7 Unmissable Experiences in
Khao Yai National Park
STORY
See & Do
Just a few hours northeast of Bangkok lies Khao Yai National Park, Thailand’s first national park and one of the most biodiverse in Southeast Asia. This UNESCO World Heritage Site spans lush evergreen forests, expansive grasslands, and misty mountain peaks—home to gibbons, elephants, hornbills, and countless species of flora and fauna. With cool, fresh air all year round and a vast landscape made for adventure, Khao Yai is an ideal destination for anyone seeking nature, challenge, and serenity all in one place.
Whether you're a hiker, a camper, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys dramatic views and the sound of waterfalls, Khao Yai offers a wide variety of experiences. Here are seven things you absolutely shouldn’t miss on your next visit.
Take in the View at
Pha Diao Dai
Known as "Lonely Cliff," Pha Diao Dai is a short, easy trail that ends at a dramatic viewpoint overlooking a vast sea of treetops. Located near the park’s highest point, this cliff is especially magical in the early morning when mists swirl through the valley below. A wooden walkway takes you through the forest, making this spot both serene and accessible.
Cool Off at
Haew Suwat Waterfall
Haew Suwat Waterfall is one of Khao Yai National Park’s most iconic and easily accessible natural attractions. Just a short walk from the parking area, visitors are rewarded with the sight of a 20-meter cascade tumbling into a serene pool below. During the rainy season, the waterfall roars with dramatic power, while in cooler months, it becomes a peaceful spot to relax, dip your feet in the stream, or capture scenic photos.
Test Your Legs at
Haew Narok Waterfall
Haew Narok—literally “Hell Abyss”—is the tallest and most powerful waterfall in the park. To reach it, you’ll walk along a paved path and descend a series of steep stairs into the jungle. The route isn’t technically difficult, but it’s steep enough to get your legs burning. At the end awaits a dramatic 150-meter plunge that’s as wild as it is rewarding—a must for any Khao Yai explorer.
Visit the Grasslands and
Spot Wildlife
Khao Yai isn’t just jungle—it also features wide open grasslands that serve as perfect wildlife observation points. The best places to see animals in the wild are Nong Phak Chi and Mo Singto, where you might encounter wild elephants, sambar deer, hornbills, and even porcupines. These grasslands are surprisingly easy to access, as many of them stretch along both sides of the park’s main road, allowing visitors to enjoy scenic views and spot wildlife without needing to venture deep into the forest. Bring binoculars and visit around dawn or dusk for your best chance to spot the park’s famous residents.
Camping
Under the stars.
There’s nothing quite like falling asleep to the sounds of the jungle. Khao Yai offers well-maintained campsites at Lam Ta Khong and Pha Kluai Mai, where you can pitch a tent, rent sleeping gear, and even grab a hot meal. Facilities are basic but clean, and the night sky, filled with stars and the occasional calls of gibbons, makes the experience unforgettable.
Hike a Nature Trail
Khao Yai has a network of marked nature trails ranging from short 1.5 km loops to longer treks through dense jungle. Each trail offers a different experience, from crossing wooden bridges over clear streams to spotting rare orchids and fungi. Many trails are guided by park rangers, which not only enhances safety but also gives you deeper insights into the ecosystem.
Go Birdwatching
Khao Yai is a paradise for bird lovers, home to over 300 bird species including the majestic great hornbill and several species of hornbills, known locally as “nok gueok” (นกเงือก). Early mornings around the visitor center, Pha Kluai Mai trail, or Khao Khieo viewpoint are perfect for spotting colorful kingfishers, barbets, flycatchers, and these impressive hornbills soaring overhead. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned birder, the rich birdlife here will leave you amazed.