Tham Pha Thai National Park is an important natural attraction in Lampang Province, covering areas in Mueang Lampang, Chae Hom, and Ngao districts. The park covers approximately 758,750 rai (about 1,214 square kilometers). The area was previously part of several national reserved forests such as Mae Ngao Right Bank Forest, Mae Pong Forest, Khun Wang Forest, Mae Chae Fa Forest, Mae Moh Forest, Mae Ta Forest, Mae Mai Forest, Mae Yang Forest, and Mae Ang Forest. These forests are rich in biodiversity and serve as important watershed areas for the Wang River and Ngao River.

Tham Pha Thai Cave

The main highlight of the park is Tham Pha Thai Cave, a large limestone cave with spacious chambers and high ceilings. Inside the cave, pathways and lighting systems allow visitors to explore the impressive formations of stalactites and stalagmites that have developed naturally over thousands of years. Many formations resemble stone curtains, pillars, and hanging chandeliers, creating a spectacular underground landscape.

Inside the cave stands a sacred Buddha image where visitors often stop to pay respect. Another significant highlight is the royal monogram “P.P.R.” of King Rama VII, engraved on the cave wall during his royal visit in 1926, which adds historical importance to this natural site.

Attractions within the National Park

Besides Tham Pha Thai Cave, the national park features several other interesting natural attractions, including:

• Lom Phu Khiao – an emerald-green sinkhole lake surrounded by mountains

• Tham Chon (Bandit Cave)

• Tham Ratchakhruet Cave

• Tat Moei Waterfall

• Huai Tat Noi Waterfall

• Mae San Waterfall

• Mae Kae Waterfall

Nearby attractions also include:

• Kiu Lom Reservoir

• Huai Mae Phlueng area

• The Elephant Training Center of the Forest Industry Organization

Wildlife and Ecosystem

The park’s forests remain rich and fertile, providing habitat for many wildlife species. Large colonies of bats live inside Tham Pha Thai Cave, and visitors can sometimes witness thousands of bats flying out of the cave at dusk, creating a fascinating natural spectacle.

Activities

Visitors can enjoy the park all year round and take part in various outdoor activities such as:

• Picnicking in nature

• Visiting waterfalls

• Nature trekking

• Wildlife watching

• Cave exploration

Tham Pha Thai National Park is therefore an excellent destination for travelers seeking both natural beauty and historical significance in Lampang Province.

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How to Get There

• By Car: Tham Pha Thai National Park is located along Phahonyothin Road (Highway No. 1) at kilometer markers 665–666 approximate distances about 65 kilometers from Lampang city about 15 kilometers from Ngao District The entrance is located directly along the main road, making it easy and convenient to access.

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Travel Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes with good grip, as the cave floor can be damp.

• Some sections inside the cave include stairs; walk carefully.

• The recommended visiting time is 09:00 – 15:30.

• To see bats flying out of the cave, visit during dusk before sunset.

• You can combine your trip with visits to Kiu Lom Reservoir and attractions in Ngao District.

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Admission Fee:

• Thai Visitors Adults: 20 THB /Children: 10 THB

• Foreign Visitors Adults: 100 THB / Children: 50 THB

(Fees may change according to the Department of National Parks regulations.)

Opening Hours:

• Open daily 08:30 – 16:30 PM