Khao Yai National Park

The Basics

Khao Yai National Park is part of the Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its diverse wildlife—including elephants, tigers, deer, snakes, monkeys, hornbills, and more—and beautiful scenery, this large park is a favorite of nature and outdoor lovers. There are walking trails, waterfalls, and watchtowers, and it’s a particularly exciting place for keen bird watchers.

The park can be visited independently, but many visitors like to take a guided tour, to fit a lot into a single day while learning about the park. Both hiking and general sightseeing trips are available as single-day or multi-day tours that include other destinations throughout Thailand.

Things to Know Before You Go

• There’s an entry fee for international visitors.

• As the park is in the mountains, the altitude ranges from 1,300-3,300 feet (400-1,000 meters). Visitors should be prepared for different temperatures.

• Camping and bungalow accommodation is available in the park, and there are many hotels and bed-and-breakfasts just outside.

• Walking along many of the roads in the park is not permitted, so it’s preferable to take your own vehicle or join a guided tour.

• There are some food outlets within the park, but it’s advisable to bring a picnic and snacks.

How to Get There

The park is a 2.5-hour drive northeast of Bangkok. It can be reached by minivan or bus from Bangkok to Pak Chong, but this is still several miles from the information center in the park. Taking an organized tour is the quickest and easiest way to get there.

When to Get There

The park is very popular, so it can get busy during weekends and public holidays. Avoid visiting at these times for a more peaceful experience. The park is usually open from 6am until 6pm daily.

Visit Kaeng Krachan National Park

Travelers who want to experience more of Thailand’s nature should also visit the Kaeng Krachan National Park. This is the largest national park in the country, and is located in the Tanaosri Mountains. It’s full of birds and butterflies, and is famous for its beautiful misty vistas. Hiking in this park is best done with a guide.

How many days do you need in Khao Yai National Park?

Two or three days is ideal for spending time in central Thailand’s Khao Yai National Park. You can hike, go on wildlife-spotting drives, swim in waterfalls, and visit scenic lookouts. Wildlife commonly seen here are gibbons, deer, macaques, wild elephants, bats, and many types of birds.

Is it worth going to Khao Yai National Park?

Yes, it’s worth visiting Khao Yai National Park if you enjoy wildlife and natural, jungle-covered environments. Khao Yai is very different from many other popular Thai tourist destinations—such as beaches and big cities—and offers a more peaceful experience. However, travelers seeking a more energetic party atmosphere may not enjoy Khao Yai as much.

How much does it cost to go to Khao Yai National Park?

The entry fee to Khao Yai National Park is 400 baht (about US$11) for non-Thai adults and 200 baht for non-Thai kids (aged 3–14). Thai nationals pay a smaller fee: 40 baht for adults and 20 baht for kids. Guided tours and safaris cost extra. Organized tours will usually include the cost of admission.

How do you get to Khao Yai National Park?

If you’re not traveling to Khao Yai National Park on a guided tour, the easiest way to get there from Bangkok is by bus. Take a direct bus to the Chao Por Khao Yai Shrine Visitor Center or the Noen Hom Visitor Center, the two entrances to the park. Alternatively, take the Bangkok–Pak Chong train to Pak Chong, then take a bus to the Chao Por Khao Yai Shrine Visitor Center.

Do you need a guide for Khao Yai National Park?

Yes, although visiting Khao Yai National Park with a guide is not mandatory, it’s strongly recommended. It’s a large park with lots to see and do, and navigating it alone can be challenging. You’ll get the most out of a visit by hiring a guide to take you in. You don’t need to book a full package from Bangkok if you don’t want to, though.

What is the closest town to Khao Yai National Park?

Pak Chong is the closest town to Khao Yai National Park. It’s about 3 hours’ drive from Bangkok. The park has two entrances: the Visitor Center at the Chao Por Khao Yai Shrine (aka the Pak Chong entrance) and the Noen Hom Visitor Center entrance. Both are accessible by bus from Bangkok.