Do you want to know the best and most beautiful national parks in Thailand? It becomes obvious how many more amazing spots there are to see in Thailand after tourists leave Bangkok. The country of Southeast Asia is diversified; the southern islands are very different from the places in the northern highlands. Thailand’s national parks rank among the most fascinating destinations to see.
Nearly 20% of the country of Thailand is taken up by the more than 140 national parks that exist there. We have chosen Thailand’s top national parks for you to visit, allowing you to fully appreciate the country’s scenery, animals, and other natural splendors. Here are some of the best national parks in Thailand.
Thailand’s Best National Parks
🏞National Park of Mu Ko Similan
Mu Koh Similan National Park, which spans the eleven Similan Islands in the Andaman Sea. It is an excellent place to go if you want to go diving or snorkeling. Due to its clean seas, abundant marine life, and healthy reef. This national park off the west coast of southern Thailand is a top destination for diving and snorkeling. Beautiful white beaches surrounded by green jungle and granite rocks may be found on the portions of Mu Koh Similan that are located above water. There is also a fantastic night sky here.
🏞National Park of Khao Sam Roi Yot
Thailand’s Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, inside the country’s southern region, is home to the coastline national park known as Khao Sam Roi Yot. The limestone hills that make up the park are referred to as the “mountain with 300 peaks” in Thai by the name Khao Sam Roi Yot.
The park’s total size, which includes the seashore, islands, & inland woodlands, is around 98 sq. km. Several different types of birds, monkeys, and reptiles live there, as well as a wide variety of other plants and animals.
🏞National Park of Thung Salaeng Luang
Visit Thung Salaeng Luang National Park if you want to see a part of Thailand that few people anticipate. This national park, which spans the provinces of Phitsanulok and Phetchabun. It features wide savannas dotted with wildflowers & pine trees and demonstrates that Thailand is much more varied than only its jungles and islands. The most popular activities in this area are trekking and hiking. Park start especially since the park provides some good climbs up into limestone hills.
🏞National Park of Mu Ko Surin
It’s not always necessary to run around viewing everything while hiking or visiting national parks. In the Andaman Sea’s Mu Ko Surin National Park, a collection of protected islands. You may unwind on powder-soft beaches and go snorkeling among a variety of fascinating marine life. Visit Richelieu Rocks, which is regarded as one of the top diving spots in the world. If you’re up for something more strenuous. Magical coral reefs, turtles, and a huge diversity of fish call the waters home.
🏞National Park of Mu Ko Ang Thong
Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park is excellent day trip option for anyone interested in spending time on the sea. The park is only a short distance from well-known Thai islands such as Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. This marine park in the Gulf of Thailand has 42 islands and is a great place for water sports and activities including kayaking, yachting, snorkeling, and diving. There is also a ton to enjoy on the islands themselves, from relaxing on white sand beaches to climbing up to hilltop peaks to take in their breathtaking views.
🏞National Park of Namtok Phlio
Namtok Phlio National Park is extremely well-liked among Thai residents while being one of the less well-known national parks in Thailand to foreign tourists. If you want to chill down, the park’s vibrant foliage, waterfalls, and natural pools are perfect. You may find imposing mountains and ancient religious sites dating back to King Rama V elsewhere within this national park in the Chanthaburi Province.
🏞National Park of Pha Taem
Pha Taem National Park is a wonderful site to visit in Thailand since it provides not only stunning scenery and animals but also a fascinating look into the history of the area. It is located far from many of the parks on this list, close to the Laos border in the province of Ubon Ratchathani.
But what truly distinguishes Pha Taem is the extensive rock art that can be discovered along cliffs along the Mekong River. The artwork, which is said to be 3,000 years old, features intriguing geometric patterns as well as images of everyday tasks like farming and fishing.
🏞National Park of Doi Suthep-Pui
A large number of the mountains & temples that are typical of northern Thailand may be found in Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. These names refer to two mountain peaks in the Chiang Mai province that are part of the park. The Buddhist temples that are built atop both are recognized as sacred sites, especially the beautiful Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. You may experience the rainforests & cloud forests in this national park as you bike or hike your way to the top.
