Plan your visit to Khoa Yai like a pro!
Overview
Khao Yai is located around three hours northeast of Bangkok and is home to Thailand’s first national park. The region is known for lush forests, diverse wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, waterfalls, and a growing café and art scene. It is one of Thailand’s most popular weekend escapes and offers a great balance of nature, food, and culture.
There are only a few rest stops inside the national park, so bring snacks and water before entering.
Entrance fees are approximately 400 baht for foreigners and 200 baht for Thai nationals.
Vehicle fees apply, around 30 baht for cars and 20 baht for bikes.
Bathrooms are limited, so use them whenever you see one.
Be cautious of monkeys, which may run across roads or climb on vehicles.
Wildlife such as deer and elephants do live in the park, but they generally stay away from main roads.
Getting Around
Scooter or Bike Rental
Expect to pay around 300 to 600 baht per day. While this can be a fun option, some roads in Khao Yai are very steep and have potholes. Traffic includes cars, trucks, and other bikes, so you should only rent a bike if you are confident and experienced.
Car Rental
Car rental usually costs between 800 and 1,000 baht per day. This is the safest and most flexible way to explore Khao Yai, especially if you plan to visit both inside and outside the national park. Rent from a reputable company, inspect the car carefully, and take photos before driving away. Drive slowly, watch for bikes, and take extra care on mountain roads.
Guided Tour
Guided tours typically cost between 1,600 and 3,000 baht per person per day. They are a good option if you do not want to drive yourself, but they are expensive and often limited to attractions inside the national park. This means you may miss cafes, art spaces, and sights outside the park. If possible, choose a converted pickup truck rather than a van for a better experience.
Day One: Around Khao Yai
Khao Yai is well known for it’s UNESCO National Park, but did you know there are many beautiful spots around the National Park?! I recommend spending your first day exploring around the National Park and visit some of the lesser know spots.
Start your morning with matcha at Ma & Co, a calm and stylish spot to ease into the day.
Next, visit Ban Tha Chang Spring, a natural spring known for its clear blue-green water and peaceful surroundings.
Continue on to Khao Yai Art Museum, which features contemporary Thai art in both indoor galleries and outdoor garden spaces.
Stop for coffee or brunch at hiean.khaoyai, a popular café known for its relaxed atmosphere and quality food.
In the afternoon, visit Luang Phor Thuat Shrine, home to a large golden statue of the revered monk and scenic surrounding views.
Add something fun with a visit to Pete Maze, an outdoor maze attraction that is great for photos and lighthearted exploring.
End the afternoon at Khao Yai Art Forest, an immersive outdoor art space set among trees and open landscapes. Make sure to arrive in time for the fog forest show (4pm weekdays, 4:30pm weekends).
For dinner, head to ซงริม ปิ้งย่างเกาหลี for a casual and satisfying local style Mookrata barbecue surrounded by beautiful mountainous landscapes.
Day Two: Khoa Yai National Park
Driving through the park is the main activity. There is one main road running through the park, with clear signage for viewpoints, waterfalls, and points of interest.
Enter the park early, around 6 or 7am, and stop at the 30th Kilometer Viewpoint for morning mist and panoramic views.
Continue to Nong Pak Chi, a wide grassland area with an observation tower where you may spot deer, birds, and sometimes elephants. One of the most peaceful stops in the park.
Next, visit Haew Narok Waterfall, one of the largest and most dramatic waterfalls in the park. Be prepared for some slippery stairs and a short scenic walk to this majestic waterfall. There are places to stop along the walk to rest but ensure you take water with you and rest before making you way back up the steps.
Exit the park at the far checkpoint and have lunch at Noen Hom Cafe, a relaxed stop for food and coffee.
Re-enter the park and visit Than Rattana Waterfall, an easily accessible and scenic waterfall surrounded by forest.
Drive up to Pha Diao Dai Cliff, which involves a long and steep ascent but rewards you with expansive forest views.
Take a break at Sai Sorn Reservoir, a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings before exiting the park. Perfect if you are travelling by car, you can park on the grass and relax.
Finish your trip with dinner at Penlaos Restaurant, where the som tam and grilled pork neck come highly recommended. Sample incredible Isaan food at this Michelin guide restaurant.
