mountain tour chiang mai

Welcome to Chiang Mai Mountain Biking & Kayaks

2023 excursion departures @100%.

Explore and celebrate Chiang mai's beautiful mountains and rivers with us !

Thank you for exploring with us. here are some of our favorites., chiang mai night light kayaking, chiang dao cave & jungle kayaking, doi suthep national park hike & bike, takkatan hike and bike, sticky waterfall hike & mountain biking, due to fire season precautions. (march april) the national parks department has closed many trails we frequent. please check with us on alternative rides and treks available during this time, choose your ride , valley rides, hike & bike combo trips, recreational mountain biking, off road mountain biking, multi day mountain biking, choose your river trip, leisure kayaking trips, adventure kayak excursions, skilled kayakers route, multi day kayaking trips, kayak school, team building events 2023/24.

Chiang Mai Mountain Biking & Kayaks   20 years in the making !

Mountain bike in Chiang Mai – Mountain biking specialists

READ MORE… Chiang Mai is a mountain bike paradise, awash with fantastic trails and brilliant downhill runs.  Mountain biking Chiang Mai  is Northern Thailand ‘s premier mountain biking tour company, and we specialize in adrenaline packed days out from Chiang Mai on a mountain bike.

It’s the perfect way to escape the busy tourist-packed city and experience the fantastic nature of the forest.

Daily our trucks depart from Chiang Mai for the mountain tops where we kit you out with a mountain bike and descend some fantastic and thrilling routes.

Hundreds of hours riding the trail systems of the Himalayan Foothills above Chiang Mai on a mountain bike has given us the edge to show you the most beautiful and interesting routes only accessible by mountain biking tours.

Our 4X4 Truck takes us to the top of the mountains at 5700 feet(1600m), allowing us over 4000 feet downhill elevation change. You will meet isolated Hill Tribes, experience the true jungle of Northern Thailand and brush up on your riding skills with our accompanying instructors.

We accept riders of all abilities in good physical condition and help choose the trip accordingly.

River kayaking  in Chiang Mai – Kayaking specialists

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Exploring the unspoiled natural beauty of Northern Thailand  and  kayak off the beaten path,  these kayaking programs are best suited for newcomers through advanced alike with natural beauty and its accompanying silence in mind .

That river kayaking is a challenging sport comes with out saying but it doesn’t have to be class 3 (advanced white water) to be enjoyed. Taking  care to address all levels of kayakers an inventory of the best kayaking in Chiang Mai’s vicinity has been put together.

Our nature oriented staff enjoy the verity in challenges the rivers and lakes have to offer and are happy to share  the experience.   Lessons are provided and these trips are a great way to prepare for swifter waters learning river navigation and boat handling .

If this is your first visit to Thailand or Chiang Mai, exploring nature here by kayaking and mountain biking  should definitely  be on your itinerary.

Chiang Mai Mountain Biking & Kayaks is a Thai – American Partnership combining local knowledge with western standard service and equipment.

“We welcome all nature lovers” says the Director Aidan,  former Hawaii resident.

17 years on living in Chiang Mai, this family man’s goal and the companies mission is to make the hidden trails and rivers available to like minded traveler who enjoy merging with unspoiled nature in a non intrusive way.

20 Year Anniversary 2003-2023

When quality experiences matter, reach out to us .

Chiang Mai trekking

• Private Eco-trekkings
• Trekking in group

Trekking tours in Chiang Mai

Our private eco-trekkings

  📍 Chiang Dao 🕒 1 day

1 Day Chiang Dao: Chill & Trekking in private with hot springs

Private relaxation and hiking with hot springs in a non-touristy area

  📍 Chiang Mai 🕒 1 jour

Elephant and hiking day

The essentials in just 1 day! Discover the elephants, and enjoy a private hike with the Karens

  📍 Chiang Rai 🕒 1 day

Akha & Lahu village trekking 1 day

Discover the life of the Akha tribe and learn about their unique culture.

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Our trekking in group

  📍 🕒 1 day

Phat Lad nature trail with Doi Suthep temple

An easy Monk trail with Chiang Mai most famous temples

1 day trekking in Kew Mae Pan Doi Inthanon - group

Ascend to the highest peak of Thailand and indulge in mesmerizing sightseeing at the Pagodas.

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Best trekking in Northern Thailand

Chiang Mai Northern Thailand offers trekking opportunity, it is well-known through out the world, and Chiang Mai trekking is one of the main draws for tourists to visit this region. Trek starts from 1 day trek to multiple days, most of the tours are designed for anybody reasonably fit and do not mind walking a little together with experienced and licensed tour guides. You will be discovered the mountains, tropical jungles, waterfalls, flora and fauna, a chance to stay over night at a hill tribe village. On top of that, you will have a chance to enjoy other fun activities such as elephant riding, bamboo rafting, and white water rafting.

Maybe you just want to trek through the jungle or maybe you really want to get away from the crowds we have something to suit you. It is a worthwhile experience to trek in Northern Thailand, you will be in touch with an unspoilt nature and enjoy your moments away from crowded tourists areas. Thus, trekking is the perfect solution. The areas are completely safe and well organized, with registered and experienced tour guides leading you down and up into the jungles. Come with us and discover the natural beauty of trekking Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand.

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+66 (0) 95 538 0202 +66 (0) 98 267 2023 +66 (0) 52 089 693 [email protected]

We care deeply about your  experience in our home of Chiang Mai. Trailhead Thailand are specialists in mountain biking in Chiang Mai, rural cycling and city cycling tours, as well as trekking in Chiang Mai, kayaking and camping tours and our passion started from the love of the outdoors and the love of Chiang Mai, a city of a rich heritage, diversity of people and beautiful nature.  We take pride in offering the best equipment, whether it be our YT Jeffsy full suspension mountain bikes, or unique folding Oru kayaks.  Our skilled local guides have years of experience and are passionate about the outdoors and offer a unique insight not found from any other tour operator.  Trailhead Thailand also participates in a number of community and environmental projects and actively supports the regions in which we operate.    Come and experience our unique Chiang Mai tours and immerse yourself into the culture of the region.

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Mountain Bike Chiang Mai

Spend a great day mountain biking in Northern Thailand's premiere National Parks. Chiang Mai Mountain Biking has been running mountain biking tours successfully for several years now and is the premier Mountain Biking Company based in Chiang Mai. 

Fantastic mountain biking tours

We pick you up at a reasonable hour and head for the trails and mountain tops for a great day of mountain biking . Transportation to and from the riding areas is provided by Chiang Mai Mountain Biking. You enjoy maximum time in the beautiful nature of northern Thailand and let us worry about the rest...

For Mountain biking tours Chiang Mai is an ideal base, surrounded by mountains and national parks, all crisscrossed with off-road adventure and trails. Each of these mountain biking tours have been specially selected to cater for all levels, whether you are an advanced rider , or just a beginner.

The Eagle Route

This is a great intro ride to off road mountain biking. The descent through Doi Suthep National Park presents us with great views of the Mae Ping Valley below and makes this one of the most scenic and popular rides.

TRIP DESCRIPTION DOWNHILL, UP COUNTRY RIDE

National forest and plantation access dirt road with ruts, rock gardens, mud and sand traps, some steep down hills at times but very manageable.

Our 4 wheel drive transportation takes us to the top of Doi Pui mountain 1600m( 5400 feet) above the Palace and Doi Suthep Temple. After viewing Doi Pui Village below and some stretching, we prepare our Cycles and get ready to ride down to our favorite coffee plantation.

This first part of the trip helps us to evaluate your riding ability and we talk about techniques to make your downhill cycling even more enjoyable. Everyone is encouraged to practice the newly learned techniques. The trail leads straight down the mountain with at times steep downhill riding, Absolute no lengthy up hills disturb the rhythm and spirit of the forest, At our many rest points we enjoy the beautiful views of Chiang Mai below. 

The challenging terrain of the route capture our full attention. The wild growth of the forest hugs the path. Half way down, we leave the dirt path and head straight through the forest on single track over roots and rocks , A well deserved break at a secret waterfall, and then single track all the way to the lake for lunch. This ride, although not easy, is a great introduction to off road downhill mountain biking. At the Lake a our favorite Lunch spot prepares the well deserved meal for us.

After Lunch we head back to Chiang Mai the lazy way, in the truck and full of great memories.

:: Schedule ::

9.30 - Pick you at the hotel

10.00 - Start biking program

12.00 - Lunch (include)

12.45 - Start biking program

15.30 - Send you back to hotel

:: Price ::

1,500 Baht per person 

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One day mountain and jungle trek, group tour available now, early bird special. book now & save big, description:.

