15 of the best national parks in Thailand

Thailand is known for its beaches and busy cities, but there’s a wilder side. Its national parks are amazing places to escape the crowds. Just picture exchanging the noise of the city for the tranquility of nature sounds. Envision trading crowded beaches for secluded waterfalls. 

Thailand’s parks truly have something for everyone, whether you seek adventure or just want to relax. Let’s discover 15 of Thailand’s best national parks. Ready to explore? Let’s go!

1. Doi Inthanon National Park:

Doi Inthanon is a mountain lover’s dream come true. This isn’t just any mountain; it’s Thailand’s tallest, and it’s stunning. Trust me, the views from the top will blow your mind!

Imagine hiking through lush, green rainforests, listening to the sound of cascading waterfalls, and feeling the cool mountain breeze on your face. That’s Doi Inthanon. Keep your eyes peeled for colorful birds, and maybe even spot a rare animal or two.

And don’t forget to visit the iconic twin pagodas at the summit. They’re like something out of a fairytale, and the panoramic views from up there are simply unforgettable.

2. Mae Sa Valley and Elephant Nature Park:

Mae Sa Valley, located near Chiang Mai, is a great spot for outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking. The area is lush and green, with beautiful scenery all around.

One of the main attractions here is the Elephant Nature Park. This sanctuary rescues and cares for elephants. You can learn about these amazing animals and see them up close. The park focuses on their well-being and conservation, offering a more ethical way to interact with elephants.

Mae Sa Valley also features the Mae Sa Waterfall, a stunning multi-tiered waterfall where you can take a refreshing dip. Another must-visit is the Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, which showcases a variety of tropical plants and flowers.

Mae Sa Valley and the Elephant Nature Park provide a mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s a perfect destination for anyone visiting northern Thailand.

Chiang Dao Cave is a hidden gem about 70 kilometers north of Chiang Mai. This cave system stretches for over 12 kilometers, but visitors can easily explore a smaller, well-lit section.

Inside, you’ll find stunning stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over thousands of years. The cool, dim atmosphere gives the cave a mysterious feel. As you walk through, you’ll also see Buddha statues and shrines, adding a spiritual touch to your visit.

The cave is surrounded by lush forests and mountains, perfect for a day trip. After exploring the cave, you can hike nearby trails or relax by a stream.

Chiang Dao Cave is a must-visit in northern Thailand. It’s a mix of natural beauty and history that will leave you amazed.

Khao Yai National Park, just a few hours from Bangkok, is one of Thailand’s oldest and most famous parks. It’s a fantastic spot for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

The park is home to a wide variety of animals, including elephants, gibbons, and even tigers. Keep your eyes peeled while exploring—you might spot some amazing wildlife. There are also several scenic waterfalls, like Haew Suwat, where you can take a refreshing break.

Khao Yai has plenty of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging treks. The trails take you through dense forests, and open grasslands, and up to viewpoints with stunning vistas.

Read Also: Solo Traveler’s Guide to Northern Thailand 2024:

A visit to the park’s visitor center is also worthwhile. You can learn about the park’s history, and its diverse ecosystems, and get tips on the best spots to explore.

Khao Yai National Park offers a great escape from the city, with its beautiful landscapes and rich wildlife. It’s a perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

Erawan National Park is a true gem in the heart of Thailand. Renowned for its stunning seven-tiered waterfall, this park is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

The park’s namesake, Erawan Falls, is a breathtaking cascade of emerald green pools, each more inviting than the last. Imagine cooling off in the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush rainforest. It’s a truly magical experience.

Beyond the falls, Erawan National Park offers plenty to explore. Hike through diverse ecosystems, discover hidden caves, and spot fascinating wildlife. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, this park has something for everyone. Get ready to be amazed by the natural beauty of Erawan

6. Kaeng Krachan National Park

Kaeng Krachan National Park is Thailand’s crown jewel when it comes to raw, untamed wilderness. As the country’s largest national park, it boasts a staggering array of ecosystems, from dense rainforests to serene lakes.

Imagine exploring a world where wildlife roams freely, and the sounds of nature reign supreme. Kaeng Krachan offers incredible opportunities for wildlife spotting, with a chance to encounter elephants, bears, and a diverse birdlife.

The park’s vast expanse invites adventure seekers to embark on challenging hikes, kayak through tranquil waters, or simply relax by the shores of its stunning reservoir. With its rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes, Kaeng Krachan is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and those seeking an authentic wilderness experience.

Khao Sok National Park is a true jungle paradise, boasting towering limestone cliffs, lush rainforests, and the mesmerizing Cheow Lan Lake. This is where adventure meets tranquility, and nature reveals its most spectacular side.

