Chiang Mai National Parks

Chiang Mai province has several national parks. The closest park, Doi Suthep - Pui National Park, is only 12 kilometers outside of Chiang Mai. The park entrance is at the base of the mountain just past the entrance to the Chiang Mai zoo on Huay Gaew Road. The main attraction in the park is Wat Doi Suthep, one of Thailand's most revered temples. If you visit the temple, plan to continue up the mountain and stop by the Phuping Palace. This palace is the winter residence for Thailand's royal family. It also has a royal guesthouse for prominent state visitors from abroad.

The most popular of the Chiang Mai national parks is Doi Inthanon. This is due to the fact it is the home of Thailand's highest peak, Inthanon mountain. Temperatures at the 2,565 meter peak stay cool and comfortable all year and can fall below freezing during the winter months. Doi Inthanon National Park is a 90 minute drive from Chiang Mai. It is a popular destination for bird watchers as there are over 300 species of birds in the park.

The Sri Lanna National Park was established in honor of the King's 60th birthday. It is the sixtieth National Park in Thailand and the sixth largest in land area. However, it is the largest among the Chiang Mai national parks. The park is north of Chiang Mai on the road to Phrao. It is home to several waterfalls, including the popular Bua Tong Waterfall.

Ob Luang National Park is west of Doi Inthanon National Park. A 2-3 hour drive from Chiang Mai, the main attraction of the park is the Ob Luang Gorge, or grand canyon. This narrow ravine with a raging river at the bottom is the main reason to visit the park. Besides the gorge, Ob Luang National Park is known for several faint but visible cave paintings that are estimated to be 28,000 years old.

Make a visit to one or all of these Chiang Mai National Parks during your next family holiday in Chiang Mai.

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