10 Breathtaking National Parks in Thailand for Nature Lovers

Thailand is a nature lover’s paradise, with an incredible variety of national parks that showcase the country’s rich biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and unique ecosystems. If you’re trekking through dense jungles, admiring temples on mist-covered mountains, or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, Thailand’s national parks offer unforgettable experiences for every type of adventurer.

From ancient rainforests and towering limestone cliffs to pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs, these parks provide a glimpse into Thailand’s natural heritage. Each one is home to diverse wildlife and offers an array of outdoor activities, making them perfect for both thrill-seekers and those looking to simply connect with nature.

Here’s a closer look at some of Thailand’s most breathtaking national parks that should be on every traveler’s list.

Khao Sok National Park

Khao Sok National Park is renowned for its ancient rainforest, towering limestone cliffs, and the stunning Cheow Lan Lake. The park covers an area of 739 square kilometers and is considered one of the oldest rainforests in the world, dating back 160 million years. It’s a biodiversity hotspot, home to species like the rare Rafflesia flower, Asian elephants, and Malayan tapirs.

Activities

• Explore the breathtaking Cheow Lan Lake by kayak or long-tail boat.
• Trek through the dense jungle to discover hidden waterfalls.
• Stay overnight in floating bungalows on the lake for a unique experience.

Best Time to Visit

November to April offers the best weather for exploring the park.

HELPFUL INFO

• Khao Sok National Park: Provides information on accommodations, tours, and activities.
• Thai National Parks: Offers detailed maps, wildlife guides, and visitor information.

Doi Inthanon National Park

Known as “The Roof of Thailand,” Doi Inthanon National Park is home to Thailand’s highest peak, Doi Inthanon, which rises to 2,565 meters above sea level. The park spans 482 square kilometers and features diverse ecosystems, including cloud forests, pine forests, and waterfalls. Birdwatchers will be thrilled with the park’s 380 recorded bird species, making it one of Thailand’s premier birding destinations.

Activities

• Visit the Twin Royal Pagodas with panoramic views of the mountains.
• Trek through the Ang Ka Luang Nature Trail, a mossy cloud forest trail near the summit.
• Explore the park’s famous waterfalls, including Wachirathan and Mae Ya.

Best Time to Visit

November to February for cooler weather and clearer skies.

HELPFUL INFO

• Doi Inthanon National Park: Offers information on trails, wildlife, and visitor services.
• Chiang Mai Tourism: Provides details on local tours and accommodations.

Erawan National Park

Erawan National Park is famous for the stunning Erawan Waterfall, a seven-tiered waterfall that cascades into emerald green pools. The park covers 550 square kilometers and features limestone hills, mixed deciduous forests, and rich biodiversity, including Asian elephants, gibbons, and a variety of bird species.

Activities

• Hike the 1.5-kilometer trail to explore all seven tiers of Erawan Waterfall.
• Swim in the natural pools surrounded by lush jungle.
• Explore the Tham Phra That cave with its impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

Best Time to Visit

November to January when the waterfall is at its most picturesque.

HELPFUL INFO

• Erawan National Park: Offers park maps, trekking tips, and visitor guidelines.
• Tourism Authority of Thailand – Kanchanaburi: Provides travel information and accommodation options.

Khao Yai National Park

Thailand’s first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Khao Yai National Park covers 2,168 square kilometers. It boasts diverse habitats, including rainforests, grasslands, and mountains, supporting over 300 bird species, 70 mammal species, and an array of reptiles. The park is famous for its elephant population and vibrant waterfalls.

Activities

• Go on a wildlife safari to spot elephants, gibbons, and hornbills.
• Hike to the Haew Suwat Waterfall, featured in the movie “The Beach.”
• Explore the park’s night safari for a chance to see nocturnal animals.

Best Time to Visit

November to February for cool weather and peak wildlife activity.

HELPFUL INFO

• Khao Yai National Park: Provides detailed maps, camping information, and tour options.
• UNESCO World Heritage Centre: Offers insights into the park’s natural and cultural significance.

Similan Islands National Park

Similan Islands National Park, encompassing 140 square kilometers of the Andaman Sea, is a world-renowned diving destination. The park consists of 11 islands featuring crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a rich marine life, including manta rays, whale sharks, and over 500 species of fish.

