Kaeng Krachan National Park
Western Thailand Region
Kaeng Krachan National Park is Thailand's largest national park, spanning over 2,900 square kilometers across Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan provinces. It is located on the eastern slopes of the Tenasserim Mountain Range, featuring dense tropical rainforests, varied elevations up to 1,513 meters, and two major rivers originating within its boundaries. The park is renowned for its remarkable biodiversity, hosting 91 mammal species and 461 bird species, including rare primates and colorful birds. It also contains the Kaeng Krachan Dam, which forms a large lake at the park's eastern edge. Its proximity to the tourist town of Hua Hin makes it a popular destination for nature lovers seeking hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife encounters. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021, the park is part of the larger Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex, recognized for its ecological importance. Despite its protected status, the park faces challenges such as poaching of elephants and conflicts with private plantations. Visitors are drawn by the park's pristine environment, diverse flora and fauna, and opportunities for adventure in a largely untouched tropical landscape.
Plan your trip to Thailand with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: The best time to visit Kaeng Krachan National Park is during the cool, dry season from November to February when wildlife viewing and trekking conditions are optimal. Visitors should consider arranging permits or guided tours in advance to access restricted areas and ensure safety. While there is no official online ticketing, arriving early in the day helps avoid crowds. Discounts may be available for students and Thai nationals at park entrances. Due to the park's size and terrain, bringing appropriate hiking gear, insect repellent, and sufficient water is recommended. Visitors should respect park regulations to protect wildlife and habitats, especially avoiding areas with private plantations and electric fences.
Interesting facts
- •Kaeng Krachan National Park is Thailand's largest national park, covering nearly 3,000 square kilometers.
- •It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in July 2021 after multiple nominations.
- •The park contains the Kaeng Krachan Dam, creating a large reservoir of 46.5 square kilometers.
- •It is home to 91 mammal species and 461 bird species, including rare and endemic wildlife.
- •The park borders Myanmar and is contiguous with the Tanintharyi Nature Reserve, forming a significant transboundary forest complex.
History
Kaeng Krachan was first declared a forest reserve in 1964 and officially became Thailand's 28th national park in 1981.
Initially covering approximately 2,478 square kilometers, it was expanded in 1984 to include additional forested areas along the provincial boundary.
The park has been part of the ASEAN Heritage Parks and was repeatedly nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status since 2011.
After initial rejections due to outdated boundary information and community participation concerns, it was successfully inscribed as a World Heritage Site in July 2021.
Over the decades, the park has faced conservation challenges including illegal poaching and human-wildlife conflicts linked to surrounding plantations and development pressures.
Place Guide
Kaeng Krachan Dam and Reservoir1966
Located at the eastern boundary of the park, the dam creates a vast lake covering 46.5 square kilometers, supporting aquatic ecosystems and offering scenic views.
Tenasserim Mountain Range
The park encompasses the eastern slopes of this mountain range, with elevations reaching up to 1,513 meters, providing diverse habitats and panoramic vistas.
Rainforest Ecosystem
The park's vast tropical and subtropical broadleaf forests harbor rich biodiversity, including numerous tree species, palms, mammals, and birds.
Contact
Phone: 032 772 311
