Listly by Adney Dan
The area of Chiang Mai in Thailand is well-known for its natural attractions. In this region you will find a number of outstanding national parks that will capture the interest of the visitor.
This attractive national park located in proximity to the city of Chiang Mai is always an interesting place to visit. As you enter this appealing natural sanctuary you will encounter a mountain, at the base of which you may observe a statue of the monk responsible for the refurbishment of numerous temples in the area. At a higher elevation on the mountain visitors will find one of the nation's most venerated Buddhist shrines, Wat Prathart Doi Suthep. Another attraction in the area is the Bhuping Palace, which is reserved for the use of the royalty. This national park entices a steady stream of birdwatchers, mountain bikers, botanists, hikers and butterfly aficionados with its many attractions.
Sri Lanna National Park is an expansive natural haven which is renowned for its many luxuriant forests. The source of the well-known Mae Ping River is also located here. Another feature of interest at this park is the Mae Ngud Reservoir, which features several houses that float on the waters; visitors can stay in one of these houses or perhaps fish, swim or canoe in the waters. You will also find a host of nature trails within the park which will enable you to experience the splendid fauna and flora of the area. Visitors will also encounter several picturesque valleys within the park.
This is the most frequented of the region's national parks and extends over an area of 482 sqkm. It is well-known for containing the highest peak in Thailand, where the temperature is always cool near the summit. Doi Inthanon features over 300 varieties of birds as well as a number of animal species such as gibbons, snakes, wild boar and deer. The local villagers cultivate fruits such as apples, grapes and strawberries in addition to many kinds of flowers. This park is also renowned for its numerous waterfalls which attract many visitors. Doi Inthanon National Park can be reached whilst staying at Anantara Chiang Mai Resort, one of the ideally located hotels in Chiang Mai from which to set off on your excursions.
This well-known park contains many kinds of wildlife including an array of different birds. One of its attractions is the hot springs at Thep Panom, which are renowned for their exceedingly warm temperatures. Another feature of interest is the Tong Cave which attracts many visitors. Not to be missed is the limestone cave known as Tu Poo which is often frequented by geologists; here you will find many stalagmites and stalactites which create an intriguing sight. You will also find a number of attractive waterfalls and nature trails within this appealing park.
This national park had its beginnings as a development initiative commenced by the King of Thailand, with the objective of solving problems such as poaching and the encroachment of forests, whist uplifting the lives of the local inhabitants. This park is set within the mountain range known as Chiang Dao and contains numerous streams that feed the Ping, the Taeng and the Pai Rivers. Here visitors who desire adventure can enjoy activities such as rafting, canoeing and kayaking in the local rivers. Visiting the hot springs, exploring the various trails or just strolling through the valleys and forests are more experiences you will be able to enjoy here.