Thailand isn’t just beaches and temples—it’s also waterfalls, rainforests, and wildlife. If you want to explore its wild side, here are the top national parks to visit.
1. Khao Sok National Park – Surat Thani
Thick jungle, limestone cliffs, and emerald lakes.
Stay in floating bungalows on Cheow Lan Lake.
Look out for hornbills, gibbons, and even wild elephants.
2. Erawan National Park – Kanchanaburi
Famous for its 7-tiered waterfall.
Each level has turquoise pools you can swim in.
Easy day trip from Bangkok.
3. Doi Inthanon National Park – Chiang Mai
Home to Thailand’s highest mountain.
Cool weather, cloud forests, and twin royal pagodas.
Popular for hiking and birdwatching.
4. Kaeng Krachan National Park – Phetchaburi
Thailand’s largest national park.
Dense forest with fog-covered treetops.
Great for spotting rare birds and butterflies.
5. Khao Yai National Park – Nakhon Ratchasima
UNESCO World Heritage site.
Easily accessible from Bangkok.
Wildlife includes elephants, deer, porcupines, and even bears.
6. Mu Ko Similan National Park – Phang Nga
Famous for diving and snorkeling.
Clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.
Open only from October to May.
7. Ao Phang Nga National Park – Phang Nga
Known for limestone cliffs and James Bond Island.
Explore by kayak through caves and mangroves.
Ideal for scenic boat trips.
8. Doi Suthep-Pui National Park – Chiang Mai
Covers the mountains behind Chiang Mai.
Visit temples, waterfalls, and hill tribe villages.
Combine nature with culture in one trip.
9. Sai Yok National Park – Kanchanaburi
Waterfalls, caves, and historic WWII sites.
Take a raft house stay on the river.
Less crowded than nearby Erawan.
10. Tarutao National Marine Park – Satun
Remote and untouched islands.
Perfect for trekking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.
Great escape from mass tourism.
What kind of explorer are you?
Want waterfalls and forest trails? Try Erawan or Doi Inthanon.
Prefer sea and sand? Head to Similan or Tarutao.
Looking for wildlife? Khao Yai or Kaeng Krachan delivers.
