Costs
530 THB p.p.
(≈ 13,95 EUR)
Opening hours
Daily 06:00 - 16:00
Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail
The Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail offers one of the most beautiful hikes in northern Thailand and runs along the highest mountain in the country: the Doi Inthanon (2.565 m). The view of the famous Twin pagodaswhich were erected in honor of the Thai royal couple. The trail leads through mist-shrouded mountain forest, past moss-covered trees and spectacular viewpoints with views over the lush green highlands. Early in the morning, there is often still fog over the valley, which makes the atmosphere particularly mystical. The route is around 3 kilometers long and ideal for nature lovers who want to experience Thailand's mountains up close.
Guided hike with a local guide
Hiking on the Kew Mae Pan Trail is only possible with a local guide. At the starting point of the hike, you pay 200 THB per group at the counter and are then assigned a guide. Residents from the surrounding mountain villages wait at the starting point and accompany small groups on the trail. In this way, the villagers benefit directly from tourism. At the same time, the arrangement also serves to ensure safety. Due to the unpredictable weather at this altitude and the proximity to a military base, the guided tour is a sensible measure. The guides know the route like the back of their hand and ensure that visitors experience nature safely and respectfully.
Costs
Entry into the Doi Inthanon National Park (CheckPoint 1) is subject to a charge. The large parking lot directly in front of the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail is free of charge. However, the hike can only take place in the company of a guide. Guides are available on site at the starting point of the hike for 200 THB per group. An adult traveling alone with a car and their own guide pays a total of 530 THB. It is cheaper in a group.
- Ticket price for adults at the park ticket counter: 300 THB
- Ticket price for children at the park ticket counter: 150 THB
- Ticket price per car at the parking ticket counter: 30 THB
- Ticket price per motorcycle at the park ticket counter: 20 THB
- Group accompaniment (guide at the starting point of the hike): 200 THB
Arrival
The Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail is easily accessible by car or scooter. Tickets for the national park can be purchased at the ticket counter after CheckPoint 1. The tickets are then checked as you drive through. The driveway from CheckPoint 2 up to the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail is open from 5:00 am to 5:30 pm. There is a large parking lot at the trailhead. Restrooms and street food are available at the parking lot.
Overnight stay
After you have passed CheckPoint 2 in Doi Inthanon National Park, there is no longer any proper accommodation. However, you will find some homestays or simple campsites along the road, which you can book online in advance. Most visitors spend the night in Chiang Mai or Chom Thong and start a day trip into the national park from there.
Guided tours
On GetYourGuideª or Klookª you will find guided tours that cover not only the hike but also other highlights at the highest point in Thailand. Doi Inthanon National Park is perfect for a day trip from Chiang Mai, where you can hike as well as visit the Twin pagodas and the Wachirathan waterfall can explore.
Places of interest in the vicinity
Map
More Doi Inthanon highlights
Mae Klang Waterfall
Mae Klang Waterfall is an impressive waterfall in northern Thailand, located at the foot of the famous Doi Inthanon - before the official entrance to the national park. It is therefore free to visit and ideal for anyone who wants to enjoy a beautiful nature experience without paying an entrance fee. The waterfall cascades down around 30 meters and is a spectacular sight, especially during the rainy season. An easily accessible path leads you directly to the foot of the waterfall, where you can relax, take photos or simply enjoy the fresh air. Small snack stands and sanitary facilities are also available. Mae Klang is a perfect stopover on the way to Doi Inthanon - quiet, idyllic and easily accessible.
Pa Pong Piang rice terraces
The Pa Pong Piang rice terraces are located in Doi Inthanon National Park and are one of the most impressive photo spots around Chiang Mai. Rice terraces that nestle against the mountain slopes like waves await you here. The view of the surrounding mountain landscape is particularly beautiful during the rainy season from June to October. It is easy to walk through the small village, but as the rice terraces are privately owned, you should not enter the fields without permission. If you want to arrive relaxed, experience the fields up close and learn more about the life of the farmers, we recommend a guided tour.
Grand Pagoda Twin Pagodas
The twin pagodas Phra Mahathat Naphamethanidon & Grand Pagoda Nabhapolbhumisiri are among the most famous sights in Doi Inthanon National Park. The two magnificent stupas were built in honor of the Thai royal couple King Rama IX and Queen Sirikit and are enthroned on one of the highest points in the entire country. They are surrounded by a fascinating mountain landscape and colorful, elaborate flower gardens that bloom all year round. The atmosphere here is particularly magical in the early hours of the morning, when the mist settles over the mountains!
Wachirathan waterfall
The Wachirathan Waterfall is a real crowd-puller in Doi Inthanon National Park. The impressive drop of over 80 meters, combined with the fresh breeze of the water mist, makes for an unforgettable nature experience. Not far from the parking lot, the waterfall is easily accessible via a well-maintained path. The viewing platform is also well developed. The surrounding area is characterized by lush green rainforest, moss-covered rocks and exotic flora - perfect for a short walk in the midst of nature.
