Hiking at Khao Yai National Park
Introduction
Welcome to the exciting world of hiking at Khao Yai National Park!
Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable hiking experience? Look no further than Khao Yai National Park in Thailand.
With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and well-maintained trails, this national park offers a paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, Khao Yai has something to offer everyone.
Lace up your boots, pack your essentials, and get ready for an adventure like no other.
Stop to observe the wild Monkey
This stunning natural treasure located in Thailand offers a plethora of hiking trails, breathtaking landscapes, and an opportunity to connect with nature like never before.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a novice adventurer, Khao Yai National Park has something to offer for everyone.
Come across the wild elephant on the road.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the wonders of hiking at Khao Yai National Park, exploring its trails, wildlife, and other essential information that will help you make the most of your hiking experience.
Hiking at Khao Yai National Park: A Nature Lover’s Paradise.
Khao Yai National Park is a nature lover’s paradise, boasting an abundant array of flora and fauna that will leave you awestruck.
The park spans over 2,168 square kilometers, making it the third-largest national park in Thailand. As you embark on your hiking adventure, be prepared to witness the beauty of lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife that calls this park home.
It’s no wonder Khao Yai National Park has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
Hiking at Khao Yai National Park: An Enchanting Escape.
Khao Yai National Park is a haven for hiking enthusiasts. With its vast expanse of pristine forests, cascading waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints, this park offers a myriad of trails to explore.
The well-marked paths cater to all fitness levels, allowing visitors to choose the route that best suits their preferences and abilities. As you venture through the park, you’ll be greeted by the symphony of nature, with birdsong filling the air and the rustling of leaves underfoot.
Get ready to reconnect with nature and experience the magic of Khao Yai.
Exploring the Trails: Here are my recommended hiking trails.: A Journey through Nature.
Trail 1: Km. 33 – Nong Phak Chi (90 th Anniversary Thai – Switzerland Friendship Trail) highly recommended
Starting Point of the KM 33 Trail
This nature trail highlights a variety of different forest types: mature dry forest, secondary forest, and grassland.
Hiking Trail
Hiking Trail, Grass Land
Hiking Trail
The trail is shaded by tall trees throughout its length, such as banyan and java plum. Their delicious fruits attract many birds and animals, making it a “restaurant for wildlife”.
Giant basil trees
There are giant basil trees, which are unique to the Dong Phaya Yen complex. It is also a foraging trail for elephants and gaur, so you may come across their tracks or dung.
You might see a pair of hornbills making a nest in a tree hollow or gibbons swinging around gathering fruit.
When you arrive at the Nong Phak Chi Observation Tower, you can see many kinds of animals near the water sources and salt licks in the grass, such as elephants, gaur, gibbons, and hornbills.
Salt Lick
Observation Tower
- Distance: 4.2 km one-way trail
- Time taken: 2.5–3 hours
- Trail guide: mandated
- Start point: At the roadside by the Km. 33 milestone End point: At the roadside by the Km. 35 milestone, about 1 km from the Observation Tower.
Trail 2: Pha Kluai Mai Campground – Haew Suwat Waterfall (160 th Anniversary Thai – German Friendship Trail)
This nature trail links two waterfalls, following Lam Ta Khong stream and alternating between bamboo forest and dry forest at intervals.
Pha Krui Mai Waterfall
Along the trail, you will hear the thundering sound of Pha Kluay Mai Waterfall during the rainy season. However, when water levels drop in the dry season, you can see the traces of lava flow from a volcano hundreds of millions of years ago.
The traces of lava flow from a volcano
hundreds of millions of years agoAlso, there are Polypleurum flowers, a newly reported species, sprouting between the rocks, along with Renanthera orchids (“Whai Daeng”), which give the waterfall its name from the white and red blooms appearing around the waterfall during April.
Renanthera orchids (“Whai Daeng”)
Many species of animals can be found near the water course, such as butterflies, water dragons, and otters, with groups of gibbons in the trees and hornbills and hawks foraging for food.
At the end of the trail are rock platforms in the stream, which are only visible during the dry season.
- Distance: 3 km, one-way trail
- Time taken: 2 hours
- Trail guide: not necessary
- Start point: Pha Kluai Mai Campground
- End point: Haew Suwat Waterfall
Trail 3: Visitor Center – Kong Kaew Waterfall
Khao Yai Visitor Center
This is the shortest nature trail (is located just behind the Visitor Center.) and the easiest to trek.It is suitable for visitors of all ages. It skirts rainforest, alternating with dry forest, and is in excellent condition.
All along the trail is valuable agarwood with the refreshing scent of a fire. Animals encountered might include the Lar gibbon, pileated gibbon, and various birds.
At the end of the trail is Kong Kaew Waterfall, with the refreshing cool of a forest stream from volcanic rock and freshwater swamp forest, both photogenic and educational.
- Distance: 1.2 km; one-way circular trail returning to the start point
- Estimated time to trek: 45 minutes to 1 hour
- Trail guide: not necessary
- Start point: the hanging bridge behind the Visitor Center
- End point: hanging bridge behind the Visitor Center at the National Park Office
Trail 4: Visitor Center – Haew Suwat Waterfall
Khao Yai Visitor Center
This nature trail is a big nature lesson and a rather long distance. The forest on the way is both rain forest and dry forest, interspersed with bamboo groves.
