Exploring Thailand national parks: Nature’s best

Thailand’s national parks are a treasure trove of natural wonders, showcasing lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, emerald lakes, and diverse wildlife. With over 140 national parks covering more than 13% of the country’s land, these protected areas offer breathtaking landscapes and eco-friendly adventures for nature lovers. From the marine splendor of Similan Islands to the jungle depths of Khao Sok, this 2025 guide highlights Thailand’s top national parks, activities, and practical tips for an unforgettable exploration of nature’s best.

Why visit Thailand’s national parks?

Thailand’s national parks blend accessibility, affordability, and biodiversity, making them ideal for hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, and families. Entry fees are low (100–400 THB), guided tours are budget-friendly (1,000–3,000 THB), and parks are well-maintained with marked trails and visitor centers. Home to rare species like gibbons, hornbills, and whale sharks, these parks also support conservation efforts, allowing visitors to connect with nature responsibly. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, Thailand’s parks deliver a slice of paradise.

Top National parks to explore

Khao Sok National Park (Surat Thani)

Why visit: Known for its ancient rainforest, limestone karsts, and Cheow Lan Lake, Khao Sok is one of the world’s oldest jungles, teeming with biodiversity.

• Highlights:
  • Cheow Lan Lake: Kayak or take boat tours (1,500–2,500 THB) across emerald waters, surrounded by towering cliffs. Overnight floating bungalows (~2,000–4,000 THB) offer a unique stay.
  • Jungle Trekking: Guided hikes (1,000–2,000 THB, 3–6 hours) to spot gibbons, Rafflesia flowers, and waterfalls like Sip Et Chan.
  • Night Safaris: Spot nocturnal wildlife like civets and slow lorises (800–1,200 THB, 2 hours).
• Wildlife: Elephants, clouded leopards, Malayan sun bears, and 300+ bird species.
• Entry fee: 300 THB/adult, 150 THB/child.
• Best time: December–April (dry season, 25–32°C). Rainy season (June–October) is lush but trails can be slippery.
• Getting there: From Surat Thani (2 hours, bus 150–300 THB) or Phuket (3 hours, minivan 300–500 THB). Book via 12Go Asia.
• Where to stay: Khao Sok Riverside Cottages (~1,000–2,000 THB/night, budget) or Anurak Community Lodge (~3,000–5,000 THB/night, eco-luxury).

Tip: Book lake tours via khaosoknationalpark.com for small groups. Wear leech-proof socks during rainy season hikes.

Similan Islands National Park (Phang Nga)

Why visit: A marine paradise in the Andaman Sea, famous for crystal waters, vibrant coral reefs, and world-class snorkeling and diving.

• Highlights:
  • Snorkeling/Diving: Explore sites like Richelieu Rock and Koh Bon for manta rays and whale sharks (day dive 5,000–7,000 THB, snorkel tour 1,500–2,500 THB).
  • Donald Duck Bay: Relax on white-sand beaches or hike to a viewpoint for panoramic views (free with park entry).
  • Liveaboard Trips: Multi-day diving cruises (20,000–50,000 THB, 3–7 days) for deeper exploration.
• Wildlife: Reef sharks, sea turtles, and 500+ fish species.
• Entry fee: 500 THB/adult, 300 THB/child + 1,800 THB diving fee (if applicable).
• Best time: November–April (open season, calm seas). Closed May–October for ecological recovery.
• Getting there: Speedboat from Khao Lak (1.5 hours, 2,000–3,000 THB round-trip) or Phuket (3 hours, 2,500–4,000 THB). Book via Klook.
• Where to stay: Day trips from Khao Lak (Tap Lamu Resort, ~1,500–3,000 THB/night) or Phuket (Lub d Patong, ~600 THB/night).

Tip: Book diving with Sea Dragon Dive Center 2–3 months ahead. Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect corals.

Doi Inthanon National Park (Chiang Mai)

Why Visit: Home to Thailand’s highest peak (2,565 meters), this park offers cool climates, waterfalls, and cultural sites, perfect for northern Thailand adventures.

