Khao Yai’s attractions fall into two very different groups: the wild landscapes of the national park, and the lively countryside outside it, with its vineyards, farms, art spaces and themed villages. The best trips combine both. Here are the attractions we think are most worthwhile, with links to our detailed guides.
Opening hours and fees change. Where we mention them, confirm with the attraction or its official channels before visiting.
Inside the national park
Khao Yai National Park
Thailand’s first national park and part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with evergreen forest, grasslands, more than 300 bird species and a population of wild Asian elephants. Read our national park guide.
Haew Suwat Waterfall
A roughly 20-metre fall into a round pool, famous from the film The Beach. It is a short walk from its car park. Haew Suwat guide.
Haew Narok Waterfall
The park’s largest waterfall, plunging about 150 metres in tiers. It is reached by a walk of about 1 km with steep stairs. Haew Narok guide.
Scenic viewpoints
From roadside lookouts to the cliff-edge Pha Diao Dai near Khao Khiao, at around 1,150 metres. Viewpoints guide.
Nature trails
Over 50 km of trails, from easy boardwalks to guided forest hikes. Nature trails guide.
Wildlife experiences
Observation towers, dawn drives and ranger-run night spotlighting. Wildlife guide.
Outside the park
PB Valley Khao Yai Winery
One of Thailand’s pioneering wineries, with tasting tours and the Great Hornbill Grill restaurant. PB Valley guide.
Primo Piazza
An Italian-style village with photogenic architecture, cafes and animals to feed. Primo Piazza guide.
Khao Yai Art Museum
A private collection of Thai contemporary art in three halls, with a hilltop sculpture garden. Art museum guide.
Ban Tha Chang Spring
A natural spring with strikingly clear blue water, popular with locals at weekends. Ban Tha Chang guide.
Bat cave at dusk
Every evening around sunset, huge numbers of bats stream out of a cave near Wat Tham Silathong, just outside the park’s northern gate. It is a memorable free spectacle, best watched from the roadside.
Map of attractions
Combine attractions with the right base
If the park is your priority, stay on Thanarat Road or in Mu Si. For quiet countryside, consider Pong Talong. Browse our pool villa resort guide to find a stay near the attractions you most want to see.