How to Reach Doi Inthanon National Park from Chiang Mai: Private Driver vs Bus
April 2, 2025How to Reach Doi Inthanon National Park from Chiang Mai: Private Driver vs Bus
Do you find yourself divided between traveling on a budget or in a relaxed luxury setting, yet the rooftop of Thailand is screaming your name? Doi Inthanon National Park is likely to be at the top of your list of destinations to visit if you are considering a vacation to the northern region of Thailand. Not without a valid cause. Doi Inthanon, which stands at an elevation of 2,565 meters above sea level, is not only the tallest mountain in Thailand but also one of the most captivating natural retreats from Chiang Mai.
To go to Doi Inthanon National Park from Chiang Mai, you will need to decide whether you will take a bus or a private vehicle. This is an important decision that you must make before you pack your windbreaker and camera. In this guide, we will go further into the practicalities, prices, pros, and cons of each option, with the goal of assisting you in making the most suitable selection for your travel style. Each option comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Why Should You Go to the National Park of Doi Inthanon?
The Doi Inthanon National Park, which is situated around 90 kilometers to the southwest of Chiang Mai, is an absolute must-visit for anybody who has a passion for verdant forests, breathtaking vistas, and tranquil mountain atmospheres. Resounding waterfalls, hazy cloud forests, regal pagodas perched on mountain slopes, and a wide variety of fauna are just some of the natural wonders that can be found in the park. The hill tribal populations that call this region home include the Hmong and the Karen, whose cultures are just as vivid as the landscapes that they inhabit.
Whether you are a nature photographer looking to capture the golden light, a hiker searching for calm trails, or simply someone who is yearning the cold mountain air, Doi Inthanon provides a refreshing contrast to the rush and bustle of Chiang Mai. However, despite the fact that the park is not too far away, the route is not exactly clear. Because of this, the issue of whether a private driver or a bus is the better option for traveling to Doi Inthanon National Park from Chiang Mai is an important one for any tourist.
When One Hires a Private Driver, Flexibility and Comfort Come Together
Let’s begin with the option that is the most common and convenient: hiring a private driver. You will find that this is without a doubt the most convenient method of going to the park, particularly if you are traveling with your family, a small group of friends, or simply like to go at your own leisure.
Where Can I Find It?
The standard services provided by a private driver service include door-to-door pickup from your Chiang Mai hotel, transportation in a car that is equipped with air conditioning, and a full-day itinerary that is customized to your specific interests. Along the route, some drivers may even function as informal guides, providing you with information about the location and the lifestyle of the people who live there.
Forecasted Expenses
Take into consideration that the cost of a full day of transportation can range anywhere from 2,500 to 3,500 Thai Baht, depending on the kind of vehicle (car versus van), the season, and whether you book through a hotel, an internet platform, or a local travel agency. In most cases, this covers the cost of fuel as well as the amount of time spent waiting at the park.
When shared among a few individuals, this may be a surprisingly cost-effective option for couples or small groups of people alike. In addition, if you are traveling with children or senior members of your family, it is certainly worth it for the comfortable accommodations alone.
A Few Advantages to Employing a Private Driver
- Convenience: It is not necessary to be concerned with scheduling or transfers.
- Flexibility: Allow for flexibility in your trip by making stops at picturesque overlooks, coffee farms, and marketplaces.
- Time-saving: You will get at your destination more quickly and can remain for as long (or as short) as you choose.
- Cost-effective for groups: Costs become much more inexpensive when it is shared, making it ideal for groups.
The Drawbacks of Employing a Private Driver
- Particularly for individuals who are traveling alone and are on a limited budget.
- Although not all drivers are fluent in English, the most of them are experienced and polite.
Where to Make Reservations
By using the following, you can quickly arrange for a private driver:
- The welcome desks of hotels
- In the Old City of Chiang Mai or in Nimmanhaemin, there are travel agencies.
- Klook and GetYourGuide are examples of good online platforms.
- People talking to one another or local Facebook groups
Ensure that the driver possesses a valid license and insurance. To avoid any unpleasant shocks, it is also a good idea to get an agreement on the route, the time, and the fee in advance.
