Top 5 most beautiful national parks in Thailand

Thailand is one of those countries that abounds of biodiversity. Even though this Asian nation has struggled with the effects of modernization when it came to its natural treasures, conservation efforts are being done continuously in each of its 127 national parks.

Exotic wildlife and unique views under the horizon expect you to discover them. Here are our top 5 most beautiful national parks in Thailand that will take your breath away.

 

Tarutao National Marine Park

Even though it has a dark history, Tarutao National Marine Park is, without question, one of the most beautiful protected areas in Thailand.

Spreading over 925 square miles of land and water, it has much to offer its visitors aside from splendid panoramas.

The park consists of 51 islands and 3 archipelagos with beaches, forests, and coral reefs. 

Aside from taking in their surroundings and salty air, tourists can camp on the beach or in bungalows, dive, and snorkel, take boat rides or spot wildlife while enjoying their time at one of the restaurants serving the visitor areas (yes, that’s how close they get).

Those who want to learn more about the history and the prisoners held on one of the islands can visit Ao Ta Lo Woo Pier.

 

Khao Sok National Park

The Khao Sok National Park covers 460 square miles, and it consists of lush rainforest and a lake surrounded by raft houses.

It’s the most popular destination in Thailand for tourists looking for such an experience, because of the rich wildlife and the ease of access from multiple notable cities.

Some animals visitors can see are elephants, primates, bears, porcupines, and over 400 species of birds. 

Khao Sok Lake is a splendor in itself. Visitors can access limestone hills and caves by kayaking, and it’s also a great area where they have increased chances of spotting rare animals in search of water. 

The National Park has exciting hiking trails that head towards wildlife sanctuaries, waterfalls, caves, gorges, and cliffs. Some spots along the trails are even great for swimming.

A guide to Khao Sok Natural Park

Doi Inthanon National Park

Located 37 miles from Chiang Mai, Doi Inthanon is a favorite for bird watching, and it contains a few beautiful waterfalls. Not only the Doi Inthanon summit is the tallest peak in Thailand, but the national park is also an important farming and conservation center for the local community.

It was beloved by King Inthawichayanon who left word to be buried here. Naphamethinidon and Naphaphonphumisiri, the Twin Pagodas, are the most important man-made structure in the park that commemorates King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit.

Even though Doi Inthanon National Park might not be the easiest one to reach, it offers much in terms of tourist hospitality, including from the local community. Is it worth visiting Doi Inthanon National Park?

How to go from Chiang Mai to Doi Inthanon?

Khao Yai National Park

This is the third-largest national park in Thailand, and it covers 1347 square miles of rainforest and grassland. It’s home to impressive biodiversity including elephants, jackals, otters, primates, reptiles, and other 400 species of birds.

Because the park is so large, you can book a tour, so the guide can help you reach the most important landmarks and the best locations to spot animals. 

If you want to stay for a night or more, you can reserve a bungalow through the DNP website. There are also 2 campsites available for those who want to sleep under the stars.

The park has 7 hiking trails ranging in difficulty and length, a wildlife observation tower, and 3 beautiful waterfalls, with Haew Narok being one of the most impressive ones in Thailand. 

Erawan National Park

A smaller national park covering around 340 square miles, Erawan National Park is well known for Erawan Falls, which got its name for resembling the 3-headed elephant Erawan in Hindu mythology.

The waterfall has 7 tiers accessible by hiking, picnic areas, and ponds where visitors can bathe. Because of this, it can get crowded quite fast, so if you want to try the ponds, you should visit during the weekdays in the morning.  

Other attractions in Erawan National park include Phra That and Wang Bah Dan Caves with stalagmites and water streams.