Khao Yai National Park

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Introduction

Khao Yai National Park, Thailand’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was established in 1961. Spanning 2,172 square kilometers, it boasts one of the largest intact monsoon forests in mainland Asia. The park is a sanctuary for over 300 bird species and 20 large land-mammal species, including wild elephants, sambar deer, barking deer, and gibbons.

History

Founded in 1961, Khao Yai National Park was created to protect the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Phanom Dangkrek mountains. Its unique landscape features five distinct forest types and reaches an elevation of 1,341 meters, making it a paradise for wildlife and a favored spot for hikers and nature lovers.

How to Get There

Khao Yai National Park is conveniently reachable from Bangkok via three transportation options: private car, bus, or train.

– **By Private Car**: This is the most convenient choice, as there are no internal transportation services within the park. Access is available through two entrance gates: the Visitor Center at Chao Por Khao Yai Shrine (Pak Chong Entrance) in Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima, and the Noen Hom Visitor Center (Noen Hom Entrance) in Meuang District of Prachinburi province. Thanarat Road stretches 50km through the park from the Chao Por Khao Yai Shrine Entrance to Prachinburi.

– **By Bus**: You can take the Bangkok-Nakhon Ratchasima coach or a private minivan from Bangkok to Pak Chong. From there, hire a taxi or take the Pak Chong-Khao Yai bus, which ends at the Chao Por Khao Yai Shrine Visitor Center (the park’s entrance).

– **By Train**: Board the North-eastern line (Bangkok-Pak Chong) and disembark at Pak Chong station in Nakhon Ratchasima province. From there, take a songthaew bus from Pak Chong Market to Khao Yai National Park, getting off at the Chao Por Khao Yai Shrine Visitor Center (the park’s entrance).

Things to See

Khao Yai National Park offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors.

– **Waterfalls**: The park features several stunning waterfalls, including Haew Narok and Haew Suwat, which are popular spots for hiking and swimming.

– **Night Safaris**: Experience the excitement of a night safari by jeep, where you may encounter wildlife such as deer, civets, and elephants.

– **Hiking Trails**: With over 50 kilometers of hiking paths, visitors can explore the park’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife.

– **Caves**: Visit the Khao Luk Chang Bat Cave to witness the spectacular sight of over two million Wrinkle-lipped bats emerging at dusk.

Ticket Information

Entry fees for Khao Yai National Park vary based on nationality and mode of transportation.

– **Thai Visitors**: 40 baht
– **Western Visitors**: 400 baht
– **Bicycles**: 20 baht
– **Motorcycles**: 30 baht
– **Cars**: 50 baht
– **Mini vans**: 100 baht

Visitors must pay both personal entry fees and vehicle entry fees (unless arriving on foot).

Tips for Visiting

1. **Plan Your Visit**: The park is open from 6am to 6pm, but you can exit after 6pm if you participate in a night safari. Note that park restaurants close at 6pm, so plan your meals accordingly.

2. **Accommodation**: Staying within the park allows for multiple-day visits without incurring additional entry fees and provides access to trails during early morning and sunset when wildlife is most active.

3. **Transportation**: While private cars are convenient, hitchhiking is a common practice within the park. Many visitors find it easy to catch a ride to the Visitor Center and trailheads.

4. **Guided Tours**: Consider hiring a park ranger for a guided hike, which includes transportation to the trailhead. This is an excellent way to explore the park’s more remote trails and waterfalls.

5. **Wildlife Observation**: Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting, and be prepared for cooler temperatures at higher elevations. To avoid crowds, try to visit during weekdays rather than weekends and holidays.

Khao Yai National Park is a remarkable destination that combines stunning natural beauty with a rich historical backdrop, making it a must-see for any traveler.
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