Looking for wildlife, Isn’t it?
There are many plants to see on the way, including Siamese rosewood and scented agarwood. There are also dense thickets of large ferns and abundant animals such as elephants, gibbons, Asian black bears, and hornbills.
Haew Suwat Waterfall in the dry season
It is a challenging trail with many twists and turns and a foraging trail for wild elephants, so the route may be confusing, and this is why it is necessary to have an experienced trail guide.
- Distance: 8 km. one-way trail
- Time taken: 6 hours
- Trail guide: mandatory
- Start point: the hanging bridge behind the Visitor Center
- End point: Haew Suwat Waterfall
*Caution: This trail should be started before 10 a.m. with a packed lunch.
Safety Tips for a Memorable Hike
- **Stay Hydrated:** Carry an ample supply of water to stay hydrated throughout your hike. The tropical climate can be demanding, so it’s essential to drink plenty of fluids.
- **Wear Appropriate Footwear:** Choose sturdy hiking shoes that provide excellent traction and ankle support. The trail can be uneven and slippery in some areas.
- **Protect Yourself from the Sun:** Apply sunscreen generously and wear a hat to shield yourself from the sun’s rays. Additionally, consider wearing lightweight and breathable clothing to stay cool.
- **Bring Snacks and Meals:** Pack energizing snacks and a packed lunch to keep your energy levels up during the hike. Remember to dispose of any waste responsibly to preserve the park’s pristine environment.
- **Hike in Groups:** It’s always safer to hike with others. Form a group or join an organized tour to enhance your safety and enjoy a more social experience.
- **Follow Park Regulations:** Respect the park’s regulations and guidelines. Stay on designated trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and refrain from littering or damaging any natural features.
Conclusion
Hiking at Khao Yai National Park offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
With its diverse trails, breathtaking landscapes, and abundant wildlife, this national park has everything to captivate your senses.
Whether you choose an easy stroll through the forest or a more challenging trek to an observation tower, Khao Yai National Park promises to leave you with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for the wonders of nature.
See tours details
FAQs About Hiking at Khao Yai National Park
Q: Is a permit required for hiking in Khao Yai National Park?
A: Yes, a permit is required for hiking in Khao Yai National Park. You can obtain the permit at the park’s headquarters or any of the visitor centers. The permit ensures the conservation of the park and helps the authorities manage the number of visitors.
Q: Are there any guided hiking tours available at Khao Yai National Park?
A: Yes, guided hiking tours are available at Khao Yai National Park. These tours are led by experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the park’s trails, wildlife, and safety measures. Opting for a guided tour can enhance your hiking experience and provide valuable insights into the park’s natural wonders.
Q: What is the best time of year to go hiking at Khao Yai National Park?
A: The best time to go hiking at Khao Yai National Park is during the cool and dry season, which typically spans from November to February. The weather is pleasant, and the trails are less muddy, ensuring a more comfortable hiking experience. However, it’s essential to check the weather forecast before your trip and be prepared for sudden changes.
Q: Can I camp overnight in Khao Yai National Park?
A: Yes, camping overnight in Khao Yai National Park is permitted. The park offers designated camping areas where you can set up your tents and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings. It’s advisable to make a reservation in advance, especially during peak seasons, as camping spots can fill up quickly.
Q: What safety precautions should I take while hiking at Khao Yai National Park?
A: While hiking at Khao Yai National Park, it’s crucial to prioritize your safety. Here are some essential safety precautions to keep in mind:
– Inform someone about your hiking plans and expected return time.
– Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the terrain and weather conditions.
– Carry plenty of water, snacks, and a first aid kit.
– Stay on designated trails and avoid venturing into restricted or off-limits areas.
– Be mindful of wildlife and maintain a safe distance. Do not feed or provoke animals.
– In case of an emergency, contact park authorities or seek help from fellow hikers.
Q: Is the Khao Yai National Park Kor Mor 33 Hiking Trail suitable for children?
A: Absolutely! The trail is suitable for children who are comfortable with moderate hiking. It’s an excellent opportunity for them to connect with nature and learn about the environment.
Q: Are there any camping facilities along the Kor Mor 33 Hiking Trail?
A: Unfortunately, camping is not allowed along the trail. However, there are campsites available at designated areas within Khao Yai National Park. Make sure to plan accordingly if you wish to camp overnight.
Q: Can I swim in the waterfalls along the trail?
A: Swimming is generally not allowed in the waterfalls along the Kor Mor 33 Hiking Trail due to safety reasons. However, you can enjoy the mesmerizing views and take stunning photographs.
Q: What is the best time of year to hike the Khao Yai National Park Kor Mor 33 Hiking Trail?
A: The best time to hike the trail is during the dry season, which typically spans from November to February. The weather is cooler, and the trail conditions are optimal for a pleasant hiking experience.
Q: Are there any guided tours available for the Kor Mor 33 Hiking Trail?
A: Yes, there are various guided tours available that offer expert knowledge and ensure your safety throughout the hike. Engaging a local guide can enhance your experience and help you discover hidden treasures.
Q: Can I see wildlife along the Kor Mor 33 Hiking Trail?
A: Absolutely! Khao Yai National Park is renowned for its diverse wildlife population. While sightings are not guaranteed, you have a good chance of spotting elephants, gibbons, deer, and a rich variety of bird species.