Imagine kayaking through emerald green waters surrounded by towering cliffs, or trekking through dense jungle in search of hidden waterfalls. Khao Sok offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

Stay in a floating bungalow on the lake, surrounded by the sounds of the jungle. Explore hidden caves, spot exotic wildlife, or simply relax and soak in the beauty of this natural wonderland.

Phang Nga Bay is a special place. It’s in Thailand. The water is blue and clear. There are big, tall rocks that look like green mountains. You can see them from the water.

Many people love to visit the bay. They like to look at the rocks and the water. It’s very pretty. You can also see cool animals in the water, like fish and maybe even sea turtles.

There are some great things to do in Phang Nga Bay. You can go swimming, kayaking, or take a boat ride. You can also visit a floating village. It’s a fun place to explore.

The best time to visit is from November to April. The weather is good, and the water is warm. But it can be busy with other visitors. If you like nature and water, you should visit Phang Nga Bay. It’s a great place to relax and have fun.

Mu Ko Similan is a special place in Thailand. It’s a group of islands with super clear water and amazing beaches. People love to go there to see beautiful coral reefs and cool sea animals.

The water around the islands is so clear, you can see lots of colorful fish and other sea creatures. It’s like swimming in a big aquarium! If you like to dive or snorkel, this is the place for you.

Be careful though, the park is closed for a few months each year to protect the sea life. So, make sure to check when it’s open before you plan your trip.

If you love the ocean and want to see some of the best underwater life in the world, Mu Ko Similan should be on your travel list.

Mu Ko Surin is a special group of islands in Thailand. It’s like a secret place with super clear water and amazing beaches. People love to go there to see the beautiful underwater world.

The water around the islands is like a big aquarium. It’s full of colorful fish and pretty coral. It’s one of the best places in the world for diving and snorkeling. You might even see cool sea animals like big turtles or manta rays.

The islands are also nice and quiet. You can relax on the beaches, swim, or just enjoy the peace. But remember, it’s important to be careful of the nature there.

The best time to visit is from November to May. The weather is good, and the water is clear. But there might be more people there, so it’s a good idea to plan your trip early.

If you love the ocean and want to see amazing sea life, Mu Ko Surin is the perfect place for you. It’s a special place to explore.

Mu Ko Chang is a fun place to visit in Thailand. It’s a group of islands with lots of beaches, trees, and cool water.

You can go swimming, snorkeling, or diving to see pretty fish and colorful coral. Some people like to explore the islands and hike up the hills. There are also waterfalls to see.

Ko Chang is the biggest island and has lots of places to stay and eat. But there are also smaller islands that are quieter and more peaceful.

The best time to visit is from November to April. The weather is nice, and the water is clear. But it can be busy with other people.

12. Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park:

Khao Sam Roi Yot is a special place in Thailand. It has tall mountains, cool caves, and beautiful beaches.

You can go swimming, kayaking, or hiking in the park. There are also lots of birds and other animals to see. You can even visit a big cave with a special building inside.

The park has a big area with water and lots of plants. It’s a great place to see different kinds of birds. You can walk on a special path to see the water and the plants.

13. Sai Yok National Park:

Sai Yok is a fun place with big trees, cool water, and tall mountains. It’s great for people who like to be outside.

You can go swimming in the river, look at the waterfalls, or take a boat ride. There are also caves to explore and cool animals to see. You can even learn about the history of the place.

The river is big and beautiful. You can swim, fish, or just relax on the banks. There are also raft houses where you can stay.

14. Thung Salaeng Luang National Park:

Thung Salaeng Luang is a big, green park in Thailand. It’s a special place with tall trees, cool mountains, and lots of wildlife.

You can go hiking, camping, or just relax and enjoy the quiet. There are also waterfalls to see and cool rivers to swim in. You might even see some wild animals, like deer or monkeys.

The park is really big and has lots of different kinds of trees and plants. It’s a great place to learn about nature. If you like the outdoors and want to escape the city, Thung Salaeng Luang is the perfect place. You can breathe fresh air and feel close to nature.

15.Phu Kradueng National Park:

Phu Kradueng is a special mountain in Thailand. It’s tall and has a big flat top. It’s like a giant green island in the sky!

You can hike up to the top to see amazing views. There are lots of trails to follow and cool places to explore. You might see some special birds or animals.

The top of the mountain is flat and open. You can camp there and watch the sunrise and sunset. It’s really beautiful. If you like hiking and camping, Phu Kradueng is a great place to visit. It’s a big adventure!

Conclusion

Thailand is a special place with something for everyone. You can relax on beautiful beaches, explore amazing jungles, climb tall mountains, or see cool underwater worlds.

From the busy islands to the quiet mountains, Thailand has it all. You can swim, hike, dive, or just relax and enjoy nature. There are so many fun things to do and see.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Thai adventure today!