Thailand’s national parks are a testament to the country’s stunning natural diversity, offering everything from ancient rainforests and dramatic limestone cliffs to turquoise waters and vibrant marine ecosystems. With over 150 national parks spanning nearly 20% of Thailand’s land, these protected areas are a haven for adventurers, nature lovers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Below, we highlight ten of Thailand’s top national parks, complete with their addresses, entry fees, and key attractions, providing a comprehensive guide for planning your visit to these natural wonders.

1. Khao Yai National Park

Address: Khao Yai National Park, Hin Tung, Mueang Nakhon Nayok District, Nakhon Nayok 26000, Thailand
Entry Fees: 400 THB – Foreigners(adults), 200 THB – foreigners(children), 40THB- Thai Locals
Established in 1962 as Thailand’s first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Khao Yai spans over 2,000 square kilometers in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, just a 2.5-hour drive from Bangkok. Its lush forests, grasslands, and waterfalls are home to elephants, gibbons, and rare tigers. Highlights include Haew Suwat Waterfall, famously featured in The Beach, and the Thai-American Friendship Trail, a 1.2-mile loop accessible without a guide. Guided safaris and hiking trails offer immersive experiences, with seven official trails requiring a guide for safety.

2. Khao Sok National Park

Address: Khao Sok National Park, Khlong Sok, Phanom District, Surat Thani 84250, Thailand
Entry Fees: 300 THB – Foreigners (adults), 150 THB – Foreigners (children); 40 THB – Adults; 20 THB – Children
Located in Surat Thani Province, Khao Sok is renowned for its ancient evergreen rainforest, one of the oldest in the world. The park’s dramatic limestone karsts, Cheow Lan Lake, and floating bungalows create a surreal landscape. Activities include kayaking, jungle trekking, and wildlife spotting, with chances to see elephants, tigers, and the rare Rafflesia flower. Long-tail boat tours on the lake are a highlight, offering stunning views and access to hidden caves and waterfalls. Its proximity to Phuket and Krabi makes it a popular southern destination.

3. Ao Phang Nga National Park

Address: Ao Phang Nga National Park, 80 Moo 1, Ko Phanak, Mueang Phang Nga District, Phang Nga 82000, Thailand
Entry Fees: 300 THB – Foreigners (adults); 150 THB- Foreigners (children); 60 THB – Thai Locals (Adults); 30THB – Thai Locals (Children)
This marine national park in Phang Nga Province is famous for its emerald-green waters and limestone karsts, including the iconic James Bond Island (Koh Tapu), featured in The Man with the Golden Gun. Spanning 42 islands, the park offers kayaking through mangrove forests and sea caves like Koh Panak Cave, as well as snorkeling among vibrant marine life. Boat tours from Phuket or Krabi are the primary way to explore, with the stilted village of Ko Panyi adding a cultural touch to the scenic beauty.

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4. Erawan National Park

Address: Erawan National Park, Tha Kradan, Si Sawat District, Kanchanaburi 71250, Thailand
Entry Fees: 300 THB – Foreigners (adults); 150 THB – Foreigners (children); 100 THB- Locals (Adults); 50 THB – Locals (Children)
Located in Kanchanaburi Province, Erawan National Park is celebrated for its seven-tiered Erawan Waterfall, named after a mythological elephant. The waterfall’s emerald pools, formed by calcium carbonate, are ideal for swimming and photography. A 2-km trail leads to the top tier, with side trips to caves like Phra That Cave. Accessible by bus from Kanchanaburi, the park is best visited on weekdays from December to January to avoid crowds. Monkeys and diverse birdlife add to the park’s charm.

5. Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park

Address: Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park, Ang Thong, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani 84140, Thailand
Entry Fees: 300 THB – Foreigners (adults); 150 THB – Foreigners (children); 50 THB- Locals (Adults); 25 THB- Locals (Children)
This marine park near Koh Samui comprises 42 limestone islands with white-sand beaches and emerald lagoons. Popular for day trips or overnight camping, the park offers kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking to viewpoints like Wua Ta Lap for panoramic vistas. Its vibrant coral reefs and marine life, including colorful fish, make it a snorkeler’s paradise. Accessible by boat from Koh Samui or Koh Phangan, the park is a serene escape blending adventure and relaxation.

