Thailand is one of the most naturally beautiful places on earth. So, it’s no surprise that there’s an abundance of beautiful national parks just waiting to be explored.
If you are planning on visiting Thailand, you have to visit at least a handful of national parks while you’re there.
The national parks of Thailand are out of this world. Their beauty is breathtaking and unforgettable, and each one offers a completely different experience from one to the next.
From the world’s oldest evergreen forest to traversing lakes, hiking trails and more, let’s explore the five most beautiful national parks in Thailand.
5. Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park – crystal clear waters
Mu Ko Ang Thong is a marine national park in the Surat Thani Province in Southern Thailand. The space covers 42 islands, comprising half land and half water. The park was first established in November 1980. It is a nature lover’s dream; the national park is located near Koh Samui, one of the best Thai islands to visit.
It takes around 45 minutes to reach the national park from Koh Samui and is best explored as a day trip from the island. A tour includes transport from your hotel, breakfast, lunch, and some of the most spectacular sights you will ever see.
The park offers pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters and hundreds of limestone monoliths, a classic feature of Thailand’s oceans.
Address: Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84280, Thailand
4. Erawan National Park – explore Thailand’s most epic waterfall
If you are seeking a smaller national park in Thailand to explore, Erawan might be the one for you. Located northwest of Bangkok near the Myanmar border, Erawan National Park is home to Thailand’s most famous waterfall.
The national park is famous for its breathtaking Erawan Falls and many caves. The Ta Duang Cave is fascinating to explore as it features fascinating rock paintings.
Address: 94GV+5HW, Tha Kradan, Si Sawat District, Kanchanaburi 71250, Thailand
3. Kaeng Krachan National Park – spot some of the rarest wildlife in the country
Located across Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan Provinces, Kaeng Krachan National Park is one of Thailand’s most beautiful national parks. This national park is best explored with an overnight stay camping.
Here, you have the opportunity to see an abundance of rare wildlife, flora, and fauna, including bears, leopards, elephants, and much more.
Also, Kaeng Krachan National Park is one of Southeast Asia’s best-preserved wildlife habitats, so it’s a nature lovers’ dream come true. There are two main campsites to stay at to experience the wildlife of Thailand, so research thoroughly beforehand to make the right pick for your trip!
Address: Kaeng Krachan, Kaeng Krachan District, Phetchaburi 76170, Thailand
2. Khao Sok National Park – beauty along the lake
Located in Southern Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is one of the most serene places you will ever experience and an absolute must on your Thailand Bucket List. If you can take one piece of advice from us when visiting, stay the night on the lake; don’t just go for a day trip.
The park is covered by mountains and has the oldest evergreen rainforest in the world and a stunning manmade lake called Cheow Lan Lake; waking up here is like a dream come true. It has an incredible mix of jungle and lake to explore, and the chances of spotting some seriously extraordinary wildlife are immense.
You can partake in hiking trails, jungle exploration, canoe or kayak rides up the lake, and more. Plus, the fresh and delightful food provided on the experience is unforgettable.
Address: Phanom District, Surat Thani, Thailand
1. Khao Yai National Park – one of the most beautiful national parks in Thailand
Established in 1962, Khao Yai National Park is Thailand’s first national park and the third biggest national park in Thailand today. It is one of the most stunning places you will ever visit, primarily in Nakhon Ratchasima Province.
If you are considering visiting Khao Yai National Park, take a couple of days to camp in the national park and explore its beauty. It is truly a nature lovers’ paradise, as you will have the opportunity to spot abundant wildlife, including wild elephants!
When you wake up in your tent, you should stick your head out and be greeted by a deer!
You can also rent a bike to explore the national park properly and in good time. It has everything from waterfalls to biking trails and so much more. You might even recognise one of the waterfalls, Haew Suwat, from Danny Boyle’s film The Beach.
Address: Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand
If you plan to visit Thailand, you should experience at least one of the national parks listed in this article. You will be glad you did!
