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Chiang Mai is a popular location for a month-long stay abroad. The second largest city in Thailand meets all the conditions of a beloved travel destination, with a variety of attractions that draw people to want to stay for even longer. Although there are many places to visit in Chiang Mai, a lot more options open up when you explore nearby areas as well. In particular, I recommend Doi Inthanon, the highest mountain in Thailand.
The name Doi Inthanon comes from King Inthawichayanon, the last king of Chiang Mai. The mountain, along with the surrounding forests, was designated as a national park in 1954 and later expanded in 1972 and 1975 to include a total area of 482.40 km². Also known as the “Roof of Thailand”, the mountain itself is 800 m above sea level at its lowest point and 2,565 m at the highest. Although Thailand is famous for its hot weather throughout the year, Mount Doi Inthanon is always cool due to its high altitude. Sometimes ice even forms, allowing visitors to feel cold for the first time during their trip to Thailand.

While traveling around Thailand, you can easily spot large old trees. But as you walk the forest trail in Doi Inthanon National Park, you’ll encounter even more magnificent examples. As the park is located in the highlands, environmental conditions such as humidity and sunlight are perfect for lush moss and grass to grow on the surface of the trees, creating a mysterious atmosphere. The forest, known to have inspired the visuals of the film Avatar, will make you feel like you’re in a movie.

Another beloved tourist spot is located at Mount Doi Inthanon: the twin pagodas built on top of the mountain to commemorate the 60th birthday of Rama IX and Queen Sirikit. The two pagodas each have distinct appeals of their own; while Naphamethinidon signifies the powers of the earth and sky in the colors gold and brown to represent the king, Naphaphonphumisiri symbolizes the queen with its purple color and represents heavenly power and earthly grace. Thanks to the high altitude, the surrounding garden is full of rare flowers. In January and February, the weather is warm enough for cherry blossoms to bloom. It’s a lovely place to enjoy spring in Thailand if you have the opportunity.

Thailand has a tropical climate year-round, but if you want to experience a different side of the country, I recommend visiting Thailand’s highest mountain, Doi Inthanon, near the renowned tourist city destination of Chiang Mai.