Thap Lan National Park is a large national park covering areas in Prachinburi and Nakhon Ratchasima provinces, encompassing over 1.39 million rai (approximately 2.96 million hectares). It encompasses the lush forests of the San Kamphaeng mountain range and is a crucial part of the “Dong Phaya Yen-Khao Yai Forest Complex,” which was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. The park is notable for its biodiversity, large rainforests, and some of the most pristine ecosystems in Thailand. The majority of the area consists of dry evergreen forest, moist evergreen forest, dipterocarp forest, and natural grasslands, providing habitat for a wide variety of wildlife such as wild elephants, gaur, bears, tigers, barking deer, deer, and many rare bird species. This makes Thap Lan National Park one of the most important conservation areas in the country.

The name “Thap Lan” originates from the abundance of palm trees found in the area. The "Lan tree" is an ancient palm species characterized by its large leaves, which have been used for various purposes both in the past and present, including roofing, weaving, and inscribing ancient palm leaf manuscripts. Today, Thap Lan National Park is considered the last remaining large natural palm forest area in Thailand, particularly in the surrounding region. “Lamang Forest,” a vital conservation area with high ecological value, offers visitors the tranquility of nature and unique views of the palm forest, unlike anything found elsewhere in the country.

One of the park's most famous attractions is “Pha Kep Tawan,” a viewpoint on a mountain ridge offering panoramic views of the vast forest. Especially beautiful at sunset, the sky changes color, making it a significant landmark of Prachinburi province. Besides enjoying the view, a unique activity is “slingshot reforestation,” where visitors can buy seeds, fill them with clay, and shoot them into the valley below, helping to restore the forest and increase green areas. This activity has become a symbol of Pha Kep Tawan and is popular with tourists of all ages, offering both conservation efforts and a unique experience compared to other natural attractions.

The park also boasts many other natural attractions, such as Bo Thong Waterfall, Thap Lan Waterfall, campsites, and reservoirs, ideal for relaxation and nature study. During the rainy and winter seasons, the park is lush green, the air is cool and comfortable, and there's a chance of seeing sea mist in many areas, particularly around Wang Nam Khiao and Pha Kep Tawan. At night, some areas are suitable for stargazing due to minimal light pollution. Many tourists prefer camping to experience nature up close, including listening to wildlife and breathing the fresh air of this World Heritage forest.

With its abundant natural resources, Thap Lan National Park plays a vital role in environmental conservation, natural research, and ecotourism. Government agencies strictly monitor the area to maintain the ecological balance and prevent forest encroachment. Visitors should therefore strictly adhere to park regulations, such as refraining from making loud noises, littering, and disturbing wildlife, to help preserve this valuable forest for future generations. Thap Lan National Park is not just a beautiful natural tourist destination; it is also an important area reflecting the true abundance and biodiversity of Thailand's natural environment.

• From Bangkok, take the Rangsit-Nakhon Nayok route (Highway 305), continue toward Prachinburi, and join Highway 304 (Kabin Buri-Pak Thong Chai). The park headquarters is located right on the main road between kilometers 193 and 194.

• Visit between November and January for cool weather and misty scenery.

• Arrive at Pha Kep Tawan 30–45 minutes before sunset.

• Bring warm clothing for chilly mornings and nights during winter.

• Use a well-maintained vehicle for mountain roads and sharp curves.

Admission Fees:

• Thai Citizens: Adult 40 THB, Child 20 THB

• Foreigners: Adult 200 THB, Child 100 THB

• Vehicle Fee: 30 THB per car

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM (For camping, please contact the park office in advance).