Khao Yai National Park: Ultimate Travel Guide

Thailand's first national park, Khao Yai National Park, covers an area of 2,166 km² and is divided into four provinces: Saraburi, Prachinburi, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Nakhon Nayok. It is a sanctuary of tropical forests, grasslands, rolling peaks, and glittering waterfalls and is a part of the Dong Phayayen–Khao Yai Forest Complex, which is listed by UNESCO. It's simple to combine a visit here with a Pattaya tour because it's only a two- to three-hour drive from Bangkok; for transportation options heading north, think about connecting through Pattaya City Tour Co. Ltd.

Why Visit Khao Yai National Park

Rich biodiversity: home to hornbills, elephants, gibbons, and other creatures.

Beautiful scenery includes misty valleys, rolling hills, and lush jungle.

Camping, hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife observation are all examples of outdoor adventure.

Accessibility: Perfect for weekend getaways, just two to three hours from Bangkok.

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

Seasons affect Khao Yai's climate:

• November through February is the cool season.
• Temperature range: 10°C to 25°C
• Perfect for wildlife viewing, hiking, and camping.
• March through May is the hot season.
• Extreme heat, up to 35°C
• Hikes in the middle of the day should be avoided, as waterfalls may dry up.
• June through October is the rainy season.
• Showers in the afternoon
• Peak-volume waterfalls; lush jungle with muddy trails.

It's a good idea to pack a lightweight rain jacket during the rainy season. All year long, layers and sturdy shoes are essential.

How to Get There

By Rental Car

• Drive 160 km (about 2.5 hours) from Bangkok (via Lon 3079/9).
• The headquarters and other visitor centres have plenty of parking.

By Minivan & Bus

• buses to Pak Chong from Bangkok's Mo Chit Terminal.
• Take a local minivan from Pak Chong to the entrance gates of Khao Yai.

Through Tour

Numerous day-tour companies provide waterfall visits, guided hikes, and pickup.

Top Hiking Trails & Waterfalls

Haew Narok Waterfall, Tri-Tiered

At about 150 metres, this is the tallest waterfall in the park. The base is reached by a brief boardwalk; the sound and mist create an unforgettable experience. Investigate the upstream jungle trail for a longer walk.

 Waterfall at Haew Suwat

Often quieter, this waterfall is well-known from the film The Beach. You can swim in the refreshing pool below after a short hike leads to the viewing platform.

Trail Pha Kluai Mai (Scenic Ridge)

This moderate trail offers sweeping views of the jungle and grasslands as it winds through hilltops. Best at dawn or dusk. It's a great place to observe birds, so bring binoculars.

 The Nong Phak Chi Wildlife Viewing Tower

Elevated platforms for observing deer, wild boar, and elephants at sunset are accessible via a short walk. If you wish to stay after dark for nocturnal creatures, bring a torch.

Wildlife & Bird Watching

Mammals You May See

• Asian elephants

• Gaur (Indian bison)

• Wild boar

• Barking deer

• Slow loris (look for glowing eyes at night)

Birds & Reptiles

• Hornbills: Great and wreathed hornbills soar above the canopy.

• Barbets, woodpeckers, and trogons populate the mid-layers.

• Monitor lizards and pythons are sometimes spotted near streams.

Best Wildlife-Viewing Spots

• Nong Phak Chi Grasslands: Especially at dawn and dusk.

• Helicopter Platform: Short drive in from the main gate—good for tigers and leopards (rare).

• Guided Night Safari: Local expert guides lead walks in search of nocturnal species.

Camping & Eco-Tourism

One of the most immersive ways to see Khao Yai is by camping.

Campsites Available:

• Pha Kluai Mai: Cosy locations close to the main office.
• Haew Suwat: Camping by the river with a rustic feel close to the waterfall.
• For a few hundred baht, you can rent a tent, sleeping bag, mat, and stove from the park offices.
• Eco-Tourism Activities: Educational and environmentally conscious guided bird-watching tours.
• Road-Based Night Safaris: Travel by car in dimly lit areas.
• Educational Talks: About local conservation at the visitor centre.

Facilities & Useful Tips

• Visitor Centres: The main HQ near the park office welcomes guests and sells snacks, maps, and souvenirs.

• Park Fees (as of 2025):

  • Adults: ~400 THB

  • Children (3–14): ~200 THB

  • Vehicles: ~30 THB

  • Note: Fees may change—confirm at the entrance.

• Opening Hours: 6 AM–6 PM for regular visitors; overnight stays are allowed only in approved campsites.

• Safety:

  • Watch for elephants while driving—the park speed limit is 60 km/h.

  • Carry insect repellent, sunscreen, and plenty of water.

  • Tell park staff your hiking route and expected return time.

Nearby Attractions

Extend your trip by visiting places around Khao Yai:

• PB Valley Khao Yai Winery

  • Offers vineyard tours and wine tastings—around 20 km from the park.

• Farm Chokchai

  • A working dairy farm with horseback riding and family-friendly attractions.

• Scenical World

  • Theme park with rides, restaurants, and outdoor spaces—great for families.

• Pak Chong Night Market

  • Bustling evening market near the train station—try grilled meats, fresh fruit, and local stalls.

Suggested 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Wildlife & Waterfalls

• Morning: Start early at headquarters and hike Pha Kluai Mai for sunrise views.

• Midmorning: Explore Haew Suwat Waterfall; take a dip.

• Afternoon: Visit Nong Phak Chi tower for wildlife as the day cools.

• Night (optional): Join a guided night safari.

Day 2: Scenic Views & Relaxation

• Pre-dawn: Drive to the helicopter platform to catch the sunrise.

• Breakfast: A picnic near Haew Narok waterfall, then a hike to its viewpoint.

• Midday: Return to headquarters and enjoy local snacks at a nearby cafe.

• Afternoon: Wind down with a farm tour at Chokchai or a winery visit.

Final Tips to Enjoy Khao Yai

• Last Words of Advice: Have Fun, Yai Khao
• Start early because cooler hikes and wildlife sightings are most likely to occur at dawn.
• Mix solo and guided; once you've joined a local guide for background, go exploring on your own.
• Leave no trace: remove all trash, show consideration for wildlife, and abide by park regulations.
• If you're camping, bring a power bank for backup power because phone coverage is spotty.

Summary

Khao Yai National Park is much more than a place to visit for a day. Deeper exploration is encouraged by the area's varied hiking trails, magnificent waterfalls, abundant wildlife, and ecotourism activities like camping and birdwatching. Khao Yai offers life-changing experiences, whether you're looking for views of hazy waterfalls or a chance to see a wild elephant. For more comprehensive Thailand travel planning, visit our other pages and use this guide to create your own journey.