Chiang Mai National Parks, Mountains - Chiang Mai Attractions

Northern Thailand is characterized largely by forested mountains, where working elephants are still used in forest management. This mountainous region is home to Thailand's many colorful hilltribe people. Trekking and river rafting enable adventurous exploration of this beautiful area. Chiang Mai is the principal northern city and is a good base from which to explore the surrounding countryside.

National Parks :

Increasing numbers of visitors now come to Chiang Mai in search of the natural environment preserved a famous national parks. Famous national park in Chiang Mai is Doi Inthanon, the highest mountain in Thailand. In most cases, you will find easy access and bungalow accommodation for overnight stays.

Doi Inthanon National Park :

This national park which covers an area of 1,005 square kilometers is located on Doi Inthanon, Thailand's highest mountain which is 2,565 meters above sea level. Located between Mae Chaem and Chom Thong, the park is comprised of the largest tract of upper mountain forest which ranges across Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and ends in Northern Thailand. The mountain ranges gave birth to the main tributaries of the Ping river and formed the beautiful waterfalls, namely Siriphum, Wachirathan, Mae Pan, Mae Klang and Mae Ya. The moist and dense evergreen forest is abundant with lichens and wild orchids. The park is also a paradise for bird lovers. Read More...

Borichinda Cave :

Borichinda Cave: is a large cave located near Namtok Mae Klang at Km. 8.5 of Highway No.1009. The road sign to Tham Bori Chinda will be seen at the junction on the right. The deep cave has stalactite and stalagmite formations, Buddha images and a rocky stream. The surface of the water glitters like diamonds flake when light reflects the stream. Sunlight in the cave allows visitors to see the entire cave.

Ang Ka Luang Nature Trail :

Ang Ka Luang Nature Trail: was surveyed and designed by Mr. Michael MacMillan Walls, a Canadian volunteer biologist who devoted to his work and died from a heart attack on this mountain. This trail is 360 metres long, passing through wet and cold areas in a lush valley. Forest above 2,000 metres is covered with lichens and wild orchids. Indigenous plants that needs a high level of nutrition, organic deposits, and rare species of birds are seen along the trail.

There are more nature trails on Doi Inthanon, each providing different views of the diversity of plants, reforestation, the importance of tributaries, the origin of caves, hilltribe agriculture, and birdwatching. Walking trails range from 1 to 8 kilometres. Each trip needs approval from the Chief of the National Park and a trekking leader is needed. The service is obtained at the Park Office at Km. 31.

Birdwatching Information Centre :

Birdwatching Information Centre: (Uncle Daeng's Shop) is located at Km. 31. This is a bird information exchange centre among birdwatchers, nature students and the general public. The information details the habitat and food of birds and animals living on Doi Inthanon. The aim is to pass on this knowledge to the next generation. It also provides the Doi Inthanon Birdwatching Diary, bird sketches by various bird watching experts, bird watching trails, bird pictures, and slides.

Winter is the best time for birdwatching when indigenous and migrant birds are found including Eurasian Woodcock, White Wagtail, Grey Wagtail, Yellow Wagtail, Citrine Wagtail, Forest Wagtail, Chestnut Thrush, Scarlet Finch, Little Bunting, and Crested Bunting.

Ob Luang Gorge :

This picturesque gorge is 88 kilometers from Chiang Mai provincial capital, and is framed by teak forests and mountains.

Elephant Nature Foundation :

A unique experience for any visitor to Southeast Asia, Elephant Nature Park allows people to see elephants as elephants should be seen: living their lives peacefully, frolicking when the moment strikes them, and trumpeting to one another throughout the day and night.