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6. Doi Inthanon National Park

Address: Doi Inthanon National Park, Ban Luang, Chom Thong District, Chiang Mai 50160, Thailand
Entry Fees: 300 THB – Foreigners (adults), 150 THB – Foreigners(children); 30 THB – Locals
Known as the “Roof of Thailand,” Doi Inthanon in Chiang Mai Province features the country’s highest peak at 2,565 meters. The park’s cool climate, cloud forests, and waterfalls like Wachirathan and Siriphum attract visitors year-round. The Ang Ka Luang Nature Trail offers scenic walks, while the Twin Pagodas provide cultural insights. Guided tours from Chiang Mai are convenient, with birdwatching and trekking opportunities enhanced by the park’s misty mornings and winter frost flowers.

7. Kaeng Krachan National Park

Address: Kaeng Krachan National Park, Kaeng Krachan, Kaeng Krachan District, Phetchaburi 76170, Thailand
Entry Fees: 300 THB- Foreigners (adults); 200 THB – Foreigners (children); 60 THB – Locals (Adults); 30 THB- Locals (Children)
Thailand’s largest national park, located in Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan Provinces, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site near the Myanmar border. Its dense rainforests and misty valleys host leopards, elephants, and over 400 bird species. Ban Krang Campground is ideal for wildlife spotting, while Pala-U Waterfall offers a refreshing retreat. The sea of mist from November to February, best viewed from Phanoen Thung, is a highlight. Renting a vehicle or joining a tour is recommended due to limited public transport.

8. Kui Buri National Park

Address: Kui Buri National Park, Had Kham, Kui Buri District, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77150, Thailand
Entry Fees: 200 THB- Foreigners (adults); 100 THB – Foreigners (children); 40 THB- Locals (Adults); 20 THB- Locals (Children)
Situated in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, Kui Buri is renowned for ethical wild elephant viewing at Huai Luek Ranger Station. Safari tours in 4×4 vehicles allow safe observation of elephant herds, with occasional sightings of gaurs and leopards. The park’s evergreen forests and proximity to Hua Hin make it an excellent day trip for wildlife enthusiasts seeking a responsible nature experience.

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9. Mu Ko Similan National Park

Address: Mu Ko Similan National Park, Lam Kaen, Thai Mueang District, Phang Nga 82210, Thailand
Entry Fees: 500 THB- Foreigners (adults); 300 THB – Foreigners (children); 100 THB- Locals (Adults); 50 THB- Locals (Children)
This archipelago of 11 islands in the Andaman Sea is a diver’s paradise, known for crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and marine life like sea turtles and reef sharks. White-sand beaches and lush rainforests add to its allure. Best visited from December to April for optimal water clarity, the park is perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving, and liveaboard tours. Access is via boat from Khao Lak or Phuket.

10. Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park

Address: Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, Kui Buri District, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77150, Thailand
Entry Fees: 200 THB- Foreigners (adults); 100 THB – Foreigners(children); 40 THB- Locals (Adults); 20 THB- Locals (Children)
Thailand’s first coastal national park, meaning “Mountain of 300 Peaks,” features the stunning Phraya Nakhon Cave with its royal pavilion illuminated by sunlight. Located in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, the park’s limestone cliffs, wetlands, and beaches attract over 300 bird species, making it a birdwatcher’s haven. Boat tours to the cave and hiking trails offer diverse exploration options.

Tips for Visiting Thailand’s National Parks

• Respect Wildlife: Maintain a safe distance and avoid feeding animals to protect the ecosystem.
• Check Seasonal Access: Some trails close during the rainy season (May–October). Confirm conditions in advance.
• Dress Appropriately: Wear lightweight clothing and insect repellent for jungle treks.
• Start Early: Morning visits offer cooler temperatures and better wildlife sightings.
• Follow Park Rules: Stick to designated trails and respect signage for safety and conservation.

Thailand’s national parks showcase the country’s untamed beauty, offering adventures from jungle treks to marine explorations. With accessible entry fees and diverse attractions, these parks are perfect for travelers seeking to connect with nature in the Land of Smiles.

Image Credits- Khao Sok National Park