Kaeng Krachan National Park – The Largest Forest in Western Thailand
Amidst the lush rainforest and complex mountain ranges stretching to the Myanmar border, Kaeng Krachan National Park is the heart of Thailands western forest and one of the largest, most abundant, and biologically diverse natural areas in Southeast Asia.
Global Significance
Kaeng Krachan National Park is located in Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan provinces, covering over 2.9 million rai. It is Thailands largest national park and was designated a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 2021 under the name Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex.
This forest is home to many rare animals, such as wild elephants, tigers, dholes, serows, and various hornbill species. It is also the source of the Phetchaburi River, which nourishes agricultural lands and riverside towns.
️Highlights to Visit
️Park Headquarters and Kaeng Krachan Dam
The area around Kaeng Krachan Dam is easily accessible and ideal for relaxing by the reservoir. Activities include boating, camping, cycling, or quietly watching the sunset over the dam crest.
Pha Nern Thung Sea of Mist and Milky Way
Pha Nern Thung Peak, about 960 meters above sea level, offers breathtaking morning mist views, especially from late rainy to early winter (SeptFeb). It is also a prime spot for clear night views of stars and the Milky Way, free from city light pollution.
Note: Access to Pha Nern Thung requires a 4WD vehicle and follows strict opening hours.
Ban Krang Butterfly Watching
From late summer to early rainy season (AprJun), Ban Krang Forest Protection Unit transforms into a butterfly kingdom with thousands of butterflies from hundreds of species, perfect for photographers and biologists.
Nature Trails
The park offers various nature trails, ranging from easy walks around the camp to long hikes with guides, such as the Pha Nern Thung trail or trips to the Ban Krang camp unit.
Popular Activities
- Kayaking on Kaeng Krachan Reservoir
- Camping by the reservoir or viewpoint
- Birdwatching, butterfly watching, and spotting rare wildlife
- Hiking to study ecosystems and plant species
- Photography of misty landscapes and night skies
Opening hours: 06:0018:00 (Some areas close seasonally, e.g., Pha Nern Thung)
Entrance Fees:
- Adults 100 THB
- Children 50 THB
- Cars 30 THB
- Accommodation/Campsites: Available at the Visitor Center and Ban Krang Pha Nern Thung
- Advance booking recommended via the park website or QueQ app
️Precautions
- Avoid loud noises as this is a real wildlife habitat
- Do not litter in the forest and carry your trash out with you
- Access to Pha Nern Thung requires 4WD vehicles only and limits the number of vehicles per day
- Drone use is prohibited without permission