When it comes to the question of how to go to Doi Inthanon National Park from Chiang Mai, the quick answer is that hiring a private driver is the obvious winner. If you are looking for convenience, speed, and a little bit of luxury, then hiring a private driver is the way to go.
Taking the Bus: An Experience That Is Genuine to You While Being Easy on Your Wallet
Taking public transit is an experience in and of itself, especially if you are the sort of tourist who loves taking leisurely trips, interacting with neighborhood residents, and making the most of every baht you spend.
The Explanation of the Path
There is no public bus that travels directly from Chiang Mai to Doi Inthanon National Park; nevertheless, you need not be concerned about this because it is very feasible with enough preparation.
Step 1: Beginning in Chiang Mai, go to Chom Thong
Taking a yellow songthaew, which is a shared pickup truck, or a minibus from the Chang Puak Bus Station in Chiang Mai will get you to Chom Thong, which is the town that is closest to the park entrance. The trip takes around one and a half to two hours and costs approximately forty to fifty Thai Baht.
Step 2: Proceed to the park entrance using the Chom Thong
You will need to hire a local songthaew or a motorbike taxi to transport you up to the park gates from Chom Thong. This will take you an additional forty to sixty minutes, depending on the road and the amount of traffic. The cost of this portion is less predictable and might range anywhere from 300 to 500 Thai Baht for a round journey, particularly if you are the sole passenger.
Step 3: Hitching inside the park is the third step, which is optional
As soon as you enter the park, the attractions are spread out a bit. Depending on the circumstances, some tourists will hitchhike between locations or arrange with the same driver to stay with them.
The Benefits of Taking the Bus
- Wallet-friendly: It is possible that the total cost will be less than 500 Thai Baht for a round journey.
- Authentic experience: Interact with warm and welcoming Thais and immerse yourself in the rhythm of rural travel to get a true local experience.
- Ideal for solo travelers: If time is on your side, this is a wonderful method to explore while you are traveling alone.
The Drawbacks of Taking the Bus
- Longer travel time: The trip duration is longer, ranging from three to four hours each way, taking into account wait periods and transfers.
- Limited park transportation: There is little transportation available within the park, so if you do not have your own car, you can miss out on some of the attractions.
- Language barrier: One possible solution to the language issue is to use a translation software or learn basic Thai.
- Weather risks: The conditions of the roads and the weather are not optimal during the rainy season.
The genuineness of this journey is a major draw for budget visitors, despite the difficulties they may encounter. This is the type of day that is perfect for telling stories, even if you wind up getting a little bit dirty or running behind schedule.
When they are compared, which of the two options best fits your travel style?
At this point, you are probably imagining yourself either unwinding in a comfortable automobile with air conditioning or hopping in and out of local songthaews, therefore soaking up the authentic Thai experience. Are you still undecided which option to pick? All of this should be broken down.
Whether you choose to travel to Doi Inthanon National Park from Chiang Mai by bus or by private driver, the decision that is ideal for you is going to be determined by your budget, your timetable, your level of comfort preference, and your level of excitement.
To assist you in making a decision, here is a general comparison:
🚗 against 🚌: A Comparison of the Doi And Inthanon Transport Features
| Feature | Private Driver Service | Bus & Songthaew |
| Total Cost | 2,500 to 3,500 Thai Baht (per car) | Around 400 to 600 Thai Baht (per person) |
| Duration of Travel (reversed) | One and a half to two hours | It takes between three and four hours (including transfers) |
| Comfort Level | High (air conditioning, private, and flexible stops) | Shared seats and open-air vehicles are examples of moderate to low difficulty |
| Flexibility | Comprehensive control over the itinerary | Restricted by public scheduling |
| Accessibility | In-room pickup and drop-off at the hotel | Several adjustments are required |
| Language Barrier | Only a few drivers are able to communicate in English | Medium to High (transport personnel that is exclusively Thai) |
| Local Interaction | Moderate | High |
Strongly suggested for:
- Private Driver: Families, small groups, those looking for comfort, photographers
- Bus & Songthaew: Solo travelers, people on a budget, and anyone who are interested in culture
That being said, how can you choose between these two very different ways of approaching travel?
