When most people think of Thailand, they probably imagine white sandy beaches, delicious tropical cocktails, stunning temples and ruined archaeological sites. Probably, they also evoke images of delicious food and friendly people. there are also many ways to get closer to nature in some fantastic national parks, where the local wildlife is at the center of the experience. To do this, check out our selection of the best national parks in Thailand to give you an idea of what the country has to offer to nature lovers.
ANG THONG MARINE NATIONAL PARK
Located near the famous island of Koh Samui, the Ang Thong Marine National Park is an archipelago consisting of 42 islands in the south of Thailand. This park has limestone islands, karst mountains and other spectacular rocky cliffs that rise from the sea. You can explore caves, find hidden lagoons and even do island hopping on many white sandy beaches. Ang Thong Park is a nature reserve of more than 100 square kilometers of land and sea. It can be easily visited on a day trip from Koh Samui by speedboat, or you can take part in group tours on Thailand’s famous long-tailed boats.
DOI INTHANON NATIONAL PARK
Here the foothills begin at the massive peaks of the Himalayas. It is also the highest mountain in Thailand – Doi Inthanon – in the heart of the Doi Inthanon National Park.
Doi Inthanon is home to fascinating microclimates that you won’t find anywhere else in Thailand. There are also mountain peoples, beautiful waterfalls and excellent hiking opportunities.
ERAWAN NATIONAL PARK
Erawan is one of the most visited national parks in Thailand, mainly thanks to its main attraction, the Erawan Falls. The waterfalls have seven levels that can be reached with a short walk through the jungle of the park from the main parking lot. The national park can be easily visited on a day trip from Bangkok. If you have time, it is better to spend a night in Kanchanaburi, and then go to the falls in the morning. They are going to beat the masses and want to have a much better experience.
HAT CHAO MAI NATIONAL PARK
If you prefer your experience of nature to depend more on the diversity of birds and the sea, go to Hat Chao Mai National Park. The marine park is located in the southwestern corner of Thailand, in the province of Trang, on the famous Andaman Coast. Founded in 1981, its 89 square miles include impressive protected coral reef systems.
KHAO LUANG NATIONAL PARK
If you prefer your national parks to be largely unexplored, you will love Khao Luang, located in the south-eastern corner of Thailand, near the city of Nakhon Si Thammarat. Khao Luang is home to the highest mountain in all of southern Thailand. Here it is warm enough to swim in the pools, and the countless flora and fauna that you will find in the park are fascinating.