“A vital headwater source and habitat for rare wildlife. It is distinguished by limestone mountain scenery, steep cliffs, and pure air, earning it the reputation as the lungs of the lower North and Northeast regions.”
Nam Nao National Park is a vast forest area covering approximately 603,750 Rai, spanning the borders of Phetchabun and Chaiyaphum provinces. The geography mostly consists of complex high mountain ranges that serve as a vital headwater source for several rivers, such as the Pa Sak, Pong, and Loei rivers. Due to the richness of the forest, it is home to diverse wildlife that frequently appears to visitors, including wild elephants, gaurs, sambar deer, barking deer, tigers, Siamese Firebacks, and various rare bird species. Additionally, there are stunning steep cliff views, such as Pha Lom, Pha Kong, and Pha Mat Phrik, which stand majestically to challenge the eyes of travelers.
Must-visit attractions within the park include:
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Thung Kong Wang: A vast grassland that serves as a primary food source for wildlife. You may have the chance to see animals, large and small, grazing amidst the peaceful forest atmosphere. Especially during dawn and dusk, deer and barking deer often come out to feed, making this the best spot to observe natural animal behavior.
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Phu Kho Viewpoint: The most beautiful check-in spot to watch the sunrise. Especially in winter, you will see golden light bathing the vast forest below as far as the eye can see. Furthermore, you can see the peaks of Phu Kradueng and Phu Luang standing prominently in the distance, offering a panoramic view that is difficult to find elsewhere.
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Tham Yai Nam Nao: A massive cave featuring uniquely beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. The highlight is the continuous stream of water flowing from the cave entrance, and it serves as a habitat for hundreds of thousands of bats. The cave has a deep and complex path to explore, along with cool air and high humidity that keep the stalactites looking shimmering and vibrant.
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Tat Phran Ba Waterfall: A waterfall plunging from a cliff about 20 meters high. The water thrusts down into two beautiful tiers amidst lush greenery. The area around the waterfall is covered with moss and ferns on the rocks, creating a refreshing and shady atmosphere perfect for sitting and relaxing.
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Tham Pha Hong Viewpoint: The most beautiful sunset viewpoint, requiring a trek to the mountain peak for a panoramic vista. Inside, there is also a small cave with complex rock niches to explore. As the last light of the day fades, the sky here turns pinkish-orange, contrasting beautifully with the shadows of the limestone mountains.
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Changing Color Forest: A natural phenomenon occurring from December to January. When the deciduous forest changes color from green to yellow, orange, and red, it is as beautiful as a painting from abroad. Tourists will see various gradients of wood colors across the valley, which is the time when photographers most enjoy capturing this miracle.
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Nature Trails: There are a total of 6 routes, including both short and long distances, for tourists to closely experience flora life and wildlife tracks. Each trail has information signs providing knowledge about hill evergreen and pine forest ecosystems, helping hikers gain both adventure fun and natural science knowledge.
Vacationing at Nam Nao is a true way to recharge from nature. Whether it is camping under the stars, breathing in the cold air, or trekking to study biodiversity, this destination meets the needs of both adventurers and those seeking absolute privacy and tranquility.
How to Get There
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Private Car: Use Highway 12 (Lom Sak-Chum Phae route), driving along the scenic mountain road. The park office is located at Kilometer 50 (New KM marker is 415).
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Public Transport: You can take a bus that passes the Lom Sak-Chum Phae route (such as buses to Khon Kaen or Udon Thani) and ask to be dropped off in front of the park entrance.
Travel Tips
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Weather: Prepare warm clothing, as temperatures here are cool year-round and can be extremely cold at night.
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Preparation: If you plan to enter caves or go on long-distance treks, you should have a sufficiently bright flashlight and wear well-fitting sneakers.
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Wildlife: If driving through the park routes, use low speed because wild elephants or other animals may cross the road at any time.
Admission Fee:
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Thai Citizens: Adults 40 THB / Children 20 THB
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Foreign Visitors: Adults 200 THB / Children 100 THB
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Vehicle Fees: Cars 30 THB / Motorcycles 20 THB
Opening Hours:
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Open daily from 08:00 AM – 04:30 PM (Camping areas are accessible at all times).