2 Days Doi Inthanon Hike

2 Days Doi Inthanon Hike Adventure Thailand’s Tallest Peak Awaits

Embark on a two-day Doi Inthanon hike with scenic trails, local culture, and memorable encounters with nature.

Begin Your Journey with the Doi Inthanon Hike

A Doi Inthanon hike offers one of the most immersive ways to experience Northern Thailand’s natural beauty and rich culture. Known as the “Roof of Thailand,” Doi Inthanon National Park is not only the tallest peak in Thailand but also home to an impressive array of waterfalls, lush forests, and thriving hill tribe communities. Over two days, this Doi Inthanon hike takes you through scenic trails, visits to remote villages, and peaceful moments surrounded by Thailand’s remarkable biodiversity.

Day 1: Setting Out on the Doi Inthanon Hike

Morning Pick-Up and Market Stop

Your Doi Inthanon hike adventure begins with a morning pick-up between 9:00–9:30 a.m. at your accommodation in Chiang Mai. The ride takes you along Highway 108, passing lush countryside as you head toward Doi Inthanon. The first stop is at a lively local market in Sanphathong, where the guide picks up fresh supplies for the trek. Here, you can experience the vibrant market scene and grab any essentials needed for the hike.

Wachiratarn Waterfall: A Scenic Break

After the market, the Doi Inthanon hike continues with a stop at Wachiratarn Waterfall. This majestic 80-meter waterfall is one of the park’s highlights, surrounded by dense greenery that brings refreshing coolness. Take a moment to enjoy the scenery and the rush of the falls, capturing photos and savoring a packed lunch while listening to the sound of water cascading down the cliff.

The Twin Royal Pagodas and the Doi Inthanon Summit

Our journey then takes us to the Twin Royal Pagodas dedicated to the Thai King and Queen. These pagodas stand on the mountainside, surrounded by immaculately kept gardens and offering sweeping views of the valley below. As we continue upward, we reach the 2,565-meter summit, the highest point of the Doi Inthanon hike. Here, the cool mountain air and lush surroundings provide a glimpse of Thailand’s unique high-altitude ecosystems, a highlight of any Doi Inthanon hike.

A Trek Through the Jungle to a Karen Village

The final segment of Day 1’s Doi Inthanon hike involves a two-hour trek down through an evergreen forest to a Karen hill tribe village. The trail winds through bamboo forests, hanging vines, and colorful rhododendrons, immersing you in nature’s diversity. Arriving at the Karen village, the community’s warmth and hospitality await. After a delicious dinner, you’ll settle in for a night at a local homestay, learning more about the village's traditions—a unique part of the Doi Inthanon hike experience.

Day 2: Nature, Adventure, and Cultural Immersion

Morning Hike to a Secluded Waterfall

The second day of your Doi Inthanon hike begins with breakfast before setting off on a 1.5-hour hike to a hidden waterfall. Surrounded by lush greenery, this spot is a peaceful retreat and a refreshing place to relax or swim. This secluded waterfall is a beautiful stop that showcases the natural charm of Doi Inthanon National Park.

Lunch and Bamboo Rafting at Mae Mud Village

After the morning hike, you’ll head to Mae Mud Village, where lunch is served in a traditional Thai style. This village is also the starting point for an exciting bamboo rafting journey down the Mae Wang Stream. As you float downstream, enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding jungle and the occasional glimpse of local wildlife—a relaxing and scenic part of the Doi Inthanon hike.

Visit to an Ethical Elephant Sanctuary

The final activity of the trek includes a visit to a nearby elephant sanctuary, where you’ll meet and interact with elephants in a respectful and ethical environment. Feed, bathe, and observe these magnificent creatures up close while learning about their conservation. By mid-afternoon, we’ll return to Chiang Mai, concluding the Doi Inthanon hike and leaving you with lasting memories of your journey through Thailand’s natural wonders.

Reaching Doi Inthanon National Park

Booking a Doi Inthanon hike through a trekking agency in Chiang Mai is the best way to ensure a safe and rewarding experience. Local agencies provide transportation, meals, and experienced guides to make the most of your time in Doi Inthanon National Park.

For anyone wanting to experience the richness of Thailand’s landscapes and culture, a Doi Inthanon hike is the perfect adventure. This journey takes you from scenic viewpoints and jungle paths to hill tribe communities, offering a rare look at the natural beauty and traditions that make Northern Thailand so special.