Activities

• Snorkel and dive in some of the world’s best coral reefs.
• Hike to Sail Rock on Island 8 for panoramic views of the islands.
• Relax on the powdery white-sand beaches.

Best Time to Visit

November to April for calm seas and the best diving conditions.

HELPFUL INFO

• Similan Islands National Park: Offers details on diving tours, regulations, and conservation efforts.
• PADI Travel: Provides information on diving packages and marine life guides.

Ao Phang Nga National Park

Ao Phang Nga National Park is famous for its dramatic limestone karsts, mangrove forests, and hidden lagoons. Covering 400 square kilometers, the park’s standout feature is James Bond Island, a towering limestone rock that gained fame from the movie “The Man with the Golden Gun.”

Activities

• Take a boat tour through the mangroves and explore hidden lagoons.
• Visit James Bond Island and the floating village of Koh Panyee.
• Kayak through the sea caves and limestone formations.

Best Time to Visit

November to April for calm seas and clear weather.

HELPFUL INFO

• Ao Phang Nga National Park: Offers information on boat tours, kayaking routes, and park regulations.
• Viator: Provides guided tour options and booking information.

Doi Phu Kha National Park

Doi Phu Kha National Park, located in the northern province of Nan, is known for its rugged mountains, dense forests, and rare flora such as the Chomphu Phu Kha flower. The park spans 1,704 square kilometers and is home to diverse wildlife, including clouded leopards, Asiatic black bears, and over 100 bird species.

Activities

• Hike to the summit of Doi Phu Kha for breathtaking views of the mountain range.
• Visit the scenic Phu Wae Viewpoint, especially stunning at sunrise.
• Explore the limestone caves and enjoy birdwatching in the park.

Best Time to Visit

November to February when the weather is cool and the views are clear.

HELPFUL INFO

• Doi Phu Kha National Park: Offers information on trails, camping sites, and flora and fauna.
• Nan Tourism: Provides travel tips and accommodation options in the region.

Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park

Mu Ko Ang Thong is a marine national park consisting of 42 islands in the Gulf of Thailand. The park covers 102 square kilometers and is known for its stunning limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and white-sand beaches. It’s a paradise for snorkeling, diving, and kayaking enthusiasts.

Activities

• Climb to the Emerald Lake viewpoint for a panoramic view of the islands.
• Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters to explore vibrant coral reefs.
• Kayak through sea caves and around the islands.

Best Time to Visit

March to October, avoiding the monsoon season from November to February.

HELPFUL INFO

• Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park: Provides information on tours, park regulations, and marine life.
• GetYourGuide: Offers booking options for boat tours and snorkeling trips.

Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park

Khao Sam Roi Yot, translating to “Mountain of Three Hundred Peaks,” is a coastal park known for its limestone peaks, marshlands, and Phraya Nakhon Cave. Spanning 98 square kilometers, the park is home to diverse habitats, including freshwater marshes, mangrove swamps, and coral reefs.

Activities

• Visit Phraya Nakhon Cave, famous for its hidden royal pavilion.
• Explore the Thung Sam Roi Yot freshwater marsh, a haven for birdwatchers.
• Relax on the park’s secluded beaches, such as Laem Sala Beach.

Best Time to Visit

December to April for dry weather and clear skies.

HELPFUL INFO

• Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park: Offers park maps, hiking trails, and visitor information.
• Prachuap Khiri Khan Tourism: Provides travel guides and accommodation options.

Tarutao National Marine Park

Tarutao National Marine Park, located in the Andaman Sea, consists of 51 islands spread over 1,490 square kilometers. It’s known for its unspoiled beaches, dense mangrove forests, and rich marine biodiversity. The park’s main island, Ko Tarutao, offers pristine beaches and historical sites dating back to World War II.

Activities

• Snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters around Ko Adang and Ko Rawi.
• Explore the mangrove forests and spot wildlife such as langurs and hornbills.
• Visit Ao Son and Ao Talo Wao beaches for their natural beauty and tranquility.

Best Time to Visit

November to April for calm seas and the best visibility for snorkeling and diving.

HELPFUL INFO

• Tarutao National Marine Park: Provides information on accommodations, park regulations, and marine life.
• Satun Tourism: Offers details on tours, transportation, and local attractions.