Khao Yai National Park

เขาใหญ่

Thailand's largest and most visited national park, featuring lush jungles, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife including elephants, gibbons, and hornbills. It's an essential destination for nature lovers and hikers seeking pristine rainforest experiences.

Things to do

• Haew Suwat Waterfall Trek — Hike to the park's most spectacular three-tiered waterfall where you can swim in emerald pools surrounded by rainforest canopy.
• Jungle Night Safari — Join a guided nocturnal tour by vehicle or on foot to spot nocturnal wildlife including civets, flying squirrels, and owls active after dark.
• Elephant Spotting at Khao Khiao — Trek through dense forest on designated trails where wild Asian elephants frequently roam, especially near water sources during dry season.
• Haew Khamin Waterfall — Visit this lesser-known multi-level waterfall featuring a scenic pool perfect for swimming and picnicking away from crowded tourist areas.
• Gibbon Calling Trail — Wake before dawn to trek the forest listening for white-handed gibbon calls echoing through the canopy and spot them swinging between trees.
• Bamboo and Hornbill Observation — Explore bamboo groves and open areas where great hornbills, pied hornbills, and other rare bird species can be observed year-round.
• Scenic Overlook at Khao Yai Mountain — Climb to elevated viewpoints within the park offering panoramic vistas across the jungle canopy and distant mountains on clear days.

Food to try

• Larb with Wild Game — Spicy northeastern Thai minced meat salad traditionally made with locally-sourced game meats and served at park restaurants and nearby villages.
• Som Tam with Fresh Bamboo Shoots — Green papaya salad incorporating freshly harvested bamboo shoots from the forest, offering a crisp authentic flavor unique to the region.
• Grilled Fish from Local Ponds — Fresh freshwater fish caught from park ponds and grilled over charcoal, seasoned with lime, chili, and herbs at park lodges and restaurants.
• Sticky Rice and Wild Vegetables — Traditional northeastern meal of glutinous rice paired with seasonal foraged forest vegetables and jungle herbs prepared by local guides.
• Khao Soi at Park Headquarters — Northern Thai coconut curry noodle soup available at the visitor center and nearby restaurants, perfect for refueling after morning hikes.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Wildlife Distance — Maintain at least 20 meters from elephants and other large animals, never attempt to feed or touch wildlife as they are wild and unpredictable.
• Guide Etiquette Required — Hiring an official park guide is mandatory for most trails and deeply appreciated as guides are community members who rely on tourism income.
• Quiet Morning Hours Matter — Wildlife is most active and visible during early morning and late afternoon, so plan hikes accordingly and speak softly on trails to avoid disturbing animals.
• Proper Dress for Jungle Safety — Wear closed-toe hiking boots, long pants, and a hat to protect against leeches, insects, and rough terrain rather than casual tourist clothing.