THAILAND – Khao Yai – Experience the Nature of Khao Yai National Park

Description

Being Thailand’s first, and one of its biggest National Parks, Khao Yai is a must-visit destination for nature-loving travelers looking to immerse in abundant natural beauty and seeking authentic wildlife experiences. Khao Yai National Park presents enchanting terrain and luxuriant biodiversity, creating a haven for nature enthusiasts to discover verdant forests, breathtaking waterfalls, and a variety of wild animals. During the full-day visit, guests can experience nature up close on an invigorating nature hike, while stops at viewpoints and waterfalls provide another perspective on the natural beauty of the national park. With some luck, travelers may get to see exotic wildlife like gibbons, crocodiles, snakes, great hornbills, and even elephants.

Selling points

• Khao Yai is home to diverse fauna and flora, with many natural attractions like waterfalls, viewpoints, and nature trails waiting to be explored.
• The national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site; a visit allows one to explore a protected area that embraces and preserves Thailand’s natural treasures.
• Khao Yai National Park has abundant wildlife, including gibbons, majestic elephants, and many bird species, making every moment a thrilling encounter with nature.
• The park offers different hiking opportunities on nature trails, leading through the heart of the park’s natural beauty. Different options cater to people with essential fitness and more advanced hikers.

Level Of The Excursion

The Impact Of This Excursion

Environment Impact

Economic Impact

Additional Information

Positive impacts

• National park entrance, parking, and ranger fees provide revenue for park operations and guided visitor management.
• Each ranger accompanies a maximum of 10 guests. The ranger provides a pre-trek briefing and guides visitors along designated nature trails within the protected area.
• Local songthaew or pick-up services are used for transport within the park, creating income for local drivers and transport providers.
• The activity takes place within Khao Yai National Park, a protected area covering more than 2,000 km² and supporting wildlife including elephants, gibbons, hornbills and deer.
• Trail closures and seasonal route restrictions apply.

Negative impacts

• The programme includes motorised travel between the Khao Yai hotel, visitor centre and activity endpoints. Cars, songthaews and pick-up trucks consume fuel and generate emissions.
• Groups of up to 20 guests use wildlife habitats, trails, viewpoints and waterfalls. Foot traffic and busy periods can add pressure to popular areas and increase the potential for wildlife disturbance.

Conclusion

The activity generates income for park rangers and local transport providers while contributing entrance and service fees within a protected natural area. Its main trade-offs are emissions from road transport and visitor pressure on trails and wildlife habitats.

Time And Transportation

Duration

Approximately 8 hours (08:00 – 16:00) including transfer time and hiking time, depending on the physical fitness and experience of the travelers.

Min pax

1

Max pax

20

How to sell it

• Suitable for nature lovers, and outdoors enthusiasts.
• As a must-visit day trip for people staying in or passing by, the Khao Yai area.
• As an Active Leisure or Active experience for nature lovers.
• As a part of a nature-focused Thailand itinerary.
• An opportunity for a chance to see wildlife, including elephants.

Why this activity

• Families, moderate hikers, experienced hikers, wildlife enthusiasts and nature photographers.
• Stunning natural beauty, breathtaking landscapes, lush forests.
• Diverse wildlife. The park offers opportunities to spot various animals. The chance to witness the magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
• Diverse hiking options. The park offers a variety of trails to meet client’s preferences and fitness level.
• Photography opportunities.
• An experience that offers a blend of relaxation, exploration and appreciation of the natural world.

Good to combine with

• Khao Yai Bat Cave (Tham Khao Look Chang).
• Night Safari at Khao Yai National Park.

Market suggestion

Competitor comparison

• There are fixed routings in the National Parks, everyone has to adhere to these, so all competitors offer the same experience.

Pros

• Within easy reach from Bangkok (approximately 3 hours driving).
• A great opportunity to explore natural beauty and diverse wildlife, accessible to a wide range of travelers.
• The short trekking option is suitable for a wide range of clients who have basic level of fitness.
• The longer trekking is the alternative option for active clients and experienced trekkers.
• Khao Yai National Park is registered as a UNESCO site.
• Chance to see wildlife and exotic flora.

Cons

• While the park is home to diverse wildlife, spotting animals is never guaranteed, and some visitors might be disappointed if they don’t get to see the specific animals they were hoping for.
• The weather can be unpredictable, with sudden rain showers and temperature changes, impacting the overall trekking experience. Especially during rainy season.
• During peak tourist seasons, the popular trails and attractions in Khao Yai can get crowded, potentially affecting the sense of tranquility and solitude.
• The lush environment of the park can also mean encountering insects and bugs, which might be a concern for some visitors. For example, leeches can be an issue during humid periods.
• Some trails might be challenging, especially for those with limited trekking experience or physical fitness. Certain trails might require a higher level of stamina and endurance.

