“A collection of sacred and natural attractions: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Phu Phing Royal Palace, Doi Pui Hill Tribe Village, and nature trail waterfalls.”
Doi Suthep-Pui National Park covers areas in Mae Rim, Hang Dong, and Mueang Chiang Mai districts, with an area of approximately 262.50 square kilometers (163,162.50 rai). It consists of rich forests and complex mountains, including Doi Suthep (1,667 m), Doi Buak Ha, and Doi Pui (highest 1,685 m), which are the sources of important streams.
Major attractions and important sites within the park:
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Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Ratchaworawihan: A key sacred site of Chiang Mai, located approximately 3,051 feet (930 meters) above sea level. Visitors must climb to pay respect as a symbolic rite of visiting Chiang Mai. The staircase has over 300 naga steps, with the annual water pouring ceremony during Vesak full moon.
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Phu Phing Royal Palace: The royal residence of King Rama IX and Queen Sirikit, completed in 1962, located on Doi Buak Ha, about 4 km from Doi Suthep. Normally open to the public only on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays when no royal family members are in residence.
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Doi Pui Hmong (Meo) Village: Located about 3 km from the palace, with fully paved roads. Visitors can experience the simple local lifestyle, purchase village-made souvenirs, and enjoy a clear view of Doi Inthanon.
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Huay Kaew Waterfall: A small waterfall approximately 10 meters high with year-round water flow, about 6 km from Chiang Mai city, surrounded by shaded rest areas like Pha Ngieb and Wang Bua Ban.
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Monthatharn Waterfall (San Pa Yang Waterfall): The most beautiful waterfall in the park, with three tiers, about 3 km from Huay Kaew Waterfall.
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Kruba Srivichai Monument: The Lanna saint who first initiated and encouraged villagers to build the road up Doi Suthep, completing the 10 km road in 1935. The monument is on the ascent to Doi Suthep, and visitors often pay respects for good fortune before proceeding.
How to Get There
Private car:
- Well-paved roads all the way to Phu Phing Royal Palace and Doi Pui Hmong Village (parking available with vehicle fees).
Songthaew (Red truck):
- Available from the Chiang Mai University queue or Chang Phueak Gate; can hire a whole vehicle or share a fare.
Travel Tips
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Preparation: Bring warm clothing in the morning or during winter, as temperatures on the mountain are cool.
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Driving: Exercise caution when driving up or down the mountain due to steep and winding roads.
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Dress Code: When visiting Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and Phu Phing Royal Palace, wear modest clothing (no sleeveless tops, shorts/skirts above the knee).
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Time Management: Allow enough time to visit multiple sites, as each attraction is spread out.
Admission Fee:
- Thai: Adults 20 THB, Children 10 THB
- Foreigners: Adults 100 THB, Children 50 THB (does not include entrance fees for certain temples and palaces)
Opening Hours:
- National Park: 08:30 – 16:30 (for entry fee collection)
- Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: 06:00 – 18:00