There are about fifty natural parks in Thailand. These jewels of nature conceal many surprises and will hold all their promises. Namely, breathtaking landscapes, total change of scenery and unforgettable memories. Between the spectacular waterfalls, the wild animals in freedom, the thousands of different species of plants, it is better to have freed some space on your memory card. A total area of more than 25,000 km² is dedicated to nature and its protection. It is indeed a question of preserved places, where cohabit fauna and flora of an infinite diversity. During your trip, you will have to take into account the weather forecast and have the appropriate equipment as well as get information about the possibilities of accommodation on the spot. Choosing 5 national parks for this description allows you to focus on the essential. The selection includes the most famous parks, which means that they appeal to the majority of their visitors. On a short or medium trip, you will not be able to see everything. Focusing on a few important places is a good way to have a successful vacation. Let's see now, what are the 5 best natural parks in Thailand.
#1 Khao Sok National Park
Located in the province of Surat Thani, and with an area of 739 km², you can go there with a private transfer if you stay in Phuket, Khao Lak or Krabi. The entrance fee is 300 baths (8 €) It is the natural park of Thailand with the oldest rainforest in the world. But that's not all, you can trek through the limestone mountains, explore caves and lakes and also observe many species of wildlife, including tapirs, tigers, elephants, bears and gibbons. It is the ideal place for the nature lover, hiking and wildlife enthusiast.
#2 Khao Yai National Park
It is the most visited national park in Thailand and the second largest in terms of area with more than 2,000 km². Only 175 km from Bangkok, it is easily accessible and the entrance fee is 400 baths (10 €). The park has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005, due to the strong ecological interest it represents. Its biodiversity is impressive and you may have the chance to observe endangered species such as elephants, tigers, gibbons or bears. Numerous services are in place to welcome visitors in the best conditions. The information center will provide you with maps and all the information you need to venture out on the 50 km of marked trails. There are possibilities of accommodation on site, in bungalows and tents.
#3 Erawan National Park
Covering an area of 550 km², the park is located in the west of Thailand in the province of Kanchanaburi, only 2 hours drive from Bangkok. The entrance fee is only 200 baht (6 €), all this makes it a very popular park, to be avoided during the weekend. The main attraction is the big waterfall with seven levels. A botanical path, with many information panels, follows the watercourse and will take you to the 4 caves of the park. Good walking shoes and a bathing suit are highly recommended to fully enjoy this idyllic oasis.
#4 Kaeng Krachan National Park
It is the largest of all Thailand and covers the impressive area of over 3,000 km ². Located in the province of Phetchaburi, 100 km south of Bangkok, it is relatively easy to access. You can meet elephants, bears, gibbons, leopards and deer. Also, more than 400 different species of birds nest in the park. Caves, waterfalls, climbing the highest point (Phanoen Thung), and boat rides on the lake are on the program. To visit the Kaeng Krachan park you will have to take a mini-van from Bangkok, which brings you directly to the information point. The entrance fee is 300 baths (8 €). For food, there is a restaurant and a small supermarket near the information point. Please note that the park is closed from
#5 Doi Inthanon National Park
If during your journey you pass by Chiang Mai, it is strongly recommended to make a stop at the national park of Doi Inthanon, 1 h 30 of transport and whose access costs 300 baths. It covers 482 km² and its altitude varies from 800 m in the plain to 2,565 m for the summit of the same name. Highest point of Thailand, you will be able to reach it after a good walk. But before that, you will visit magnificent waterfalls, a village of the local tribe as well as royal pagodas.