Information

• From Khao Yai Visitor Center to starting point can be arrange a local pick-up truck with a maximum of 6 pax per car.
• Program outline for normal trekking (subject to change depending on circumstances):
  • 07:00 – Depart from hotel in Khao Yai.
  • 07:30 – A short visit at viewpoint before Khao Yai National Park Visitors Center.
  • 08:00 – 08:15 – arrive Visitor center, do the registration, contact the ranger, buy slug socks, listen to the trekking brief by ranger.
  • 08:20 – 12:00 start trekking route.
  • 12:15 – Lunch at the Visitor center (dining area)
  • 13:30 – Depart to exploring Khao Yai (Haew Narok Waterfall, Haew Suwat Waterfall, etc.).
  • 16.30 – Return to hotel

• Program outline for long trekking (Route no.3 and 5) or (Route no.6) (subject to change depending on circumstances):
  • 07:00 – Depart from hotel in Khao Yai.
  • 07:30 – A short visit at viewpoint before Khao Yai National Park Visitors Center.
  • 08:00 – 08:15 – arrive Visitor center, do the registration, contact the ranger, buy slug socks, listen to the trekking brief by ranger.
  • 08:20 – 12:00 start trekking route.
  • 12:15 – Lunch in the forest.
  • 13:00 – Continue trekking.
  • 16.30 – Return to hotel.

Alerts

• Local rangers are not able to communicate in English, and Easia Guide is always needed.
• Always check with Operations for 3rd language guides!
• The activity takes place in nature, so guests need to be ok with possible bugs and insects.
• During the rainy season, trekking routes may be much more difficult or even closed for safety reasons.
• Check the availability of the routes in “Remarks” – The nature trails are open at different times.

Important information

• 1 – 10 pax per ranger.
• National Park, parking fee – 200 THB per group (1 – 6 pax).
• Pick-up truck/songthaew – 2,000 THB per service (1 – 5 pax).
• Prepare before trekking: code of conduct for short treks:
  • Evaluate your physical condition. A person with conditions such as asthma, insect bite allergies or high blood pressure are recommended not to trek nature trails.
  • Check times, the weather forecast and other relevant risks.
  • Dress appropriately.
  • Prepare essential trekking equipment.

For normal trekking

• Recommend starting time is 08:00.
• Duration is approximately 2 – 3 hours.
• Depending on physical fitness and experienced trekkers.

For long trekking

• Recommend starting time is 08:00.
• Duration is approximately 6 hours.
• Depending on physical fitness and experienced trekkers.

Technical Detail

Route no. 3

• Distance: Approximately 4.2 km one way trail
• Duration: Approximately 2.5 – 3 hours

Route no. 5

• Distance: Approximately 5.5 km one way trail
• Duration: Approximately 3 hours
• Important Note: During the rainy season, it might not be possible to cross the Lam Ta Khlong stream.

Route no. 6

• Distance: Approximately 8 km one way trail
• Duration: Approximately 6 hours
• Important Note: This trail should be started before 10.00. Prepare a packed lunch

Price range

$$$$

Quotation guideline

• Khao Yai → Entrance Fees → Entrance Fees in Khao Yai → Khao Yai National Park
• Khao Yai → Others → Extra Fees in Khao Yai National Park → Sock for trekking (Client and Guide)
• Khao Yai → Others → Extra Fees in Khao Yai National Park → Parking Fee
• Khao Yai → Others → Extra Fees in Khao Yai National Park → Ranger fee for Normal Trekking (Route no. 3 OR 5)
• Khao Yai → Others → Extra Fees in Khao Yai National Park → Ranger fee for Long Trekking (Route no. 3 AND 5) OR (Route no.6)
• Khao Yai → Others → Extra Fees in Khao Yai National Park → Full day Songthaew to visit Khao Yai National Park

Inclusion

• National Park fee.
• National parking fee for guide.
• Parking fee.
• Local pick-up truck.
• Ranger fee.
• Slug socks.
• Optional: Lunch.

Exclusion

• Easia Guide.
• Transportation to/from Khao Yai.
• Drinks during lunch.
• Personal expenses.
• Tips.

Possible Extra

For Active segment and experienced trekkers

• Combination route between 3 and 5.
• Route no. 6 (Alert: Trail closed on 1 July – 31 August).

