National Parks In Thailand

Ao Phang Nga National Park is a renowned marine park in Thailand, known for its dramatic karst islands, bays, limestone cliffs, caves, and hidden lagoons. The park’s iconic "James Bond Island" (Ko Khao Phing Kan) and Ko Tapu Rock attract visitors for their cinematic appeal, while the stilted Muslim village of Ko Panyi offers cultural insight. Kayaking and sea-canoeing are popular ways to explore its mangrove swamps and reach areas inaccessible by larger boats. 

Location: Phang Nga Bay, South Thailand.
Wildlife: Monkeys, flying foxes, various bird species, marine life (coral reefs, sea turtles).

Mu Ko Similan National Park, established in 1982, is a marine park in the Andaman Sea, consisting of eleven islands, with the name 'Similan' derived from the number nine. Known for its incredible diving, snorkeling, and hiking opportunities, the park features crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and a variety of marine life, including sharks, octopuses, and bioluminescent plankton. Nearby Khao Lak offers resort accommodations, making it a convenient base for visitors exploring the park.

Location: Andaman Sea, off the west coast of Thailand, near Phang Nga.
Wildlife: Rich marine life, including manta rays, whale sharks, sea turtles, and numerous fish species.

Khao Sok National Park, established in 1980, is renowned for its lush virgin forests, limestone formations, and the artificial Cheow Lan Lake. It is home to diverse wildlife, including elephants, gibbons, and the rare Rafflesia Kerrii, the world’s largest flower. Visitors can stay in floating safari-style houses on the lake, enjoy boat tours, and explore waterfalls, caves, and streams. The park also features an elephant sanctuary, Elephant Hills, and a floating restaurant for dining.

Location: Surat Thani Province, Southern Thailand.
Wildlife: Elephants, tigers, leopards, gibbons, bears, various birds, and reptiles.

Khao Yai National Park, Thailand's first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, including grasslands and forests, and a wide variety of wildlife, such as elephants, bears, and deer. Established in 1962, it is the third-largest park in the country, offering hiking trails that span 30-40 kilometers. Visitors can explore attractions like the Khao Luk Chang Bat Cave and the Haew Narok Waterfall, one of the tallest in Thailand. For those wishing to extend their stay, the park also offers camping facilities.

Location: Central Thailand, between Nakhon Ratchasima, Saraburi, and Prachinburi.
Wildlife: Elephants, tigers, leopards, bears, gibbons, wild boar, and various bird species.

Erawan National Park, established in 1975, is famous for its stunning Erawan Falls, which feature seven tiers of emerald green waters. The park’s diverse forest cover includes deciduous and evergreen forests, and its unique caves boast stalactites, stalagmites, rock paintings, and ancient coffins. Visitors can enjoy picnicking near the first two waterfall tiers, with wildlife sightings like wild elephants, deer, and various bird species, though animals are more commonly found in the deeper forests. For those looking to explore further, camping and bungalow accommodations are available on-site.

Location: Kanchanaburi Province, Western Thailand.
Wildlife: Tigers, bears, macaques, gibbons, and a variety of reptiles and birds.

Kaeng Krachan National Park, established in 1981, is the largest national park in Thailand, covering a reservoir and extensive rainforest. It is renowned for its rich biodiversity, with over 400 bird species, 300 butterfly species, and a variety of wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and tigers. Popular activities include birdwatching, hiking, and boating, with highlights such as caves, waterfalls, and scenic hilltops. While there are no accommodations, campsites are available for overnight stays, and the park is the source of the Phetchaburi and Pran Buri rivers.

Location: Phetchaburi Province, Western Thailand.
Wildlife: Elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, gibbons, various birds and butterflies.

Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, Thailand's first marine national park, is renowned for its limestone hills and vast freshwater marsh, home to diverse wildlife. The park is famous for the Phraya Nakhon Cave, where sunlight creates a stunning view over a four-gable roofed pavilion. It is a birdwatcher's paradise, with species like waterbirds and songbirds, and is occasionally visited by dolphins. Visitors can explore its unspoiled beaches, mangrove forests, caves, and enjoy boat tours, with options for camping or bungalow stays.