- Make use of a private chauffeur: Whether you are traveling with children or senior members of your family, if you wish to see many park attractions without feeling overwhelmed, or if you have a restricted amount of time.
- Take the bus: If you are traveling by yourself, if you want to stretch your baht, or if you simply enjoy the excitement (and a little bit of turmoil) of sorting things out while you are on the go.
There is one thing that is certain: Doi Inthanon will leave you in awe, regardless of the means by which you arrive there.
Doi Inthanon National Park: Travel Advice for Those Who Are Planning a Trip
After you have determined whether you will use a bus or a private driver to go to Doi Inthanon National Park from Chiang Mai, the next step is to maximize the amount of time you spend within the park as much as possible. The following are some tried-and-true travel suggestions that will make your journey as enjoyable and memorable as it possibly can be:
The Fees for Entering and the Hours of Operation
- Entrance fee is 300 Thai Baht for non-Thai nationals, plus 30 Thai Baht for each car. Less money is charged to children.
- Daily hours of operation are from 5:30 AM until 6:00 PM.
- Pro Tip: Arrive early to avoid the crowd and see the misty morning views. If you hire a private driver, you may arrive at the peak soon after sunrise, when the views are just breathtaking and there are less people around.
What Should Be Packed?
Despite the fact that you are in the tropical region of Thailand, Doi Inthanon is located at a significant elevation above sea level, and temperatures can drop significantly, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon.
Pack:
- A hoodie or a medium-weight jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes (some routes are slippery)
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Refillable water bottle
- Snacks or lunch (there are just a few food kiosks located within the park)
When deciding whether to take a bus or a private driver to get to Doi Inthanon National Park from Chiang Mai, it is even more crucial to pack efficiently for bus travelers because they may have fewer breaks to refuel.
Unmissable Tourist Destinations
- Phra Mahathat Naphamethanidon and Naphaphonphumisiri: Royal pagodas devoted to the King and Queen, located on a ridge with manicured gardens and panoramic views.
- Wachirathan Waterfall: One of the most impressive and attractive waterfalls in the area, conveniently located on the main road.
- Ang Ka Nature Trail: A wooden boardwalk through cloud forest, great for birdwatching and a magical stroll.
- Kew Mae Pan Trail: Open seasonally (November to May), offers stunning ridge walks and cloud views. Requires a local guide (100–200 THB).
- Hmong and Karen Hill Tribe Markets: Roadside stalls with local coffee, produce, and handmade textiles.
If you have chosen to hire a private driver, you will have the ability to visit all of these locations at your own leisure. However, due to the restricted transportation options available within the park, bus passengers could be required to prioritize their journey.
I Would Want to Ask Doi Inthanon if the Private Driver Is a Worthwhile Investment
Are you still unsure about how to go to Doi Inthanon National Park from Chiang Mai? After considering all of your choices, consulting with others, and reading this guide, are you still unsure if you should use a bus or a private driver?
An individual who has experienced both of these things can attest to the fact that they are equally memorable, albeit in different ways.
- If you are someone who places a high value on convenience, comfort, and having control over your schedule, then it is unquestionably worth the additional baht to hire a private driver. Over the course of your journey, you will have ample time to explore each viewpoint, take your time at waterfalls, have a cup of coffee at a hilltop café, and make unplanned pauses if anything strikes your attention.
- However, if you are captivated by the concept of constructing your own itinerary, engaging in conversation with locals while riding on the back of a songthaew, and observing the unfolding of ordinary Thai life along the road, then the bus is the perfect way to experience the thrill of adventure. It is possible that the journey may be longer and more bumpy, but it will also provide a more in-depth exploration of the culture that is so distinctive to northern Thailand.
Doi Inthanon will have you gasping for air, regardless of which side of the mountain you choose to climb. Not just because it is the highest point in Thailand, but also because it encourages you to take things more slowly, take some deep breaths, and strengthen your connection to the natural world.
Now that you are aware of the specific options available to you for traveling to Doi Inthanon National Park from Chiang Mai, whether you want to take a bus or a private driver, the only thing left to do is make your reservation and get ready for an experience you will never forget.