Remark

• Route No. 3
  • Starting point: at the roadside by the Km 33 milestone.
  • End point: At the roadside by the Km 35 milestone, about 1 km from Observation Tower.
  • Time taken: 2.5 – 3 hours.
  • Distance: 4.2 km (one way trail)
  • Level of trekking: Easy and Moderate.
• Route No. 5:
  • Starting point: at the side of Thanarat Road about 200 meters from the Visitor Center at Sai Sorn Reservoir.
  • End point: at the roadside by the Km35 milestone, about 1 km from Nong Phak Chi Observation Tower.
  • Time taken: 3 hours.
  • Distance: 5.5 km (one way trail)
  • Caution: During the rainy season, it might not to be possible to cross the Lam Ta Khlong Stream.
  • Level of trekking: Moderate and a bit of strenuous.
• Route No. 6: (For Active and experienced trekker only).
  • Start point: Hanging bridge behind the Visitor Center.
  • End point: Haew Suwat Waterfall.
  • Time taken: 6 hours.
  • Distance: 8 km. (one way trail).
  • Caution: This trail should be started before 10.00. Prepare a packed lunch.
  • Level of trekking: More moderate to hard and strenuous.
  • Alert: Trail closed on 1 July – 31 August

Important notes

• Visitor center contact number: 086-092-6529
• Visitor opening hours: 06:00 – 18:00
• Ranger Fee, there are 2 types: Normal trekking: 700 THB. Long trekking: 1,200 THB
• Songtaew (Pick-up truck) to visit Khao Yai National Park (full day service – from/to National Park Entrance area). Capacity 1 – 20 pax. Rate full day service: 2,000 THB per Songthaew / day.
• Songtaew to visit National Park or trekking + Haew Suwat – THB 2,000 per service (1-5 pax).
• Songtaew / Pick-up truck: booking and payment term: can be book 1 day in advance and payment in cash on spot.

Special Guide notes

• During the rainy season, slug socks are available at the visitor center. Price = 70 THB per pair of socks.
• Pick-up truck / Songtaew can be booked 1 day in advance and make a payment in cash on spot.
• Pick-up truck and big truck: Contact person: Khun Somjai 080 921 4967.
• Songtaew and pick-up truck: Contact person: Khun San 064 631 7323.

Different Choice

Khao Yai National Park is quite unique and there are no real alternatives in the vicinity. For elephant spotting, Kuiburi would be the best alternative.

Contact

Khao Yai Visitor Center

• Visitor center contact number: 086-092-6529
• Visitor opening hours: 06:00 – 18:00

Local truck (Songthaew)

• Pick-up truck and big truck: Contact person: Khun Somjai 080 921 4967
• Songtaew and pick-up truck: Contact person: Khun San 064 631 7323

English

Khao Yai National Park visit (with easy hike)

Khao Yai means “big mountain” and the area of the park spans more than 2.000km². It is home to a huge variety of wildlife like elephants, gibbons, hornbills, deer, etc. and some iconic waterfalls. During your visit to the park, you will hike along one of the nature routes with a park ranger. He will explain the fauna and flora and if you are lucky, you might spot some of the wildlife that inhabits the park. Visit Haew Suwat – the park’s most well-known waterfall which became famous in the movie “The Beach”.

Khao Yai National Park (with long trekking) 

Khao Yai means “big mountain” and the area of the park spans more than 2.000km². It is home to a huge variety of wildlife like elephants, gibbons, hornbills, deer, etc. and some iconic waterfalls. During your visit to the park, a park ranger will take you deep into the nature for a unique opportunity to experience the lush vegetation up close, and a chance to see some of the park’s elusive wildlife like gibbons, snakes, crocodiles, and possibly even elephants. If there is time you will also get to visit one of the stunning waterfalls that the park has to offer.

French

Visite du parc national de Khao Yai (randonnée facile)

Khao Yai signifie « grande montagne » et la superficie du parc s’étend sur plus de 2 000 km². Il abrite une grande variété d’animaux sauvages comme les éléphants, les gibbons, les calaos, les cerfs, etc. ainsi que des cascades emblématiques. Au cours de votre visite du parc, vous ferez une randonnée sur l’un des itinéraires naturels en compagnie d’un garde forestier. Il vous expliquera la faune et la flore et, si vous avez de la chance, vous pourrez peut-être apercevoir certains des animaux sauvages qui peuplent le parc. Visite de Haew Suwat – la chute d’eau la plus connue du parc, rendue célèbre par le film « La plage ».

