The Thai highest mountain, Doi Inthanon

Doi Inthanon national park area covers Mae Wang, Doi Loh, Jomtong and Mae Jam districts of Chiang Mai. It is recorded as the highest point of Thailand by 2,565 meters in height. This mountain is the water shade of several rivers and streams, including Mae Ping River. Geographically, Inthanon is located on the Tanon Tongchai mountains where are a part of Himalaya mountain. They pass Nepal, Bhutan, and Burma, hence some wildlife are similar. Unfortunately, they are heavily being threatened by the hunting of the hill tribes. Doi Inthanon has the former name as Doi Luang meaning the big mountain. This name was established to celebrate the former King of Chiang Mai, Chao Intharavichanon who was conservative naturalist. Since he died, some his remaining bone part was buried on this place and this name is used up to now. Doi Inthanon was elevated to be the national park in 1972 and is the sixth national park of Thailand. 

The highlight of Inthanon is the highest point and similar weather to the Western countries. It also is the source of several waterfalls such as Mae Klang where has the ancient painting. Furthermore, during travel to Doi Inthanon, you can visit the two big pagodas of Mahatatnapamethaneedol and Mahatatnapabhumisiri. These places were constructed by royal Thai air force to celebrate His Majesty the King Bhumibol and His Majesty the Queen Sirikit. As well as you can use the home stay to learn and touch the life styles of some hill tribes who live on the mountain i.e. Mung and Karen . A place where you can not miss to visit that is royal project station. Here, temperate plants are grown also fresh water fish such as rainbow trout are cultured. They are operated and promoted to be illustration for elevating the life quality of the hill tribes. These projects were initiated by the King Bhumibol to introduce the hill tribe to cancel planting the opium.

If you travel using the car, you can run on the highway no.108 from Chiang Mai to Jomtong district and change to road no.1009 that takes you to Inthanon. The park office is located on the 31^st Km, where you also can set the camp on the allowed area. The camp tent price is approximately 280 – 800 Baht/night. If you take the tent yourself, the fee about 30 Baht/night is charged. Furthermore, if you want the bedding sets, their fees are approximately 150 -200 Baht/night.