National Parks in Thailand: A Complete Guide & Planning Resource

• Wildlife parks in Thailand: Khao Yai, Kui Buri (elephants, hornbills).
• Waterfalls & trekking in Thailand: Erawan waterfalls, Doi Inthanon trekking.
• Marine parks in Thailand: Similan Islands, Surin Islands, Ang Thong Marine Park.
• Caves & karsts in Thailand: Phang Nga Bay, Khao Sok limestone cliffs.

Thailand's biodiversity hotspots are worth visiting due to their diversity:

• Northern highlands - foggy mountain ranges, pine ridges, and the birds.
• Central Thailand - accessible waterfalls and wildlife safaris.
• Southern marine parks - coral reefs, turquoise lagoons, and karst islands.

Unique microclimates, from high plateaus and evergreen forests to limestone cliffs and waterfalls.

Every trip is characterised by seasonality:

• Dry season (Nov - Feb) - Hiking is best in the north and the central areas.
• Monsoon (Jun - Oct) -Tracks may be muddy/shut, some marine parks close.
• Marine season (Nov - Apr) - During this period, the only season when diving in Similan and Surin is possible.

Rule of thumb: The closures and conditions should be verified before finalising plans.

Checkout: Best Time to Visit Thailand

• Parks that can be easily accessed: Khao Yai (2-3hours by car), Erawan (near Kanchanaburi).
• Parks in the North: Doi Inthanon (side-trip to Chiang Mai).
• Southern marine parks: Fly to either Phuket or Surat Thani and then travel by road and boat.
• Remote parks: Kaeng Krachan and Phu Kradueng need more work and planning.

• Camping: Many national parks allow camping, but you’ll need to obtain a permit in advance. Some parks provide designated campsites with basic facilities such as restrooms and food stalls, while others may require you to bring your own gear.
• Resorts: Well-developed parks, like Khao Yai National Park and popular marine parks, often have nearby resorts ranging from budget to luxury. These are ideal for travellers who prefer more comfort while still staying close to nature.
• Family & Group Stays: Several parks offer lodges, cabins, or family-sized bungalows. The availability and quality of these facilities vary by park, so it’s best to check and book ahead of your visit.

Wildlife & Safari Parks in Thailand (Khao Yai, Kui Buri) 

• Kui Buri National Park - Wild herds of elephants.
• Khao Yai National Park - Hornbills, gibbons, and drive-through safaris.

Waterfalls & Trekking Trails in Thailand (Erawan, Doi Inthanon, Phu Kradueng) 

• Erawan National Park - Seven-level waterfalls with blue pools.
• Phu Kradueng - I Overnight trekking adventure.
• Doi Inthanon National Park – Hiking and bird watching.

Diving & Snorkelling in Thailand Marine National Parks (Similan, Surin, Ang Thong) 

• Similan Islands diving - World reefs.
• Surin Islands snorkelling - Minor coral reefs and turtles.
• Ang Thong Marine Park - Island-hopping and kayaking.

Caves & Karst Landscapes in Thailand National Parks (Phang Nga Bay, Khao Sok)

• Phang Nga Bay - Famous limestone cliffs and sea caves.
• Khao Sok National Park - Theatrical cliffs and Cheow Lan Lake.

Checkout: Things to Do in Thailand

Northern Thailand (Doi Inthanon, Doi Phu Kha, Doi Suthep)

• Known for: Cool mountain weather, scenic treks, and excellent birdwatching.
• Best time to visit: November to February (cool and dry season).

Central Thailand – Parks Near Bangkok (Khao Yai, Erawan)

• Known for: Easy access from Bangkok, waterfalls, hiking trails, and family-friendly activities.
• Best time to visit: November to February.

Southern Marine Parks (Similan, Surin, Ang Thong)

• Known for: World-class diving and snorkelling, coral reefs, and island-hopping adventures.
• Best time to visit: November to April (when the seas are calm and clear).

Remote & Lesser-Known Parks (Phu Kradueng, Kaeng Krachan)

• Known for: Rich biodiversity, wildlife spotting, and off-the-beaten-path trekking.
• Best for: Adventurous travellers seeking solitude and nature immersion.

• Admission charge: 40-200 THB (more expensive for foreigners).
• Camping and overnights: Permits are needed (Phu Kradueng).
• Marine parks: Only a few places; reserve months earlier.
• Operators: Most Thailand national park packages come bundled with transport, permits, guides, and accommodation. Depending on your style of travel, Pickyourtrail helps you pick from Thailand packages where everything is taken care of, including flights, transportation, tours, and even permits to have a hassle-free vacation.

• Feed not wildlife: maintain a distance.
• Reef-safe sunscreen in marine parks.
• Trail safety: Shoe prognosis, weather knowledge.
• Protection laws: Fee, no digging, no leaving a trace.

• December to March: High season - Crowds and higher prices can be expected.
• May to October: Monsoon - Fewer tourists and limited area around marine areas.
• March to April: October to November: Shoulder months - Mixed decision: average crowds and excellent weather.

Thailand's national parks show that variety in itself is a luxury. The adventures woven into the geography of the country range from hazy mountain ridges to blue oceans, all parks. Be it a family, a trekker, a diver or a photographer, the parks in Thailand are not just places to visit but many to experience even after the journey is over, and they are often a highlight in well-planned Thailand tour packages.