National Parks In Thailand

The Ao Phang Nga National Park is a marine park in Thailand famous for its 42 karst islands and comprises some bays, limestone hills, caves, and lagoons.

A famous spot in the Ao Phang Nga National Park is the Ko Khao Phing Kan island, also known as the 'James Bond' Island. It gained popularity as the backdrop for part of the 1974 James Bond film, 'The Man With the Golden Gun'. The Ko Tapu Rock is also a famous sight and is often used as an icon of the national park. The national park is home to Ko Panyi, a Muslim village that is built entirely on stilts.

It is recommended to explore the areas by kayak to enjoy unique and off-beat views of the national park. Sea-canoeing is also a favourite activity, as it allows one to have access to the many mangrove swamps and islands that are otherwise inaccessible.
In the Ao Phang Nga National Park, one can find a large variety of reptiles and mammals, including Bengal monitor lizards, flying lizards, banded sea snakes, crab-eating macaques, white-handed gibbons and dusky langurs.

Location: The Ao Phang Nga National Park can be found in the province of Phang Nga, between the provinces of Phuket and Krabi in Southern Thailand.
Entrance fee: The entrance fee for non-Thai adults is THB 300 and entry for Thai children is THB 100. The price for Thai adult citizens is THB 60 and entry for Thai children is THB 30.

The Mu Ko Similan National Park, established in 1982, is a marine national park in Thailand and consists of a cluster of eleven beautiful islands off the coast of the Andaman Sea. 'Similan' translates to the number 9 in a Malayan dialect, while 'Mu Ko' refers to a group of islands. The name is derived from the fact that the national park initially had only nine islands and later expanded with two more in 1998. Its islands include Ko Huyong, Ko Payang, Ko Payan, Ko Miang, Ko Ha, Ko Hok, Ko Hin Pousar, Ko Similan, Ko Bangu, Ko Tachai and Ko Bon.

The Mu Ko Similan National Park is known as a famous spot for diving, scuba diving and snorkelling. For those who prefer dry land, hiking the rainforest-covered land is an option as well. The national park also offers white beaches, coral reefs and abundant marine life, including bioluminescent plankton. One can find some aquatic species such as white sharks, octopus, lionfish, peacock flounders, leopard sharks and more. Species of bats and squirrels, as well as unique bird species, are also common here.
Many tourists who visit the national park also visit the nearby tourist destination, Khao Lak. Consisting of a series of villages, Kha Lak offers overnight stay options in resorts for visitors.

Location: The Mu Ko Similan National Park is located in Phang Nga Province off the coast of the Andaman Sea.
Entrance fee: The entrance fee for non-Thai adults is THB 500, while entry for non-Thai children is THB 300. Entry for Thai adult citizens costs THB 100 and entry for Thai children will cost THB 50.

The Royal Forest Department established the Khao Sok National Park in 1980. It is widely known for its vast virgin forests, its limestone formations and the human-made Cheow Lan Lake. The national park houses some exotic wildlife and bird species such as the Asian elephant, gibbons, wild boars, Malayan tapir, macaques and more. However, it is more famous for being the only site in Thailand of the world's largest flower, the Bua Phut or the Rafflesia Kerrii.

The park also contains waterfalls, caves, water streams and safari-style floating houses on the lake, where one can choose to stay overnight. The national park is also home to an elephant sanctuary, Elephant Hills. Dining options are available at a floating restaurant.

At the Khao Sok national park, you can catch a glimpse of Thailand's largest human-made lake, Cheow Lan Lake. The lake was formed in 1987, during the building of the Ratchaprapha Dam. One can also opt for a boat tour across the lake, instead of walking.

Location: The Khao Sok National Park can be found in the Surat Thani province of Southern Thailand. The national park is situated on the mainland between Phuket, Khao Lak, Krabi and Koh Samui, and is easily accessible from many coastal areas and airports.
Entrance fee: Non-Thai adults can enter for a price of THB 300, while non-Thai children can enter for 150 THB. Thai citizen adults can enter for THB 40, while Thai citizen children pay a fee of THB 20. The cost of renting a tent starts at THB 250 for two people, while additional prices are charged for a pillow, blanket, sleeping bag and sheets.

