Top 5 National Parks in Thailand

Visitors usually associate Thailand with beaches and great shopping but the country has much to offer in terms of other natural attractions. If you are looking for outdoors and adventure, you can find the perfect venues in the national parks in Thailand. The country has more than 100 national parks to its credit. Some of these are spread across the coast and are known as marine national parks. They range in size from the small but lovely Sirinat National Park in Phuket to the massive ones such as Khao Yai in central Thailand.

Their size may vary but what binds them together is the fact that all offer endless opportunities for the nature enthusiasts with marked trails and plenty of wildlife and birds to see.
Whether you want to go mountain climbing or whitewater rafting or simply relax on a white sandy beach, you'll find them perfect for all activities. Here are some of the more popular national parks in Thailand.

Khao Yai
Khao Yai National Park is one of largest in Thailand. Encompassing mountain ranges, waterfalls, evergreen forest and grassland, it is home to more more than 300 species of birds and about 70 species of mammals, including black bears, elephants, tigers, gibbons, macaque and deer. The park is only a few hours drive away from Bangkok. It has some camping sites with showers and canteens but if you don't wish to camp in the park you can also stay at any of the nearby wineries.

Sirinat National Park
This tiny park in Phuket boasts a pristine beach and a small forest. Although there is not much to do aside from hanging out at the beach or exploring forest trails, it is a great place to experience Phuket away from crowds and commercialization. You can even rent a bungalow or stay in a campsite within the park.

Khao Sam Roi Yot
Literally translated Khao Sam Roi Yot means mountain of three hundred peaks. Apart from the stunning mountain peaks, it also houses beautiful beaches, marshes, caves, salt flats and even small islands. The park has some bungalows and a campsite. It is about one hour drive from Hua Hin.

Doi Inthanon
The park surrounds the Doi Inthanon mountain range, which is the highest mountain range in Thailand. It has everything from Buddhist temples, the most diverse bird population in the country and several mountain trails. It has basic accommodations and bungalows at two different locations.

Kaeng Krachan
This is Thailand's largest park located in Petchaburi province, just a couple of hours drive from Bangkok. It has undeveloped jungle, mountain ranges, rivers, waterfalls and a reservoir. Besides, it also plays home to different bird species and animals. Bungalows and basic accommodations are available at three different locations in the park. However, you can also stay in hotels or Thailand villas in Bangkok in case you don't wish to camp within the park.


Preety is a travel writer with Eats & retreats a modern online magazine with unique travel articles, photo galleries and a selected portfolio of holiday villas and apartments featured by Web Perspective Ltd.
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