Thailand is home to some of the most stunning wilderness on the planet with an impressive 127 National Parks of expansive and unblemished land and marine reserves. They remain protected, allowing an extremely diverse range of flora and fauna to thrive. Dramatic mountains, forests, streams and waterfalls are just a part of its inherent natural beauty. Many species of rare and exotic animals still roam freely on the land and Thailand is also home to a staggering 10% of the entire world’s marine species, guaranteeing that you won’t be disappointed if you visit one of the country’s 22 marine national parks. With so much on offer in the wonderful national parks of Thailand here’s a selection of five of our favourites.
1. Khao Phanom Bencha National Park (Krabi)
20km north of Krabi and nearly 1,400m above sea level, lies the exotic green paradise that is Khao Phanom Bencha National Park – an easy reach from Le Passe-Temps beach bungalows. Imagine a world untouched by time, with winding streams and shimmering waterfalls cascading into hidden, glassy emerald pools. All of this beauty is nestled amongst overhanging prehistoric ferns and thick, lush vegetation. Here you will find an incredible diversity of wild animals such as Asian Tapirs and Asiatic Black Bears as well as more than 218 bird species; from eagles to woodpeckers. This park is a wonderful place to hike and feel inspired by nature, with timeless, subtle wooden bridges crossing streams and blending into the dense foliage.
Visiting the park’s waterfalls is a must, especially Huay To and Huay Sadeh waterfalls. Huay To Waterfall starts at Phanom Bencha Mountain before breaking into five separate cascades, each with their own name and Huay Sadeh has three cascades flowing down into crystal clear, hypnotic pools of pure water.
2. Mu Ko Angthong National Marine Park (Samui)
Immerse yourself in a turquoise blue, mesmerising world of colourful marine life at Mu Ko Angthong National Marine Park. Situated approximately 30km northwest of Ko Samui, it comprises 42 small islands covering an area of approximately 102 square km, with 82% of that area being water. Mu Ko Angthong is a marine wonderland with incredibly beautiful, vibrant and diverse aquatic life everywhere.
The 42 islands are formed from limestone mountains which, over centuries, have transformed into mesmerising shapes and forms with the weather and water sculpting them. The formations have been described as reminiscent of the elaborate appearance of the structures of Angkor Wat.
Snorkelling, kayaking, diving and hiking provide a great escape from daily life, for both adventure and relaxation.
3. Phu Kao–Phu Phan Kham National Park (Isan)
Phu Kao–Phu Phan Kham National Park is located around 60 km northwest of the city of Khon Kaen and covers some 322 square km of incredible wilderness dominated by mountains of sandstone as well as dry dipterocarp forests. It is also home to a number of beautiful temples, waterfalls and ancient rock paintings as old as 3,500 years. A beautiful day trip from Supanniga Home boutique hideaway in Khon Kaean.
The Phu Khao mountain range is popular, consisting of nine mountains which are likely the result of a volcano rendered extinct millions of years ago. On the plains below the mountains live many wild animals, as well as waterfalls, bizarre formations of rock, and caves housing prehistoric paintings.
For history and culture visit the western side of the park and the elaborate Wat Phra Phutthabat Phu Kao Temple. The name of this temple translates as the “Temple of Buddha’s Footprint.” It was named after a 17th century hunter discovered an indentation in a puddle of water which looked like a giant footprint, thus to be declared that of Buddha.
While on the western side of the park it is also worth taking the time to visit the lovely Tat Fa and Tat Hin Taek waterfalls. A lush and wondrous sight where the waters of Tat Fa first wind through the forest before cascading from the heights into a large pool below.
4. Khao Yai National Park (Isan)
Khao Yai National Park is Thailand’s most visited reserve and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to one of the largest monsoon forests still remaining in mainland Asia. It has five distinctive vegetation zones providing a wide array of flora and fauna. The wildlife is incredibly diverse with nearly 400 species of birds, 200 or so elephants, as well as leopards, macaques, tigers and otters as well as many other exotic animals.
One of the biggest attractions of Khao Yai are the vast number of waterfalls; 44 – some of which are considered to be the most impressive in Thailand.
If you are a wine lover, then the western side hosts vineyards which represent some of Thailand’s most famous and award winning labels. Night safaris (with a certified guide of course), hiking trails, a museum and spectacular viewpoints give this national park a multitude of activities which make it such a memorable experience.
5. Doi Suthep National Park (Chiang Mai)
Doi Suthep National Park lies 16km northwest of Chiang Mai and is home to one of the north’s most sacred temples, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. First established in 1383 as a Buddhist Monastery, the temple sits at a glorious height over 1,000m above sea level, providing breath-taking panoramic views of Chiang Mai. Aspects of the temple are influenced by both Buddhism and Hinduism, with statues of the Emerald Buddha as well as the Hindu God Ganesha both present on the site. If you feel strong enough, you can venture up the 306 stairs to the temple grounds. If not, there are also tram services which go to the temple site.
Venturing 4km west of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep lies the Bhubing Palace which serves as a royal winter residence. This palace is open to the public except when the royal family is staying. Great for bird and butterfly watching, this area also has an amazing view of Chiang Mai.
For more natural excursions, there are three exquisitely beautiful waterfalls; Huey Kaew, Mon Tha Than and Dtaat Mook. You can even climb to the top of the The Huey Kaew Waterfall if you are careful enough, and bask in some sunshine. The activities and excursions can be arranged by the team at The Rachamankha Hotel.
