Guide To 15 Most Scenic National Parks In Thailand
Hey Thirsty Traveller, do you know the largest protected area is located in Thailand? Yes, you are right, it is also a UNESCO heritage site named Thung Yai Naresuan Wildlife Sanctuary. If you want to know more, you are at the right place. Get your travel boots ready for the ultimate adventure with our Thailand Holidays in the top 11 national parks.
Imagine you are surrounded by green trees and vast fields. Yes, it’s a park not only for you but also for elephants, leopards and birds. Don’t worry, if you find yourself in the middle of a lunch or supper party with dancing fish or tigers having tea. So pull the gear and disappear within this wild ride as these places are waiting for you.
An Unforgettable Experiences Awaits: Top 15 national parks in Thailand
1. Khao Sok National Park:
It is the home to the wonderful Asian elephant and elusive clouded leopard, Khao Sok holds an ancient rainforest, limestone walls, and beautiful lakes, offering visitors a glimpse into Thailand’s rich biodiversity. This place is quite famous and listed in one of the Unique national parks in Thailand. It is also listed as one of the most famous Eccentric national parks in Thailand.
Location: Phetchaburi Province, western Thailand
Famous Animals: Gibbons, langurs, macaques
Stay Cost: 6000 RS. per night for two
Accommodation: Accommodation options available in nearby towns and villages
Also read: 15 Thailand Travel Tips To Follow For A Smooth Experience
2. Doi Inthanon National Park:
It is known as the “Roof of Thailand,” Doi Inthanon is a must-visit place for birdwatchers. This place is known for species like the vibrant green-tailed sunbird and the colourful scarlet minivet.
Location: Chiang Mai Province, northern Thailand
Famous Animals: Green-tailed sunbird, scarlet minivet
Stay Cost: 1200 RS. per night for two
Accommodation: Accommodation ranges from guesthouses to camping facilities.
3. Erawan National Park:
This place is famous for its wonderful seven-tiered waterfall, Erawan is also a sanctuary for the endangered Asian elephant, where visitors can spot these gentle giants roaming amidst lush forests and tranquil pools.
Location: Kanchanaburi Province, western Thailand
Famous Animals: Asian elephant
Stay Cost: 6000 RS. per night for two
Accommodation: Comfortable bungalows, campgrounds, nearby guesthouse
Also read: 25 Best Restaurants In Thailand: A Delight For The Taste Buds
4. Khao Yai National Park:
It is Thailand’s oldest national park and Thailand’s national parks, it is a treasure of wildlife, with a range of diverse inhabitants including playful gibbons in the trees, majestic gaurs grazing in grasslands, and charming Asian black bears roaming the dense jungle. This place is famous and listed as one of the Unique national parks in Thailand as well as tagged as an Offbeat national park in Thailand.
Location: Nakhon Ratchasima Province, northeastern Thailand
Famous Animals: Gibbons, gaurs, Asian black bears
Stay Cost: 5000 to 6000 RS. per night for two
Accommodation: Various accommodations are available as per different budgets.
5. Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park:
With its emerald-green waters and limestone karst formations, Mu Ko Ang Thong is a paradise for travellers, where lucky visitors may encounter gentle whale sharks and graceful sea turtles gliding through the vibrant coral reefs these places are tagged as one of the Offbeat national parks in Thailand
Location: Surat Thani Province, southern Thailand
Famous Animals: Whale sharks, sea turtles
Stay Cost: 6000 RS. per night for two
Accommodation: Various accommodations are available as per the value of preferability
Also read: Exploring The Enchanting Nightlife In Thailand For The Best Experience
6. Phang Nga Bay National Park:
This place is significantly famous in Thai national parks for its dramatic limestone walls and hidden lagoons, Phang Nga Bay is also a sanctuary for the endangered dugong, where fortunate explorers may catch a glimpse of these gentle marine mammals grazing on seagrass beds.
