Thung Salaeng Luang National Park is the third-largest national park in Thailand, covering more than 789,000 rai across Phitsanulok and Phetchabun provinces. The park spans areas in Wang Thong and Nakhon Thai districts of Phitsanulok, as well as Lom Sak, Mueang, and Chon Daen districts of Phetchabun. It was officially declared a national park on 27 May 1975 to preserve watershed forests, wildlife habitats, and valuable natural ecosystems. The park headquarters is located around Kilometer 80 on Highway No. 12 (Phitsanulok–Lom Sak Road).

Originally known as “Thung Phaya,” this area once served as a stronghold of the Communist Party of Thailand during the past political conflict era. Today, it has become one of the country’s most important protected natural areas. The park remains highly fertile and rich in biodiversity, home to wildlife such as barking deer, deer, wild boars, civets, and many bird species, while also serving as the source of several streams flowing into the Nan River basin.

The park’s landscape consists of rolling mountains, evergreen forests, dry evergreen forests, deciduous dipterocarp forests, and extensive two-needle pine forests. Its most iconic feature is the enormous savannah-like grassland, often referred to as “Thailand’s Savannah.” During the cool season, the grasslands turn golden under bright blue skies, while in the rainy season they become lush green and filled with wildflowers.

Tourist areas are divided into two main zones. The Phitsanulok side (Km. 80) is known for waterfalls, the suspension bridge, and nature trails. Meanwhile, the Nong Mae Na area in Phetchabun is the most popular zone for camping, pine forest scenery, and vast grasslands. One of the highlights is Thung Nang Phaya, a beautiful grass field surrounded by pine forests, dry evergreen forest, and deciduous woodland. During winter mornings, mist often blankets the area, creating magical sunrise scenery through the pine trees.

Thung Salaeng Luang is also a favorite destination for adventure travelers and mountain bikers. The route from Nong Mae Na Ranger Station to Thung Nang Phaya is considered one of the most scenic mountain biking trails in Thailand, passing through grasslands, pine forests, streams, and untouched natural landscapes. Many visitors choose to camp overnight to enjoy the cold weather, sunrise views, sea of mist, and opportunities to spot deer grazing in the open fields during early morning hours.

Major Attractions Inside the Park

• Kaeng Sopha Waterfall : A large waterfall flowing from Huai Khek Yai stream over three massive rock tiers, often called the “Niagara of Thailand.”
• Thung Salaeng Luang Grassland : Vast savannah fields with wildflowers and wildlife, ideal for trekking and camping
• Thung Nang Phaya : Pine-surrounded grassland famous for camping and winter mist scenery
• Kaeng Wang Nam Yen : A long rocky rapid with deep pools surrounded by lush forest
• Duean–Dao Cave : A large cave system with high chambers, stalactites, stalagmites, and underground streams
• Suspension Bridge : A popular check-in spot near the park headquarters crossing the Khek River amidst lush forest scenery

Adventure and Exploration Areas

• Khao Ban Mung Cave : Accessible via approximately 25 km of dirt road followed by a 15 km trekking route, ideal for experienced hikers
• Pha Daeng (Ban Mung) : Dramatic limestone cliffs with complex cave systems and panoramic natural scenery
• Tham Phra Ban Wang Daeng : Located in Chomphu Subdistrict, Noen Maprang District, requiring a 2 km hike through challenging terrain

During the cool season from November to February, temperatures at the camping grounds can drop significantly, and frost may occasionally appear in some years. This creates a unique atmosphere for camping, trekking, stargazing, and experiencing one of Thailand’s most beautiful natural destinations.

Phitsanulok Side

• From Phitsanulok city, take Highway No. 12 (Phitsanulok–Lom Sak Road) toward Lom Sak. At approximately Kilometer 80, you will find the national park headquarters, which serves as the starting point for visiting Kaeng Sopha Waterfall, the suspension bridge, and nature trails.

Nong Mae Na Side (Phetchabun)

• Travel via Highway No. 2258 through Khao Kho, passing Kaeng Bang Rachan toward Nong Mae Na Village. This route leads to Ranger Unit Sor Lor 8, the gateway to Thung Nang Phaya and the camping areas.

Adventure Routes

• Travelers interested in trekking and cave exploration can continue to Ban Mung and Wang Daeng areas, where limestone mountains, caves, and natural trails offer exciting outdoor adventures.

• The best travel period is from November to February when the weather is cool and ideal for camping

• For the best savannah scenery, visit the Nong Mae Na area

• During the rainy season, a 4WD vehicle is recommended for reaching Thung Nang Phaya due to slippery dirt roads

• Bring warm clothing, windproof gear, and flashlights for overnight camping

• Perfect for nature photography, mountain biking, trekking, stargazing, and mist viewing

• Wildlife such as deer can often be seen during the early morning

• Campsites should be reserved in advance during long holidays and winter season

Admission Fee:

Thai Visitors

• Adults: 40 Baht
• Children: 20 Baht

Foreign Visitors

• Adults: 200 Baht
• Children: 100 Baht

Vehicle Fees

• Car: 30 Baht
• Motorcycle: 20 Baht

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM

• Visitors staying overnight must register before closing time. Camping grounds and accommodations are available according to national park regulations. It is recommended to check weather conditions and contact park officials in advance, especially during the rainy and winter seasons.