Khao Yai National Park is Thailand’s first national park, established on September 18, 1962, covering an area of over 2,168 square kilometers across four provinces: Nakhon Ratchasima, Prachinburi, Nakhon Nayok, and Saraburi. In 2005, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Dong Phayayen–Khao Yai Forest Complex.

The park features a mix of evergreen forests, grasslands, and high mountains, with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,292 meters above sea level. It is home to more than 3,000 plant species, 67 mammal species including elephants, tigers, gibbons, and deer, as well as over 300 bird species such as hornbills and silver pheasants.

Popular attractions include:

• Haew Narok Waterfall, a dramatic 150-meter-high drop

• Haew Suwat Waterfall, made famous by the movie The Beach

• Pha Trom Jai Viewpoint and Km 30 Viewpoint, perfect for sunrise and panoramic shots

The park offers 13 hiking trails, ranging from beginner to advanced, through bamboo forests, waterfalls, and ridges. Guided treks are available for longer routes.

Camping areas like Lam Ta Khong and Pha Kluai Mai provide riverside spots with facilities. Night safari tours are available for spotting nocturnal wildlife such as porcupines, deer, and civets. Cool-season visits (Nov–Feb) are especially popular for their refreshing weather and clear skies.

• By car: From Bangkok, take Phaholyothin Road to Saraburi, then turn right onto Mittraphap Road (Highway 2). At KM 58 (before Pak Chong), turn right onto Thanarat Road (Highway 2090). Continue about 25 km to the checkpoint, then another 14 km uphill to the visitor center.

• By bus: Buses from Mo Chit 2 Bus Terminal in Bangkok to Pak Chong run frequently. From Pak Chong, take a local songthaew or rent a taxi to reach the park.

• By train: Take a train from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station to Pak Chong, then transfer by local transport to the park.

• Tips: The road leading to the park is steep and winding—drive carefully. It’s best to visit during the cool season for the most comfortable weather.

• ring hiking shoes and insect repellent

• Don’t feed or approach wildlife

• Camping gear can be rented on-site

• Book night safari or long treks in advance during weekends or holidays

• Best time to visit is November to February

Admission Fee:

• Thai adults: 40 THB / Thai children: 20 THB
• Foreign adults: 400 THB / Foreign children: 200 THB

Opening Time:

• Open daily from 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM