Chiang Mai: Doi Inthanon Park Tour & Kew Mae Pan Trail Hike

Nestled in the heart of northern Thailand, Doi Inthanon National Park offers a captivating retreat for nature enthusiasts. The Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail, managed by the local Hmong community, provides an opportunity to take in the park’s breathtaking landscapes. From panoramic vistas of Thailand’s highest peak to encounters with diverse flora, this guided hike promises an unforgettable adventure. With personalized attention and insightful commentary, the tour invites visitors to discover the park’s hidden gems and uncover the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Key Points

• Doi Inthanon National Park, located 70 km from Chiang Mai, is known for its stunning peak, waterfalls, and diverse flora.
• The Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail is a 2-hour trek suitable for experienced hikers, offering spectacular views and unique ecosystems.
• The Doi Inthanon summit, Thailand’s highest peak, provides breathtaking 360-degree views over the surrounding landscapes.
• The Twin Pagodas, erected to honor the Thai King and Queen, showcase the region’s cultural heritage and reverence for the monarchy.
• The tour includes round-trip transportation, a set menu lunch, and an experienced guide, providing a comprehensive and personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Doi Inthanon National Park

Situated 70 kilometers southwest of Chiang Mai city center, Doi Inthanon National Park is a hidden gem nestled within the Himalayan mountain range. Spanning an impressive 482 square kilometers, the park’s elevation ranges from 800 to 2,565 meters above sea level, boasting the highest peak in Thailand.

Renowned for its clean air, Doi Inthanon is a nature lover’s paradise, offering an array of waterfalls, viewpoints, and prime birdwatching opportunities. The park’s historical significance dates back to King Inthawichayanon, who sought to preserve the northern forests.

Whether hiking or sightseeing, visitors are sure to be captivated by Doi Inthanon’s natural splendor.

Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail Hike

While the Doi Inthanon National Park offers a wealth of natural wonders, one of the park’s most captivating experiences is the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail. Open from November to May, this 2-hour trek showcases the region’s diverse flora, including moist evergreen cloud forests, sphagnum bogs, and mixed deciduous forests. Managed by the local Hmong community, the trail is suitable for experienced trekkers, though it is considered more challenging than the Pha Dok Siew Nature Trail. Visitors can enjoy spectacular views on clear days and enjoy the park’s natural splendor.

| Open | Trail Length | Difficulty | Managed by | Highlights |

|——|————–|————|————|————|

| November 1 to May 31 | 2-hour trek | Suitable for experienced trekkers, harder than Pha Dok Siew Nature Trail | Hmong people from Ban Khun Klang community | Spectacular views on clear days, flora includes moist evergreen cloud forests, sphagnum bogs, and mixed deciduous forests |

Panoramic Views From the Highest Peak

Towering above the lush forests of Doi Inthanon National Park, the highest peak in Thailand offers visitors panoramic vistas that captivate the senses.

Standing at 2,565 meters above sea level, Doi Inthanon’s summit provides a breathtaking 360-degree view of the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys.

On clear days, visitors can see for miles, admiring the patchwork of forests, rivers, and distant peaks.

The crisp, cool air at the top adds to the serene atmosphere, inviting travelers to pause and soak in the magnificence of Thailand’s highest point.

A must-see for any visitor to Doi Inthanon.

Visiting the Twin Pagodas

What stands out among the natural wonders of Doi Inthanon National Park are the twin Chedis, or pagodas, constructed in honor of the King and Queen of Thailand. These magnificent structures stand as testaments to the region’s cultural heritage and the reverence for the monarchy.

| Feature | King Pagoda | Queen Pagoda |

| — | — | — |

| Construction Year | 1985 | 1992 |

| Height | 63.5 meters | 55.5 meters |

| Design | Octagonal base, gold top | Circular base, golden umbrellas |

| Significance | Honoring the King’s 60th birthday | Honoring the Queen’s 60th birthday |

| Surrounding Landscape | Lush gardens, mountain views | Landscaped gardens, waterfalls |

Visitors can explore these tranquil sanctuaries, marveling at the intricate architecture and the serene atmosphere that pervades the area.

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Discovering Hmong Culture and Community

Beyond the magnificent twin Chedis, the Doi Inthanon Park tour offers a chance to explore the rich cultural heritage of the Hmong people.

The Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail is managed by the Hmong community of Ban Khun Klang. Trekking this trail provides insight into their way of life, including their traditional farming practices and connection to the land.

Visitors can learn about the Hmong’s skilled navigation of the cloud forests and their use of indigenous plants. This culture adds depth to the tour, blending nature, history, and community in an authentic Chiang Mai experience.

Experiencing Waterfalls and Lush Forests

As visitors ascend the slopes of Doi Inthanon, they’re rewarded with a glimpse of the park’s picturesque waterfalls. The most notable are the twin Wachirathan Falls, cascading over 150 meters, and the serene Mae Klang Falls. Deeper in the lush forests, hikers discover the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail, featuring stunning views of the valley below. The trail winds through diverse ecosystems, from mossy evergreen forests to sphagnum bogs. This enchanting hike offers a chance to take in the park’s natural beauty and connect with the land.

| Waterfall | Height (m) |

|———-|————|

| Wachirathan Falls | 150 |

| Mae Klang Falls | – |

| Ecosystem | Characteristics |

|———-|—————–|

| Evergreen Forests | Mossy, lush |

| Sphagnum Bogs | Unique, rare |

Tour Inclusions and Logistics

The tour includes round-trip transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, a set menu lunch, drinking water, an experienced tour guide, and insurance coverage.

Pickup is provided from hotels in the old city, though customers should contact the operator for pickups from other locations.

The group size is limited to 10 participants to ensure a more personalized experience.

Certain individuals, like pregnant women, wheelchair users, and children under 1 year, aren’t recommended for this tour.

Visitors should wear casual clothing and bring a sun hat, while warm clothes are suggested due to the cooler temperatures at higher elevations.

Travel Tips and Recommendations

Visitors are advised to pack sun protection and warm layers, as the park’s higher elevations can be quite chilly, even during the daytime.

Proper footwear is crucial for the Kew Mae Pan hike, which is considered more challenging than the Pha Dok Siew trail.

The dress code for visiting the chedis (pagodas) requires casual attire without flip-flops, tank tops, or short pants.

This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, individuals with medical conditions, babies under 1 year, or people over 70 years old.

Since You Asked

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The group size for this tour is limited to 10 participants. The tour description states that the group size is limited to 10 people, allowing for a more intimate and personalized experience.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Hike?

You can bring your own food and drinks on the hike, but the tour includes lunch and drinking water. Bringing additional snacks or water is optional and can be carried in your own backpack.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

The tour doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration, but customers can explore the park on their own after the guided tour. Additional activities or longer visits would require booking a separate tour or arranging private transportation.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

The tour isn’t suitable for babies under 1 year or people over 70 years old. Pregnant women, wheelchair users, and individuals with medical conditions are also not recommended to participate in this tour.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, private tours are available upon request. The tour operator can customize the itinerary and accommodate specific group sizes or needs. Additional fees may apply for private tours compared to the standard group tour option.

The Sum Up

Doi Inthanon National Park offers a breathtaking adventure for nature lovers. The Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail hike provides stunning views, diverse flora, and insights into Hmong culture. With round-trip transportation, a set menu lunch, and an experienced guide, this tour is a memorable way to explore Thailand’s highest peak and its lush forest landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: