Kiriwong Village is an ancient settlement located at the foothills of Khao Luang, the highest mountain range in southern Thailand. The village was originally known as “Ban Khun Nam,” referring to its location near natural water sources, before later being renamed “Kiriwong,” meaning a village encircled by mountains. The community covers an area of more than 8,173 rai and is rich in both natural and cultural heritage.

Today, Kiriwong is divided into four villages: Ban Kiriwong, Ban Kirithong, Ban Khun Kiri, and Ban Kiri Tham. Local residents maintain a simple and close-knit way of life, with farming as their main occupation. The heart of the community lies in the mixed orchard system, where fruits such as mangosteen, rambutan, durian, and stink beans grow together naturally, supporting one another in a balanced ecosystem.

Kiriwong is widely recognized as a model ecotourism community and gained national recognition after receiving the Thailand Tourism Awards in 1998. Although the village suffered severe damage from a major natural disaster in 1988, the community worked together to rebuild and preserve its cultural and environmental identity, creating a strong foundation for sustainable tourism.

Visitors can experience local life through homestay programs, staying with villagers and joining activities organized by community groups such as tie-dye handicrafts, herbal products, coconut shell crafts, and fruit processing. The best time to visit is from July to September, when fruit trees in the mixed orchards are heavy with produce and the village is at its greenest. The clear streams, fresh air, and peaceful surroundings have earned Kiriwong a reputation as one of the places with the best air quality in Thailand.

A visit to Kiriwong is more than just a getaway; it is an opportunity to learn how people and nature coexist in harmony. The warmth, hospitality, and genuine smiles of the villagers are what make many visitors return time and time again.

• By car: From Nakhon Si Thammarat town, take Highway 4016 to kilometer 9, then turn left onto Highway 4015. Continue straight and turn right at the entrance to Kiriwong Village. Drive approximately 9 kilometers to reach the village.

• By public transport: Take a local songthaew (shared pickup truck) on the Nakhon Si Thammarat–Kiriwong route. The station is located behind Yao Market in the city center. Services run from 07:00 to 16:00, with fares around 30 THB.

• Visit between July and September to enjoy fresh fruits directly from the orchards

• Homestay accommodation and meals are available at affordable prices (rates may vary)

• A 3-day, 2-night program is recommended for a deeper cultural experience

• Tie-dye fabrics and herbal products make excellent local souvenirs

• Cycling is the best way to explore all four villages within Kiriwong

• As an ecotourism community, please help reduce plastic waste and keep the streams clean

Entrance Fee:

• No entrance fee

Opening Hours:

• Open 24 hours (local shops and community groups usually operate from 08:30 to 17:00)