• Highlights:
  • Doi Inthanon Summit: Visit the King and Queen Pagodas and hike the Ang Ka Nature Trail (1 km, free) for cloud forest views.
  • Waterfalls: Explore Mae Ya and Wachirathan waterfalls (swimming allowed, free with entry).
  • Birdwatching: Spot over 300 species, including green-tailed sunbirds (guided tours 1,500–2,500 THB).
• Wildlife: Barking deer, gibbons, and rare orchids.
• Entry fee: 300 THB/adult, 150 THB/child.
• Best time: November–February (cool, 15–25°C). March–May is hot but clear; June–October is misty.
• Getting there: From Chiang Mai (2 hours, minivan 150–300 THB or private car 1,500–2,000 THB/day). Book via Viator.
• Where to stay: Doi Inthanon View Resort (~1,000–2,000 THB/night, budget) or Chiang Mai (Tamarind Village, ~3,000 THB/night, mid-range).

Tip: Wear layers for chilly summits. Hire local Hmong guides (500–1,000 THB) for cultural insights.

Erawan National Park (Kanchanaburi)

Why visit: Famous for its seven-tiered Erawan Waterfall, this park offers turquoise pools, hiking, and historical sites near the River Kwai.

• Highlights:
  • Erawan Waterfall: Hike 2 km to all tiers (2–3 hours, free), swim in emerald pools, and spot fish nibbling dead skin.
  • Phra That Cave: Explore stalactites and bats (free, bring a flashlight).
  • Bridge over the River Kwai: Combine with a historical day trip (500–1,000 THB).
• Wildlife: Macaques, monitor lizards, and kingfishers.
• Entry fee: 300 THB/adult, 150 THB/child.
• Best time: November–March (dry, 20–30°C). Rainy season (June–October) enhances waterfalls but trails are muddy.
• Getting there: From Kanchanaburi (1 hour, bus 50–100 THB or taxi 500–800 THB). Bangkok to Kanchanaburi by train (100–150 THB, 3 hours).
• Where to stay: U Inchantree Kanchanaburi (~2,500–4,000 THB/night, riverside) or Good Times Resort (~1,000–2,000 THB/night, budget).

Tip: Arrive by 8 AM to beat crowds. Bring water shoes for slippery rocks and avoid feeding monkeys.

Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park (Koh Samui)

Why visit: A stunning archipelago of 42 islands with emerald lagoons, hidden beaches, and kayaking opportunities, ideal for day trips from Koh Samui.

• Highlights:
  • Emerald Lake (Talay Nai): Hike to a saltwater lagoon surrounded by cliffs (30-minute trail, free with entry).
  • Kayaking: Paddle through sea caves and mangroves (1,500–2,500 THB, includes guide).
  • Wua Talap Island: Hike to a 500-meter viewpoint for panoramic views or snorkel at coral reefs (gear 200–300 THB).
• Wildlife: Reef fish, sea eagles, and langurs.
• Entry fee: 300 THB/adult, 150 THB/child.
• Best time: February–August (calm Gulf waters, 25–32°C). Avoid September–November for rough seas.
• Getting there: Speedboat from Koh Samui (1 hour, 1,500–2,500 THB, includes park fee) or Koh Phangan (45 minutes, 1,200–2,000 THB). Book via GetYourGuide.
• Where to stay: Day trips from Koh Samui (SAii Koh Samui, ~6,000 THB/night) or Koh Phangan (Phangan Bayshore, ~2,000 THB/night).

Tip: Book early morning tours for cooler weather. Pack biodegradable sunscreen to protect marine life.

Planning your national park adventure

Budgeting

• Entry Fees: 100–500 THB/adult, 50–300 THB/child.
• Tours: Day trips 1,000–3,000 THB, multi-day 4,000–10,000 THB (includes meals, guides).
• Accommodation: Budget guesthouses 500–1,500 THB/night, mid-range 2,000–5,000 THB.
• Food: Park canteens or nearby stalls 50–150 THB/meal, restaurants 100–300 THB.
• Transport: Buses/minivans 50–500 THB, taxis 500–1,500 THB.
• Total daily cost: 1,500–4,000 THB/person for budget to mid-range travel.

