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Khao Yai is one of the most amazing national parks near Bangkok. You can leave behind the city noise and enjoy the green scenery. Whether you want to hike, bike, or just relax, Khao Yai has something for everyone. You Know Thailand is your best guide to finding the perfect hotels, flights, and activities in Khao Yai.
The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the third-largest national park in Thailand, covering over 2,000 square kilometres of diverse landscapes, including forests, waterfalls, and mountainous terrain. Visitors to the park can expect to encounter a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, gibbons, monkeys, and over 300 species of birds. While tigers have been spotted in the park in the past, sightings are rare, but visitors should still exercise caution and be on the lookout for other dangerous animals, including bears.
One of the most popular attractions in Khao Yai is the Haew Narok waterfall, which cascades down over 150 meters and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. But there are plenty of other waterfalls and scenic viewpoints to discover throughout the park, and visitors can enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and birdwatching among other outdoor activities.
Hiking enthusiasts in Thailand. Hiking trails range from easy to challenging and offer scenic views of waterfalls, mountains, forests and grasslands. Some of the highlights include Haew Narok Waterfall, the highest and most impressive waterfall in the park; Pha Diao Dai Cliff, a viewpoint that overlooks a sea of mist; and Khao Lam Wildlife Watching Tower, a platform that allows visitors to observe animals such as elephants, deer and hornbills. Hiking in Khao Yai National Park requires proper preparation and equipment, as well as respect for the natural environment and wildlife. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, bring enough water and snacks, and follow the park rules and regulations. Hiking with a guide is recommended, especially for longer or more difficult trails.
Khao Yai is a region in Thailand that is famous for its vineyards and wineries. The climate and soil of Khao Yai are suitable for growing grapes such as Shiraz, Chenin Blanc, and Tempranillo. The vineyards are located in the scenic hills and valleys of the Khao Yai National Park. The wine industry in Khao Yai started in the 1980s and has grown steadily since then. Some of the well-known wineries in Khao Yai are PB Valley and GranMonte. Visitors can sometimes enjoy wine tasting, tours, and dining at these wineries, as well as explore the natural beauty and wildlife of the park.
A couple of museums in Khao Yai showcase different aspects of its past and present, such as the Khao Yai Art Museum and the Khao Yai National Park Museum. Visiting a museum in Khao Yai is educational, enjoyable, and relaxing. A museum visit is a great way to enrich your Khao Yai experience and discover its hidden gems.
Looking for a satisfying meal after a day of exploring the national park, you might want to check out some of the steakhouses in the area. Like Prime 19 and the Witches Brew Restaurant.
Most food in Khao Yai tends to be more expensive than in other parts of Thailand. However, it is also of high quality.
TRANSPORT
The most convenient and comfortable option from Bangkok is to hire a private car or taxi, which will take about 3 hours to reach the park. This can be quite expensive, though, especially if you're travelling solo.
There is no direct bus between Bangkok and Khao Yai but another option is to take a public bus from Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit) to Pak Chong, which is the town closest to Khao Yai. From there, you can take a taxi or Songthaew (a shared pickup truck) to the park entrance. The journey by bus takes around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic.
If you're on a tight budget, you can also take a train from Bangkok's Hua Lamphong station to Pak Chong. This is a slower and less comfortable option than the bus, but it's also the cheapest. The journey takes around 4-5 hours.
Once you're in Khao Yai, you can hire a motorbike or bicycle to get around the park. Alternatively, you can join a tour group, which will provide transportation and a guide. Some hotels and resorts in the area also offer shuttle services to the park entrance.
No matter which transportation option you choose, be sure to plan and book in advance with the Asian Public Transportation form below, especially during peak season. And don't forget to bring your camera and a sense of adventure!
Or
You might want to consider renting a car from Bangkok. Renting a car can give you more flexibility and convenience to explore. You can choose from different types of vehicles, such as sedans, SUVs, or vans, depending on your needs and preferences. There are many rental agencies available in the city. You will need a valid driver's license and an international driving permit to rent a car in Bangkok. You should also be aware of the traffic rules and regulations in Thailand, as they may (and probably will) differ from your home country.
ACCOMMODATION
Booking.com and Agoda are both run by the same company (Booking Holdings).
However, Agoda has the best price guarantee, so check there first.
There are many different areas to stay in Khao Yai. Here are some of the best options:
- Pak Chong: This is the closest town to Khao Yai National Park, and offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Pak Chong is also a good base for exploring nearby attractions, such as wineries, farms, and markets.
- Mu Si: This is a scenic area near the entrance of Khao Yai National Park, where you can find many boutique hotels and villas surrounded by lush greenery and mountains. Mu Si is ideal for relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of Khao Yai.
- Wang Nam Khiao: This is a rural area in the eastern part of Khao Yai, known for its fresh air and organic farms. Wang Nam Khiao is perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and experience the local culture and cuisine of Khao Yai.
If you're interested in short-term rentals options, villas or vacation homes surrounded by countryside, you should use the form below to look at the ones that are offered in Khao Yai
TOURS
Here are some of the most popular tours:
Wildlife and nature tours: These tours are ideal for nature lovers and those who want to see the park's diverse wildlife up close. They typically involve hiking or jeep safaris through the park, with knowledgeable guides pointing out the different species of birds, mammals, and reptiles along the way. Some tours also include visits to nearby waterfalls and caves.
Trekking tours are also popular in Khao Yai National Park, especially for those who want to explore the park's rugged terrain and get a closer look at its natural beauty.
Wine tours: Khao Yai is also home to several vineyards and wineries, making it a popular destination for wine lovers. Wine tours typically include visits to the vineyards, wine-tasting sessions, and meals paired with local wines.
Ayutthaya
Lop Buri
Nakhon Sawan - Bang Mun Nak
Phitsanulok
Sukhothai
Lampang - Chao Son
Chiang Mai
Driving option: Khao Yai
If you are looking for a memorable and enriching travel experience, you might want to consider customising your own tour to the north of Thailand. This tour will take you on a fascinating journey through the historical and natural wonders of central Thailand, before ending in the lively city of Chiang Mai.
You will begin your tour in Ayutthaya, the former capital of Siam, where you will marvel at the ancient ruins of temples, palaces, and monasteries that testify to the glory of the past. Then, you will travel to Lop Buri, a city with a unique Khmer-style temple and monkeys that live among the locals.
From Lop Buri, you will head to Nakhon Sawan and visit Bang Mun Nak, a town that preserves the traditional wooden architecture and culture of Thailand. You will enjoy the authentic Thai cuisine and hospitality as you explore this quaint town.
Your next destination is Phitsanulok, the birthplace of King Naresuan the Great, one of the most revered monarchs in Thai history. You will visit Wat Maha That, a temple that houses one of the largest Buddha statues in Thailand. Then, you will continue to Sukhothai, the first kingdom of Siam, where you will admire the beautiful ruins of the Sukhothai Historical Park.
After Sukhothai, you will visit Lampang, a town known for its exquisite ceramics and rich heritage. You will learn about the history and culture of this region and see how the locals make their pottery.
Your tour will conclude in Chiang Mai, the cultural capital of northern Thailand. You will explore the vibrant city and its historic temples, as well as enjoy the nightlife and shopping options.
This tour is a perfect way to experience the diversity and beauty of central and northern Thailand. You will discover the amazing history, culture, and nature of this region and create unforgettable memories.
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