Khao Phanom Bencha National Park is one of Thailand’s smallest and most beautiful parks. It is about 20 kilometres from Krabi Town. The park is named after Khao Phanom Bencha, which is the tallest mountain in Krabi Province at 1,397 meters above sea level. It covers 50 square kilometres. The park is famous for its beautiful, untouched rainforest, waterfalls, streams, caves, and many different kinds of animals. It is a nice change from Krabi’s beaches because it has a cool, calm atmosphere where people can hike, swim in natural pools, or just enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.
History of Khao Phanom Bencha National Park
In 1981, Khao Phanom Bencha became a national park. It is now one of the protected areas that protect the last lowland and montane rainforest in Krabi Province. People in the area depended on the mountain and the forests around it for fresh water, fertile land, and places for animals to live. As more people started to use the area, it became more dangerous for the ecosystem, which is why it is now protected by Thailand’s national park system. Past records show that big animals like leopards, Asiatic black bears, and tapirs lived in the area, but most of these species are now thought to be extinct in the area. The park is still very important for protecting biodiversity and encouraging ecotourism.
Things to Do in the Khao Phanom Bencha National Park
The best things to do at Khao Phanom Bencha National Park are:
- Hike to the top of Phanom Bencha : It’s a hard hike, but the views of Krabi city, lush plants, caves, streams, and even a sea of clouds at sunrise are worth it.
- Visit Huay Toe Waterfall : which is only 500 meters from the park office. It has 11 levels and drops of up to 80 meters, as well as natural pools for swimming.
- Go to Huay Sa-Ke Waterfall : It is a three-tiered fall with clear ponds that are great for cooling off after a 1.2-kilometer hike.
- Go birdwatching : look for some of the 120 different kinds of birds that have been seen there, such as white-crowned hornbills, spectacled spiderhunters, and other rare birds.
- Wildlife Spotting: Look out for primates like stump-tailed macaques and white-handed gibbons, which are more common than bigger mammals.
- Take a walk on the Circular Forest Trails : There are easy hikes near the visitor centre that are great for taking in the rainforest’s plants, butterflies, and streams at a leisurely pace.
- Camp Overnight: Rent a tent or bring your own and spend the night in the woods. Wake up to the sounds of nature.
How to Get to the Park?
Take Route 411 north from Krabi Town, then turn right onto Highway 4 and left onto Route 1016. Follow the signs to the park until you get to the checkpoint. The best time to go is from November to March, when the weather is nice and the waterfalls look great. Khao Phanom Bencha National Park is open from 8:30 – 4:30 pm. Adults pay 100 Baht to get in, and kids ages 3 to 14 pay 50 Baht.
Tips before you visit the park
- Wear sturdy shoes when you hike and look at waterfalls because the ground can be slippery.
- Bring sunscreen and bug spray because the forest is humid and shady.
- Bring enough food and water. There is a small restaurant near the visitor centre.
- When it’s rainy, be careful because the currents are strong. Only swim in designated pools.
- Download maps that work without a connection, since the park may not have good cell service.
- If you want to camp overnight, make sure to book your tents ahead of time.
Other Parks to Visit in Phuket
Phuket has some beautiful national parks that are worth the trip.
- Sirinat National Park: it is known for its sandy beaches and the places where sea turtles lay their eggs.
- Ao Phang Nga National Park : is in Phang Nga Province, but it’s easy to get to from Phuket. It’s known for its dramatic limestone karsts and emerald waters.
- Khao Phra Thaeo National Park: is home to Phuket’s last untouched rainforest and has waterfalls like Bang Pae. It’s a great place for hikers.