🏞Nam Tha Pom Khlong
Although being one of the less popular national parks on the list, Thailand’s Khlong Song Nam is a terrific place to explore. In a remote section of Krabi Province, this national park is situated far from the popular tourist route across southern Thailand. Due to the lush mangroves and pristine waterways that meander through the park, Khlong Song Nam visitors are in for a treat. To explore the mangroves, you may stroll along a boardwalk.
🏞National Park of Khao Lak-Lam Ru
Every aspect of Thailand’s appeal may be found at Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park. The Phang Nga Province’s shoreline is home to a national park including beaches, woods, mountains, waterfalls, and animals. What more could a person possibly want? The names of the two mountain peaks in Khao Lak-Lam Ru are Khao Lak & Lam Ru. The park’s isolated beaches and the stunning Ton Chong Fa Waterfall, however, are the primary draws.
🏞National Park of Sai Yok
Sai Yok National Park, located in the forests around Kanchanaburi Province, is sometimes disregarded in favor of the region’s more well-known Erawan National Park. Sai Yok, however, provides a more tranquil experience with its walking paths, caverns, and waterfalls—all without the throng of Erawan. On a more somber note, this park is also the site of the remains of the Death Railway, which was constructed during World War II using forced labor under the supervision of the Empire of Japan.
🏞National Park of Khao Yai
The first recognized national park of Thailand was established in the province of Nakhon Ratchasima named Khao Yai. Thailand’s Khao Yai is a great site to watch animals because of the variety of species that lives there, including birds, elephants, & bears. The gorgeous waterfalls in this World Landmark national park outside of Bangkok are another source of joy; one of them served as the backdrop for the waterfall jump sequence in the film The Beach.
🏞National Park of Kaeng Krachan
The biggest national park in Thailand is Kaeng Krachan National Park, which is located in the west of the country and spans an area of more than 2,900 square kilometers. Its location is in the provinces of Phetchaburi & Prachuap Khiri Khan and the wide variety of flora and wildlife that call it home.
🏞National Park of Erawan
Every traveler’s bucket list should include a visit to the National Park, the location of one of Thailand’s greatest waterfalls. However this national park in Kanchanaburi Province, close to the Myanmar border, offers much more. Be certain to explore the park’s four caverns and the hiking paths that wind through its lovely woodlands in addition to a seven-tiered Park Falls, which is also one of the park’s most visited attractions.
🏞National Park of Kui Buri
The Prachuap Khiri Khan Province’s Kui Buri National Park, which is likewise located near the Myanmar border, is most known for its wild elephant sightings. Tours in pickup trucks and 4×4 vehicles are used to travel through the park’s protected areas, and there are designated observation platforms for observing the wild elephants from a distance. The design of this park will gratify visitors looking for ethical animal encounters in Thailand.
🏞National Park of Khao Luang
Khao Luang National Park is the place to go if you want to be surrounded by untainted nature. The park is located in southern Thailand’s Nakhon Si Thammarat Province and features the tallest peak in the region as well as colorful, diversified woods. At Khao Luang National Park, hiking is the most well-liked activity since it enables tourists to experience all of the park’s beautiful waterfalls, streams, & mountain vistas.
The park is home to animals like panthers as well as leopards as well as uncommon plants, including a native orchid. Khao Luang is also renowned for its biodiversity.
🏞National Park of Hat Chao Mai
Thailand is well-known for its islands and beaches, and parts of its coastline, such as Hat Chao Mai National Park, are designated as protected areas. The southernmost province of the nation, Trang, is home to the islands of Ko Kradan, Ko Muk & Ko Cheuk. Visitors may view a variety of rare and endangered land and sea wildlife, like dugongs, sea otters, or pangolins while touring Hat Chao Mai National Park by boat.
🏞National Park of Khao Sok
Visit Khao Sok National Park through Surat Thani Province to see Thailand’s forests at their most primitive. This vast national park in southern Thailand is teeming with jungles and rainforests, some of which are said to be the world’s oldest evergreen rainforests. Other activities available in Khao Sok besides hiking through deep woods include exploring waterfalls and caves, coming face-to-face with elephants, and paddling on Cheow Lan Lake. In addition, the park has unusual lodging choices, such as the lakeside floating cottages.