Parc national de Khao Yai (long trekking)

Khao Yai signifie « grande montagne » et la superficie du parc s’étend sur plus de 2 000 km². Il abrite une grande variété d’animaux sauvages comme les éléphants, les gibbons, les calaos, les cerfs, etc. ainsi que des cascades emblématiques. Lors de votre visite dans le parc, un garde forestier vous emmènera dans les profondeurs de la nature, ce qui vous donnera l’occasion unique de découvrir de près la végétation luxuriante et d’apercevoir certains des animaux insaisissables du parc, comme les gibbons, les serpents, les crocodiles et peut-être même les éléphants. Si vous en avez le temps, vous pourrez également visiter l’une des magnifiques cascades que le parc a à offrir.

Spanish

Visita al Parque Nacional de Khao Yai (caminata fácil)

Khao Yai significa «gran montaña» y el parque ocupa una superficie de más de 2.000 km². Alberga una gran variedad de animales salvajes, como elefantes, gibones, cálaos y ciervos, así como emblemáticas cascadas. Durante su visita al parque, recorrerá uno de los senderos naturales en compañía de un guardabosques. Le explicará la flora y la fauna y, si tiene suerte, podrá ver algunos de los animales salvajes que habitan el parque.
Visite Haew Suwat, la cascada más famosa del parque, que se hizo célebre en la película «La Playa».

Parque Nacional de Khao Yai (caminata larga)

Khao Yai significa «gran montaña» y el parque ocupa una superficie de más de 2.000 km². Alberga una gran variedad de fauna, como elefantes, gibones, cálaos y ciervos, así como emblemáticas cascadas. Durante su visita al parque, un guardabosques le adentrará en la naturaleza salvaje, brindándole la oportunidad única de contemplar de cerca la exuberante vegetación y vislumbrar algunos de los escurridizos animales del parque, como gibones, serpientes, cocodrilos e incluso elefantes. Si tiene tiempo, también puede visitar una de las magníficas cascadas que ofrece el parque.

Italian

Visita al Parco nazionale di Khao Yai (escursione facile)

Il parco di Khao Yai che significa “grande montagna” copre un’area di oltre 2.000 km² e ospita una grande varietà di animali selvatici, tra cui elefanti, gibboni, buceri e cervi, oltre a iconiche cascate. Durante la vostra visita proseguirete su uno dei sentieri naturali in compagnia di una guida esperta la quale vi spiegherà la flora e la fauna e, se siete fortunati, potrete anche scorgere alcuni degli animali che vi abitano. A seguire, visiterete la cascata più famosa del parco, Haew Suwat, resa celebre dal film “The Beach”.

Parco nazionale di Khao Yai (trekking di lunga durata)

Il parco di Khao Yai che significa “grande montagna” copre un’area di oltre 2.000 km² e ospita una grande varietà di animali selvatici, tra cui elefanti, gibboni, buceri e cervi, oltre a iconiche cascate. Durante la visita al parco, una guida esperta vi condurrà nel profondo della natura selvaggia, dandovi l’opportunità unica di osservare da vicino la rigogliosa vegetazione e di scorgere alcuni degli elusivi animali del parco, come gibboni, serpenti, coccodrilli e forse anche elefanti. Se avete tempo, potete anche visitare una delle magnifiche cascate che il parco offre.

German

Besuch des Khao Yai Nationalparks (mit leichter Wanderung)

Der Name des Nationalparks Khao Yai bedeutet „großer Berg“ und erstreckt sich über eine Fläche von mehr als 2.000 km². Er beherbergt eine große Vielfalt an Wildtieren wie Elefanten, Gibbons, Nashornvögel, Hirsche und sogar einige berühmte Wasserfälle. Während Ihres Besuchs im Park wandern Sie mit einem Ranger auf einer der Naturrouten. Er wird Ihnen die Fauna und Flora erklären und mit etwas Glück können Sie einige der im Park lebenden Tiere sehen. Besuchen Sie Haew Suwat – den bekanntesten Wasserfall des Parks, der durch den Film „The Beach“ berühmt wurde.

Khao Yai-Nationalpark (mit langer Wanderung) 

Der Name des Nationalparks Khao Yai bedeutet „großer Berg“ und erstreckt sich über eine Fläche von mehr als 2.000 km². Er beherbergt eine große Vielfalt an Wildtieren wie Elefanten, Gibbons, Nashornvögel, Hirsche und sogar einige berühmte Wasserfälle. Während Ihres Besuchs im Park werden Sie von einem Ranger in die Natur geführt und haben so die einmalige Gelegenheit, die vielfältige Vegetation aus nächster Nähe zu erleben und einige der schwer fassbaren Wildtiere des Parks wie Gibbons, Schlangen, Krokodile und möglicherweise sogar Elefanten zu sehen. Wenn Sie Zeit haben, können Sie auch einen der atemberaubenden Wasserfälle besuchen, die der Park zu bieten hat.

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