*Hike for 5 hours

• 8:00 - 8:45am: You will be picked up from your hotel or guest house lobby and travel to Maewang-Doi Inthanon National park area.
• This is full day trekking tour. You will experience lush rain forest and witness the amazing flora and fauna that makes  Northern Thailand so special!
• As you hike with your guide, you will learn about edible plants found in the forest that are used in the local cuisine.
• Trek though rice paddies on your way to a beautiful waterfall.
• Jump into the river and let the waterfall massage your muscles.
• Enjoy your lunch and relax beside the river.
• Visit the Karen Hill Tribe village where you can observe their daily life (Not Karen Long Neck)
• Return to Chiang Mai by 5:30pm, just in time to tell your friends all about your adventure.

Tour Includes: • An English speaking tour guide - knowledgeable and certified by TAT (the Tourism Authority of Thailand). • Round trip transport. • Thai Lunch (not too spicy) • Accident insurance The tour is excludes: • Alcoholic drinks. Difficulty: Moderate Thing to bring: • Day- pack • A change of dry cloth • Swimming suit • Towel • Comfortable foot wear • Insect Repellent

• The Magnificent Nature Trails of Doi Inthanon
• Doi Inthanon: Mighty Waterfalls, Rural Life and Royal Chedis
• Doi Inthanon: Hiking the Nature Trails
• The Doi Pui Opium and Coffee Tour
• Chiang Mai: Trekking the Opium Trail on Doi Suthep
• Chiang Mai: Hiking the Trails of Chaesorn National Park
• Spend a day with the Karen people of Mae Wang
• The sacred Chiang Dao Cave and easy trekking
• The Hmong Experience
• Chiang Mai: Hill Tribe Culture and Photography Tour
• Meet the Tribal People of North Thailand
• Meet and greet the Akha people of Chiang Rai
• Meet the Elephants of North Thailand
• Chiang Mai: Organic Coffee Tour at Suan Lahu
• The Ultimate Doi Inthanon Adventure – Dry Season
• Waterfalls and Forests of Doi Inthanon National Park
• The Cultural Diversity of Chiang Dao
• Hilltribes, Ethical Elephants and Sticky Waterfalls
• Chiang Dao Tour: Tribes, Caves and Waterfalls
• Stay with the Palong People of Chiang Dao
• The Karen Tribe: Elephant Handlers of Thailand
• Waterfalls and Forests of Doi Inthanon National Park – two days
• Forests and Tribal Culture of Doi Inthanon – three days
• Explore the Jungles and Waterfalls of Doi Inthanon – four days
• Trek the Mountains of Huay Nam Dang – two days
• Trekking and Rafting in Huay Nam Dang National Park – three days
• Explore the Jungles and Rivers of Huai Nam Dang – four days
• The Waterfalls of Mae Wang Trekking – two days
• Trekking to the Palong People of Chiang Dao – three days
• Small group – Meet the Karen People of Mae Wang
• Small Group – Mae Wang Trekking and Cycling adventure
• All in the Family: Hill tribes and Elephants – two days
• Tribes, Rivers and Elephants Family Adventure – two days
• Family Fun with Elephants and Sticky Waterfalls – two days
• The Doi Inthanon Family Tour – two days
• The Best of Chiang Dao – three days
• Day Trek with the Family in Chiang Dao – one day
• Overnight with the Palong People – a family adventure – two days
• Doi Inthanon: Hiking the Nature Trails – one day
• Doi Inthanon: Mighty Waterfalls, Rural Life and Royal Chedis – one day
• The Ancient Caravan Trail to Chiang Rai – four days
• Into the mountains of Pai and Mae Hong Son – five days
• The Mae Sariang Loop via Doi Inthanon – six days
• The Great Doi Inthanon to Pai Adventure – seven days
• North Thailand Family Tour – eight days
• From Chiang Mai to the Golden Triangle – eight days
• The North Thailand Adventure – eight days
• The Explore North Thailand Tour – fifteen days
• Learning with the Hmong People of Baan Mae Sa Mai
• Learning with the Dara-ang people of Chiang Dao
• Community Immersion with the Karen People
• Experience Essential Chiang Mai
• Chiang Mai Educational Tour
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Bua Tong Sticky Waterfalls Chiang Mai

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GREEN TRAILS

Handcrafted authentic adventures in chiang mai, our company has two brands: green trails and chiang mai a la carte . green trails organizes private tours and trekking to national parks and hill tribe villages in chiang mai and north thailand . our tours are adventurous, interactive, and respectful of the environment and local culture. green trails also specializes in educational tours for schools and universities. chiang mai a la carte offers unique and unusual private tours throughout thailand . these trips are less active than those of green trails and focus more on culture, history, food, community-based tourism, archaeology, festivals, and more. customization is our strength. chiang mai a la carte goes the extra mile we will invite you to meet the people of thailand . join us on one of our trips for an experience of a lifetime.”, recommended experiences.

Our confirmed departures for small group tours

These are the confirmed departures for the two-day small group tour, “Meet the Karen people of Mae Wang”    2024: May 4 – 20 | June 12 -26 | July 1 – 6 – 8 – 13 – 15 – 17 – 20 – 22 – 24 – 27 – 29 – 31 |  August 3 – 5 – 7 – 10 – 12 – 14 – 17 – 31

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Green Trails has an impressive track record when it comes to Educational Treks for Universities and Schools. Participants are usually between 15 and 22 years old. We try to keep the groups maximum of 20 persons to keep the community’s impact under control. These tours are always customized. Every school or university has different needs and wishes.

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Day Trek with the Family in Chiang Dao

Overnight at the Palong People: a family adventure

All in the Family: Hill tribes and Elephants

Thailand is a fantastic destination for your family. It probably is the child-friendliest country in Southeast Asia. There is a wide range of food available. Hygienic standards are very high, and many hotels have family rooms. Thailand is also still great value for money.  During the European school holidays, families have traveled to Thailand for a holiday in increasing numbers. We have been organizing hundreds of family treks over the past ten years. Our guides are used to work with kids, and they really love it. They are aware of their responsibility. Safety is a top priority.

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THE CHIANG MAI OUTDOORS STARTS WITH US

We respect nature and traditions

Green Trails organizes Chiang Mai & North Thailand tours. Our trips are active and interactive. We respect nature, local traditions, and local culture. We promote outdoor activities such as trekking, hiking, rafting, and cycling. We are committed to conserve natural biodiversity and preserve local cultural traditions, and values. We love tribal culture, traditional tribal dress and work closely with several tribal communities. Contact us for Chiang Mai & North Thailand Tours!

How we work

Green Trails is a small company that focuses on details. We research our tours thoroughly and are committed to give everyone involved the best possible and meaningful experience. We strongly believe that tourism can be a force for the good. As a company we are responsible to do the good thing. Our tours demand the best preparation possible. Please contact us well ahead of your visit to make sure we can prepare the best we can for your trip.

Book your trip with confidence

Your personal safety and of other people involved is of paramount importance to us. Most of our tours are private so we can customize the trip to your requirements, if you wish.

We also offer a couple of small group trekkings. Our small group tours have fixed departure days. Departure is guaranteed from two persons up. The maximum group size is 10 persons.

Customize your own trip

EMBARK ON NEW ADVENTURES, DISCOVER CHIANG MAI WITH US

Adventures in Chiang Mai and Northern Thailand

We have been involved in organizing Chiang Mai Tours and North Thailand Tours for more than 25 years. In the early days, trekking was one of the most popular activities for tourists. It was also the only activity on offer for visitors. That has changed over the years. We still love trekking and offer tribal experiences, cycling, rafting, and other nature and culture-friendly activities. We are very much aware of our impact on the environment and communities. We monitor our activities as much as possible to make sure our footprint is as small as possible.

Chiang Mai National Parks Adventures

Northern Thailand is a stunningly beautiful area. There are many national parks with beautiful forests, sparkling rivers, and thundering waterfalls. We have developed several active tours in these national parks. We offer many different tours to Doi Inthanon National Park, but other, less-known parks are worth visiting. We will do everything possible to minimize our footprint in these lovely, protected areas.

Chiang Mai Tribal Experiences

A variety of ethnic minority groups inhabit the mountains of Northern Thailand. They are often called “hill tribes.” Each of these groups has its own interesting customs, traditions, and dress. Most groups have their own language. Although development has eroded this heritage, they still keep their own customs and traditions. We offer several tours that focus on these minority groups. We will show you this heritage. By doing this, we hope to contribute to the preservation of these invaluable cultures.

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Green Trails is always looking for the unique places, lesser-visited areas, hidden trails and special events that will make your visit out of the ordinary. We will make sure you will meet people, learn about daily life, customs and traditions, history, religion and culture and makes an extra effort to make your experience unforgettable.

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A Day Trip to Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s Highest Mountain

by Chris | Last updated Sep 11, 2018 | Published on Dec 15, 2015 | Destinations , Northern Thailand | 103 comments

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Thailand’s tropical beaches are some of the prettiest sights we’ve ever laid our eyes on, but a last minute trip to the Doi Inthanon National Park in Chiang Mai unexpectedly redefined the word “beautiful” for us. Why we haven’t taken a day trip to Doi Inthanon sooner is beyond us, but this exquisitely green side of nature was absolutely spectacular. So much so that dare we say it’s now our favorite place we’ve ever visited in Thailand.

We’re not the first people to regularly forgo vacationing in our own backyard. We know that Chiang Mai has plenty of interesting places to visit and things to do. So naturally, we stick them in our back pockets and save the best for our visiting family and friends.

When Angela’s college friends came to our side of the world and said they were going hiking up Doi Inthanon, the tallest mountain in Thailand, we thought, “Heck, why not go, too?”

Highlights of Our Day Trip to Doi Inthanon

We didn’t have nearly enough time to go to all the recommended stops during our day trip to Doi Inthanon, but the areas of the park that we managed to see were AHHmazing!

We were also lucky the day was bright and sunny with big fluffy white clouds and clear robin egg blue skies. And even though Chiang Mai’s cool season just started in December, Doi Inthanon’s high altitude (nearly 2,600 meters) sports temperatures in the mid-teens ⁰C (mid-60s ⁰F) much of the year, which was a welcomed change from the city heat below.

Giew Mae Pan Nature Trail

Do not miss this. If there is one place you have to go while in the Doi Inthanon National Park, it’s the Giew Mae Pan Nature Trail.

At first, we were hesitant to go because hiking the Giew Mae Pan Nature Trail requires a guide at a price of 200 baht per group. But we quickly warmed up to the man who led us, a local Hmong hill tribesman who undoubtedly cared for and respected the mountain. He was a very personable and humble guide and contributed fun facts and short stories about the trail and his people that really added a special touch to our trip.  If we remember correctly, his name was Pong.

The first kilometer of the trail twists its way through a towering forest made of (surprisingly) tall oak species blanketed in a variety of moss. There weren’t tropical coconut trees with a deep underbrush of ferns as we had expected. Then the trail opens up to a clearing of golden hills.

That second kilometer lead us along the mountain’s ridge and experienced some of the most gorgeous skylines we have ever seen. Much of our photos captured rolling blue-green mountains and a kaleidoscope of green forests down in the valley below.

The last half of a kilometer took us back into the cool forest where we walked by several small waterfalls and over bridges that spanned crystal clear streams, all which eventually feed into Thailand’s mighty Chao Phraya River.

Royal Twin Pagodas

Our first glimpse of the Royal Twin Pagodas was actually while hiking the Giew Mae Pan Nature Trail. Roughly two-thirds way through the trek the trail opens up to a clearing on a hillside just opposite of the Royal Twin Pagodas. What an incredible view!

We knew we were going there next and get a closer look at these immense structures.

These Royal Twin Pagodas, known as Naphamethinidon and Naphaphonphumisiri, are two Buddhist structures that contain important relics. The mirrored structures were built to honor Their Majesties The King and Queen of Thailand. We walked around some of the surrounding landscaped gardens and up the stairs of the pagodas for more mountain views.

The Summit: Highest Point in Thailand

We made a quick dash to the very top of the mountain, known as The Summit. There isn’t much to see here aside from some interesting wooden trails that take you to a shrine that holds the ashes of King Inthanon (for whom the mountain is named.) It only requires a short walk from the parking lot to the sign. Of course, we had to take a picture as proof of our visit!

Suriphum Waterfall

We had only an hour or so left before the sunset, but we still wanted to visit at least one of the many waterfalls on Doi Inthanon. We randomly chose Suriphum Waterfall and spent some time exploring the interesting gardens at its base before snapping a few shots of the falls.

It’s actually an extremely tall waterfall and you can appreciate its height much more on the approaching drive. It’s possible to hike up to near the top of the waterfall (a strenuous hike we may add) but there were no safety restrictions such as handrails to prevent us from tumbling into the waterfall. To be honest it was a little intimidating, especially with the approaching darkness.

How to Get to Doi Inthanon

It takes about an hour and a half’s drive to get from Chiang Mai to Doi Inthanon National Park. The best way to get there is by hiring a local driver or tour guide. We like that  Take Me Tour offers a few different tours (group or private) and that the guides know where the best sightseeing spots are and when to go to beat the crowds. They’ll pick you up in an air-conditioned car or van, wait for you at each spot, and stop for a Thai lunch, too, before returning you to your hotel in Chiang Mai.

Otherwise, you can hail a songthaew (red truck taxi) from the main streets of Chiang Mai’s Old City. It’s not uncommon to hire the driver for the day and negotiate a price. After you’ve come to an agreement on the cost, the driver will take you there, wait while you explore, and then bring you back. Pay your driver in cash Thai baht at the end of the day.

Or, you can rent a car or motorbike and drive yourself. The drive is surprisingly easy. The road is wide, well maintained, and isn’t very curvy or very steep. To begin your trip, leave Chiang Mai Old City by turning south off the moat at Saen Pung Gate onto Thipanet Road (Route 108). Continue toward Hang Dong for 50 km and then turn right onto Route 1009. The entrance to the park is another 8 kilometers away, where you’ll have to pay to get in.

Cost of Our Self Guided Trip

The four of us decided to rent a car and take a day trip to Doi Inthanon on our own. We spent 888 baht or about 25 USD per person for the entire day.

The fee to the park is 300 baht per foreigner, even for those who have a Thai driver’s license. Otherwise, the fee for Thai people (or anyone who looks Thai) is 50 baht per person.

It’s worth mentioning that the regions of the park we explored were very well maintained. The Giew Mae Pan path was in excellent condition and alternated between quality concrete steps and packed dirt paths that progressed up and down through the forest. The roads up the mountain were free of potholes, too.

We Can’t Wait to Go Back

Now that we’re home and flipping through the pictures we took, we can’t believe we’ve waited this long to go. No sooner had we gotten in the car to begin our drive home we were chatting about what we would do during our second visit.

In fact, we would suggest to others interested in visiting Doi Inthanon to go on a two-day trip instead of trying to fit everything into one day. There’s just too much to see such as more waterfalls, a second nature trail, and an interesting cave. Luckily the park headquarters rents out camping gear to visitors but there is also the option to spend the night in a Thai style bungalow within the park.

Have you ever been to Doi Inthanon? If so, what was your favorite part?

PIN IT FOR LATER!

Our son is interested in climbing Doi Inthanon. We are headed to Chiang Mai today. Are there any groups that climb it or best to get to the trail head on your own and hire a guide there. Thanks for any help.

The trail mentioned in our post, Giew Mae Pan Nature Trail, has mandatory guides available for hire at the trailhead. Have a wonderful trip!

Hello Angela and Chris, My husband and son and I will be in Chiang Mai from june 17th to the 21. Wondering if you recommend for us to stay in the Old town of Chiang Mai and travel from there to the different destinations. I would love to do Doi inthanon National Park. Also,visit an elephant sanctuary. Any suggestions welcome. I would love to hire a tour guide while in Chiang Mai wondering if it can be too expensive?? Thank you

Yes, we recommend that you stay somewhere in the Old City. Not only will you have public transportation options at your fingertips such as songthaews and Grab taxies, many of the tour companies offer free pickup to guests who stay in the Old City.

A licensed private tour guide is roughly $100 per day, so not too expensive. Have a great trip!

Hi Chris and Angela, my brother and I are planning on going to Chiang Mai around mid-June and would be interested visiting Doi Inthanon. However, would it be good to visit around mid-june with the unpredictable weather? 2 – also are the views like what they make out in the pictures?

It will be the beginning of the rainy season, but it will be unlikely that it will be flooding or heavy rains that will cause you to cancel your trip to Doi Inthanon. If it is bad, the trails will be closed by park officials (our favorite, Giew Mae Pan) but otherwise, you can still see the Twin Pagodas and the Summit. The views will be GORGEOUS that time of year – clear blue skies and white fluffy clouds! Have a great trip!

Hi Chris and Angela, Thank you for writing this wonderful blog. My husband and I will be planning a one day trip to Doi Inthanon next month. I have a question about renting a car and driving ourselves versus hiring a driver. You mentioned that the roads are very good but I have read elsewhere that it can be dangerous driving in Thailand. Based on your experience would you recommend driving ourselves or hiring a private car and driver?

Thank you, Kiran

We recommend driving. The drive to Doi Inthanon is very easy. The hardest part is getting out of the city (about 15-20 minutes). Have a great time. You’ll do great on the road!

Wow, awesome guys! Thanks for this great blog and for all the beautiful pics, we’re even more excited about going now ;)

Thanks! It’s GORGEOUS this time of year. Have a great trip!

This is really helpful! I will be going to Doi Inthanon this November and at first I thought of joining a group tour but I found out in here that we can actually do it in our own. Just a question. From Chiang mai to Doi Inthanon, is the road really that difficult or is it all concrete? Also, do we leave our scooter at the entrance and walk our way through the top? My boyfriend will be coming with me and he is a really good driver so I am thinking that maybe he can manage driving us through. …  Read more »

It’s easy enough to visit Doi Inthanon on your own, although there are some perks to taking a tour. The road to the park from Chiang Mai is beautiful – smooth wide curves, lots of shoulder, and it’s evenly paved. Since there are several miles to go after you’ve reached the park’s entrance and the attractions are spaced a bit far apart to walk, don’t ditch the bike. They only time you’d leave your bike is to hike the Giew Mae Pan Nature Trail. Have fun!

Hi Chris and Angela I have 2 question: 1. I and my husband and my brother will go to chiang mai early of June 2018. Is it possible that go to Doi Inthanon by motorcycle? 2.we dont have international motorcycle license. Is it possible that rent motorcycle? or is it dangerous? thanks Samaneh

1.) Absolutely. The ride to Doi Inthanon is quite scenic and it’s not too hilly to ride on a motorcycle. It’s about 1.5 hours away from Chiang Mai. 2a) It is illegal to ride a motorcycle without a Thai motorcycle license or an International Driving Permit (IDP) for a motorcycle permit. However, the rental car/motorbike companies do not check for a license (only a passport) and will allow you to rent a motorbike. If the police catch you, you will be fined 200 to 500 THB (6 to 10 USD). If you get in an accident, your travel insurance will …  Read more »

thanks a lot for your response. Samaneh

Hi Chris and Angela, I’ll be heading there next month. May I know the total number of hours you spent there (Gew Mae Pan + Pagodas + the summit + waterfall) ?

We were at the park from approximately 10am to 5pm. We left as it was getting dark.

Hi. What time did you start your day? Read that you ended just in time before sundown but curious to know what time you started. Thank you.

I think we hit the road around 8 or 8:30am. Have fun!

you went from Chiang Man to Doi at 8am? Or you started at Doi at 8am? Thank you.

By “hit the road” we meant we started driving (aka, left Chiang Mai) at 8 or 8:30am.

Is everyone able to get to that viewpoint where you took that picture of the twin pagodas or do you need a drone? Feels like seem people were much further away in photos they took

Great question! We didn’t have our drone yet when we went on this trip, so the photos you see are taken with our feet on the ground on the main trails. The one photo that is looking down into the valley is at the middle of the Giew Mae Pan Trail and the one of the Twin Pagoda’s in the distance is at the end of the Giew Mae Pan Trail. Hope this helps and have a great visit.

hi We want to go to chiang mai in early of June. will Doi Inthanon be close in June? what about another National Parks in Thailand?

Doi Inthanon is open all year round, but they might close off select hiking trails in the rainy season (July to October, a little bit of June). We assume that applies to all national parks in Thailand.

We don’t have a master list of national parks in Thailand, but we did manage to tour all four national parks in Chaiyaphum , which is off the touristy path. Very pretty! It really depends on which province you go to (there are 76!)

Hi.. I am planning on going to Chiang mai in june 2018. Is it a good idea to take our kids to Do I inthanon? Please let me know any other places in Chiang mai good for kids.

Hi Viji, Doi Inthanon is suitable for kids. Since you will be visiting Chiang Mai in June we recommend that you get a copy of our Family Friendly Guide to Chiang Mai . It includes an entire week of activities, restaurants, and places to see that you (and your kids) will enjoy. We provide accommodation and transportation options as well. We hope you and your family have a great trip!

This is a great and informational article. Planing to go here during our trip in August. We are deciding between self-guided and going with a tour. This gave us something to seriously think about – thanks (also, gorgeous photos!

You’re very welcome! Doi Inthanon will be really pretty in August but be sure to bring a poncho in case it rains for an hour or two.

Great writing. I’m Malaysian and will be visiting Chiang Mai in a couple of weeks.

Your writing really spark the interest in me to go to doi ithanon. I searched the web n there were a lot of tour packages to doi ithanon. I’m traveling alone and i want to ask you whether it is safe if I go to doi ithanon without tour package?

We got the impression that Doi Inthanon is safe to travel to alone. Most of the sites are directly off the main road and have a parking lot. You’ll have to rent your own vehicle because it’s too far/too expensive to take a taxi or songthaew out there. If you go to the Giew Mae Pan Nature Trail, you are required to hire a guide (200 baht), so you won’t get lost. Have a great trip!

Trip taken 29 June 2017. Been there done that. It’s a minute walk from the car park to the highest point in Thailand signage. Weather plays an important part, once it’s wet you can’t do much. But riding up was great as fog covered the road. Temperature at bottom was 29, on top was 15. A 125cc bike is good for 1 person, you will definitely need a more powerful bike if there’s 2 of you. Some slopes at the top are steep. Doi suthep road is basic in comparison to doi inthanon. Thanks for the article guys, makes it …  Read more »

Agree about the motorbike size with 1 vs 2 people. And it’s cold on top, right?!

Hi! Great post! Now I’m planning to make a trip up to doi inthanon too. But I get motion sickness really easily. Could you briefly share how was your journey going up and down the mountain? Thanks!

If we remember correctly, it was not at all twisty turny. The roads are really wide with smooth, slow curves. Have a great trip!

Can you do Giew Mae Pan trail during the rainy season? I’m going there next week and was wondering if the trail is open during this time of the year. Thanks!

Park staff will close off the trail in the event of heavy rain. Otherwise, it’s open year round. Have fun!

Hi, can you go to Doi Inthanon without trekking? I plan to go there with my mom and dad.

Yes, you can drive to most of the sites on Doi Inthanon, so there is minimal walking (aside from the short walk from the respective parking lots). The trekking on the Giew Mae Pan Trail is just small portion of the park. Have a great time!

Hi, loved the blog, we are currently in chains mai and I’m desperate to climb to this summit. Two quick question. 1)where did you start your hike from? I’ve tried to find a map/starting point to begin, but I can’t seem to find anything online. 2) Where did you get your guide from? Any help would be much appreciated and I’m sorry if you’ve already answered these questions. Thanks Daf

No problem (didn’t include a map this time!) Pull up Google Maps and use the spelling ‘Kio Mae Pan’ – a little camera icon on the map will indicate the entrance to the trail. It has a parking lot, a sign that indicated the Giew Mae Pan Trail is there, and a few buildings that you can see clearly from the road. This is also where you will find your guide for 200 THB. Have a great time!

Hi, on the offical webpage of the national part the tour guides are much more expensive, I was wandering if You have made any pre-bookings of guide?

We’ve only been to Doi Inthanon once and did not pre-book our guide to the Giew Mae Pan Nature Trail. Perhaps the rate you are quoted is for a guide that takes you around the entire park?

Hi We are visiting chiang mai in May. Thinking of day to Doi Inthanon whilst we are here. One person is in wheelchair , so we’ll use taxi..but do yiu think there is enough to see. How’s access to twin pagodas, any waterfalls with level path access or at least good views Thanks

We wracked our brains and can only recall that the Twin Pagodas has an escalator leading up to the base of the towers and the flower gardens but there’s still a flight of stairs to climb to reach the pagodas themselves. And although there are paved paths at the waterfall we visited and a raised, wooden boardwalk at the summit (highest part of the peak) we just can’t remember if there are any steps. We’re sorry, but we think the best way of going around this is to contact any tour company who goes to Doi Inthanon. The guides would …  Read more »

How do you recommend getting from Chiang Man to Doi Inthanon and where do you recommend we stay while at Chiang Mai?! Thanks for the help!

You’re in luck! Check out our 7-day Adventure Itinerary . Inside the itinerary we give our favorite transport and hotel options in Chiang Mai plus many other food and activity recommendations. It’s exactly what you’re looking for. Have a great trip!

you said you made a quick dash to the top of the mountain and it was near a parking lot- how long does it take to hike to the “highest point in Thailand” sign?

From the parking lot, no more than a 5 minute walk. It’s really just a photo opportunity with a sign.

That’s also my plan on my trip to Chiang Mai to trek to Kew Me Pan trail. Is it advisable for a solo traveller like to have a self guided trek like you did or it will be much costly?. Anothing thing is transportation, I’ve read that it’s hard to go to Doi Inthanon by public transportation means.

Very well depicted travelogue! Inspired me to explore it in my next trip

Thank you :)

Hi. I was thinking about going up the Giew Mae Pan Nature Trail. I was just wondering if the trial had any stairs or paths that were not natural because I am looking to a 100% natural trail. But some nice info and good pics.

Nope, the Giew Mae Pan Nature trail is not a 100% dirt path. Some areas, such as some hills, have steps made from poured concrete.

Thank you for the wonderful write up about the trip. We will be there over new years weekend this year and plan to make a day trip to the national park. Since this is an all day adventure I wanted to know what you did for food along the way. Did you pack food or were you able to buy lunch and snacks there? I also wanted to know if the park entrance and the entrance to the trail you recommend are in the same area or will we need to hike to the trail head? We are going to …  Read more »

Glad to help! We ate breakfast before we left and packed some fruit but there are two places to eat that we are aware of in the park. One is a Thai restaurant in a building very close to the park’s visitor center and the other was an unofficial place that served grilled meat, papaya salad, instant noodles, and coffee. The Giew Mae Pan Nature Trail is 15 or 20 minutes drive into the park past the park’s ticket booth (drive there, don’t hike). There’s a map at the visitor’s center, but the landmarks’ signs are relatively easy to spot …  Read more »

Hi there! I’ve planned my trip to Chiang Mai in Jan 2017, and am going solo. I was thinking, it might be good to band up with like-minded travellers to explore Doi Inthanon together – let me know if you would like to fix something up: [email protected]

would it make sense to go from chiang mai to doi inthanon for only an afternoon? or do you think that is too short of a trip? your pictures and description makes me want to go but i am concerned that there will not be enough time!

Give yourself at least eight hours (which includes three hours roundtrip driving). An afternoon just won’t be enough time unless you pick one or two activities such as only the nature trail or just visiting the Twin Chedis and a waterfall.

Hi there, thank you so much for sharing all this information along with photos! So excited to visit Doi Inthanon! How is the drive from Chiang Mai to Doi Inthanon with a car rental? I know you mentioned getting a powerful vehicle for the mountainous part. I’m wondering if it’s doable as a single traveler. Also, do you know how early in the morning guides begin the tours for Giew Mae Pan Nature Trail?

Thanks again!

If it’s only you, we think getting the smallest car (the 1.45L, like a Honda City) will be just fine. We had the weight of four adults plus water and a little bit of gear, which is why the car struggled up the hills a bit. As far as the time the Giew Mae Pan Nature Trail opens, we not sure. The park opens at 6am, so it can’t be any earlier than that. Funny thing is, we can see the sign using Google street view, but it’s too far away to read!

Are there several gas stations along the way? Should we fill up at least once on our way to Doi Inthanon?

We were able to make the trip by car without filling up – we topped off the tank once we got back to Chiang Mai. We’re don’t know off hand about a bike. If you need a gas station, you will be on a highway and yes, there are several along the way.

Hi! I purchased your 7-day adventure tour and am loving it! I am doing Doi Inthanon tomorrow. I am by myself. Is it realistic to take a red truck that far? If so, about how much can I expect to pay? I don’t have an international driver’s license, so I wasn’t going to rent a car…

Stefanie – hi! Hope our response isn’t too late. The farthest we’ve taken a songthaew has been an hour away (not quite as far as Doi Inthanon but in that same direction) and it was 5,000 baht – way to much for one person. We’d either recommend joining a group tour for 1,150 baht OR contacting Chiang Mai Lady Driver for a private comfy car for around 3,000 baht. Have fun – it’ll be GORGEOUS!

Hello! I was just wondering about the complexity of the trail to Giew Mae Pan and what is the duration time from start to finish. My mother, who is 62, might be joining my friends and I on this trip and wondering if you she will be able to handle it. Thank you for your time and for the great info.

Well, we mentioned this in the post: “This 2.5 km trail requires a moderate level of physical activity. It has a significant number of both gentle and steep stairs to climb and descend. Make sure you’re in good health (with good knees!) and can withstand a moderate level of activity for 2+ hours.” We think it come down to answering the question: is she comfortable going up and down moderate stairs and hills for 2.5 km? Going down is more difficult than going up, although the guide should be willing to go at a slower pace if necessary.

Hi, thank you for the excellent post. Could you give some details on car rental please. I know you can hire from the airport, but we are reaching by train. Thank you

Sorry for the delay! You can make a reservation with National Rental Car near the airport and then take a cheap taxi across town to pick it up. Shouldn’t cost you more than 5 USD for a taxi.

I’m so glad I found this blog post! This has inspired my husband and I to rent our own car and see Doi Inthanon how WE want to see it – #1 on my list is the Kew Mai Pan trail. Your pictures are breathtaking! We’re traveling to Chiang Mai for NYE and have read that the lines can be super long at the park. With a tour group, I’m sure we’d still see a lot of people, but the tours don’t leave until 8am. We were hoping to leave at 6am and get an early start ahead of all …  Read more »

It’s a great idea to get on the road by 6am – you’re right, you’ll beat the tour groups, but most likely you will have to wait in line with locals. The alternative is to get there the day before, rent a bungalow , and then get up early. And violà! There should be no lines to worry about if you arrive in the early evening. That’s how we would do it to beat the entering crowds. The car was 1200 baht and gas was 300 baht. Not bad!

Hi, thank you for the wonderful writeup. Would you suggest the trails during October first week? We had a great time camping in Erawan national park last year, how is the camping infra at Doi Inthanon? Thanks a ton

It’ll be gorgeous. The rainy seasons starts to trail off in October, so it’s totally possible to have a few perfect days with little or no rain. As far as camp sites go, we didn’t check them out firsthand but it’s possible to go there with tents (or rent them from the park’s office), or stay overnight in some of the bungalows in the national park. Have fun!

Can you tell me where you booked your guide? Thanks in advance!

There’s a small booth at the trail’s entrance where visitors can pay for and book a guide. When we went, several guides were waiting around the booth.

Hi Chris and Angela, thanks for all the great content here on your blog. Will be in CM, Aug 12-18 and purchased a 7-day itinerary option. I’m reading that this trail (Giew Mae Pan Nature Trail) may be closed during the rainy season. Do you have any info on how I might structure a day trip like yours during this time? Seasonal considerations? Thank you!

Wow, thanks for buying an itinerary! We’d suspect that the trail will be open unless there are really bad rainstorms that day. Otherwise, the sort rain we have each day shouldn’t prevent you from going. Try this: complete the trail in the morning, but if it’s raining (probably just for an hour or two), then come back to it in the afternoon. Regarding the day trip, are you wondering which order to visit everything?

Hi there? it was inspiring me to visit doi inthanon this year. But Actually I just want to visit the 2 Royal Pagodas, I want to ask how long does it take the time from Chiang Mai city to the National park area, and how long does it take from to reach the 2 pagodas ?

From Chiang Mai Old City to the Royal Twin Pagodas is 100 km or 2 hours. The beginning of the National Park is 65 km from Chiang Mai Old City (although the ticket booth is even further inside), so you will drive another 35 km to get to the pagodas. Have fun!

So, driving in a car to get there is pretty easy? Also, thank you for mentioning that a two day trip is probably better (I had a hunch that would be the case). Do you just rent the bungalows once you are there?

Yup, a straight shot and no crazy curves in the road. There are bungalows listed on Agoda , but we did pass by several others and figured they could be rented on the spot.

I was there about two months ago and it’s a beautiful place. We didn’t do a lot of research in advance so we didn’t know about the Giew Mae Pan Nature Trail… it seems like we missed the best of it! Thanks for sharing, if I go back to Chiang Mai I’d like to do the trail :)

That’s a bummer. It was impromptu decision to go on that trail while we were on the mountain… it doesn’t seem to be as well known as the highest point or the twin chedis. We hope you make it back to see it!

I really need to get back to Thailand, this is now on my list. Thank you for sharing, I love a hike with stunning views.

You’re welcome. Being up so high and looking down on the valley was surreal. Definitely make it out there on you next visit (just not during Feb, Mar, or April because of the smog :/)

Hey Guys! Nice article there! Im going to Chiang Mai on march (smoky season :/ ), and i would like to spend a day on Doi Ithanon. Would the smoke be a problem in such high? I mean problem by sight seeing, not health problems. Reading your article, now im planning on renting a car, and then ask for a guide at the park to get to the top. Is this possible?? thanks so much!

This reply is definitely too late, but the smog will hinder your views even at that elevation if you visit in March and April. You’ll only need a guide if you go on the Giew Mae Pan nature trail (it’s mandatory) and we didn’t remember seeing an option for a guide to just go on the short Ang Ka trail to the Summit.

Very informative and helpful article! We also want to trek the mountain but a local tour agent told us that tourists are not allowed to hike to the top anymore but as I read this article before, I decided to follow your strategy to rent a car and explore it by ourselves. So could you please recommend where should we rent a car or a transportation service that will bring us to the national park? Thank you

The small trails require a guide, but getting a car to get to the mountain and drive up its main roads are a great way to go at your own pace (no guide necessary since the roads are in great condition). We rented from North Wheels and it’s on the northeast side of the moat. Have fun!

Wow the pictures look amazing! My friends and I are planning a day trip there next week. May I know where/how do we arrange for the nature trail guide? Thanks!

Once you’ve pulled over in the parking area for the trail, you have no other choice but to walk past a desk (before going into the forest) that will arrange for a guide. Super easy. Have fun!

wow, so amazing pictures! someday I’ll be there for sure. :)

It was goooorgeous. Being up so high and seeing so far will make your heart race a little!

Planning to Arrive @ CNX in January. Seems like a very great view, especially the Trail, can’t wait to do that climb. Thanks for sharing your adventures, as always.

If you have enough time, there is a second path called Ang Ka Nature Trail that is much shorter but supposedly has super mossy habitats and interesting bird and flower species. Have fun during your trip next month!

I love to hike and plan on hiking in Thailand in February. Thanks for the tip !

Absolutely :) Don’t forget to pack an extra long sleeve layer because it’s chilly up there!

Thanks a lot. It’s very informative and easy to read as usual 😊

Hope you can make it out to Doi Inthanon soon!

slso we enjoyed doi ithanon while on a holiday in chiang mai. we stayed overnight at the hotel of doi ithanon golf course. recommendable and reasonable pricing. nice pool and good food.

Thanks for the suggestion!

Some nice pix. Indeed an amazing place.

l also thoroughly enjoyed daybreak and the amazing sunrise.

(On Holidays there will be a big crowd so expect about an hours wait or longer before the ticket gate when driving up before sunrise)

Yeah, we were also told that there can be swarms of people who visit on holidays. All the reason to spend the night to avoid the lines the next morning!

Hi, I’m Chris and I sold it all, paid off my debt, and left the rat race in the US. Today, I live as a full time, financially independent expat in Chiang Mai, providing future expats and travelers firsthand knowledge about all things Thailand! Learn more about my story here…

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Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• Chiang Mai: Thapae Boxing Stadium Muay Thai Match Ticket
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• From Chiang Mai: Customize Your Own Private Chiang Rai Tour

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Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• Chiang Mai: Evening Cooking Class and Local Market Visit
• Chiang Mai: Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail & Doi Inthanon Day Trip
• Chiang Mai: ATV Countryside Adventure Tour With Transfer
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• Private Car With Driver: Chiang Mai To/From Chiang Rai
• Chiang Mai: Canyon Fest Floating Day Party FREE FOR ALL

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Is there a minimum age requirement for participants on the mountain biking tour.

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Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Chiang Mai – Exclusive Trek to Doi Suthep
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• Thai Traditional Massage 120 Mins.
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• 1 Day Eco Elephant Excursion
• Private Tour of Sacred Sakyant Tattoo in Lamphun Province.
• Half Day Doi Suthep Temple and City Temples (Private Tour)

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Chiang Mai Hikes: Four Easy Jungle Treks with Great Views

One of the many reasons to visit Chiang Mai is its prime location near lush mountain ranges and several national parks. The area offers endless opportunities for trekking in the jungle and exploring the nearby mountains .

Many of these trails lead to spectacular temples or monasteries. Some pass by pools or hidden waterfalls where you can take a quick dip. Others lead to villages that are populated by the local hill tribes where you can buy lunch or a souvenir.

For those looking for an immersive experience deep in the jungle, it’s probably best to hire a tour guide. There are many options available from nature walks to multi-day trekking tours that typically include a homestay at a local village.

Orange ribbons mark the path for the Monk’s Trail

If you’re planning a less ambitious hike nearer the city, however, you may be able to hike without a guide .

The following Chiang Mai hikes are good ones if you’re looking for something easy that doesn’t necessarily require a guide to arrange your trip for you. I hiked all of these trails during a trip to Chiang Mai in January 2022 (although I did have a guide along on two of them).

Please note: there are a few hikes at National Parks which require you to hire a member of the local hill tribe to accompany you. Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail is one of those hikes. Keep reading for more details about that experience below.

Jumping for joy at Doi Inthanon National Park

Table of Contents

How to Prepare for Hiking in Chiang Mai

While some of the Chiang Mai hikes described in this guide have facilities and restaurants nearby, not all of them do.

Be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks on your hiking trip along with insect repellent and sunscreen. Also bring clothing to cover your knees and shoulders in case you happen to visit a temple or shrine along the way.

Check the weather forecast and make sure you’re prepared for the weather conditions. The trail can become muddy and slippery during (or after) rainfall so wear shoes with good traction. Bring layers as the top of these mountains can be chilly (especially Doi Inthanon and Doi Pui).

Learn how to pee outside properly before heading out in case the urge strikes away from a bathroom. Be sure to leave no trace of your visit behind.

A vine hangs across Monk’s Trail

Hiking Gear

Here are a few of my favorite pieces of gear for day hikes. This is not a complete list, but it will get you started.

• Hiking Shoes – Sturdy hiking shoes are important. I’m a big fan of Altra Lone Peak Trail Running Shoes and pair them with Dirty Girl Gaiters to keep rocks from getting into my shoes.
• Socks – Good thick socks are key. I usually wear a pair of double-walled Wrightsock Coomesh II socks with my Altras.
• Hiking Poles  – Hiking poles reduce pressure on your joints and help maintain your balance if you trip. My current favorites are the  LEKI Micro Vario Carbon Trekking Poles .
• Sun Hat  – Protect your face (and scalp) with a broad sun hat.  This sun hat  is great because it has a wide brim and no back so it doesn’t bump into my backpack.
• Sun Shirt  – Protect your neck and arms from the sun with a long-sleeved sun shirt. The  Columbia Tamiami II  is highly rated and comes with built-in UPF 40 sun protection.
• Sunscreen – Apply sunscreen before hitting the trail and bring some along in case you need to reapply. I like these  Banana Boat 1-oz tubes of sunscreen  because they are super tiny and hardly take up any room in my bag.
• Camera  – I love taking photos and always bring a camera along on my hiking trips. I use the  Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III  because it is lightweight yet has many advanced features.

While you can hike year-round in Chiang Mai, there are a few distinct seasons to be aware of.

The best time to hike is typically in the dry season which typically lasts from October to March. Temperatures are coolest during this time and the trails are usually not slippery and muddy.

Be aware that air quality tends to get poorer as the dry season progresses. Things take a turn for the worse during burning season , which typically takes place in late February/early March. During this time farmers burn their fields to ready them for new crops and air quality is low.

The hot season takes place from April to June. Temperatures soar during these months so take care not to hike during the middle of the day. Some national parks close during hot season, so check before you go.

Rainy season (or monsoon season ) takes place from July to September. Some trails are too muddy and slippery to hike on during this time, but not all. Most hikers avoid monsoon season, but some prefer it because visibility is better due to improved air quality.

No matter which season you choose, the best time of day to hike is usually in the early morning or late afternoon hours. Avoid hiking during the middle of the day when the temperatures are hottest.

Chiang Mai is barely visible from Wat Pha Lat on hazy day in January 2022

Maps and Navigation

Whenever hiking a new trail, always bring along a map and know how to use it (or bring a guide).

If you plan to use your phone for navigation, download hiking routes in advance as you may not have cell reception after arrival. Be sure to bring along a portable battery charger (such as this one ) in case your phone dies on the trail.

This map shows you where to find the trailheads for each hike mentioned in the article below.

Four Easy Chiang Mai Hikes

Now that we’ve gotten all the preliminaries out of the way, it’s time for the good stuff!

Here are four easy Chiang Mai hikes that you won’t want to miss, with or without a guide!

Monk’s Trail to Wat Pha Lat

Wat Pha Lat

Distance: 2.9 km (1.8 miles) to Wat Pha Lat Temple and back Elevation Gain: 187 m (614 feet) Highest Point of Elevation: 635 m (2084 feet) Difficulty Level:  Easy Cost: Free (donations are accepted at the temple) Trailhead: Monk’s Trail Trailhead

One of the most popular and well-known Chiang Mai hikes, the Monk’s Trail leads to a hidden jungle temple on Doi Suthep Mountain. The hike follows a stream uphill through the jungle, passing a few small waterfalls along the way.

After 1.5 km, the trail crosses over a footbridge and emerges at Wat Pha Lat Temple – a gorgeous temple nestled in the jungle along a waterfall. The temple doesn’t get many visitors and is primarily used as a meditation retreat center by the monks.

