About Khao Yai National Park
Khao Yai National Park, established in 1962 as Thailand's first national park, spans over 2,168 sq km across Prachinburi, Nakhon Ratchasima, Saraburi and Nakhon Nayok provinces. The Prachantakham District section lies on the eastern Prachinburi side. Part of the Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is notable for forested mountains, grasslands, waterfalls, diverse wildlife and extensive hiking trails near Bangkok.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a large forested mountain landscape with dense evergreen forest, grasslands, waterfalls, viewpoints and driving routes. The park has a visitor centre with exhibits, marked nature trails, camping grounds, viewpoints such as Pha Diao Dai, and waterfalls including Haew Narok and Haew Suwat. Wildlife such as elephants, gibbons, deer and hornbills may be seen. Exploration is by car, hiking or guided tours, with designated picnic and camping areas.
Key highlights
- 01
Thailand's first national park and part of Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex UNESCO World Heritage Site
- 02
Haew Narok Waterfall - the highest waterfall in the park
- 03
Haew Suwat Waterfall - well-known forest waterfall
- 04
Diverse wildlife including Asian elephants, gibbons, macaques and great hornbills
- 05
Scenic viewpoints such as Pha Diao Dai
- 06
Extensive hiking trails and nature study routes
History of Khao Yai National Park
Established on 18 September 1962 as Thailand's first national park, proposed by conservationist Boonsong Lekakul. In 2005 it was inscribed as part of the Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex UNESCO World Heritage Site for its biodiversity and conservation value.
Culture & Context
Recognized as a major natural heritage site for Thailand, important for conservation, environmental education and eco-tourism, attracting Thai and international visitors for nature appreciation.
Route
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