Doi Inthanon

At 2565 m, Doi Inthanon is the tallest mountain in Thailand and home to a large national park filled with waterfalls, campsites, trails, caves and more. The park is about two and half hours south of Chiang Mai making it possible to go visit for just the day (if you get started early) or a good spot for a quick overnight break. With its high elevation, you can expect cooler temperatures on Doi Inthanon than the surrounding area and even frost during December and January, a phenomenon that certainly doesn’t happen anywhere else in Thailand. With this in mind, even in hot months, it’s a good idea to dress in layers and take a light jacket, especially if you’re exploring by motorbike. If driving isn’t your thing, don’t worry. Doi Inthanon is a popular weekend getaway from Chiang Mai and many tour companies offer packages that take you there and back to the city in the evening or provide overnight accommodation. While its natural beauty is the park’s true claim to fame, don’t forget to visit the impressive Napamaytanidol Chedi (stupa) built in 1989 to honour the 60th birthday of Thailand’s king. Besides chedi the surrounding grounds also offer a magnificent view.