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Top Attractions

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

A stunning temple perched on a mountain with panoramic views of Chiang Mai. It's one of the most sacred temples in Thailand and a must-visit for its beauty and cultural significance.

Religious 2-3 hours 30 THB (1 USD) for foreigners

Old City

The historic heart of Chiang Mai, surrounded by ancient walls and moats. It's filled with temples, markets, and traditional Lanna-style buildings.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, individual temples may charge a small fee

Doi Inthanon National Park

Known as the 'Roof of Thailand,' this national park is home to the highest peak in Thailand and offers breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Nature Full day 300 THB (9 USD) for foreigners, additional fees for specific attractions

Elephant Nature Park

A renowned elephant sanctuary offering ethical elephant encounters and rescue operations. Visitors can learn about elephant conservation and interact with these gentle giants.

Adventure Full day 2,500-5,000 THB (75-150 USD) depending on the program

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

A vibrant night market offering a wide variety of souvenirs, clothing, and street food. It's a great place to experience the local culture and pick up unique gifts.

Entertainment 2-3 hours Free to enter, prices vary for items and food

Must-Try Local Dishes

Khao Soi

A signature Northern Thai dish featuring egg noodles in a creamy curry broth, topped with crispy noodles and pickled mustard greens.

Dinner Contains meat (chicken or beef), gluten (noodles)

Sai Oua

A Northern Thai sausage made with minced pork, lemongrass, kaffir lime, and other aromatic spices.

Snack Contains pork, gluten (optional)

Som Tam

A spicy green papaya salad made with shredded unripe papaya, tomatoes, peanuts, and a tangy dressing.

Snack Can be made vegetarian or with fish sauce

Popular Activities

Hiking in Doi Inthanon National Park Elephant trekking (at ethical sanctuaries) Zip-lining in the jungle Visiting spas and wellness centers Exploring temples and cultural sites Enjoying coffee at local cafes Attending traditional Thai dance performances Visiting local markets and shopping for handicrafts

Best Time to Visit

November to February (cool season)

This is the most popular time to visit, with comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. It's ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15-30°C (59-86°F) 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Thai
Widely spoken: English (widely spoken in tourist areas)
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, Moderately spoken in other areas

Currency

Thai Baht (THB)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Chiang Mai is generally safe for travelers, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, as with any destination, it's essential to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Chiang Mai International Airport • 3 km (2 miles) from city center

By train

Chiang Mai Railway Station

By bus

Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Station, Chiang Mai Old Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Songthaews are converted pickup trucks with benches in the back. They follow specific routes and are a cheap and convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old City Nimmanhaemin (Nimman) Santitham

Day trips

Pai

135 km (84 miles) • Full day to overnight

A charming mountain town known for its laid-back atmosphere, hot springs, and scenic landscapes. Pai offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, with opportunities for hiking, visiting waterfalls, and exploring local markets.

Mae Kampong Village

35 km (22 miles) • Half day to full day

A picturesque hill tribe village known for its traditional way of life, lush surroundings, and warm hospitality. Mae Kampong offers a glimpse into the local culture and a chance to experience the simplicity of rural life.

Doi Inthanon National Park

90 km (56 miles) • Full day

Known as the 'Roof of Thailand,' this national park is home to the highest peak in Thailand and offers breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It's a great destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Festivals

Songkran Festival • April 13-15 (Thai New Year) Loy Krathong Festival • Full moon of the 12th lunar month (November) Yi Peng Festival • Full moon of the 12th lunar month (November, same as Loy Krathong)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Thai phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Hire a local guide or join a guided tour to gain insights into the city's history and culture
Visit temples early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
Explore the city's night markets and street food scene for an authentic and memorable experience
Try a traditional Thai massage or spa treatment for relaxation and rejuvenation