Often overshadowed by the allure of bustling Bangkok and the turquoise waters of southern Thailand, Khao Yai National Park offers a tranquil escape for nature enthusiasts seeking a taste of Thailand’s untamed beauty.
Khao Yai boasts the distinction of being Thailand’s oldest national park, established in 1962. Encompassing over 2,000 square kilometres of diverse terrain, the park is a tapestry of verdant rainforests, cascading waterfalls and majestic mountains.
Nature enthusiasts will be captivated by the park’s rich biodiversity, with opportunities to encounter a fascinating array of wildlife, including elephants, gibbons and a plethora of bird species.
Beyond the park itself, wineries, farms, golf courses, spas and great restaurants add to the diverse appeal of Khao Yai.
Located 2.5-hours northeast of the capital city, Khao Yai provides a convenient yet distinct change of scenery. Combined with a number of indulgent hotels, Khao Yai is an ideal destination for a short getaway or a longer exploration.
Read on to learn more.
Khao Yai: Nature and wildlife
EXO recommends at least one full day to explore the National Park.
Starting in the morning, guests can enjoy a light 3-kilometre nature walk. The route provides great opportunities for wildlife spotting, including a visit to the main water source which attracts animals of all sizes. The hike concludes at Heow Suwat Waterfalls, a refreshing spot for a swim.
At sunset, EXO suggests heading to Khao Luk Chong Cave on the outer edges of the park. As darkness approaches, millions of bats fly out of the cave in a seemingly endless wave for their evening hunt.
For keen nature lovers, EXO can arrange an evening wildlife safari to look for the park’s nocturnal animals such as Barking Deer, tigers and bears.
Culture and relaxation
Beyond the National Park, there are a range of options to suit a traveller’s personal interests.
EXO suggests visiting one of Khao Yai’s vineyards, such as GrandMonte, for a tour and tasting. For golf enthusiasts, Kirimaya Golf Club boasts a world-class 18-hole course in Khao Yai.
There are also an increasing number of spas offering a full range of beauty and wellness treatments as well as yoga and meditation.
EXO can also arrange visits to local communities and organic farms. Best suited for guests staying at the Intercontinental Khao Yai, these experiences introduce travellers to the rhythms of rural life in Thailand and agricultural practices that have been passed down through the generations of farmers.
Planning a visit
Where to stay: Among EXO’s preferred properties is the Intercontinental Khao Yai, a serene retreat that fuses seamlessly into its tropical surroundings. Designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley, the whimsical yet luxurious rooms take inspiration from the golden age of rail travel. EXO also recommends Sala Khao Yai, with just twelve stylish rooms and suites, or the Marasca Khao Yai, where each of the 18 rooms offers a unique, memorable stay.
When to go: The ideal time to visit Khao Yai falls between November and April, when the weather is predominantly dry and sunny, suitable for outdoor exploration. However, the park retains its charm throughout the year, with the rainy season (May to October) showcasing a different facet of its beauty as lush greenery flourishes in the short, heavy rains.
How to go: Khao Yai is located 2-2.5 hours northeast of Bangkok. EXO recommends including Khao Yai as an extension from Bangkok or as part of a longer Thailand overland journey to the Isaan province
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