The Most Beautiful National Parks in Chiang Mai

Thailand, a country known for its pristine beaches, vibrant cities, and rich culture, is also home to some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes in Southeast Asia. The country's national parks are an essential part of its charm, offering travelers an opportunity to escape into lush forests, tranquil lakes, and towering mountain ranges. Whether you're an adventurous trekker, a nature lover, or a photographer looking to capture the beauty of the natural world, Thailand's national parks have something to offer.

Chiang Mai Province is famous for its national parks due to the remarkable variety of ecosystems and biodiversity they protect. From tropical rainforests and limestone cliffs to highland plateaus and scenic waterfalls, the country's geography is incredibly diverse and offers travelers a multitude of adventures. Visitors to these parks can expect to see rare animals, explore jungle trails, swim in crystal-clear waters, and immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of nature.

In this blog, we'll explore some of Chiang Mai's most beautiful and popular national parks—each with its unique appeal and various outdoor activities to enjoy. From the highest peak in Thailand to the mystical "Sticky Waterfalls," these parks showcase the diverse natural beauty that makes Thailand a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

Doi Inthanon National Park

Location: Chiang Mai Province

Best Time to Visit: November to February

Doi Inthanon National Park, located in the northern region of Thailand, is perhaps the most famous national park in the country. It's home to Doi Inthanon, the highest peak in Thailand, standing at 2,565 meters above sea level. The park's unique geography combines towering mountains, waterfalls, dense forests, and a diverse range of flora and fauna. It's also a sanctuary for birdwatchers, with over 380 species of birds, including the rare Himalayan griffon vulture and the beautiful green-tailed sunbird.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as hiking along one of the park's scenic trails, which take you through temperate forests and past stunning waterfalls like Wachirathan Waterfall. The King and Queen Pagodas, located near the summit, offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and are a popular spot for photographs.

The park's cool climate makes it a great escape from the heat of the lowlands, especially in the early mornings when mist rises from the valleys. It's also a perfect place for camping and stargazing, given the clear skies and minimal light pollution. The park is easily accessible from Chiang Mai by car, taking around two hours to reach the summit.

The best way to experience Doi Inthanon is by joining an eco trekking tour. Knowledgeable local guides lead you through the jungle, stopping at a variety of waterfalls and other attractions like the White Karen Hill Tribe Village and the Hmong Tribal Market. Experiencing the National Park in this way means you'll get to learn about the nature and culture of the area, as well as hitting all of the top spots.

Doi Suthep National Park

Location: Chiang Mai Province

Best Time to Visit: November to March

Located just a short drive from Chiang Mai city, Doi Suthep National Park is a popular destination for those seeking nature and culture in one place. The mountain is an integral part of life in Chiang Mai, as its towering peaks overlook the vast city. The park is best known for Doi Suthep Mountain, which is home to the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of Thailand's most sacred and beautiful temples. The temple sits atop the mountain, offering breathtaking views over Chiang Mai, especially at sunrise or sunset.

The national park also boasts rich biodiversity, with numerous species of birds, butterflies, and wildlife. Hiking trails weave through dense forests, leading visitors to serene spots like Huay Kaew Waterfall and various viewpoints offering stunning vistas of the city below. The park is also home to Phuping Palace, the royal winter residence, where you can stroll through beautiful gardens.

One of the most popular things to do in Doi Suthep is hike the Monks Trail up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. This forest path has for centuries been used by monks as a pilgrimage path up to the temple, but it's also open to travellers who want to traverse the monks' steep route up the mountain, walking in their footsteps. There are fascinating statues and carvings to admire along the way, and the views over the city throughout the journey are second to none.

Doi Suthep National Park is easily accessible from Chiang Mai, and many visitors combine a visit to the temple with a short hike or a drive up the mountain for the views and fresh air. The cooler climate at higher altitudes offers a refreshing contrast to the tropical heat in the city below.

Mae Wang National Park

Location: Chiang Mai Province

Best Time to Visit: July to February

For travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, Mae Wang National Park is a hidden gem in northern Thailand. This park is renowned for its unspoiled landscapes and rural charm. The area is characterized by rugged mountains, deep valleys, and dense forests, making it one of the best National Parks in Thailand for trekking tours.