Savings tips:

• Visit in rainy season (June–October) for 20–30% cheaper tours and stays, but stick to sheltered sites like Erawan or Doi Inthanon.
• Book group tours via Klook or Viator to split costs.
• Eat at local markets (e.g., Kanchanaburi Night Market, 50–100 THB).

Practical tips

• When to Go: November–April for dry trails and marine parks; June–October for lush greenery and waterfalls. Check park closures (e.g., Similan Islands, May–October).
• Getting Around:
  • Flights: To Chiang Mai, Phuket, or Krabi (1,500–3,000 THB from Bangkok) via AirAsia.
  • Local: Minivans (50–300 THB), songthaews (20–50 THB), or Grab (100–500 THB).
• Packing: Hiking boots, lightweight clothing, insect repellent, reusable water bottle, and rain gear for wet season. Modest attire for cultural sites in parks.
• Health: Drink bottled water (10–20 THB). Consider hepatitis A/typhoid vaccines. Mosquito repellent is essential for jungle parks.
• Safety: Stick to marked trails, avoid feeding wildlife, and swim only in designated areas. Save park ranger numbers (e.g., Khao Sok: +66 77 395 154).
• Connectivity: Buy a TrueMove SIM (300–500 THB for 15 days) at airports or 7-Eleven for navigation and bookings.

Responsible travel

Thailand’s parks face challenges from over-tourism and plastic waste. Be an eco-conscious visitor:

• Minimize Waste: Refuse plastic straws, carry a reusable bottle, and dispose of trash properly.
• Respect Wildlife: Don’t touch animals or pick plants. Keep a 10-meter distance from monkeys or deer.
• Support Conservation: Book with eco-friendly operators (e.g., Anurak Community Lodge in Khao Sok) and donate to park maintenance (50–200 THB, optional).
• Follow Rules: Stick to designated paths to avoid damaging ecosystems, especially in marine parks.

Tip: Join clean-up hikes via Trash Hero Thailand (free, donations welcome) to give back.

Cultural insights

Many parks, like Doi Inthanon, include cultural sites such as hill tribe villages or Buddhist shrines. Respect local customs by dressing modestly (cover shoulders/knees), using “sawasdee” (hello), and asking permission before photographing locals. Support communities by buying crafts (e.g., Hmong textiles, 100–300 THB) or eating at village stalls (50–100 THB). Engage in festivals like Songkran (April, near Erawan) or Loy Krathong (November, near Khao Sok) for cultural immersion.

Sample 7-day national park itinerary

• Day 1–2: Fly to Surat Thani, visit Khao Sok. Stay in a floating bungalow, kayak Cheow Lan Lake, and join a night safari (2,500–4,000 THB).
• Day 3–4: Travel to Khao Lak, day trip to Similan Islands for snorkeling (2,000 THB). Relax on Surin Beach and dine at Takuapa Night Market (50–150 THB).
• Day 5–6: Fly to Chiang Mai, explore Doi Inthanon. Hike to Mae Ya Waterfall and visit the summit pagodas (1,500 THB tour).
• Day 7: Return to Bangkok, visit Erawan en route (day trip from Kanchanaburi, 1,500 THB). Swim in waterfalls and explore Phra That Cave.

Tip: Book multi-park tours via Amazing Thailand Tours (8,000–15,000 THB) for seamless logistics.

Thailand’s national parks are a gateway to nature’s finest, offering jungles, waterfalls, and marine wonders that captivate every traveler. From Khao Sok’s ancient rainforests to Similan’s vibrant reefs, these parks blend adventure with conservation. Plan your visit with these tips, book eco-friendly tours, and immerse in Thailand’s wild beauty responsibly.