National Parks in Chiang Mai

The Ultimate Guide to National Parks in Chiang Mai : Wilderness Awaits

Chiang Mai's National Parks : A Showcase of Thailand's Diverse Ecosystems 

Chiang Mai, a province located in the mountainous northern region of Thailand, is home to 13 spectacular national parks, each boasting unique flora, fauna, and breathtaking landscapes. These parks are a testament to the country's commitment to preserving its rich natural heritage and promoting eco-tourism. Among the most popular national parks in Chiang Mai are Doi Inthanon National Park, Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, and Mae Ping National Park. Each of these parks features an array of outdoor activities, such as trekking, birdwatching, and visiting waterfalls, all designed to provide visitors with an immersive experience in the beauty of Thailand's wilderness.

Doi Inthanon National Park, often referred to as the "Roof of Thailand," is home to the country's highest peak, Doi Inthanon, which towers at 2,565 meters above sea level. This park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers, with over 400 bird species recorded in the area. The park also features stunning waterfalls, such as Mae Klang, Wachirathan, and Siriphum, providing picturesque spots for relaxation and photography. On the other hand, Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, easily accessible from Chiang Mai city, is known for its lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and the revered Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple. Meanwhile, Mae Ping National Park offers a unique experience with its vast expanse of teak forests, limestone cliffs, and the tranquil Ping River, perfect for boat rides and wildlife spotting.

List of National Parks in Chiang Mai Province

1. Huai Nam Dang National Park: Covering 1,252 square kilometers, this park offers picturesque mountain views, vibrant flower gardens, and a wide range of bird species. Visitors can enjoy trekking, camping, and photography.
2. Doi Inthanon National Park: Covering an area of 482 square kilometers, Doi Inthanon National Park features Thailand's highest peak, Doi Inthanon, which rises 2,565 meters above sea level. The park is known for its lush evergreen forests, stunning waterfalls, and hill tribe villages. Visitors can enjoy trekking, bird watching, and exploring its botanical gardens.
3. Doi Wiang Pha National Park: Established to preserve the headwaters of several important rivers, this park features impressive limestone cliffs, caves, and dense forests. Activities here include trekking, caving, and bird watching.
4. Doi Suthep-Pui National Park: Spanning over 261 square kilometers, this park is home to the sacred Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple, as well as lush forests, waterfalls, and mountainous terrain. Popular activities include hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife spotting. 
5. Doi Phahom Pok National Park: This park covers an area of 524 square kilometers and is home to Doi Phahom Pok, Thailand's second-highest peak. The park features diverse flora and fauna, hot springs, and the Salawin River, which forms a natural border between Thailand and Myanmar.
6. Khun Khan National Park: Known for its diverse ecosystems, this park offers a mix of pine forests, waterfalls, and wildlife. Popular activities include trekking, camping, and bird watching.
7. Ob Luang National Park: Covering 553 square kilometers, this park features dramatic limestone cliffs, deep gorges, and the Mae Chaem River. Visitors can enjoy hiking, rafting, and exploring its prehistoric rock art.
8. Pha Daeng National Park: This park is characterized by its impressive limestone mountains, caves, and diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy caving, bird watching, and trekking.
9. Mae Takhrai National Park: Spanning over 1,000 square kilometers, this park features a mix of lush forests, waterfalls, and mountainous terrain. Visitors can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and exploring its scenic trails.
10. Mae Tho National Park: This park covers an area of 990 square kilometers and is known for its picturesque landscapes, including mountains, forests, and rivers. Popular activities include trekking, camping, and rafting.
11. Si Lanna National Park: Covering 1,406 square kilometers, Si Lanna features lush forests, waterfalls, and the Mae Ngat Dam reservoir. Popular activities include trekking, cycling, and kayaking.
12. Ob Khan National Park: A smaller park encompassing 37 square kilometers, Ob Khan is known for its scenic river, waterfalls, and forests. Popular activities include picnicking, swimming, and trekking.
13. Mae Wang National Park: Known for its waterfalls, rivers, and lush forests, this park is popular for trekking, camping, and wildlife spotting.