Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park

Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, Hua Hin Overview

Khao Sam Roi Yot is the very first marine national park of Thailand located near the southwestern coast of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. With Hua Hin in its proximity, this National Park is a nature lover’s paradise. Also known as ‘the mountain with 3 hundred peaks’, this place is blessed with different ecosystems making it a likeable tourist attraction.

The protected national park has a range of limestone hills, cave explorations, offshore islands freshwater marshlands and coastal white sand beaches along the Gulf of Thailand. Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park is home to a diverse species of birds and mammals. There are over 316 different species of birds out of which half are migratory and more than 50 species of mammals here. Since the National Park covers a very large area, it can be explored by a car or on a scooter. It can be truly called Hua Hui’s best-kept secret because every few metres be prepared to unveil something mesmerising.

Best Time to Visit Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park

Although Khao Sam Roi Yot is open all year long like any other national park, winter might be the best time to visit owing to the abundance of migratory birds during this time of the year. December is definitely the best period to visit the park. If looking forward to extensive outdoor activities, avoid the monsoon from June to October.

Sightseeing at Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park

1. Phraya Nakhon Cave

This cave is one of the main attractions in the park consisting of two sinkholes. There are four gable roofed iconic pavilions called Thinang, Khuha, Phra and Kharuha here. The trail to this cave from Laem Sala Beach might be slippery in monsoons but it be will extremely adventurous.

2. Thung Sam Roi Yot Freshwater Marsh

On the northwest corner of the National Park is the largest freshwater marsh of Thailand. Thung Sam Roi Yot is home to many water birds, amphibians and numerous wetland species. There is also a camping area beside the visitor centre. One can also enjoy a walk on the boardwalk over this freshwater marsh with a great view.

3. Kaeo Cave

This stunning cave with giant chambers is located 16 km from the main headquarters. The whole cave is covered in stalagmites and stalactites that might make discovering the interiors of the cave a tad difficult. It takes approximately 25 to 30 mins to walk through the cave.

4. Khao Daeng Canal and Viewpoint

While in the Khao Daeng village, one can ride a boat through the mangrove forest. This canal offers the best view during sunset and it can take about an hour to see all the scenic surroundings. The Khao Daeng Viewpoint that provides an awe-inspiring view is just 700 meters away from the headquarters. One will spot many macaques and birds while from the hilltop. The trail to the top of this hill is a bit rocky and steep, so it might not be suitable for someone who doesn’t have much experience in trekking.

5. Sai Cave

Located 9 km from the headquarters, Sam Cave is nested in a lush green area of Tanot. Filled with stalagmites and stalactites, the trail to this cave is a great adventure.

Things to Do at Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park

1. Bird watching

This National Park is one of the most remarkable birding destinations with over 300 various species of birds. Different species of eagles, falcons and heron can be spotted here. Malayan plover, Purple swamp hen, white-bellied sea eagle, Kentish Plover, greater spotted eagle, eastern marsh harrier, spoon-billed sandpiper are a few common bird species found here. Most migratory birds can be spotted in the colder months. This is the only place to spot a water bird around January to March.

2. Wildlife Spotting

One can spot many mammals throughout the dense mangrove forest. While on a trek uphill or along a rocky trail look out for barking deer, dusky leaf monkey and crab eating macaque. The mountains around the park are a natural habitat for rare mammals like Malayan porcupine, mainland Serow, Loris and Malayan pangolin. Other unique and enthralling species include the fishing cat, wild boar, Indochinese serow and Asian palm civet. One can always spot Dolphins at the coastal region in this area.

3. Cycling

Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park is a stunning place to explore on a bike owing to the amazing scenery and long lush green trails. The national park is mostly flat with a little elevation. However, the rocky trails can be a great place to enjoy some off the road kind of mountain biking.

4. Camping

The most fun outdoor activity at the park will be camping at one of the beaches. Most of the beaches in the vicinity are quiet and not so crowded, so spending a night or two at the beach in a tent can be lots of fun.