Listed as a world heritage site in 2005, the Khao Yai National Park was established in 1962 as Thailand's first national park and is now the third-largest in the country. The park is full of grasslands and forests, with over 300 different species of mammals, birds and reptiles. One can easily find Asian elephants, Asiatic black bears, deer, wild pigs, porcupines and more. There are also some trails for hiking, a total of 30-40 kilometres long.

The Khao Yai National Park boasts the Khao Luk Chang Bat Cave and many impressive waterfalls, including the Haew Narok Waterfall, which is one of Thailand's highest falls. If one wishes to stay the night, there are also camping options available.

Location: The Khao Yai National Park is located mainly in the Nakhon Ratchasima province in central Thailand. Parts of the park also extend into Prachinburi, Saraburi and Nakhon Nayok.
Entrance fee: Entry to the park costs THB 400 for adults and THB 200 for children. Tents for camping (for two people) are available for rent at THB 250 each, with additional charges for pillows, blankets etc.

The Erawan National Park was established as Thailand's twelfth national park in 1975. The national park's forest cover includes mixed deciduous forests, deciduous dipterocarp and dry evergreen forests. The Erawan National Park is known for its caves and the famous Erawan Falls, with its emerald green waters. The Erawan National Park also features limestone hills, at an elevation of approximately 165 to 199 centimetres above sea level.

The unique caves of the national park include rare sights such as stalactites, stalagmites, rock paintings and even coffins. The Erawan Falls are named after the mythological Hindu elephant god, and the top tier of the falls is believed to look like the head of the god. The falls consist of seven tiers, and the distance from the ground to the top tier is about 1.5 kilometres. There are some picnic spots near the first two tiers of the waterfall, which is a bonus for families.

Although wildlife is not too common around the falls, the national park is home to many species of animals and birds in its deep forests. Animals like wild elephants, Indian muntjac, wild boars and sambar deer can be seen here. One can also catch a glimpse of birds like crested serpent eagle, blue whistling thrush, Dark-necked tailorbird and kalij pheasant. Those who wish to see the national park in more than a day's time can choose to stay at the campsite or bungalows available on site.

Location: The Erawan National Park is located in the Tenasserim Hills of Kanchanaburi Province in West Thailand.
Entrance fee: The entrance fee for non-Thai adults is THB 300, while entry for non-Thai children is THB 200. Entry for Thai adult citizens costs THB 100 and entry for Thai children will cost THB 50. Renting a tent starts at THB 150 for two adults, and additional charges are incurred for a sleeping bag, pillows, sleeping mat etc. Renting a bicycle or motorbike starts at THB 20, and renting any other vehicle starts at THB 30.

The Kaeng Krachan National Park, established in 1981, is the largest national park in Thailand. It covers a reservoir and a large area of rainforest. Although the park is home to some standard and rare snake and animal species, it is primarily known for its wide variety of birds and butterflies. It is also famous for the morning mist that covers the park, and the scenic view of the hilltops that stick above the mist clouds.

Here, one can find many wild animals like leopards, deer, elephants, martens, gibbons, tigers and more. One can also catch a glimpse of over 300 species of butterflies and over 400 species of birds, including some of the world's rarest ones, such as white-fronted scops owl, giant pitta and great argus. Not only is the Kaeng Krachan National Park atop a bird-watching and butterfly-sighting destination in Thailand, but it also offers visitors other enjoyable outdoor activities such as hiking and boating.

The Kaeng Krachan National Park does not have any options for accommodation. However, there are some campsites one can choose to stay overnight at. Other highlights of the park include saltlicks, caves, dams and waterfalls. The park is also the origin point for the Phetchaburi and Pran Buri River.

Location: The Kaeng Krachan National Park can be found on the border of Myanmar. It is located in Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan provinces, along with the border of the Tanintharyi Nature Reserve in Burma.
Entrance fee: The entrance fee for non-Thai adults is THB 300, while entry for non-Thai children is THB 200. Entry for Thai adult citizens costs THB 100 and entry for Thai children will cost THB 40. One must pay an additional charge of THB 30 for vehicles and THB 30 per night if they intend to camp.

The Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, whose name translates to 'The mountain with three hundred peaks', was the first marine national park in Thailand. Consisting of a series of limestone hills, this national park is also considered to be the country's largest freshwater marsh. Containing species of waterbirds, songbirds and amphibians, the wetlands area is registered as a RAMSAR site in recognition of its importance.

The park is well recognised for the Phraya Nakhon Cave, which consists of a four-gable roofed pavilion and two sinkholes. At a specific time in the mid-morning, one of these sinkholes reflects sunlight from overhead, illuminating it all over the pavilion and creating a picturesque view.

The park offers a great diversity of wildlife and is a favourite amongst bird-watchers. Occasionally one may even come across dolphins in the waters. Other attractions of the Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park are its unspoiled white-sand beaches, namely the Sam Phraya Beach and the Laem Sala Beach, mangrove forests, limestone islands, caves, viewpoints and walking trails. One can indulge in an hour-long boat tour through the lush mangrove forests in the Ban Khao Daeng Village. Those who wish to stay the night can choose from tents and bungalows available for rent.

Location: The Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park is located on the coast of the Kui Buri district in the Prachuap Khiri Khan province of Thailand.
Entrance fee: The entrance fee for the national park is THB 200 for adults and THB 100 for children. Tents can also be rented at any of the beaches starting at THB 150 for two people. Additional charges are incurred on sleeping accessories, such as blankets and pillows. Renting a bungalow starts at THB 1,000 for five people, while a boat tour costs THB 500 per group.

The Kui Buri National Park is known as the best location to sight elephants and gaurs in Thailand. Established in 1999, the national park is home to several animal and bird species as well. The national park's large open areas allow visitors to easily catch a glimpse of some wild animals like golden jackals, leopards, deer, bantengs and langurs. Some notable bird species found here are the crested fireback, Indian roller and the Asian Openbill.

The main attractions of the Kui Buri National Park include the Huai Luek Wildlife Watching Area and the 15-tiered Dong Ma Fai Waterfalls. For those who are interested, safari guided tours and bungalows or tents are available.

Location: The Kui Buri National Park can be found in the Tenasserim Hills in the Prachuap Khiri Khan Province of Thailand.
Entrance fee: The entrance fee for non-Thai adults is THB 200, while entry for non-Thai children is THB 100. Entry for Thai adult citizens costs THB 40 and entry for Thai children will cost THB 20. Tents are available for rent, starting at THB 270 per night, including sleeping accessories. The price for a three-bedroom bungalow starts at THB 1,800 per night. You can even bring your tent, and pay THB 30 per night.

Doi Inthanon National Park, or as it is popularly called 'The Roof of Thailand', can be found in the Chiang Mai province of Thailand. It was named after King Inthawichayanon, one of the last kings of Chiang Mai, and his remains were placed in the park after his death. During his lifetime, he showed great concern for the forests in northern Thailand and wished to preserve them.

The national park houses several species of animals, including deer, serows, gibbons and many bat species. The Doi Inthanon National Park, a favourite among bird-watchers, also contains the second largest number of bird species in a national park in Thailand after Kaeng Krachan National Park. A few noteworthy species are the green-tailed sunbird, the Sikkim treecreeper, the bar-throated minla, and the rufous-winged fulvetta.

Doi Inthanon National Park is widely known for its unique micro-climate, its towering summit, several waterfalls, walking trails and the two 'chedis'. The park enjoys a cool, cloud-forest climate throughout the year.

The two famous stupas or 'chedis' or 'pagodas', named Phra Mahathat Naphamethanidon and Nophamethanidon in Thai, were built to honour the King and Queen's 60th birthdays and is an accessible location to watch the sunset. The summit viewpoint at Doi Inthanon National Park offers excellent views and is ideal to view the sunrise. It is also the highest peak in Thailand, with over 2,500 metres above sea level. A sight that is seen annually in the national park is the blossoming of Siamese sakura flowers, which adorn trees in a shade of pink. This seasonal attraction lasts only a few weeks in January and February.

