Khao Luang Summit is part of Khao Luang National Park, often referred to as the “green roof of Southern Thailand.” The park covers a vast and complex mountain range running parallel to the eastern coastline, allowing it to receive monsoon influences from both sides. With an elevation of 1,835 meters, Khao Luang has long served as an important landmark for travelers by land and sea.

One of the park’s most remarkable features is its exceptionally well-preserved tropical rainforest, with annual rainfall averaging approximately 3,500–4,000 millimeters. Along the trekking route, hikers encounter Mahasadam, an ancient tree fern species with tall trunks resembling coconut palms. The area is also home to rare wild orchids such as the yellow fan-leaved Singto orchid and vibrant red rhododendrons that bloom in higher elevations.

Trekking to Khao Luang Summit is considered a high-level challenge, as the trail is steep, slippery, and often requires navigating through dense undergrowth. The most popular route begins at Kiriwong Village, offering the richest rainforest scenery along the ascent. The journey typically takes at least three days and two nights and must be accompanied by national park officers or licensed local guides.

At the summit, there is a small camping area, though most trekkers prefer using hammocks due to limited and sloped terrain. In the early morning, the peak is often blanketed by a vast sea of mist, with temperatures occasionally dropping to single digits. Beyond its scenic beauty, Khao Luang is also the source of major rivers such as the Tapi River, Pak Phanang River, and Khlong Krung Ching.

The ecosystem supports diverse wildlife including serow, tapir, barking deer, and rare forest birds. To protect this fragile environment, the national park strictly limits the number of visitors allowed to reach the summit. Every step along the trail offers lessons from nature beyond any classroom, and the physical challenge is rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views at the top.

Khao Luang Summit is more than a travel destination—it is a true test of physical and mental endurance. For adventure seekers, it represents the ultimate rainforest experience in Southern Thailand, a place where silence, wilderness, and natural power continue to call explorers back time and again.

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How to Get There

• By car: From Nakhon Si Thammarat city, take Highway 4015 toward Lan Saka District. Head to Kiriwong Village or the Khao Luang National Park headquarters (Karoam Waterfall) to register and prepare for the trek.

• By public transport: Take a shared minibus on the Nakhon Si Thammarat–Kiriwong route from Talad Yao Market. Get off at Kiriwong Village, the main trekking starting point, or request to stop at Si Yaek Nok Tha junction and continue by motorcycle taxi to the guide meeting point.

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Travel Tips

• Advance booking with the national park or local Kiriwong guide groups is required at least 15–30 days ahead due to visitor limits.

• The best trekking season is January to September, avoiding the peak rainy months of November–December.

• Use high-grip trekking shoes, rain protection, leech guards, and a fully waterproof sleeping bag.

• A hammock is recommended over tents due to steep and humid camping areas.

• Natural water sources are available, but carry a personal bottle and water purification tablets if needed.

• Hiring porters is recommended to help carry shared gear and prepare meals on steep sections.

• All trash must be carried back down in strict accordance with park regulations.

• Physical preparation is essential, as the trail involves long and continuous uphill climbs.

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Admission Fee:

National park entrance fee

• Thai nationals: Adults 40 THB / Children 20 THB

• Foreigners: Adults 200 THB / Children 100 THB

(Guide and porter fees are not included and typically range from 1,500–2,500 THB per person for a 3-day trek.)

Opening Information:

• Long-distance trekking must be registered during office hours (08:30 – 16:30). Summit access is available only according to scheduled trekking periods approved by the park.