Overview

Khao Yai National Park is one of Thailand’s most famous and oldest national parks, covering over 2,000 square kilometers across four provinces. Located just a few hours from Bangkok, the park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its lush forests, diverse wildlife, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails.

Why Visit Khao Yai National Park?

1. Rich Wildlife and Biodiversity

Khao Yai is home to over 300 bird species, wild elephants, gibbons, deer, and even wild tigers. The park’s diverse ecosystem includes evergreen forests, grasslands, and waterfalls, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

2. Stunning Waterfalls and Landscapes

The park features several famous waterfalls, including Haew Narok and Haew Suwat, the latter made famous by the movie The Beach. These waterfalls offer spectacular views, especially during the rainy season.

3. Adventure and Outdoor Activities

Khao Yai offers excellent hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and night safaris for wildlife spotting. Visitors can also explore caves, take guided tours, and camp in designated areas for a true wilderness experience.

Top Things to Do in Khao Yai

Hiking and Trekking

The park offers multiple hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging treks through dense jungle, leading to waterfalls and wildlife observation spots.

Wildlife Watching

Join a guided wildlife tour to spot elephants, hornbills, and other rare animals in their natural habitat. The park is a top destination for birdwatching and nature photography.

Waterfall Exploration

Visit Haew Narok, Haew Suwat, and Pha Kluai Mai waterfalls for breathtaking scenery and relaxing nature walks.

Night Safari and Camping

Experience the park after dark with a night safari tour, where you can spot nocturnal animals like porcupines, civets, and even wild elephants.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Khao Yai is from November to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant. Wildlife sightings are best during the dry season, while waterfalls are most impressive from June to October.

How to Get There

Khao Yai National Park is about 180 km from Bangkok. Visitors can drive, take a bus to Pak Chong (the nearest town), or join guided tours from Bangkok.