Location: The Doi Inthanon National Park is located in the Thanon Thong Chai Range in the Chom Thong district of Chiang Mai province in northern Thailand.
Entrance fee: The entrance fee for non-Thai adults is THB 300, while entry for non-Thai children is THB 150. Entry for Thai adult citizens costs THB 50 and entry for Thai children will cost THB 20. Renting a tent starts at THB 225 for three people with additional costs for sleeping accessories, while bungalows for rent start at THB 1,000 with discounts offered on weekdays.

The Tarutao National Park was established in 1974 and consists of 51 islands spread across two groups. Tarutao group in the east and the Adang-Rawi group in the west. The present name of the national park originates from 'Pulau Tertua', translating to 'the island of old', which was the original name of the main island. The Tarutao National Marine Park was declared as an ASEAN Heritage Parks and Reserves in 1982.

The Tarutao National Park offers visitors white-sand beaches, great spots for diving or snorkelling, and accommodation for an overnight stay in tents or bungalows. One can see some species of birds and animals at the park, such as civets, mouse deer, hornbill, reticulated phyton and king cobras. There are also domestic cattle that have adapted to wildlife over the past few decades. The national park is also well recognised for its soft corals and aquatic life.

Some major attractions of Tarutao National Park are the most significant island Ko Tarutao, the island Ko Lipe, Mo Lae Bay, Ao Son Bay and Ao Ta Lo Woo Pier. One can also enjoy the iconic views of the arch at the end of the beach at the small island of Ko Kai.

Location: The Tarutao National Park is located off the coast of the southern Satun province in Thailand, in the Andaman Sea.
Entrance fee: The entrance fee for Thai adult citizens is THB 200, and entry for non-Thai children is THB 100. Entrance for Thai citizens costs THB 40, and entry for Thai children costs THB 20. Tents and sleeping bags are available on arrival starting at THB 200 a day. The costs for the bungalows vary, depending on the size and number of rooms.

Located in the Chiang Mai Province, the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park is home to two of the most sacred peaks in northern Thailand, Doi Suthep and Doi Pui. Declared as a national park in 1981, it includes an area of about 265-sq-km encompassing both the mountains.

The rainforest provides a haven for more than 300 bird species and over 2000 plants species. The park has many unused trails which were once hunting and trade routes. These trails now attract mountain-bikers from around the world and several Chiang Mai based agencies run technical mountain biking tours. Additionally, the park has a cool climate, with an average temperature of around 20 to 23 °C. However, temperatures may drop to 6 °C during the winter nights around February.

The park accommodation makes a comfortable base camp and a trail runs for 2km from the campground to the summit of Doi Suthep. Other highlights include the Nam Tok Monthathon and Nom Tok Wang Bua Bahn waterfalls.

Location: The Doi Suthep-Pui National Park is located in the Chiang Mai Province in Thailand. The entrance to the park is 16km northwest of central Chiang Mai. Shared Red Trucks leave from Chiang Mai University (Th Huay Kaew entrance) to various points within the national park. One-way fares start at THB 40 to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and THB 70 to Bhubing Palace. You can also charter a passenger pick-up truck for a half-day of exploring for THB 500 to THB 600.
Entrance Fee: The entrance fee for foreign adults is THB 200, while entry for foreign children is THB 100. Certain attractions incur additional charges inside the park.

Popular among local tourists, Chet Sao Noi Waterfall National Park is one of the famous parks in the country. Serving as a favourite picnic spot and providing excellent photo opportunities, the park rests between Saraburi and Nakhon Ratchasima provinces. The Chet Sao Noi Waterfall, which is a series of seven small falls, spread all across the park, is the prime attraction of the park.

The lush green surroundings, the sound of the water gushing down and the calm waters ideal for swimming make the place an attractive day outing from Saraburi. Even though foreign tourists have been overlooking the beauty that this park is, one will never find the park less crowded. Local tourists keep swamping the place for its brilliant views and the serenity that it offers. The rough translation of the Thai name 'Chet Sao Noi' means seven young girls, which is a reference to the seven small falls.