Location: Phang Nga Province, southern Thailand
Famous Animals: Whale sharks, sea turtles
Stay Cost: 7000 RS. per night for two
Accommodation: Accommodation options are available in nearby towns and islands.
7. Similan Islands National Park:
This place is famous among Thailand’s national parks for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, the Similan Islands are famous for marine life, including colourful clownfish, graceful manta rays, and the occasional sighting of the elusive whale shark. This place is quite famous and listed as one of the Unique national parks in Thailand. Moreover,
Location: Phang Nga Province, southern Thailand
Famous Animals: Clownfish, manta rays, whale sharks
Stay Cost: 1200 RS. per night for two
Accommodation: Limited accommodation available on the islands
8. Kaeng Krachan National Park:
Among Thailand’s national parks, this place is a gem for birdwatchers, with over 400 avian species calling its dense forests and winding rivers home, including the majestic great hornbill and the elusive green peafowl. The beauty of the Great hornbill and green peafowl makes this place one of the Top national parks in Thailand. Area wise, this is one of the largest national parks in Thailand which was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in July 2021.
Location: Phetchaburi Province, western Thailand
Famous Animals: Great hornbill, green peafowl
Stay Cost: 1500 RS. per night for two
Accommodation: Accommodation options include resorts and campsites
9. Thung Salaeng Luang National Park:
This place is markable among all Thailand’s national parks for its vast savannas and rolling hills, Thung Salaeng Luang is a prime habitat for the critically endangered Indochinese tiger, as well as other elusive species such as the clouded leopard and the Asian golden cat. This place is quite famous and listed as one of the Unique national parks in Thailand.
Location: Kanchanaburi Province, western Thailand
Famous Animals: Asian elephant, clouded leopard, Malayan sun bear
Cost of living: 6000 RS. per night for two
Accommodation: Accommodation options available near the park entrance
Also read: Songkran Festival In Thailand: A Splash Of Tradition And Fun
10. Sai Yok National Park:
It is situated in the western part of Thailand, Sai Yok National Park is renowned for its lush forests and tranquil waterfalls. It’s also a delightful place for visitors willing to watch wildlife in Thai national parks, with sightings of the majestic Asian elephant and the elusive clouded leopard being common, while lucky visitors may even spot the rare Malayan sun bear roaming amidst the verdant foliage. This place is known for wildlife support and is tagged as Offbeat National Park in Thailand
Location: Phitsanulok and Phetchabun Provinces, central Thailand
Famous Animals: Indochinese tiger, clouded leopard, Asian golden cat
Stay Cost: 6000 RS. per night for two
Accommodation: Accommodation options include campsites and guesthouses.
11. Thung Yai Naresuan Wildlife Sanctuary:
This national park is listed as one of Southeast Asia’s largest protected areas, Thung Yai Naresuan Wildlife Sanctuary is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for supporting diverse ecosystems. Within its diverse wild forest, a fortunate explorer may encounter the iconic Asian elephant, the playful dhole (Asian wild dog), and the graceful Indochinese leopard, thriving within the dense forests and rolling grasslands. This place is quite famous and listed as one of the Unique national parks in Thailand and now you can visit Thailand within out having the Visa from India and Taiwan.
Location: Kanchanaburi and Tak Provinces, western Thailand
Famous Animals: Asian elephant, dhole, Indochinese leopard
Stay Cost: 15000 RS. per night for two
Accommodation: Limited accommodation options are available near the sanctuary.
12. Khao Luang National Park:
This place is situated in the western portion of Thailand and offers a huge scenic beauty it is a famous shelter for Gibbons, langurs, macaques and different types of snakes. This place is situated in the western portion of Thailand and It is also listed as one of the most famous Eccentric national parks in Thailand.
Location: Phetchaburi Province, western Thailand
Famous Animals: Gibbons, langurs, macaques
Stay Cost: 20000 RS. per night for two
Accommodation: Limited Accommodation options are available in nearby towns and villages.
13. Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park:
It’s also a delightful place for visitors willing to watch wildlife in Thai national parks and also accounted as one of the Top national parks in Thailand.