Location: Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, Southern Thailand.
Wildlife: Migratory birds, monkeys, macaques, and various reptiles.

Kui Buri National Park, established in 1999, is renowned as the best place to spot elephants and gaurs in Thailand. The park's open areas provide ample opportunities to see wildlife such as leopards, golden jackals, and langurs, along with a variety of bird species like the crested fireback. Key attractions include the Huai Luek Wildlife Watching Area and the Dong Ma Fai Waterfalls. Visitors can enjoy guided safari tours and stay in available bungalows or tents.

Location: Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, Southern Thailand.
Wildlife: Wild elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, and various bird species.

Doi Inthanon National Park, located in Chiang Mai, is known as "The Roof of Thailand" and is home to the country’s highest peak. The park is a haven for wildlife, including deer, gibbons, and over 350 bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatching. Visitors can explore its cool, cloud-forest climate, with attractions like waterfalls, walking trails, and the two famous stupas built to honor the King and Queen. The park also hosts the annual blooming of the Siamese sakura flowers in January and February, adding a seasonal charm to the landscape.

Location: Chiang Mai Province, Northern Thailand.
Wildlife: Bears, wild boar, macaques, various bird species including pheasants.

Tarutao National Park, established in 1974, comprises 51 islands, including the Tarutao and Adang-Rawi groups, and was named after its main island, 'Pulau Tertua,' meaning 'the island of old.' The park is known for its white-sand beaches, excellent diving and snorkeling spots, and accommodations such as tents and bungalows. Visitors can spot wildlife like civets, hornbills, and king cobras, along with vibrant aquatic life and soft corals. Key attractions include Ko Tarutao, Ko Lipe, Mo Lae Bay, Ao Son Bay, and the iconic arch at Ko Kai.

Location: Satun Province, Southern Thailand.
Wildlife: Marine life such as sea turtles, various species of fish, and birds.

Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, located in Chiang Mai Province, is home to the sacred peaks of Doi Suthep and Doi Pui and covers 265 square kilometers. The park is rich in biodiversity, housing over 300 bird species and 2,000 plant species, and features unused trails that attract mountain bikers from around the world. With a cool climate averaging 20-23°C, it offers visitors a chance to enjoy hiking, waterfalls like Nam Tok Monthathon, and camping. The park also has accommodations, and a 2km trail leads to the summit of Doi Suthep.

Location: Chiang Mai Province, Northern Thailand.
Wildlife: Gibbons, macaques, bears, and various birds including pheasants.

Chet Sao Noi Waterfall National Park, located between Saraburi and Nakhon Ratchasima, is a popular picnic spot for locals, known for its stunning series of seven small waterfalls. The park offers lush greenery, calm swimming pools, and picturesque views, making it an ideal day trip from Saraburi. Though overlooked by foreign tourists, it remains a favorite among locals who enjoy its tranquility and natural beauty. Visitors can also explore unusual banyan trees, sunflower fields, and vineyards, while enjoying food from nearby vendors during their visit.

Location: Kanchanaburi Province, Western Thailand.
Wildlife: Monkeys, birds, and various species of butterflies.

Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park, located in the Gulf of Thailand, is a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, wildlife, and adventure activities. The park covers 102 square kilometers with 42 islands, offering hiking, swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling opportunities. It is home to unique flora like the Thong Lady's Slipper Orchid, over 50 bird species, and various wildlife, including sea turtles and pythons. The park's rugged limestone hills, caves, and inland marine lakes make it a top destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Location: Surat Thani Province, near Koh Samui.
Wildlife: Marine life, sea turtles, coral reefs, and bird species.

Mae Wong National Park, located in the Western Forest Complex of Thailand, is a birdwatcher's paradise with over 450 bird species, including rare ones like the Burmese yuhina and Rufous-necked hornbill. The park, situated in the rugged Dawna Range, spans 894 square kilometers and offers trekking opportunities, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints. Visitors can also enjoy natural hot springs and camping, with the challenging trek to Mount Khao Mojuko's summit as a highlight. The park is well-maintained, with friendly staff, though visitors should bring mosquito repellent for high-altitude birdwatching.

