Khao Yai National Park in Thailand

Backpacks on and off into the jungle! Khao Yai National Park in Thailand is considered a true paradise for hikers and backpackers. It is also one of the oldest and largest parks in the country. Let yourself be enchanted by gigantic waterfalls, the deepest Asian jungles, and the fascinating wildlife and plant life of Thailand!

Waterfalls | Wild Elephants

Guided Hikes

Temperatures | Tickets and Offers

Are you true adventurers looking for the ultimate jungle experience? Khao Yai National Park offers a stunning landscape and diverse forests, making it the perfect vacation destination for those who crave variety. Whether fields, mountains, dry forests, mystical misty forests, or the thickest rainforest-on a tour through Khao Yai National Park, you will certainly not get bored! Grab a tent and camp at one of the two park campgrounds, or book a few days in a hotel, as there is plenty to discover here.

Breathtaking waterfalls, tropical flora, and wildlife are all part of what Khao Yai National Park has to offer. The area is the source of five different rivers, allowing tourists to admire several waterfalls. Particularly impressive is the Haew Narok waterfall, which boasts a drop of a staggering 80 meters. But the Namtok Sarika waterfall is definitely worth a visit, especially for those who dare to jump into the cool waters and swim in the adjoining lake. This waterfall is located in the nearly 900-year-old city of Nakhon Nayok. The Haew Suwat waterfall is truly famous; it is about 8 kilometers east of the visitor center and has been a Hollywood filming location. In 2000, none other than Leonardo DiCaprio jumped from this 20-meter-high waterfall in his movie 'The Beach.' From March to May, the lake at the foot of Haew Suwat waterfall is surrounded by wild orchids-a must-see for true nature lovers!

The wildlife is incredibly rich and diverse, even by Thai standards. The region is known for its free-roaming wild elephants, with about 300 calling Khao Yai National Park their home. These large animals are among the park's absolute highlights, as one can experience so many of them in the wild up close. They share their habitat with several endangered species such as the Indonesian tiger and Southeast Asian bantengs. About 390 different bird species, including the exotic hornbills, can be found in the park. While exploring Khao Yai National Park, you might even encounter monkeys, deer, black bears, or leopards.

If you want to go on a safari, you can participate in an organized tour and take a hike through the impressive scenery. A total of 50 marked trails with various difficulty levels are available for exploring the park. Private tours are highly recommended, as the signage for various routes can be lacking. If you prefer to be safe and not get lost, let a local guide lead you through the jungle while collecting valuable and interesting insider tips. Due to an incident last year involving an elephant and several damaged vehicles, cars are only allowed in the park from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Naturally, vehicles already in the park before six a.m. are exempt from this rule and can exit later.

Is the mountainous terrain your thing, and do you effortlessly conquer every peak? Then head to the top of the highest mountain in the region, Khao Rom, which stands at 1,351 meters, or climb Khao Lam or Khao Keaw. On clear days, especially during the rainy season, the view from the top of the rainforest and the massive area of Khao Yai Park is breathtaking. The trails 4 and 11 of the so-called 'Pink Trails' also offer stunning views over the jungle. The hike takes about 30 minutes and is especially worth it as an introductory route for beginners.

So when is the best time to visit Thailand's oldest national park? The area in the southeast of the country is known for its pleasant temperatures. In contrast to the sometimes oppressive heat in the coastal regions around the megacity Bangkok, the average here is 23 degrees Celsius. The coolest months are from November to February, so you definitely want to pack a thick jacket! It gets really hot in Khao Yai National Park from March to April, when temperatures can soar to a full 35 degrees. The rainy season from May to October is particularly recommended for those wishing to admire the waterfalls at full volume-a breathtaking sight! Since the park was established more than fifty years ago, it enjoys considerable fame. Locals enjoy the wild nature in the seemingly untouched jungle just as much as tourists from around the world. Naturally, it can get quite busy during peak season, especially during international holiday times, so it is advisable to visit during the week or outside of peak season!

So, are you excited about visiting Thailand's most beautiful national park? A trip to this extraordinary slice of earth will definitely be an experience you won't forget anytime soon.

You can get tickets for entry, transfers, and guided tours through Khao Yai National Park directly here:

If you're considering a tour in Thailand, you can find out about the most beautiful beaches and islands here.

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