Location: Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, western Thailand
Famous Animals: Dusky langurs, white-handed gibbons
Stay Cost: 15000 RS. per night for two
Accommodation: Limited accommodation options are available near the sanctuary.
Also read: 16 Places To Visit In Thailand To Rejuvenate
14. Mu Ko Chang National Park:
It is one of the famous water national parks from the eastern area of Thailand and holds a beautiful scenic beauty with exclusive flora and fauna. It is also listed as one of the most famous Eccentric national parks in Thailand.
Location: Trat Province, eastern Thailand
Famous Animals: Long-tailed macaques, monitor lizards
Stay Cost: 12000 RS. per night for two
Accommodation: Various accommodation options are available on the islands.
15. Phu Kradueng National Park:
Phu Kradueng National Park is a majestic natural wonder located in the heart of Thailand. This park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including forests, mountains, and waterfalls. Visitors to Phu Kradueng can embark on their trekking adventures, exploring the park’s extensive mountain ranges that lead to unexplainable viewpoints and hidden gems. One of the highlights of Phu Kradueng National Park is the challenging hike to the summit of Phu Kradueng Mountain, this place offers a view of the surrounding countryside. Along that, trekkers can encounter diverse flora and fauna, including rare species of plants and wildlife in this region. Overall, Phu Kradueng National Park is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, as it offers unparalleled opportunities for adventure activities, exploration, and relaxation in one of Thailand’s most famous destinations. It’s also a delightful place for visitors willing to watch wildlife in Thai national parks and is also listed as Top national parks in Thailand.
Location: Kanchanaburi and Tak Provinces, western Thailand
Famous Animals: Asian elephant, dhole, Indochinese leopard
Stay Cost: 15000 RS. per night for two
Accommodation: Limited accommodation options are available near the sanctuary.
In conclusion, it can be stated that embarking on a journey to explore Thailand’s top 15 national parks promises a thrilling adventure through the heart of nature. From green forests to beautiful waterfalls, and a rich diversity of wildlife, these destinations offer an unparalleled experience for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike. Whether you’re seeking peace among the beautiful landscapes or thrilling encounters with exotic flora and fauna, Thailand’s national parks have all of the things to offer for everyone. So, gear up for an unforgettable green safari and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Thailand, from the breathtaking Khao Sok National Park to the mesmerising Erawan Sanctuary. It’s time to discover the beauty and biodiversity of Thailand’s wilderness like never before.
Which Thai national park is the most eccentric?
While all of Thailand’s national parks have their unique charm, Khao Sok National Park stands out as one of the most eccentric. It is known for its ancient rainforests, towering limestone walls, and beautiful Cheow Lan Lake, Khao Sok offers a surreal and otherworldly landscape that feels straight out of a fairy tale. Visitors can explore hidden caves, kayak through emerald waters, and encounter rare wildlife amidst the park’s lush greenery.
Are there any offbeat activities to do in Thai national parks?
In addition to hiking, wildlife watching, and exploring natural attractions, Thai national parks offer a range of offbeat activities for adventurous travellers. These may include cave exploration, bamboo rafting along scenic rivers, birdwatching excursions, and camping under the stars. Some parks also offer opportunities for rock climbing, zip-lining, and swimming in clear waters.
What kind of wildlife can be found in Thailand's national parks?
Thailand’s national parks are home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including exotic species such as Asian elephants, tigers, gibbons, and hornbills. Visitors to these parks may also encounter macaques, monitor lizards, and a variety of bird species. The parks’ ecosystems support a wide range of flora and fauna, making them popular destinations for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.
What makes national parks in Thailand bizarre?
Thailand’s national parks are known for their unique and diverse scenic beauty, ranging from dense rainforests to limestone karsts and pristine beaches. These parks often feature hard-to-travel rock formations, hidden caves, and vibrant ecosystems that make them stand out as some of the most bizarre and captivating natural environments in the world.