Before crossing the stream, be sure to take in the views of the temple from the other side. This is the best spot to see the temple’s Naga staircase (naga are mythical beings which look like serpents). There are also great views of Chiang Mai city from the stream.

Naga staircase at Wat Pha Lat

Then you can proceed across the waterfall and wander among the meditation retreat center. Many of these buildings are constructed in harmony with nature in such a way that it’s difficult to tell where the buildings end and the forest begins.

Pro Tip: for more of a challenge, you can extend your hike and continue up the mountain to Doi Suthep temple . Be aware that this trail is much steeper and more challenging. More details are available in my Monk’s Trail to Wat Pha Lat hiking guide .

Monk’s Trail Map and Trailhead

How to reach the trailhead: the trailhead is located at the base of Doi Suthep Mountain a few kilometers away from Chiang Mai University. I used the Grab App to book a ride to the trailhead because I planned to hike all the way to the top of Doi Suthep and take a songthaew (shared taxi) back down again.

There is limited parking at the trailhead, so if parking is full consider parking at Basecamp Trail Café and walking to the trailhead (it’s a bit of a walk).

Doi Pui Peak Nature Trail

At the viewpoint on Doi Pui Peak Nature Trail

Distance: 2.3 km (1.5 miles) loop, plus an extra 1.2 km (.8 miles) to the viewpoint and back Elevation Gain: 182 m (597 feet) Highest Point of Elevation: 1685 m (5528 feet) Difficulty Level:  Easy Cost: Free Trailhead: Doi Pui Peak Trailhead  at the Pui Campground

Doi Pui Peak is a short but steep nature trail that loops through the evergreen and pine forests on the top of Doi Pui mountain . The trail features informative signboards at 13 stations along the way with details about the park’s flora and fauna.

The highlight of the trail is Doi Pui Peak. At 1685 meters (5528 feet), it is the tallest point on the entire mountain. There isn’t much of a view to speak of from here, however.

For the best views, continue along the trail past the Royal Pavilion for .6 km (or .4 miles) until you reach a ridge. There are plenty of spots with great views along the ridge, along with a bench and some nice places to relax and enjoy the forest.

Pro Tip: after walking along the ridge, you can continue downhill to the Ban Khun  Chang Khian hill tribe village. That’s what I did when I hiked the trail, but I had a guide along to show me the way. We were there in January and the cherry blossoms were in full bloom throughout the village.

Dui Peak Nature Trail viewpoint

Doi Pui Peak Nature Trail Map and Trailhead

How to reach the trailhead: the trailhead is located at Doi Pui Peak campground and ranger station. There is plenty of parking here as this is a popular area inside Doi Pui Peak National Park.

The road to reach the trailhead is long and winding and only a single lane for the last few kilometers. You have to sound a horn any time you go around a corner to ensure you don’t hit another car. I don’t recommend driving it on a scooter unless you’re an experienced scooter driver.

To reach this trail without a car, I suggest hiring a private driver or tour guide (that’s what I did). You may also be able to arrange a ride from Doi Suthep temple, a popular tourist destination further down the mountain.

Doi Pui Peak Nature Trail map

Huay Tung Tao to Dtaat Mook Waterfall

Dtaat Mook Waterfall

Distance: 6.3 km (3.9 miles) there-and-back Elevation Gain: 325 m (1069 feet) Highest Point of Elevation: 614 m (2016 feet) Difficulty Level: Moderate Cost: 50 baht fee for foreigners to access the lake Trailhead: The Golden Buddha Statue at Huay Tung Tao Lake

Dtaat Mook waterfall is a lovely cascading waterfall that typically has water year-round. Reaching the waterfall requires a pleasant hike uphill through the jungle and a bamboo forest . This is the longest hike in this guide and the most difficult (although I would still only rate it as moderate).

The trailhead is located at Huay Tung Tao Lake , which is a gorgeous destination in its own right. There are many scenic bamboo huts overlooking the lake and restaurants specializing in seafood. The lake is a popular destination on the weekends for families.

There are a lot of trails above the lake and it’s easy to take the wrong one. Some of the trails are overgrown and hard to follow. Be sure to download a map (or several) to your phone before starting out.

Pro tip: for more of a challenge, consider extending your hike by completing the Huay Tung Tao Circular Hike .

Hiking the trail to Dtaat Mook waterfall

Dtaat Mook Waterfall Map and Trailhead

How to reach the trailhead: the trailhead is located near the golden buddha statue on Huay Hung Tao lake. There is plenty of parking here, or you can take a Grab car (that’s what I did).

While there is a map on AllTrails for the Dtaat Mook Waterfall hike , I don’t recommend it. That route does not follow the best path to the waterfall.

I suggest using the below map for the Huay Tung Tao Circular hike instead . This hike also goes to the Dtaat Mook Waterfall but via a better path. Simply turn around after reaching the waterfall rather than continuing on to complete the entire loop.

Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail in Doi Inthanon National Park

Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail Viewpoint

Distance: 3.4 km (2.1 miles) loop Elevation Gain: 190 m (623 feet) Highest Point of Elevation: 2311 m (7584 feet) Difficulty Level: Easy Cost: 300 baht per person entrance fee (for foreigners), plus 200 baht to hire a guide Trailhead: Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail trailhead

Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail is a short ramble through the woods on Thailand’s tallest mountain , Doi Inthanon. The loop hike follows a picturesque stream before eventually breaking out of the foliage to a viewpoint.

While a bit further away from Chiang Mai than the other hikes on this list, the trail deserves a spot on your bucket list as it is undeniably one of the best Chiang Mai hikes . The views from the top are *epic*.

Hiking on Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail

On the return hike, the trail passes by a viewpoint of the Twin Pagodas before dipping back into the woods and returning to the trailhead.

Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail is somewhat unique in that hiring a local guide is mandatory . The guides are all members of the local Hmong tribe and ensure that visitors stay on the correct path. You can hire one on the spot after your arrival for 200 baht.

Note: the trail is available from November to April every year. The hike is not suitable for people who cannot handle stairs as there are quite a few.

Posing for a photo with our local guide, a member of the local Hmong tribe

At the viewpoint with Happy Bird , the tour guide who organized our day trip and all around fun guy to hang out with.

Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail Map and Trailhead

How to reach the trailhead: the trailhead is located near the top of Doi Inthanon peak in Doi Inthanon National park, a 2-hour drive southwest of Chiang Mai. It’s a long drive up a steep winding mountain road.

The best way to reach the trailhead from Chiang Mai is by driving your own car or arranging for a private driver or tour guide. That’s what we did and honestly it was worth it for us since we didn’t have to worry about any transportation details. He paid the entrance fee to the park and arranged for hiring the local Hmong tour guide.

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Have you been on any of these Chiang Mai hikes? If so, I’d like to hear from you! Leave a comment below.

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Hi, i'm unicorn.

I am an avid hiker, traveler, and adventurer who is on the mission to explore hiking trails around the world.  I’m also obsessed with National Parks, long-distance trails and other outdoorsy things.

I hope to share this knowledge with you and inspire you to explore new hiking trails too!

You may also like… Chiang Mai Itinerary: 4 (Or More) Amazing Days in Chiang Mai

Best Elephant Sanctuaries in Chiang Mai: Ethical Animal Encounters

9 Amazing Chiang Mai Markets, Walking Streets and Flea Markets [2022]

Hike the Monk’s Trail to Wat Pha Lat: Chiang Mai’s Jungle Temple

Doi Inthanon NP is really great and I love your list of hiking trails in the park. I’d love to go back and do some walking.

Thanks Linda! It’s such a lovely place to hike. 😊

That’s an amazing trek ,thanks for sharing details .hope to visit soon

Great tips on where to hike! I’m always tired while I’m travelling so I tend to look for easier hikes if I do go hiking.

Thanks Krista! Me too! That’s why I’m always seeking out the easy ones lol 😂

My brother visited Chiang Mai some years ago and loved it. Naturally enough, I’m tempted to follow in his footsteps. He didn’t do any trails but your excellent guide will make my visit so much easier. The Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail looks lovely. Thanks for sharing.

Thanks Hazel!

I want to hear from you! Leave your comment below: Cancel reply

The PERFECT 3 Days in Chiang Mai Itinerary

C hiang Mai is one of our favorite places to visit in Thailand. Situated in the misty mountains of northern Thailand, this ancient city offers culture, nature, and adventure to all who come to explore it.  

Whether you’re coming to marvel at Chiang Mai’s countless temples or explore the national parks and elephant sanctuaries just outside the city limits, spending 3 days in Chiang Mai promises a memorable experience. 

For first-time visitors to this beautiful and relaxing city, we’ve laid out the perfect 3-day Chiang Mai itinerary that gives you a taste of both the excitement and the serenity that Chiang Mai offers.

3-Day Chiang Mai itinerary overview

From trekking through lush jungles alongside elephants to savoring delectable Thai cuisine , here’s how to make the most of your three days in Chiang Mai.

Day 1 of 3 days in Chiang Mai

Your first day in Chiang Mai will be all about exploring the city itself. We took the sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai , which put us in Chiang Mai fairly early in the morning, around 7:30 a.m. Regardless of how you arrive in Chiang Mai, be sure to be dressed modestly for touring the temples in the city, which means linen pants or long skirts or dresses that cover both your legs and your shoulders.

On the first day of  this 3 day Chiang Mai itinerary, you’ll visit the following places. 

Wat Phra Singh

Wat chedi luang.

• Lunch in the historic city center

Wat Chiang Man

• Dinner and explore the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Day 2 of 3 days in Chiang Mai

Your second day in Chiang Mai will take you out of the city for most of the day to visit one of the elephant sanctuaries that Thailand is famous for .

If you’re visiting Chiang Mai with kids , this will likely be their favorite day spent. 

• Visit an Elephant Sanctuary with lunch (we visited Into the Wild Elephant Camp )
• Swim and get cleaned up at the hotel or book a Thai massage
• Visit another one of Chiang Mai’s famous night markets for dinner and souvenir shopping

Day 3 of 3 days in Chiang Mai

Your third and final day during your 3 days in Chiang Mai also takes you out of the city to see one of the most famous temples, as well as to visit an indigenous Hmong tribal village. 

• Day trip to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and Hill Tribe Village (with lunch)
• Dinner back in Chiang Mai

Best time to visit Chiang Mai

If you’re planning a family trip to Thailand and want to visit when the weather is best, many consider November through February to be the ideal time of year. 

During this period, Chiang Mai experiences cooler temperatures and lower humidity than it does during the scorching summer months. Additionally, this time coincides with some of Thailand’s popular festivals of Loy Krathong and Yi Peng, where the sky is adorned with countless floating lanterns. 

The months of March to May bring warmer weather. And finally, the rainy season runs from June to October. The weather is also quite hot during the summer months. However, we visited during the rainy season, and experienced only one brief downpour in Chiang Mai that lasted about 45 minutes.

So, if you are planning around your kids’ school breaks and the summer months are the only time of year that allows for a 2 week Thailand trip or longer, then don’t let the rainy season discourage you from visiting. 

Where to stay in Chiang Mai for 3 days

Because Chiang Mai is such a popular destination, you’ll find a wide variety in lodging, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts.

Whether you stay within the Old City gates or just outside the gates, you’ll find lots of conveniently located places to stay. 

Here are a few hotel options that are within walking distance to many of Chiang Mai’s top attractions.  

• Centara Khum Phaya Resort
• Celosia Hotel (where we stayed)
• Melia Chiang Mai

Day 1 highlights of this 3 day itinerary for Chiang Mai

When you arrive in Chiang Mai, or any other city, it’s a good idea to simply spend the day walking  around the tourist center of the city and familiarizing yourself with it. So, on your first day in Chiang Mai go for a walk in the UNESCO World Heritage designated historic center, but make sure it’s a walk with purpose. 

If the heat is sweltering or you prefer a guided experience, book a tuk tuk tour that will take you to some of the most popular temples.

The city is home to dozens of temples, so you’ll want to map out the ones you personally want to visit. Here are three we recommend. 

Dating back to the 14th century, Wat Phra Singh houses the Phra Singh Buddha, one of the most revered in northern Thailand. 

The temple complex boasts beautiful, ancient architecture with multi-tiered roofs and intricately carved wooden structures leafed with gold. 

The main assembly hall houses the grandiose Buddha statue. The Phra Singh Buddha is one of the most revered Buddha images in Thailand, second only to the Emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Kaew in the Grand Palace- a must-visit on any Bangkok itinerary . 

Wat Chedi Luang is another majestic temple located in the center of Chiang Mai.

It once housed the Emerald Buddha, prior to being moved, eventually making it to its current location in Bangkok.

Although time and the elements have weathered its grandeur, the main chedi (stupa) still stands as a remarkable testament to the age of the city. It remains the largest chedi in Chiang Mai. 

The temple complex hosts daily monk chats where visitors can ask them anything about Buddhism and Thailand. 

There is at least one building in the complex that doesn’t allow women to enter, but as one of the most notable temples in Chiang Mai, it’s worth the time and small admission fee to visit.

Believed to be the oldest temple in Chiang Mai, Wat Chiang Man was our personal favorite. Founded in 1296 by King Mengrai, the city’s founder, the temple has a serene atmosphere. The beautifully adorned main viharn (assembly hall) is the highlight of the temple. 

However, don’t miss the Phra Sila (Crystal Buddha), a small but exquisite crystal Buddha image believed to have magical powers. 

Day 2 Chiang Mai highlights

Many of the best things to do in Chiang Mai actually lay outside the city. On your second day, book a day trip to one of the ethical elephant sanctuaries. 

Into the Wild Elephant Sanctuary

Although there are a lot of elephant sanctuaries surrounding Chiang Mai, you’ll want to do your research, as not all of the “sanctuaries” treat the elephants in an ethical manner. 

We chose Into the Wild Elephant Camp , which is about 1 ½ hours from Chiang Mai. Our transportation was included with our booking.

At Into the Wild you will get to feed the elephants, and go on a trek through the jungle with them. The elephants are allowed to roam freely without any ropes or leads. 

After the morning trek, you’ll be able to get in the mud and the river with the elephants that choose to get in there and help bathe and cool them off.

The elephants are never expected to perform tricks for tourists nor are tourists allowed to ride them. 

You can tell that both the elephants and the operators of the sanctuary have a mutual respect for each other, which made us feel comfortable with our interactions with these majestic creatures.

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar and Kalare Night Bazaar

After you return from your outing to an elephant sanctuary, you’ll probably want to shower and get cleaned up. Before heading out for dinner that evening.

The best places to eat in Chiang Mai are at the night markets. You’ll find lots of vendors selling a variety of delicious, yet inexpensive Thai food options, like Khao Soi, Pad Thai, Moo Ping and Sai Ua. If you’re not sure what to order, book a street food market tour with a local guide.

The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar and the Kalare Night Bazaar across the street are among the best markets that comes alive after sunset. 

You’ll not only find a food court area with dozens of different food stalls, but this iconic bazaar stretches several blocks selling endless goods and unique Thai souvenirs . 

Visitors can wander through the lanes of colorful stalls selling everything from handmade crafts and traditional textiles to t-shirts and carved soap. 

The markets, particularly the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar exudes a festive ambiance, creating a sensory experience while you’re shopping for treasures and savoring local delicacies. 

We ate at and explored the night markets every night during our 3 days in Chiang Mai.

Thai Massage

Whether you end the night with a Thai Massage or get one at another time while in Chiang Mai, make it a point to get a massage! 

We got several massages in Thailand, in Chiang Mai and in the beach town of Krabi in southern Thailand. A Thai massage is one of the best things to do in Krabi , Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Phuket and elsewhere. 

In Thailand, massages are inexpensive and unique, with a mixture of stretching and applied pressure.

Hill Tribe Village

Visiting a hill tribe village in Northern Thailand during your 3 days in Chiang Mai will give you a different than you get in the more developed city.

The Hmong people are an indigenous tribe known for their textiles. While Hmong people live throughout Southeast Asia, Northern Thailand is one of the more populous areas. 

You can book a day trip that will take you to a hill tribe village to see how rural people live in the mountainous areas around Chiang Mai, as well as to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. 

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a majestic temple perched atop a mountain overlooking Chiang Mai. 

One of Thailand’s most famous temples, Doi Suthep requires walking up 300 steps or taking a cable car to get to it. This sacred site is believed to enshrine a relic of the Buddha, making it one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in northern Thailand.

Aside from that, the views of the city below are breathtaking set against the backdrop of lush greenery. 

Conclusion: Is 3 days in Chiang Mai enough?

As your three-day Chiang Mai itinerary draws to a close, you may find yourself reluctant to leave this enchanting city. From the serenity of ancient temples to the excitement of bustling markets and the adventure that awaits in the surrounding jungles, your 3 days in Chiang Mai will go by quickly… too quickly probably. 

If your itinerary allows, we’d recommend at least 4 days in Chiang Mai so you can also visit Doi Inthanon National Park and spend more time just basking in the atmosphere of the city.

There are so many other things to do in Chiang Mai for families that you simply won’t be able to fit into a 3 day itinerary. But if time is limited and a few days is all you have, you’ll leave Chiang Mai with a lasting impression and a desire to return. 

Do you have a question or comment about this itinerary for 3 days in Chiang Mai? We’d love to hear from you. Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

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