🏞National Park of Doi Inthanon
Doi Inthanon Park, sometimes known as “The Roof of Thailand,” is one of Thailand’s finest national parks due to the diversity of activities available to visitors. The park is home to Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s tallest peak, and features rough terrain. It is situated in the northern province of Northern Thailand. With its endlessly beautiful scenery, hiking trails, waterfalls, and little towns, the park shows a distinct side of Thailand.
🏞National Park of Ao Phang
The recognizable James Bond Island in the southern Ao Phang Nga National Park of Thailand must be the most well-known and frequently photographed of all the islands in the country. This stunning karst island is only one of 42 karst islands in this marine park, despite how high it is. The islands are a fantastic delight for travelers since they are home to imposing cliffs, gorgeous beaches, enchanting lagoons, and gigantic caverns. Even the secret Koh Panak Cave exists, but it can only be accessed by the sea.
Size of Thailand’s National Parks
Almost 62,000 square kilometers, or over 15 million acres, or about 12% of Thailand’s total land area make up the nation’s national parks. The overall size of national parks, including those that have not yet been included in the Government Gazette, exceeds 71,000 square kilometers, or about 17 million acres, or about 14% of the total land area of the nation.
Kaeng Krachan National Park, with a total area of about 2,900 square kilometers, is the biggest national park. Mae Puem National Park, with a surface area of under 35 square kilometers, is indeed the smallest national park. There is also the Nineteen square kilometer Tham Luang-Khun Nam Nang Non-National Park, although it has not yet been announced in the Government Gazette.
How Thailand Preserve Their National Parks
The government of Thailand has established several national parks to safeguard and preserve the country’s biodiversity, natural resources, and cultural history. Thailand maintains its national parks in the following ways:
👉Creation of National Park Organizations
Thailand’s national parks are managed and preserved by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation (DNP). Each national park has management teams in place overseeing its maintenance and security thanks to the DNP.
👉Preservation of The Natural World
The DNP monitors the national parks often to stop illicit logging, poachers, and hunting. Also, it seeks to preserve the habitats of threatened species.
👉Ecotourism
The DNP encourages ecotourism as a method to bring in money for neighborhood businesses and aid in the preservation of national parks. The environmental effect of ecotourism activities including hiking, camping, and animal viewing is tightly controlled.
👉Awareness and Education
The DNP runs education and awareness projects to make local people and tourists aware of how crucial it is to protect national parks. Moreover, it offers local populations guidance and assistance in promoting sustainable means of subsistence that are harmonious with the preservation of natural resources.
👉Cooperative Conservation Initiatives
To better maintain and preserve national parks, the DNP collaborates with other institutions including universities, NGOs, & international conservation groups. Sharing information, tools, and skills is part of this effort to advance ethical conservation methods.
In general, Thailand uses a mix of law enforcement, community involvement, sustainable tourism, and cooperation with other groups to preserve its national parks. These initiatives aid in preserving Thailand’s biodiversity, natural resources, and cultural history for the next generations.
Visiting Advice for Thailand’s National Parks
Here are some suggestions to help you enjoy your vacation while respecting Thailand’s national parks and their unspoiled natural beauty if you intend to visit any of their parks:
☑️Plan and do Some Research
Do your homework on the location, amenities, and regulations of each national park within Thailand before you go. Entry into the majority of national parks is restricted without permission, which may be obtained either in advance or upon arrival. Verify the weather, the park’s opening and closing times, and any other pertinent information.
☑️Observe the Park’s Guidelines
Thailand’s national parks are subject to laws and regulations to safeguard its resources and natural setting. Camping, littering, feeding animals, and removing animals or plants from the park are all prohibited by these regulations. To keep the park’s stunning scenery intact, abide by the following guidelines.
☑️Hire a Guide
To get about the park as well as learn about the flora, animals, and cultural history, think about hiring a local guide. Also, guides may share information on the finest hiking routes, scenic overlooks, and undiscovered attractions in the park.
