About Salawin National Park
Salawin National Park is a protected area along the Salween River in Mae Sariang District, Mae Hong Son Province, northwestern Thailand, bordering Myanmar. Established in 1994, it covers about 721 square kilometers of mountainous teak and mixed deciduous forest. The park is notable for its rugged riverine landscape, diverse wildlife, scenic viewpoints, and remote Karen villages, offering a relatively undisturbed natural environment for nature-based tourism.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a remote, mountainous park dominated by the Salween River which forms the Thailand-Myanmar border. The landscape includes dense teak and mixed deciduous forests, limestone hills, river beaches and viewpoints. Facilities are basic with a visitor centre, campsites and park bungalows. Exploration is via nature trails, viewpoints, river boating and visits to nearby Karen villages such as Mae Sam Laep. The environment is quiet and natural with limited development.
Key highlights
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Salween River forming the natural border and scenic riverine landscape
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Extensive teak and mixed deciduous forests with diverse flora and fauna
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Scenic viewpoints over the river valley and surrounding mountains
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Mae Sam Laep village and traditional river community at the confluence of the Yuam and Salween Rivers
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Birdwatching and wildlife observation in undisturbed forest habitat
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Camping and nature trails within the park
History of Salawin National Park
Established in 1994 as Thailand's 75th national park, covering approximately 721 sq km in Mae Sariang and Sop Moei Districts. The park was created to protect the Salween River ecosystem, valuable teak forests and watershed forests along the border area.
Culture & Context
The park area encompasses traditional Karen communities, notably Mae Sam Laep village at the confluence of the Yuam and Salween Rivers, where river-based livelihoods and local cultural practices are part of the visitor experience.
Route
| By air |
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