The national park featuring these falls is as beautiful, and there are large, unusual banyan trees, with their large roots twisted peculiarly and several other trees and flowers. Saraburi has gorgeous sunflower fields, and there are vineyards around in the area. While these activities are a must-do, the one thing you cannot miss is to go swimming in the waters of the dazzled up pools in the park. Carry your swimming gear and have fun splashing water on your friends or family, while also refreshing yourself up with the cold waters. There are food vendors near the park, so tourists can have some quick bites, while they stroll around the park on a day outing.

Location: 20 kms South of Khlong Lan Village It is not so easy to reach Mae Wong National Park because there is no public transport to the park. If you are using your own vehicle to the park, you must follow the signs south along Route 1117 to reach the park.
Entrance fee: 200 THB for foreigners

Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park has everything that you envision in a tropical paradise: beautiful vistas, bountiful sceneries, wildlife, marine life, pristine white sand beaches and a plethora of adventure opportunities. The name Ang Thong means Golden basin. Located in The Gulf of Thailand at the shore of Surat Thani Province, Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park covers a total area of 102 kilometres, with 42 islands spread over 18 kilometres.

There is a lot to do on the islands, besides exploring the vast stretch of beautiful beaches and views. One can boost up their adrenaline going hiking on the steep trails or refresh themselves with swimming, kayaking and snorkelling. The national park is home to immensely beautiful flora and fauna, some of the species being exclusive to the park such as Thong Lady's Slipper Orchid. There are about 50 species of birds in the park, which make it an ideal destination for birdwatchers as well. Wildlife lovers can explore the many different amphibians, reptiles and mammals that call the park home. There are creatures such as sea turtles and pythons. Admore the wilderness of the archipelago in the rugged and steep limestone hills, caves and stunning inland marine lakes.

There are dry evergreen forests, limestone and mangrove forests around the beaches and one can explore them for more adventure. Ang Thong remains one of the most beautiful destinations for backpackers visiting Thailand.

Location: 45/1-2 Moo 1, Thongsala Koh Phangan Surat Thani Chang Wat Bueng Kan 84280, Thailand. You can book a boat trip from a certified agent, from all major points such as Koh Samui, Koh Tao or Koh Phangan. The park rangers control the access of the park, and you can go around on a ferry, which costs a few bucks or rent a speed boat, which is an expensive alternative.
Entrance fee: 300 THB for foreigners, 150 THB for children, 40 THB for local tourists and 20 THB for children.

A birdwatcher's delight, Mar Wong National Park is one such park in Thailand that is home to rare species of birds, some of which are Burmese yuhina, Rufous-necked hornbill, coral billed scimitar babble, Grey peacock pheasant, mountain hawk Eagle etc. With over 450 species of birds, taking into account the migratory birds, this is a rugged and hilly park situated in the Dawna Range.

The national park is located in the Western forest area of Thailand, which is the largest remaining tract of forest in Thailand. The way to the park offers birdwatching opportunities at several altitudes. The park is well-maintained, with friendly and courteous staff and adequate facilities. Besides the immensely wild surroundings, one can find small streams and rivers draining into the park, adding to the scenic beauty of the park. It is recommended to go armed with mosquito repellant if you go high up the altitudes for bird watching since there are biting flies up there.

Stretching over 894 square kilometres, the national park area is worth the trek if you want to get yourself out in the wilderness. There are several waterfalls in the park that can be visited by a 2-4 kilometres trek. What makes the park even more interesting is that the formidable Mount Khao Mojuko borders the park. It is a favourite trekking spot, which requires a 5-6 day trek to reach the summit. Apart from the birds, there are other natural viewpoints, hot spring pools, camping spots and a helicopter landing pad too.

Location: 20 kms South of Khlong Lan Village It is not so easy to reach Mae Wong National Park because there is no public transport to the park. If you are using your own vehicle to the park, you must follow the signs south along Route 1117 to reach the park.
Entrance fee: 200 THB for foreigners

Situated in the southern part of the Krabi Province, Mu Ko Lanta National Park was established in 1990 as a marine park comprising of several islands covering 134-sq-km. The biggest islands in the park are Ko Lanta Noi and Ko Lanta Yai. The Park consists of a vast variety of flora and fauna such as the Mangrove Forest, Beach Forest, Mammals, Coral Reef Animals, Birds and Fishes. The island of Ko Lanta Yai is also home to a clan of Chao Ley, or "sea gypsies".

