Walking is the best way to experience Khao Yai’s forest: the calls of gibbons overhead, the rush of hornbill wings, the smell of wet earth after rain. The park has more than 50 km of numbered trails, from easy strolls to multi-day treks. This guide helps you choose the right walk and prepare for it.
How the trail system works
- Numbered trails: the park’s trails are numbered and range from an easy, paved walk of about an hour to long routes into remote forest.
- Mostly one-way: many trails start and finish at different points, so arrange a pickup or be prepared to walk back.
- Guides: rangers discourage unguided walks into areas that are not waymarked. A ranger guide is strongly recommended for anything beyond the short, well-marked trails. Ask at the visitor centre.
Easy walks
Pha Diao Dai boardwalk
A walk of about 450 metres on raised wooden paths through hill evergreen forest, ending at a cliff-top viewpoint. It may close in the rainy season. See our viewpoints guide.
Waterfall paths
The paths to Haew Suwat (about 200 metres) and Haew Narok (about 1 km with steep stairs) are short but rewarding.
Trail 1 near the visitor centre
The park’s easiest numbered trail is a paved walk of around an hour. It’s a good introduction to the forest.
Longer forest walks
Haew Suwat to Pha Kluai Mai
A forest trail of about 3 km links Haew Suwat with Pha Kluai Mai waterfall, roughly two hours one way. It’s a popular moderate walk with a good chance of birdlife.
Guided treks
Longer trails lead deep into the forest. With a ranger, these give the best chance of seeing gibbons, hornbills and signs of elephants. Arrange guides at the visitor centre or through your resort.
When to walk
- Early morning is coolest and best for wildlife.
- Cool season (November–February): drier trails and comfortable temperatures.
- Rainy season (May–October): a beautiful forest, but slippery paths, leeches and possible trail closures.
What to bring
- Shoes with good grip, and long trousers
- Leech socks in the rainy season (sold at the park visitor area)
- Insect repellent, water and snacks
- A light rain jacket
Trail etiquette and safety
- Stay on marked trails, and tell someone your route.
- If you encounter elephants, back away slowly and give them space.
- Do not feed wildlife, and carry out all rubbish.
- Start early so you finish well before the 18:00 gate closure.
Where to stay
For an early start, stay close to the northern gate in Mu Si. After a long walk, nothing beats a private pool. See our pool villa resort guide and luxury resorts near the park.
Sources: Wikivoyage, Rough Guides.