☑️Dress Formally
Before visiting a national park, dress comfortably and put on sturdy hiking or walking shoes. Pack a hat, plenty of water, sunscreen, and bug repellent. Observe regional traditions and dress rules, which may call for modest attire and arm and leg covering.
☑️Use the Principles of Leave No Trace
Don’t bother the creatures or the environment by leaving rubbish or waste behind in the park. Reduce the volume of your music and stay away from flash photography, which might startle animals.
☑️Assist Local Communities
By making purchases from local businesses or booking accommodations that are owned locally, you can help the community. This supports locals’ means of subsistence and promotes sustainable tourism.
This advice can help you visit Thailand’s national parks responsibly and with enjoyment while also helping to maintain and protect them.
Things to do in Thailand National Parks
Thailand’s national parks offer a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some things you can do in Thailand’s national parks:
Hiking and Trekking: Many of Thailand’s national parks have trails that lead through forests, mountains, waterfalls, and other scenic spots. These hikes can range from easy walks to more challenging treks, so be sure to choose a route that matches your fitness level and interests.
Wildlife Watching: Thailand’s national parks are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, gibbons, macaques, hornbills, and butterflies. Some national parks offer guided wildlife tours or opportunities for wildlife spotting from observation towers or hides.
Camping: Several of Thailand’s national parks offer camping facilities, allowing visitors to spend a night or two surrounded by nature. Some parks also offer homestays or guesthouses in nearby villages for a more comfortable accommodation option.
Swimming and Water Sports: Many of Thailand’s national parks have rivers, lakes, and waterfalls where visitors can swim, kayak, or go rafting. Be sure to follow park regulations and only swim in designated areas to ensure your safety.
Cultural Sightseeing: Some national parks in Thailand have cultural attractions, such as ancient temples, historic sites, or traditional villages. These attractions provide insights into Thailand’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Photography: Thailand’s national parks offer many opportunities for photography, from stunning landscapes to unique flora and fauna. Remember to be respectful of the park’s rules and wildlife when taking photos.
Overall, Thailand’s national parks offer a range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. Be sure to research each park and its facilities before your visit to ensure you make the most of your time there.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Thailand’s oldest national park?
Khao Yai was created in 1962 and is Thailand’s first national park. It is followed by the 1974-established national parks of Khao Luang and Tarutao.
What is Thailand’s newest national park?
Doi Chong, which opened in 2019, and Than Sadet-Ko Pha-Ngan, which opened in 2018, are the two most recent national parks in Thailand.
Which Thailand national park is the most dangerous?
Although there aren’t many hazardous or tragic encounters in Thailand’s national parks, you should exercise caution. Make sure you are prepared and have travel health advice before going. Also, hiring a tour guide is advisable since you can come across harmful or unfamiliar plant and animal species.
What is the world’s second-largest national park?
The national parks of Zambia. Zambia’s oldest and largest national park in Kafue. The second biggest national park in the world, it spans 22,400 square kilometers and is roughly the size of Wales. It was established in 1950.
Is a trip to Khao Yai National Park worthwhile?
For lovers of nature, Khao Yai National Park is a wonderland. You may take pleasure in hiking while taking in the breathtaking scenery, waterfalls, and local fauna, including gibbons, deer, elephants, and bears. Moreover, there are birds and reptiles.
What Thailand rainforest is the most beautiful?
Southern Thailand’s Khao Sok National Park is a spectacular location. The oldest green rainforest in the world, enormous limestone mountains rising sharply into the air, valleys, stunning lakes, thrilling caverns, and much more are all present there.
Final Thought
The preservation of Thailand’s natural environments and the refuge they offer for endangered species make Thailand’s national parks crucial for conservation efforts. The parks also help local populations’ livelihoods and encourage sustainable tourism. Thailand’s national parks are a great resource for the nation since they provide tourists a chance to engage with nature, discover the country’s rich cultural history, and support conservation efforts. Visit Thailand to experience its beauty. Do you want to know how to prepare for a trip to thailand? Click Here!