Calm lake surrounded by forest in the Khao Yai wilderness

Attraction guide

Khao Yai Nature Trails & Outdoor Experiences

Boardwalks, jungle hikes, birdwatching, night safaris and camping – how to get outdoors safely in Khao Yai.

Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Updated October 2026

Introduction

Khao Yai is one of the best places in Thailand to experience tropical forest on foot. Its trails pass through towering evergreen forest, bamboo thickets and open grassland, and it is common to hear gibbons calling or hornbills flying overhead. This guide explains the types of trails and outdoor experiences available and how to enjoy them safely.

Destination overview

Most trails start near the visitor centre, at waterfalls or along the main road. The easiest are short and paved or boardwalked; longer routes follow narrow forest paths where it is easy to lose the way, because animal tracks can look like trails. The park recommends hiring a ranger or licensed guide for longer walks, and some trails require one.

Main highlights

Easy walks

Kong Kaew Waterfall – a short walk from the visitor centre with a small cascade and rope bridge.
Pha Diao Dai boardwalk – about 450 metres to a cliff viewpoint (seasonal closures apply). See our viewpoints guide.
Nong Phak Chi – about 1 km across grassland to an observation tower.

Longer hikes

Haew Suwat–Pha Kluai Mai trail – about 3 km through forest, roughly two hours one way.
Guided jungle trails from the visitor centre – ask about current routes and conditions.

Birdwatching

UNESCO lists 392 bird species in the wider forest complex. Hornbills, barbets, trogons and pittas attract birders from around the world. Specialist guides know the fruiting trees and best spots.

Night safari

Evening spotlighting trips in open trucks leave from the visitor centre area. Sightings vary but often include deer and civets.

Camping

Camping at designated sites such as Lam Takhong lets you wake inside the forest. Tents can be brought or hired; book through the park, especially at weekends and in the cool season.

Wild Asian elephants walking through Khao Yai National Park — Wild elephants live in Khao Yai – always give them plenty of space. Photo: tontantravel, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Best time to visit

November to February offers the most comfortable hiking weather. The hot season (March to May) is good for wildlife near water but warm in the afternoon. The rainy season (June to October) is beautiful but muddy, with leeches and possible trail closures.

Transportation information

Drive to the visitor centre through the northern gate. Guides can be arranged there or through your hotel or a tour operator. There is no public transport inside the park.

Practical visitor tips

Hire a guide for anything beyond the short, marked walks.
Wear long trousers, closed shoes and leech socks.
Carry water, a rain jacket and insect repellent.
Start early and finish before late afternoon.
Elephant safety: if you encounter elephants, back away calmly and follow your guide’s instructions.
Leave no trace and never feed wildlife.

Nearby accommodation

Hikers benefit from staying close to the northern gate, or inside the park at a campsite or park bungalow. See the best hotels in Khao Yai and The Birder’s Lodge.

Related guides

References

Editorial note: Khao Yai Retreat is an independent travel information website. We do not own or operate any hotel, villa or attraction mentioned here, and listings are not paid placements. Facilities, prices and opening hours change, so please confirm details directly with the property or attraction before you travel.