Nam Phong Arboretum, or more popularly referred to by its vernacular name "Soke Tae," is a premier botanical conservation site located within the Khok Luang National Reserved Forest in Khon Kaen Province. Spanning approximately 1,000 rai (about 400 acres), the arboretum operates under the jurisdiction of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation. It was established with the primary mission of collecting, studying, and preserving the genetic diversity of flora native to the Dry Dipterocarp and Mixed Deciduous forest ecosystems of the Khorat Plateau.

The geological significance of "Soke Tae" is the centerpiece of its identity. In the local Isan dialect, "Soke" refers to a gully or water-eroded channel, while "Tae" is derived from the Sindora siamensis (Makha Tae) trees that thrive here. Geologically, the site is a vast sandstone platform belonging to the Khorat Group, shaped over millions of years by tectonic uplift and the relentless force of seasonal monsoons. This has resulted in a spectacular landscape of winding crevices, deep stone gullies, and weathered rock formations. During the rainy season, the area transforms into a lush oasis with water cascading through the stone channels, whereas the dry season reveals the intricate sedimentary layers and textures of the ancient sandstone.

Biologically, the arboretum serves as a critical gene bank for high-value and endangered timber species. It houses significant populations of Siamese Rosewood (Dalbergia cochinchinensis), Burmese Padauk, Xylia xylocarpa (Daeng), and its namesakes, the Makha Tae and Makha Mong trees. The nature trails are meticulously designed to guide visitors through shifting plant communities—from moist lowland pockets to arid sandstone ridges where drought-resistant species and carnivorous plants, such as Nepenthes (tropical pitcher plants), can occasionally be spotted.

Furthermore, Nam Phong Arboretum has evolved into a comprehensive Environmental Education Center. It provides educational outreach regarding forest life cycles, silviculture, and sustainable resource management. The facility is strategically zoned to include a wildflower garden, multipurpose grounds for youth conservation camps, and several rest areas. From certain elevated vantages, visitors can catch glimpses of the forest canopy extending toward the distant horizons of the Nam Phong Reservoir. Consequently, Soke Tae is much more than a scenic picnic spot; it is one of Central Northeast Thailand’s most vital outdoor classrooms, offering a profound look into the intersection of geology and botany.

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How to Get There

• From Khon Kaen city center, take the bypass road or the route towards Nam Phong District (Highway 209 Khon Kaen-Kalasin). Turn onto Highway 2183 towards Khok Si Subdistrict. There are clear signs along the way. The distance from the city center is approximately 20-25 kilometers.

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Travel Tips

• Bring insect repellent if you plan to hike on the nature trails.

• The best time to visit is at the end of the rainy season and the beginning of winter, as the trees are lush and the weather isn't too hot.

• Please keep the area clean and take your trash with you to protect the environment.

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Admission Fees:

• Free Admission. There is no entry fee for either Thai or foreign visitors.

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 08:30 AM to 04:30 PM (including public holidays).

• Note: For group visits, educational field trips, or camping activities, it is recommended to contact the authorities in advance during official working hours.