Phu Khiao Wildlife Sanctuary is a vast forest area in Chaiyaphum Province, covering more than 1.5 million rai and forming part of the Dong Phayayen–Khao Yai Forest Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The landscape consists of limestone mountains, high plateaus, and valleys, with elevations ranging from approximately 800 to 1,000 meters above sea level. This varied topography creates diverse microclimates, resulting in generally cool and pleasant weather throughout the year.The sanctuary contains a wide range of forest ecosystems, including dry evergreen forest, hill evergreen forest, dry dipterocarp forest, and pine forest. These ecosystems are distributed according to altitude and soil conditions, supporting exceptionally high biodiversity of both flora and fauna in a well-balanced ecological system.

Phu Khiao Wildlife Sanctuary is an important habitat for many rare and endangered species, such as Eld’s deer, barking deer, serow, and marbled cat, as well as various bird species including the Siamese fireback and certain hornbills. The ecosystem is highly intact, with complete food chains from primary producers to top predators and decomposers.The area is also the source of major river systems in northeastern Thailand, including the Chi River and the Phrom River. These watersheds play a crucial role in supporting surrounding agriculture and local communities by maintaining moisture, reducing flood risks, and sustaining long-term water balance.

One of the key highlights is Thung Kramang, a large natural grassland developed under royal initiative as a food source for wildlife. It is a unique open habitat within the forest where herds of Eld’s deer and barking deer can often be seen grazing, especially in the early morning and late afternoon when mist covers the landscape, creating a distinctive scenic atmosphere.In terms of conservation, Phu Khiao serves as an important national site for wildlife breeding, rehabilitation, and reintroduction into natural habitats, as well as a research area for biodiversity and ecosystem management.However, as this is a wildlife sanctuary rather than a national park, strict regulations are enforced. Visitors are required to obtain prior permission and strictly follow conservation rules to avoid disturbing wildlife and to help maintain the ecological balance of the area.

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How to Get There

• By car: From Chaiyaphum city, take Highway 201 to Khon San District, then continue onto Highway 12 (Chum Phae–Lom Sak). Turn into the Phu Khiao Wildlife Sanctuary area via the route toward Chulabhorn Dam, and drive on until reaching the Thung Kramang checkpoint. The total distance is approximately 130 kilometers.

• By public transport: Take a bus on the Bangkok–Chum Phae or Chaiyaphum–Chum Phae route and get off at Khon San District. Then hire a local vehicle (pickup truck or songthaew) to enter the sanctuary, as there is no direct public transport into the area.

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Travel Tips

• Prior permission is required 15–30 days in advance.

• Best visiting period is October–January, when the weather is cool and wildlife is more active.

• Do not make loud noises, do not feed wildlife, and do not litter plastic waste.

• Bring warm clothing, insect repellent, and essential supplies suitable for forest travel.

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Admission Fee:

• Thai adults: 20 THB / Children: 10 THB

• Foreign adults: 200 THB / Children: 100 THB

• Car: 30 THB / Motorcycle: 20 THB

• (Fees may be subject to change according to Department of National Parks regulations.)

Opening Hours:

• Open daily: 08:00 – 16:00

• Entry and exit are not allowed after 16:00 for safety reasons due to nocturnal wildlife activity.