The Chao Ley clan still practices many of their ancient customs and ceremonies, such as the setting of ceremonial boats adrift to bring good luck and prosperity on the full moon nights of the sixth and eleventh months. Additional highlights include some basic hiking trails, two twin beaches, caves, a gorgeous scenic lighthouse, camping facilities and bungalows amid wild, natural surroundings.

The smaller islands are popular sites for snorkelling and scuba diving as they offer the possibility of seeing some of the exciting tropical marine life found in the Andaman Sea. While the climate is good for visits, the islands of Ko Rok Nai, Ko Rok Nok and Ko Haa are closed for tourists from 16th May to 31st October for reasons of safety and marine life recovery.

Location: The Mu Ko Lanta National Park is located on the southern tip of Koh Lanta Yai in the Krabi Province. Depending on where you’re coming from, you can fly into one of the many airports in the area. For those flying in internationally and for those looking to see other parts of Thailand, Phuket International Airport (HKT) is the airport of choice. However, many regional flights and some international connections can be coordinated through Krabi International Airport (KBV) as well. Once you’ve reached your airport of choice, or if you are travelling locally, you can coordinate taxi and ferry services to reach your island of choice. Most visitors go to the southern tip of Koh Lanta Yai to start their trip. Once on the island you can rent a scooter and reach the Mu Koh Lanta National Park with it, exploring and enjoying the amazing views on the way.
Entrance Fee: The entrance fee for foreign adults is THB 200, while entry for a foreign child is THB 100. Entry for Thai adult citizens costs THB 40 and entry for Thai children will cost THB 20. Visitors with motorbikes must pay an additional charge of THB 20 and THB 30 for cars.

Located at the Tanao Sri Mountain Ranges, The Huai Yang Waterfall National Park consists of an area of 161-sq-km extending to the border of Myanmar. The National Park is known for its magnificent waterfalls, with the seven-tier cascading Huai Yang Waterfall being the main attraction.

The forest is considered to be an evergreen forest. Interesting mammals inhabits the park are Indochinese serow, wild boar, leopard, barking deer, porcupine, langur and gibbon. Other highlights include the Kha Aon waterfall, Khao Lan Waterfall, Bua Sawan Waterfall and Huai Hin Dat Waterfalls. There are only two big bungalows in the park for rent, a restaurant which is open from around 8:30am until 4pm, a souvenir shop and a campsite with relatively clean toilet and shower facilities.

Location: The Huai Yang Waterfall National Park is located at the Tanao Sri Mountain Ranges, close to the Myanmar border. There is no public transportation to the national park. The only options are getting there by car/motorcycle or hire a guide/driver from Prachuap Khiri Khan.
Entrance Fee: The entrance fee for adults is THB 100, while entry for children is THB 50. Visitors with bikes must pay an additional charge of THB 10, THB 20 for motorcycles and THB 30 for cars.

Doi Aoy Chang or Doi Suthep-Pui National Park has been named after a hermit who trained his meditation here thousands of years ago. Covering the area of 261.06 square kilometres in Amphur Mae Rim this park is a part of Thanon Thong Chai Range and is separated into two areas: west of Chiang Mai accounts for the central area, and the smaller area is around Mok Fa Waterfall some 10km further north.

The main attractions of the park are Wat Phra That Doi Suthep which is a Buddhist temple with holy shrines, along with a few waterfalls including Huey Kaew Waterfall, Mok Fa Waterfall, and Dtaat Mook Waterfall and caves. One can quickly look for mesmerising evergreen forests on higher altitudes and deciduous forests on lower parts. Due to high altitude, the climate is pleasant throughout the year and temperature drops during winter nights. One of the most famous things to enjoy here is Mountain Biking tours along the trails as well as for cycling and camping.

This park also accounts for the primary sources of rivers which are Doi Suthep, Doi Buak Ha, and Doi Pui. Accommodation in Bungalows is comforting and up to the mark with a reasonable price range from 400 THB to 3,000 THB. Certain other attractions include Bhubing Palace, Yod Doi Pui Campsite and Headquarters. This park is a place of natural green beauty that brings nature-lovers here and a place for worshippers who come here in the name of a sacred temple.

