Khao Yai National Park

History & Significance

Established on September 18, 1962, Khao Yai National Park is Thailand's very first national park. In 2005, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex. Historically, the area was a dense, perilous jungle known as "Dong Phraya Fai" (Jungle of Fire) due to malaria and wild beasts. King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) later renamed it "Dong Phraya Yen" (Cold Jungle) during the construction of the Bangkok-Nakhon Ratchasima railway. In 1932, a local official named Palat Chang successfully suppressed bandits who used the remote area as a hideout, but he later succumbed to malaria. Today, the Chao Pho Khao Yai Shrine stands in his honor. In 1959, Field Marshal Sarit Thanarat initiated the conservation efforts that led to the park's official establishment.

Highlights & What to See

Khao Yai National Park features a diverse ecosystem with over 3,000 plant species, 350 bird species, and 71 mammal species, including elephants, gibbons, and gaur. Key attractions include:

• Haew Suwat Waterfall: A famous 20-meter-high waterfall with a scenic viewpoint and a spacious pool at its base.
• Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall: A medium-sized waterfall on the Lam Takhong creek, named after the abundant wild orchids growing on the surrounding cliffs.
• Sai Son Reservoir: Formerly known as Mo Singto Reservoir, this scenic lake serves as a vital water source for local wildlife and offers beautiful sunset views.
• Nong Phak Chi Wildlife Watchtower: Located along a 3.5-kilometer nature trail starting at Km 33 of Thanarat Road, this tower offers panoramic views of grasslands and a salt lick where wild animals gather.
• Chao Pho Khao Yai Shrine: A highly respected shrine built in 1962 to honor the spirit of Chang Nisaisat (Palat Chang), the protector of the forest.

Visitor Information

The park is open daily from 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM. Facilities include parking lots and restrooms. Visitors should follow park rules to protect wildlife and preserve the environment. In 2020, Khao Yai received the Gold Level Green National Parks Award for its excellent environmental management.

How to Get There

Khao Yai National Park is accessible via two main routes. The northern entrance is via Thanarat Road (Route 2090) from Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima. The southern entrance is via the Prachinburi-Khao Yai Road (Route 3077), which was opened in 1982, offering a shorter and less steep drive from Bangkok and direct access to attractions like Haew Narok Waterfall.