Descrizione
Doi Inthanon National Park is a premier birdwatching destination in Thailand, hosting over 380 species due to its significant elevation changes that create diverse habitats. From dry dipterocarp forests to moist hill evergreen forests and high-altitude sphagnum bogs. Birding in the park is often described by the kilometer markers along the main road leading to the summit.
Summit Area (Km 40-48) & Ang Ka Nature Trail (1): The highest elevations are known for cool, damp, moss-covered cloud forests. The Ang Ka boardwalk is particularly good for close-up views of resident and migratory species. Here you can find Ashy-throated Warbler (endemic to the area in Thailand), Green-tailed Sunbird (endemic race), Himalayan Shortwing, Pygmy Cupwing, Rufous-throated Partridge, Dark-sided Thrush, Snowy-browed Flycatcher, and various wintering thrushes and leaf warblers.
Royal Pagodas Area (Km 41.5) (2): The ornamental gardens around the twin pagodas are excellent for sunbirds and warblers in the scrubby areas. For example Green-tailed Sunbird, Buff-throated Warbler, and Mountain Bamboo-Partridge.
Km 37.5 (Jeep Trail) & Km 34.5 Trails (3): These trails cut through rich hill evergreen forest and are considered the most productive areas for diversity. Bird that can be observed here include: Green Cochoa (shy and best looked for in breeding season, Mar-Jul), Long-tailed Broadbill, Rusty-naped Pitta, Silver-eared Mesia, Spectacled Barwing, Yellow-cheeked Tit, Grey-throated Babbler, and Large Niltava.
Waterfalls (Wachirathan, Mae Pan, Siriphum) ()4): Lower down the mountain, waterfalls and streams attract riparian species like Plumbeous Redstart, White-capped Redstart, Slaty-backed Forktail, and Blue Whistling-Thrush.
Doi Inthanon is good year-round, but the cool season (November to March) is generally considered the best time, as it brings a large influx of migratory species from the Himalayas and further north, significantly increasing the species diversity. The early part of the breeding season (February-April) is also excellent when resident species are more vocal.
Local guides are highly recommended as they have expert knowledge of the current hotspots and bird calls, which is invaluable for finding shy or difficult species. To maximize your sightings, visit different elevation zones in the park, as each habitat supports a unique set of species.
Dettagli
Accesso
Doi Inthanon is located in the Chom Thong district of Chiang Mai Province, in northern Thailand. The mountain is the centerpiece of Doi Inthanon National Park, located about 90-100 kilometers southwest of Chiang Mai city center.
The most common starting point for a trip to Doi Inthanon is Chiang Mai. The journey to the park entrance takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by road. Driving yourself offers the most flexibility to stop at various attractions (waterfalls, pagodas, trails) within the large park, as public transport is limited inside.
Route: Take Route 108 (Chiang Mai-Hot) south from Chiang Mai city for about 57 km to Chom Thong district. Turn right onto Route 1009 (Chom Thong-Doi Inthanon Road) and follow it for another 31 km to reach the park entrance checkpoint. The road is well-maintained and wide, though it becomes steeper and winding as you approach the summit.
A private driver is a convenient, stress-free option where logistics are handled for you. Private Tours: You can hire a private taxi or driver for the day, which costs around 2,800-3,200 THB and up for a round trip (park entrance fees typically extra). The driver will wait at each stop.
Group Tours: Guided group tours are also available from travel agencies in Chiang Mai and usually include transport, an English-speaking guide, lunch, and sometimes entrance fees.


