KHAO YAI NATIONAL PARK

Khao Yai National Park is Thailand's first national park, sprawling across four provinces. It is a nature lover's paradise with vast rainforests and diverse wildlife. Home to majestic waterfalls, including Haew Narok and Haew Suwat, and over 300 species of birds, the park offers thrilling hikes and serene views. Perfect for adventure and tranquillity seekers alike, it promises an unforgettable escape into nature's embrace.

Nestled in the heart of Thailand, Khao Yai National Park is a jewel of natural beauty and biodiversity. Established in 1962, it is the first national park in Thailand. The park is spread across four provinces and covers over 2,000 square kilometres. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a haven for nature lovers, home to dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and an array of wildlife, including elephants, bears, and exotic birds.

Khao Yai is famous for its ecological significance and striking landscapes. From the majestic Heo Narok and Heo Suwat waterfalls to the serene Sai Sorn Reservoir and the panoramic Khao Khieaw Viewpoint, the park offers unparalleled beauty and tranquillity. Its diverse ecosystems support a rich tapestry of flora and fauna, making it a hotspot for birdwatching, trekking, and wildlife tours. Whether you are seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat into nature, Khao Yai National Park promises an unforgettable experience.

Highlights

• Marvel at the majestic Haew Narok Waterfall, the park's tallest and most powerful cascade.
• Embark on a journey through the dense forests of Khao Yai National Park in Thailand 
• Witness the sunrise from Khao Khieaw Viewpoint for unmatched views of the sprawling landscape.
• Spot wild elephants and vibrant birdlife on a guided wildlife tour through the park.
• Relax by the tranquil Sai Sorn Reservoir, a prime spot for sunrise and wildlife watching.

How To Reach

By Road: Reaching Khao Yai National Park by road from Bangkok's city centre is a scenic journey that showcases the beautiful countryside of Thailand. It is located 141.1 kilometres from Bangkok. 

By Bus: Regular bus services from Bangkok's Mo Chit Bus Terminal to Pak Chong, the nearest town to Khao Yai National Park, are available. The bus ride takes about 3 to 4 hours, covering 115.6 kilometres. From Pak Chong, you can catch a local songthaew (a passenger vehicle in Thailand) or a taxi to enter the park. This last leg of the journey is about 29.5 kilometres and takes around 30 to 45 minutes.

By Car: Driving from Bangkok to Khao Yai via Route 1 (Phahonyothin Road) and then switching to Route 2 (Mittraphap Road) is the most straightforward route. The drive offers a pleasant experience with well-marked signs leading to the park. The journey takes approximately 2 to 3 hours.

By Train: The closest major train station is in Pak Chong. Take the Northeastern line (Bangkok-Pak Chong) train from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station to Pak Chong in Nakhon Ratchasima province. This journey takes around 3 hours. From Pak Chong station, you can take a songthaew, taxi or tuk-tuk to the park entrance. This is a 30-kilometre journey, which takes around 20 to 30 minutes.

Best Time To Visit

Khao Yai National Park welcomes visitors throughout the year. Each season here has its unique charm and offers different experiences. 

Best Season: The best time for a visit is between November and April. This period promises cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall, perfect for outdoor activities and wildlife spotting. Additionally, this season avoids the heavy rainfall of the monsoon, ensuring trails are accessible and the park's beauty is at its peak.

Best Day of the Week: To escape the weekend rush, consider a weekday visit. This allows for quieter trails and more intimate encounters with nature. Weekends and public holidays typically see an influx of visitors, making weekdays the preferable option for tranquillity seekers.

Best Time of the Day: Aim for early morning or late afternoon visits since the park remains open between 06:00 a.m. and 06:00 p.m. These times offer cooler conditions and lively wildlife, with animals more likely to be seen in the cooler temperatures. Additionally, joining a night safari can reveal the park's nocturnal life, offering a unique perspective on its diverse inhabitants.

Other Essential Information

1. Carry water and snacks since there are no shops deep in the park to buy food or drinks.

2. Wear comfortable, closed shoes for hiking as the trails can be rough and uneven.

3. Hire a local guide since they know the best spots for wildlife and can keep you safe.

4. Respect wildlife and avoid feeding or approaching animals.

5. Dress in layers as the mornings can be cool, however, it gets warmer by the afternoon.

6. Take all rubbish with you and help keep the park clean and protect the wildlife.

7. Do not make any noise and keep your voice low to enjoy the natural sounds and not scare animals.