Huai Sat Yai Cooperative Village Project is situated in the western part of Hua Hin, adjacent to the Tanaosi mountain range and the Pa La-U forest area. The project was established in 1977 B.E. (2520) under the Royal Initiative of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great (Rama IX). Its primary objective was to help impoverished citizens and Karen hill tribe people secure sustainable livelihoods in the form of a cooperative village. This project symbolizes the successful development of life and living standards for residents in the border region.

The crucial objectives in the past included the allocation of land for cultivation in a cooperative structure to solve the problems of shifting cultivation and deforestation in the watershed area. It was also a vital mechanism for maintaining national security and safety along the border during a period of political threats. Although the area was once part of the Khlong Kao-Khlong Khoi National Forest Reserve, it has now transformed into a resilient, self-reliant community under the supervision of the Department of Accelerated Rural Development (at the time).

Today, the project is highly successful in promoting key occupations, particularly dairy farming under the Thai-Denmark Huai Sat Yai Dairy Cooperative, which produces high-quality raw milk. Furthermore, it is known for its famous agriculture, including pineapples, rubber, and the renowned Pa La-U Durian, a specialty fruit of the region. The atmosphere within the community is filled with a simple, peaceful rural lifestyle, serving as a harmonious blend of cultures between local Thai and Karen villagers.

In terms of tourism, the Huai Sat Yai Project is the gateway to Pa La-U Waterfall and connects to Kaeng Krachan National Park, famous as a habitat for wild elephant herds and various wildlife species. Visitors can visit the Chalermkiat Pattana Elephant Watch Tower to observe wild elephants that may come out to feed in the evening, or participate in conservation activities such as building elephant-deterrent fences, thus learning about the coexistence of humans and wildlife.

We invite everyone to experience this great story of development, learn the history under Royal Patronage, and admire the success of the Huai Sat Yai Cooperative Community, while enjoying an ecological tourism experience in the rich forests of Hua Hin.

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How to Get There

Private Car:

• Take Highway No. 3218 (Hua Hin-Nong Phlap), pass Wat Huai Mongkol, then use Highway No. 3219 heading towards Pa La-U Waterfall. The project will be located before reaching the waterfall.

Hired Transport:

• Since the route is quite far from Hua Hin town and lacks direct public transportation, hiring a car with a driver or arranging a Songthaew from Hua Hin is the most convenient option.

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Travel Tips

Best Visiting Time:

• November to February (cool season) offers pleasant weather, ideal for nature sightseeing.

Preparation:

• You should prepare mosquito repellent and shoes suitable for hiking if you plan to visit the waterfall or the elephant watch tower.

Activities:

• If you wish to see wild elephants at the watch tower, you should arrive in the evening (5:00 PM - 6:30 PM) or very early morning.

Food:

• Don't miss trying Pa La-U Durian (if visiting during the fruit season) and the dairy products from the cooperative.

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Admission Fee

• Huai Sat Yai Cooperative Village Project Area: Free

• Note: There may be an entrance fee for nearby attractions such as Kaeng Krachan National Park/Pa La-U Waterfall.

Opening Hours

• Community Area and Cooperative: Open for visits and product purchases during daytime hours (approximately 08:30 AM - 04:30 PM).