CHIANG MAI: Doi Inthanon-Trekking Pha Dok Seaw-Waterfall-Lunch

Chiang Mai, the vibrant northern hub of Thailand, is renowned for its captivating natural wonders. Nestled within this lush landscape lies Doi Inthanon National Park, a true gem that beckons adventurers to explore its hidden trails. One such treasure is the mesmerizing Pha Dok Seaw Waterfall, a cascading oasis that promises to leave visitors in awe. Set out on a trekking journey through the park’s verdant forests, learn about the rich cultural tapestry of the Karen hill tribe, and savor a delectable local lunch – all while capturing the essence of this remarkable region. But the true magic lies in the experience that awaits, where the sights, sounds, and sensations of Doi Inthanon will leave an indelible mark on the soul.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Lunch Experiences In Chiang Mai.

Good To Know

• Explore Doi Inthanon National Park, home to Thailand’s highest point and the iconic Twin Pagodas.
• Trek to the stunning Pha Dok Seaw Waterfall, surrounded by lush landscapes.
• Immerse in the cultural experience by visiting Hmong and Karen hill tribe communities.
• Enjoy a local lunch as part of the comprehensive tour package.
• Round-trip transportation and knowledgeable guides in English and Mandarin are provided.

Tour Overview

The Doi Inthanon trekking tour is a full-day adventure that takes visitors to the highest point in Thailand, located within the Doi Inthanon National Park in Chiang Mai.

This tour accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers and is offered in both English and Mandarin. Priced from $44.07, the tour includes round-trip transportation, a local guide, accident insurance, and a set-menu lunch.

Highlights of the itinerary include visiting the Twin Pagodas, trekking to the Pha Dok Seaw Waterfall, and exploring a Hmong hill tribe market and a Karen hill tribe village.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund.

Doi Inthanon National Park

Within Doi Inthanon National Park, visitors can explore the highest point in Thailand. At the summit, they’ll discover the Twin Pagodas, which were built to honor the 60th birthdays of the King and Queen.

After admiring the breathtaking views, the tour continues with a trek to the Pha Dok Seaw Waterfall, which cascades down a lush, green landscape.

Along the way, travelers will have the chance to visit a Hmong hill tribe market and a Karen hill tribe village, gaining insights into the cultural diversity of the region.

The tour also includes a delicious local lunch, providing a well-rounded experience in this stunning national park.

Pha Dok Seaw Waterfall

After exploring the highlights of Doi Inthanon National Park, the tour continues with a trek to the breathtaking Pha Dok Seaw Waterfall.

Trekkers follow the Pha Dok Siew Nature Trail, enjoying views of rice terraces along the way. Upon reaching the waterfall, they’ll have the chance to swim in its refreshing waters.

The tour also includes a visit to an organic Karen hill tribe coffee farm, providing a glimpse into the local culture and traditions.

With its combination of natural beauty and culture, the trek to Pha Dok Seaw Waterfall is a must-do activity for nature lovers visiting Doi Inthanon National Park.

Transportation and Pickup

Round-trip transportation from your hotel or a central meeting point is provided for this Doi Inthanon trekking tour.

The pickup time is between 7:00 AM and 7:30 AM. You’ll be returned to the meeting point, which is a McDonald’s location on 17/1 Kotchasarn Rd, around 5:00 PM.

The tour group size is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Both English and Mandarin-speaking guides are available to accompany you throughout the day’s activities in Doi Inthanon National Park and the surrounding areas.

Inclusions

The tour includes round-trip transportation, with pickup from your hotel or a central meeting point. Along with the transfers, the package includes an English or Mandarin-speaking local guide to lead the day’s activities. Accident insurance is also provided for your peace of mind. Lunch at a nearby restaurant is included, although admission tickets to sites are not. The inclusions for this Doi Inthanon day tour are summarized in the table below:

Inclusion	Provided
Round-trip Transportation	✓
Local Guide (English or Mandarin)	✓
Accident Insurance	✓
Lunch	✓
Admission Tickets	✘

Reviews and Feedback

Based on the available information, the Doi Inthanon trekking tour has an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 2 reviews.

One reviewer gave 5 stars, praising the tour’s organization and the waterfall experience.

Another reviewer gave 4 stars, though they raised concerns about the driver’s safety and the lack of viewpoints at the summit.

The tour operator has acknowledged these concerns and committed to service improvement.

Highlights of the Tour

Doi Inthanon National Park is the highlight of this trekking tour.

Travelers will visit Thailand’s highest point, the Twin Pagodas, and trek to the picturesque Pha Dok Seaw Waterfall, which takes around 2 hours.

Plus, the tour includes a visit to a Hmong hill tribe market and a Karen hill tribe village, providing a culture experience.

Lunch at a local restaurant and a stop at an organic Karen hill tribe coffee farm round out the day’s activities.

The tour offers a well-balanced mix of natural sights, cultural encounters, and culinary experiences, making it an engaging and enriching way to explore the Doi Inthanon region.

Exploring the Karen Hill Tribe

One key highlight of the Doi Inthanon trekking tour is the opportunity to visit a Karen hill tribe village.

The Karen are an ethnic minority group known for their traditional way of life. On the tour, visitors can explore the village, learn about the Karen culture, and even visit an organic coffee farm operated by the tribe.

Guests will have the chance to interact with the local people, observe their daily activities, and gain a deeper understanding of their unique heritage.

This culture is a cherished part of the Doi Inthanon experience, allowing travelers to connect with Thailand’s rich diversity beyond the typical tourist sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Physically Demanding Is the Pha Dok Siew Hike?

The Pha Dok Siew hike is moderately demanding, involving a 2-hour trek through nature trails and crossing a few streams. Visitors should be prepared for some uneven terrain and a moderate level of physical exertion.

Can We Take Photos at the Hmong Hill Tribe Market?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos at the Hmong hill tribe market. However, it’s polite to ask permission before photographing individuals, as some may prefer not to be photographed. The tour guide can provide guidance on photography etiquette.

Is There an Option for a Vegetarian or Halal Lunch?

The tour offers a set menu for lunch, but the operator notes they can accommodate vegetarian and halal dietary needs with advance notice. Guests should contact the operator to request special meal options.

Can We Visit Other Attractions in Doi Inthanon Besides the Highlights?

While the tour highlights the Doi Inthanon National Park, Twin Pagodas, Pha Dok Seaw Waterfall, and hill tribe villages, the itinerary doesn’t mention visiting other attractions within Doi Inthanon. You’d need to inquire with the tour operator about adding any optional stops.

Are There Any Additional Costs or Fees Not Covered in the Tour?

According to the tour overview, admission tickets are not included in the tour price. Travelers may need to pay additional fees for optional activities or attractions not listed in the itinerary highlights.

Sum Up

Enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of Doi Inthanon National Park on this trekking adventure. Marvel at the stunning Pha Dok Seaw Waterfall, savor a delicious local lunch, and discover the rich culture of the Hmong and Karen hill tribes. This unforgettable experience promises to create lasting memories in Thailand’s highest national park.