Did you know that Khao Yai National Park is the third largest national park in Thailand. Yes it is the largest national park where you will find tourists from all across the world. Located mainly in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Khao Yai extends into Prachinburi, Saraburi and Nakhon Nayok provinces. It is spread across 2,168 km², it covers the evergreen forest and grassland. It is the home for 3000 species of plants, 66 species of mammals such as Indian elephant, gaur, gibbon, deer and 320 species of birds such as red junglefowl and coral-billed ground cuckoo. Thus it also attracts a lot of bird watchers from all across the world.
In this article we will cover the topics about history and background about the Chet Sao Noi National Park, what you can see and do, how to reach, best time to visit, opening and closing hours, some tips before you visit the place, entry fees and other parks to visit nearby.
What to do & see in the Khao Yai National Park?
There are a number of activities that one can do in the Khao Yai National Park such as:
1. Hiking
Yes, it is a famous spot for nature hiking. Some trails are easy while others are challenging, but you will definitely have a good time and leave the place with a smile on your face.
2. Birdwatching
As you know that the place already has 320 unique species of birds, so it naturally attracts all the bird watchers all across the world.
3. Night safari
You can also stay overnight in the place and enjoy the night safari. You can watch the nocturnal wildlife like civets, porcupines, and owls who are the night animals. Not only that at night you will be able to peacefully explore the park as it is quite big and requires a day time to be explored.
4. Appreciate the Waterfall
Here you will find the Haew Narok Waterfall and Haew Suwat Waterfall. Do not miss the chance to get beautiful pictures with the scenic and beautiful waterfalls which are for sure to steal your heart.
5. Explore the Wildlife
As you know it has the best of animals that you have chances to see like the deer, elephants, gibbons and bears. Apart from these also you will find a lot of endangered species to explore.
How to reach Khao Yai National Park?
To reach Khao Yai National Park take the North-eastern line (Bangkok-Pak Chong) and get off at Pak Chong station in Nakhon Ratchasima province. From there take a songthaew bus from Pak Chong Market to Khao Yai National Park. You will reach the destination.
Best Time to Visit Khao Yai National Park
The best time to visit Khao Yai National Park would be from November – February when the weather is pleasant and not so hot. There is less rainfall which makes it a perfect spot for outdoor hiking and trekking. It is the best time to explore the scenic waterfall.
It is best to avoid traveling during the rainy season i.e from May – October as you will miss out on outdoor activities. This will also make your trip less comfortable and more tiring due to higher temperature and humidity.
Opening and closing hours
The Khao Yai National Park is open from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm everyday. It would be best to visit the place during the morning time to avoid the crowd and also enjoy the cool breeze.
Some tips before you visit the park
- Check if your vehicle is in good condition
- Have the emergency contact numbers handy and also know about the regulations of the park
- Carry some warm clothes with you as it can get cooler at night
- Do not smoke in the park as it is not allowed’
- Do not forget to carry your camera
- Do not litter the park
Entry fees
Yes, there is an entry fee to enter the Khao Yai National Park. Foreigners need to pay THB 200 per person with an additional charge for the vehicle of THB 30. For the locals the charge is THB 40 for the Thai residents.
History of Khao Yai National Park
In 1922, the locals found a community in the Sankamphaeng mountains. The area was known as Tambon Khao Yai. Later due to the increase in the criminal activity and the remoteness of the area, the community was demolished. In 1932 the villagers were relocated to the plain area. In 1959 the prime minister, Field Marshal Sarit Thanarat instructed the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of the Interior to create national parks. On 18th September 1962 Khao Yai National Park was established. Conservationist Boonsong Lekakul played a key role in its creation.
Other Parks in Bangkok to Visit
There are other famous parks in Bangkok apart from the Khao Yai National Park such as:
Chet Sao Noi National Park
Located between Saraburi and Nakhon Ratchasima provinces, it is a small beautiful waterfall. Namtok Muak Lek and Chet Sao Noi National Park are both located on the same route. The waterfall has seven layers and each layer is about 4 meters in height.
Bang Kachao
Situated in the south of the city in Phra Pradaeng District of Samut Prakan Province, it is also known as the “green lung of Bangkok”. Spread across 16 acres of land, it was traditionally used for agricultural purposes. Today it is a scenic site visited by tourists from all over the world.
Lumphini Park
It is the first public park in Bangkok which is also used for parties and ballroom dancing. It is a popular multifunctional park among all kinds of people who come to the park to do outdoor leisure activities, sing, dance, listen to music, exercise, do tai chi and read books in the library.You will discover abundance of flora and fauna and a beautiful lake that will leave you in awe of the park.
Bamboo Tree Tunnel
It offers great adventure for the tourist and is visited by the tourist throughout the year. It forms a tunnel-like impression as it has tall bamboo trees laid out on both the sides of the road. This will leave you awestruck with its natural beauty. Do not forget to take a lot of beautiful pictures because you will not get to see the same spot like this elsewhere.
Benchakitti Park
If you want an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city then you should visit Benchakitti Park. Located in the Khlong Toei District of Bangkok, Thailand, it is a public park. It is one of the popular destinations for outdoor activities and having fun. It is popular among the locals and the foreigners for being the most visited tourist destination.