Nature
The nearby national parks include Doi Inthanon, the highest mountain in Thailand, Doi Suthep and Opkhan.
Dokmai Garden provides an introduction to the nature and culture of northern Thailand. With more than 650 plant species including 120 different vegetables, scientific names, multilingual aluminum signs and guides, it provides the background information needed to better enjoy gardens, national parks, food markets and restaurants. Dokmai Garden collaborates with the Thai Tourist Association, Chiangmai University (mushrooms), Maejo University (fishes), Chiangmai Zoo (birds), Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden (vascular plants) and Opkhan National park.
Elephant Nature Park: Approximately 60 km (37 mi) north of the city or about one hour drive, the Elephant Nature Park is home to approximately 30 rescued elephants. You can visit the park with options ranging from a day trip to volunteering.
Hill-tribe tourism and trekking: A large number of tour companies offer organized treks among the local hills and forests on foot and on elephant back. Most also involve visits to the various local hill tribes. These include representatives from the Akha, Hmong, Karen, and Lisu tribes.
Also past San Khampaeng, about 45 minutes outside of the cities is the village of Mae Kon Phong. It's home to multiple tea and coffee plantations and also has an eco-friendly zipline tour, Flight of the Gibbon, which donates 10% of the profit to gibbon reintroduction and rainforest conservation.
