Located not far from town along Thong Chai Road, Doi Inthanon, at 2,565 metres above sea level, is Thailand's highest peak. The level of precipitation on the cloud covered peak is double that of the surrounding area. Doi Inthanon is the source of four different rivers; Mae Jam, Mae Ya, Mae Klang, and Mae Pan. These four waterways eventually run together to form the mighty Ping River, an indispensable fresh water resource. Thailand's only authentic highland forest of green perennials, this national park is home to 384 species of rare birds and has become very popular among bird-watchers. It is not uncommon to see a group of tourists setting off into the wilds of Doi Inthanon, armed with binoculars, telescopes, and tripods.