Location: The park is located on Huay Kaew Road of Tambon Suthep in the district of Amphur Mueang, in the city Chiang Mai in Thailand.
Entry fee: The fee for Non-Thai adults is 200 THB, and that for children is 100 THB with additional charges for visiting the attractions. The camping cost is around 250 THB.

Established in 1990, this marine national park in the southern part of Krabi Province protects 16 islands in the Ko Lanta group. The biggest islands in the park are Ko Lanta Noi and Ko Lanta Yai along with some other islands like Mai Ngam, South Mai Nga, and Ngu islands covered with Mangrove forests which are perfect for diving. Ko Rok Nai is lovely, with a crescent-shaped bay backed by cliffs and a sparkling white-sand beach. Camping is permitted adjacent to Koi Rok Noi with permission from park headquarters.

The national park visitors centre and offices are at Laem Tanod. Within the park resides nomadic sea gypsies known as Chalo Le, who are well known for setting up boats during full moon night which they believe is essential to drive out evil and bring good luck. The main beach has silky khaki sand backed by screw palms and umbrella trees. The beach is remote and large enough to find a quiet place. The park rents out tents for 250 baht per night alongside a few bungalows for 1,500 baht.

The main attractions here are white beaches, a scenic lighthouse, caves and tropical marine life found in the Andaman sea. Hq Area and Ta Nod Beach, Caves at Ko Lanta Yai, Tham in Thai means cave. Tham Khao Mai Kaew, Tham Seau, Khlong Chak Cave, and Mu Ko Rok and Ko Ngai, are probably the best two destinations found in the park. Get ready to enjoy and relax in the majestic scenic environment amid wild natural surroundings and breath the air of bliss.

Location: Located at the headquarters of Mu Ko Lanta in Moo 5, Tampo Ko Lanta Yai road in Amphoe Ko Lanta District of Krabi in Thailand.
Entry fee: National park entrance fee is 200 THB for Non-Thai adults and 100 for Non-Thai children, for Thai adults it is 40 THB, and for Thai children, it is 20 THB, parking for cars is 30 Baht.

Huai Yang Waterfall National Park is located at Tanao Sri Ranges in Thap Sakae. Covering the area of 161 sq. kms., it is a montane area with several elevations which is an essential watershed of rivers here. This forest is a part of the vast forested area extending in Myanmar. Wildlife enthusiasts can find a range of interesting mammals like serow, wild boar, barking deer, porcupine, gibbon, and langur.

The main attraction is the seven-tier magnificent Huai Yang Waterfall with multiple smaller waterfalls surrounding it including Khao Lan waterfall, Kha Aon waterfall, Bua Sawan waterfall and Huai Dat Waterfall. Accommodation includes two big bungalows for rent at the price range of 1,800-2,500 THB. The park is open from 8 am until 4:30 PM.

Other significant attractions here are: Khao Luang Mountain which is accessible only in guidance with rangers and takes nearly 5 hours to reach the peak and therefore, an overnight stay is required at the mountain summit. This place offers a great view of the surrounding areas. This national park is the best to spend some time enjoying calming walks and swimming, and Manao Bay, which is a peaceful scenic bay with a unique curve known as “Lime Bay”.

Location: The national park is located on Thong Thind Prachuap Khiri Khan, Talat Khao road in Thap Sakae, Chang Wat Prachuap province of Thailand.
Entry fee: The fee for Non-Thai adults is 100 Baht and 50 Baht is for Non-Thai children, 10 Baht for bikes, 20 Baht for motorcycles and 30 Baht for cars.

Phang Nga Bay, also known as Ao Phangnga locally, is situated in the Strait of Malacca, lying in between the Malay peninsula of Thailand and the island of Phuket. Spread over 400 square miles, it is a picturesque location that sees a heavy rush of tourists all the year round. The Phang Nga Bay contains numerous archeological sites of limestone caves and cliffs that are showcased as a part of sightseeing tours. The stunning site consists of 42 islands located within the shallow sea water and is well known for its mangrove forests, beds of seagrass, and numerous species of flora and fauna including the endangered Malaysian plover.