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4+ Hours

Khao Yai National Park

UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning waterfalls, wildlife spotting, and cool mountain weather.

Khao Yai National Park

Last updated: February 2026

Thailand's oldest national park, known for waterfalls, jungle trails, and wildlife.

Grasslands in Khao Yai National Park
Khao Yai grasslands — Photo by Vyacheslav Argenberg on Wikimedia Commons.

Khao Yai is a UNESCO-listed national park with cool mountain air, jungle hikes, and scenic viewpoints. It is a full-day trip from Pattaya and works best if you start early.

Highlights

Waterfalls

Haew Suwat and Haew Narok are the most famous.

Wildlife

Gibbons, deer, hornbills, and occasional elephants.

Viewpoints

Panoramic lookouts over forest and grasslands.

Getting There

Private car or tour

  • Most convenient option for a day trip.
  • Flexible stops and return time.
  • Great if you want multiple waterfalls.

Public transport

  • Possible but slower with transfers.
  • Best for overnight visitors.

If you only have one day, a private car or tour is the easiest option.

Haew Suwat waterfall in Khao Yai National Park
Haew Suwat waterfall — Photo by Vyacheslav Argenberg on Wikimedia Commons.

Things to Do

Waterfall stops

Short walks to Haew Suwat and Haew Narok viewpoints.

Hikes & trails

Guided hikes are best for wildlife spotting.

Scenic drives

Stop at viewpoints and open grassland areas.

Coffee & wineries

Nearby Pak Chong has cafés and vineyards.

Tips

  • Start early to maximize daylight.
  • Bring insect repellent and water.
  • Wear good shoes for trails.
  • Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.

Questions?

Ask our community for current park conditions and tour recommendations.

Ask on the Forums →

Photo credits
  • • Khao Yai grasslands — Vyacheslav Argenberg (Wikimedia Commons)
  • • Haew Suwat waterfall — Vyacheslav Argenberg (Wikimedia Commons)

Highlights

  • UNESCO site
  • Wild elephants
  • Stunning waterfalls
  • Cool climate
  • Rich biodiversity

Trip Info

From Pattaya
Distance 200 km
Travel Time 3h 30min
Best Transport Tour or self-drive
Est. Cost 3,000-6,000 THB
View on Google Maps

How to Get There

Taxi (3,000-4,000 THB round trip), join a tour, or self-drive (3-4 hours).

Best Time to Visit

November to February for best weather. Dawn/dusk for wildlife.

Pro Tips

Consider overnight stay. Join guided tour for best wildlife spotting. Bring layers.