Some of Thailand’s greatest adventures happen far away from the beaches and bustling cities. Our journey through Tak and Uthai Thani provinces took us into one of Southeast Asia’s most important protected wilderness areas – home to rare wildlife, dense forests, and unforgettable natural beauty.
The highlight of the day? Watching an entire herd of wild gaur, the world’s largest species of wild cattle, roaming freely in their natural habitat.
Through the Mountains of Tak Province
The day began with a scenic drive through Tak Province, where winding roads, forested mountains, and peaceful countryside made the journey just as enjoyable as the destination.
Northern Thailand’s landscapes are constantly changing, and Tak offers some of the country’s most beautiful rural scenery. Every turn seemed to reveal another picturesque valley, towering trees, or quiet village.
Entering Uthai Thani Province
Crossing into Uthai Thani Province, the forests became even denser as we approached one of Thailand’s most remarkable conservation areas.
Unlike many national parks that attract large crowds, this region feels wonderfully remote, giving visitors the sense that they’re truly entering the wild.
Exploring the Thungyai – Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries
Our destination was the Thungyai–Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries, a vast protected forest complex recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Covering thousands of square kilometers, these sanctuaries protect one of the largest remaining tracts of mainland Southeast Asian forest. The area provides habitat for an extraordinary variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, tapirs, deer, hornbills, and many other rare species.
Although many of these animals remain elusive, simply knowing they inhabit these forests makes every drive and every trail even more exciting.
An Incredible Wildlife Encounter
The day’s most unforgettable moment came when we spotted a herd of wild gaur.
Seeing these massive animals in the wild was truly spectacular. Adult gaur can stand nearly two meters (over six feet) at the shoulder and weigh well over a ton, making them the largest wild cattle species on Earth.
Watching the herd graze peacefully among the trees was a reminder of just how special this protected wilderness really is. Encounters like this are the reason many travelers come to western Thailand hoping for a glimpse of its incredible wildlife.
A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers
Unlike Thailand’s better-known tourist destinations, the Thungyai–Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries remain largely untouched by mass tourism.
That sense of isolation is part of the appeal. Here, the focus isn’t on crowds or attractions – it’s on experiencing one of Thailand’s last great wilderness areas.
For wildlife photographers, birdwatchers, and anyone who enjoys nature, it’s a destination that deserves far more attention.
Backpack Benji’s Best Bets
- Start your drive early for the best chance of seeing wildlife.
- Bring binoculars or a zoom lens—you never know what might appear along the roadside.
- Drive slowly and quietly through the sanctuary to increase your chances of spotting animals.
- Respect all wildlife by keeping a safe distance and never feeding the animals.
- Allow plenty of time to enjoy the journey. The scenery through Tak and Uthai Thani is part of the experience.
Watch the Adventure
Join me as we travel through the beautiful provinces of Tak and Uthai Thani before entering the remarkable Thungyai–Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries, one of Thailand’s most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
In this video you’ll experience breathtaking forest scenery and witness one of the highlights of our Thailand road trip—an unforgettable encounter with a herd of wild gaur living freely in one of Southeast Asia’s last great wilderness areas.
If you’re looking to experience Thailand beyond the typical tourist trail, this incredible protected forest offers a rare opportunity to connect with nature and see wildlife where it truly belongs—in the wild.