About Tham Pha Thai National Park
Tham Pha Thai National Park is a protected limestone mountain and forest park in Ngao District, Lampang Province, northern Thailand. Established in 1991, it covers about 1,025 sq km across Ngao, Mae Mo and Mueang Lampang districts. It is notable for its extensive cave system, including the large Tham Pha Thai cave with stalactites and stalagmites, mixed deciduous forests, wildlife and seasonal waterfalls.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a forested limestone landscape with a large accessible cave, forest trails, viewpoints and camping areas. The main attraction is Tham Pha Thai Cave, a spacious cavern with stalactites, stalagmites and Buddha images, illuminated in parts. Surroundings include dense mixed deciduous and teak forest, limestone cliffs, small waterfalls in rainy season, a visitor centre, nature trails and designated camping grounds. Exploration involves walking on uneven ground and steps inside caves.
Key highlights
- 01
Tham Pha Thai Cave - large limestone cave with stalactites, stalagmites and Buddha shrine
- 02
Extensive limestone mountain range and mixed deciduous forest covering over 1,000 sq km
- 03
Seasonal waterfalls and forest streams within the park
- 04
Viewpoints over Ngao valley and limestone karst scenery
- 05
Birdwatching and wildlife observation in protected forest habitat
History of Tham Pha Thai National Park
Established on 12 April 1991 as Thailand's 85th national park, Tham Pha Thai protects a significant limestone karst and forest ecosystem. Caves in the park contain archaeological evidence including prehistoric remains and have long been used as natural shelters.
Culture & Context
Tham Pha Thai Cave houses Buddha images and is used by local communities for religious merit-making and visits. The caves and forest are culturally valued as natural heritage sites within Lampang Province.
Route
| By air | Fly to Lampang Airport (LPT), then travel by road about 60-70 km to the park via Highway 1. |
|---|