Location: Kamphaeng Phet and Nakhon Sawan Provinces, Central Thailand.
Wildlife: Wild elephants, tigers, leopards, and various bird species.

Mu Ko Lanta National Park, established in 1990, is a marine park in Krabi Province, covering 134 sq km and consisting of several islands, including Ko Lanta Noi and Ko Lanta Yai. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including mangrove forests, coral reefs, and a variety of animals, with Ko Lanta Yai also hosting the Chao Ley sea gypsies. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, snorkeling, and scuba diving, with highlights including twin beaches, caves, and a scenic lighthouse. However, some islands like Ko Rok Nai and Ko Rok Nok are closed from May to October for conservation.

Location: Krabi Province, Southern Thailand.
Wildlife: Monkeys, sea turtles, and various marine life including coral reefs.

Huai Yang Waterfall National Park, located in the Tanao Sri Mountain Ranges near the Myanmar border, is known for its stunning waterfalls, including the seven-tier Huai Yang Waterfall. The park is home to diverse wildlife such as Indochinese serows, leopards, and gibbons, and features several other waterfalls like Kha Aon and Khao Lan. It has an evergreen forest and offers limited accommodation with two bungalows, a campsite, a restaurant, and a souvenir shop. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities in this tranquil setting with basic amenities available for a comfortable stay.

Location: Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, Southern Thailand.
Wildlife: Serow, wild boar, gibbons, porcupines, and other mammals.

Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, located in Amphur Mae Rim, is named after a hermit who meditated there thousands of years ago. The park covers 261.06 square kilometers and features attractions like the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple, several waterfalls, and caves. With its pleasant climate, the park is known for mountain biking, cycling, and camping, while its evergreen and deciduous forests provide stunning landscapes. Accommodation options, including bungalows, are available, and the park is also home to the Bhubing Palace and Yod Doi Pui Campsite.

Location: Chiang Mai Province, Northern Thailand.
Wildlife: Gibbons, macaques, bears, various birds including pheasants and hornbills.

Mu Ko Lanta National Park, established in 1990, encompasses 16 islands, with Ko Lanta Noi and Ko Lanta Yai being the largest. The park is renowned for its beautiful white sand beaches, mangrove forests, and abundant marine life, making it a prime destination for diving. Visitors can explore caves, a scenic lighthouse, and enjoy camping at Ko Rok Noi with prior permission. The park offers tent rentals and bungalows for accommodation, providing a tranquil retreat amidst the natural beauty of the Andaman Sea.

Location: Amphoe Ko Lanta District of Krabi in Thailand.
Wildlife: Monkeys, sea turtles, and various marine life including coral reefs.

Huai Yang Waterfall National Park, located in the Tanao Sri Ranges of Thap Sakae, spans 161 sq. km and is a vital watershed. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including serow, wild boar, and gibbons, and features the seven-tier Huai Yang Waterfall along with other smaller waterfalls. Visitors can enjoy accommodation in bungalows and explore attractions like Khao Luang Mountain and Manao Bay. The park is perfect for relaxing walks, swimming, and taking in the scenic views, with an open schedule from 8 am to 4:30 pm.

Location: Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, Southern Thailand.
Wildlife: Serow, wild boar, gibbons, porcupines, and various other mammals and bird species.

Phang Nga Bay, also known as Ao Phangnga locally, is situated in the Strait of Malacca, lying in between the Malay peninsula of Thailand and the island of Phuket. Spread over 400 square miles, it is a picturesque location that sees a heavy rush of tourists all the year round. The Phang Nga Bay contains numerous archeological sites of limestone caves and cliffs that are showcased as a part of sightseeing tours. The stunning site consists of 42 islands located within the shallow sea water and is well known for its mangrove forests, beds of seagrass, and numerous species of flora and fauna including the endangered Malaysian plover.

Location: Phang Nga Bay, Southern Thailand.
Wildlife: Monkeys, flying foxes, various bird species, marine life including sea turtles, and coral reefs.