Khao Yai National Park is one of Thailand’s greatest natural treasures, and after spending a full day exploring its forests, waterfalls, and wildlife, it’s easy to understand why it was designated Thailand’s first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Our adventure took us through four provinces—Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat), Saraburi, Nakhon Nayok, and Prachinburi—each offering a different gateway into this incredible protected wilderness.
A Journey Into Thailand’s Wild Side
The moment you enter Khao Yai National Park, the landscape changes dramatically. Busy highways give way to winding mountain roads surrounded by dense rainforest, towering trees, and an endless chorus of birds.
One of the highlights of the day was spotting a huge wild porcupine wandering alongside the street. Seeing one in its natural habitat was an unexpected surprise and a reminder that Khao Yai is home to an amazing variety of wildlife.
Throughout the day we also encountered playful monkeys along the roads and several beautiful bird species, making every stop an opportunity to see something new.
Khao Yai Visitor Center & Kong Kaew Waterfall Trail
Our first major stop was the Khao Yai Visitor Center, an excellent place to learn about the park’s ecosystems, wildlife, and hiking trails before beginning your adventure.
From there we followed the short Kong Kaew Waterfall Trail, an easy jungle walk leading to a peaceful waterfall tucked beneath the forest canopy. The trail offers an excellent introduction to Khao Yai’s lush rainforest with giant trees, vines, and plenty of opportunities to listen for birds overhead.
Haew Suwat Waterfall Trail
No visit to Khao Yai would be complete without visiting the famous Haew Suwat Waterfall.
A short trail leads through the forest before opening onto one of Thailand’s most recognizable waterfalls. Cascading over a dramatic cliff into the pool below, it’s easy to see why filmmakers selected this location.
Many visitors recognize Haew Suwat Waterfall from the movie “The Beach,” where it became one of the film’s most memorable natural settings.
Standing at the viewing platform, the waterfall is every bit as impressive in person as it appears on screen.
Huai Narok Waterfall
Another highlight of the park is the spectacular Huai Narok Waterfall.
After walking along the elevated pathways and descending the viewing platforms, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views of one of Khao Yai’s tallest and most powerful waterfalls.
The sound of rushing water echoes through the valley while the surrounding jungle creates an unforgettable setting. It’s one of those places where photos simply don’t capture the true scale of what you’re seeing.
Nong Phak Chi Nature Trail & Observation Tower
For those hoping to experience more of Khao Yai’s wildlife, the Nong Phak Chi Nature Trail is a fantastic choice.
This relatively easy trail winds quietly through the forest before reaching an observation tower overlooking open grasslands and wetlands.
The tower provides an excellent place to watch for wildlife, and even when larger animals stay hidden, the peaceful surroundings and bird life make the walk worthwhile.
Wildlife Around Every Corner
One of the best parts of visiting Khao Yai is that you never know what you’ll see next.
During our drive and hikes we encountered:
- A huge wild porcupine
- Curious monkeys
- Colorful birds
- Beautiful jungle scenery around every bend
Khao Yai is also home to wild elephants, gibbons, hornbills, deer, and even tigers, although sightings of some species are much rarer.
Watch the Adventure
Join me as we explore one of Thailand’s most spectacular national parks! In this video you’ll see:
- Khao Yai Visitor Center
- Kong Kaew Waterfall Trail
- Haew Suwat Waterfall Trail
- The famous Haew Suwat Waterfall from The Beach
- Huai Narok Waterfall
- Nong Phak Chi Nature Trail
- Observation Tower
- Wild monkeys
- Colorful birds
- An unforgettable encounter with a massive wild porcupine
Backpack Benji’s Best Bets
- Arrive early to increase your chances of spotting wildlife.
- Bring binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes—the waterfall trails involve stairs and uneven surfaces.
- Carry plenty of water, especially during the warmer months.
- Drive slowly through the park. Wildlife frequently appears along the roads.
- Plan a full day or longer. Khao Yai is much larger than many visitors expect, and rushing through means missing some of its best experiences.
If you’re planning a trip through central Thailand, Khao Yai National Park deserves a place near the top of your itinerary. With breathtaking waterfalls, rich wildlife, scenic hiking trails, and landscapes spanning four provinces, it’s one of the country’s premier destinations for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
Where I’ve stayed in Sariburi:
Mueang Phriao Inn Hotel
The Mueang Phriao Inn provided a convenient overnight stop while exploring the region.
Sariburi Garden Hotel
One feature I especially appreciated at the Sariburi Garden Hotel was the room layout. Each room had its own small covered parking space, allowing us to pull the car directly in front of the door—almost like having a private mini carport with a small front porch. It made loading luggage and gear incredibly convenient, especially after a full day of hiking.