| This national park which covers an area of 1,005 square
kilometers is located on Doi Inthanon, Thailand's highest mountain which
is 2,565 meters above sea level. Located between Mae Chaem and Chom Thong,
the park is comprised of the largest tract of upper mountain forest which
ranges across Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and ends in Northern Thailand. The
mountain ranges gave birth to the main tributaries of the Ping river and
formed the beautiful waterfalls, namely Siriphum, Wachirathan, Mae Pan,
Mae Klang and Mae Ya. The moist and dense evergreen forest is abundant with
lichens and wild orchids. The park is also a paradise for bird lovers. Visiting
Doi Inthanon is possible throughout the year however, the best period for
viewing the waterfalls is May through November while the best period for
viewing wild flowers is December through February and for ornithologists
is November through March.
How to Get There: Travel 58 kilometers west of Chiang Mai via
Highway No. 107 to Chom Thong, then turn right into Highway No. 1009 and
continue a further distance of 48 kilometers along Highway No. 1009 to
the summit. A good but rather steep asphalt road takes visitors up, thus
the vehicle must be in a good condition. Visitors could pay for the entrance
fee at Km. 8.
Doi Inthanon Royal Project Research Station
This is located at Ban Luang, Chom Thong District, on the way to the Doi
Inthanon peak. The research station is operated under the Royal Project.
The facilities are for research and development of pilot projects for
cash crops, which include coffee, cold-climate fruits, and cut flowers.
The research station also provides services and information regarding
the application of advanced technology to help alleviate poverty, natural
resource conservation etc. In addition, information on production and
marketing of the products is also available. Tourists can visit the stations
charming garden of temperate-climate flowers and a cut-flower nursery.
The research station is located approximately 90 kilometers from the city
and near Inthanon peak. The research station is ideal for flower lovers
and is a recommended stopover for travelers heading up or down Doi Inthanon.
Advanced contact for a group visit is recommended. Tour guide services
are also available. For more information call 0 5335 5196.
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