Phu Kao-Phu Phan Kham National Park is located in Non Sang District, Nong Bua Lamphu Province, and Ubolratana District, Khon Kaen Province. It covers a total area of 322 square kilometers, or approximately 201,250 rai, and was declared a national park on September 20, 1975. The park is divided into two main areas: Phu Kao and Phu Phan Kham.

Phu Kao consists of nine mountains: Phu Fang, Phu Khum Poon, Phu Han, Phu Moei, Phu Kho Mo, Phu Chan, Phu Pro, Phu Luak, and Phu Wat. The terrain is complex, resembling an overturned pan with a plain in the center. This area is believed to be either the remnants of an ancient volcano that went extinct hundreds of millions of years ago or the result of tectonic uplift forming the surrounding mountain ridges.

Phu Phan Kham is a long mountain range within the Phu Phan Mountains, extending northeast to southwest. The southwestern part of the range forms a lowland basin in the Phong River valley, which became a lake after the construction of Ubolratana Dam, now part of the national park.

Geologically, the park consists of sandstone mountains, with sandstone layers on the surface and shale or sandy shale as the base. The soil is primarily sandy loam and lateritic soil, scattered across the area. The forest is mainly dry dipterocarp and mixed deciduous forest, with leaves changing color in early November. The park headquarters is located on Phu Phan Kham, overlooking the lake above Ubolratana Dam, offering particularly beautiful scenery at sunset. The headquarters also has facilities for camping.

Notable attractions within the park include prehistoric remains from the Ban Chiang period, such as cave paintings and rock carvings, dinosaur footprints believed to be similar to those found in Phu Wiang District, and a pavilion on a hilltop called the “Heaven Tower” for scenic views. Wat Phra Phutthabat Phu Kao features large human and dog footprints carved into rock, connected to the local folktale “Phra Suprom Vimoha and the Nine-Tailed Dog.” The park also contains caves such as Phla Hai Cave, which has handprints and human carvings, as well as Moom Cave and Ajarn Sim Cave, all containing prehistoric paintings and carvings.

Phu Kao-Phu Phan Kham National Park serves as a natural tourist destination, a center for learning about history and geology, and a peaceful retreat for visitors. It is ideal for those interested in nature, conservation, and enjoying the scenic landscapes of northeastern Thailand.

• By private car: From Khon Kaen, take the road toward Ubolratana Dam, then continue toward Non Sang District for about 7 km to reach the park headquarters. From Nong Bua Lamphu, take Highway 2146 toward Non Sang, then turn left at Ban Sok Jan intersection and continue for 14 km to reach the park.

• By public transport: Buses run from Ubolratana Dam to Non Sang District, then local transport such as songthaews or motorbike taxis can reach the park.

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and hiking.

• Bring drinking water, hats, and sun protection for daytime visits.

• Respect the natural environment and maintain quiet in forested areas.

• Take time to observe signs and information boards to learn about the park’s geology, history, and wildlife.

• Camping is allowed in designated areas; check with park staff for facilities.

Admission Fee

• Thai visitors: Adults 20 THB, Children 10 THB
• Foreign visitors: Adults 100 THB, Children 50 THB

Opening Hours

• Open daily 08:30 – 16:30