One of the main attractions in Mae Wang is the Mae Wang Waterfall, which is a peaceful and less crowded spot compared to other waterfalls in the region. Visitors can hike through the park's jungle trails, where they might encounter local hill tribes, such as the Karen or Hmong people, who still practice traditional lifestyles. The park is also home to Karen Elephant Project, an ethical elephant sanctuary run by the Karen tribe who have for decades lived and worked alongside elephants.

Arguably the best way to explore the park is on a multi day trekking tour, which really allows hikers to get off the beaten path and experience Mae Wang's rugged beauty. You'll stay overnight in a Karen Village, learning about their way of life and traditions and completely disconnecting yourself from the fast pace of modern life.

The park is easily accessible from Chiang Mai, with a 45-minute drive to the park's entrance. Mae Wang is a great place for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and local culture, away from the crowds.

Namtok Bua Tong-Nam Phu Chet Si National Park (Sticky Waterfalls)

Location: Chiang Mai Province

Best Time to Visit: June to January

One of Thailand's most unique natural wonders is the Sticky Waterfalls, located in Namtok Bua Tong-Nam Phu Chet Si National Park. The park's main attraction is the waterfall's unusual limestone formations, which allow visitors to climb up the waterfall without slipping. The rocks are coated with a natural mineral deposit that gives them a non-slip texture, making it safe and fun to climb up the cascading water.

The waterfall is set amidst a serene forest, providing a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. The surrounding area is perfect for picnics, and there are hiking trails nearby that offer scenic views of the forest and the mountains.

To reach the Sticky Waterfalls, visitors can join a tour or take a 1.5-hour drive from Chiang Mai. It's a relatively easy journey, and the park is a popular day trip from the city. The unique geological features of the park, combined with the beautiful natural setting, make this a must-visit destination for those looking for an extraordinary waterfall.

Pha Daeng National Park (Chiang Dao)

Location: Chiang Mai Province

Best Time to Visit: July to January

For outdoor enthusiasts and hikers, Pha Daeng National Park, also known as the Chiang Dao region, is a spectacular destination. The park is centered around Doi Luang Mountain, the third-highest peak in Thailand, which rises 2,225 meters above sea level. This rugged landscape is a haven for trekkers, with a range of trails that offer different levels of difficulty. The park is famous for its stunning karst formations, dense forests, and rich biodiversity.

Hikers can explore caves such as Tham Chiang Dao, one of the largest cave systems in Thailand, and enjoy breathtaking views from the mountain's summit. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including gibbons, bears, and snakes—though sightings of these elusive animals are rare.

The area is also known for its hill tribes, particularly the Lisu and Lahu people, who live in the surrounding mountains. Travelers can learn about their traditional lifestyles, try local foods, and experience the rich cultural heritage of this remote region. This is also a great destination for wildlife spotting, and if you're lucky, you might see animals like wild boars, gibbons, monkeys, colorful birds, and even snakes!

Pha Daeng National Park is about a 1.5-hour drive from Chiang Mai, making it a popular destination for adventurous travelers. It's a great national park to visit as part of a trekking tour from Chiang Mai.

Sri Lanna National Park (Mae Ngat Dam Lake)

Location: Chiang Mai Province

Best Time to Visit: July to January

Located just 30 kilometers from Chiang Mai, Sri Lanna National Park is home to the serene and picturesque Mae Ngat Dam Lake, a perfect destination for water activities and relaxation. The park's primary feature is the tranquil lake, which is surrounded by rolling hills, lush forests, and scenic views.

Visitors can enjoy boat rides on the lake, kayaking, or fishing, while the calm waters and beautiful surroundings make it a peaceful escape from the bustle of Chiang Mai. The park is popular for those seeking a quiet retreat in nature, with opportunities for outdoor activities like trekking and birdwatching.

Getting to Sri Lanna by car from Chiang Mai is easy, taking around an hour. Whether you're looking for a leisurely day by the lake or an adventurous trek through the forest, Sri Lanna offers a perfect mix of relaxation and outdoor fun.

Thailand's national parks offer a stunning variety of landscapes, from towering mountains and dense jungles to crystal-clear lakes and unusual geological formations. Each park is unique, offering something for every type of traveler—whether you're an avid hiker, a nature lover, or someone simply seeking a peaceful retreat. Whether you explore the towering peaks of Doi Inthanon, the mystical Sticky Waterfalls, or the serene waters of Mae Ngat Dam Lake, these parks provide an unforgettable experience of Thailand's incredible natural beauty. If you're planning to explore the country's hidden gems, make sure to visit these national parks for an adventure that will stay with you long after your trip.