Thailand National Parks
Thailand National Parks are a recent addition to this beautiful country. When World War II was over, Thailand's population experienced rapid growth. The many natural resources were misused and wildlife disappeared at an alarming rate. By the early 60's action was needed to preserve Thailand's forests. King Bhumibol signed the National Park Act in 1961 which gave the government permission establish Thailand National Parks. Over ten percent of Thailand's land area is protected as a national park.
Khao Yai was the first Thailand national park. Established in 1962, it is only a three hour drive from Bangkok. Thailand National Parks now include over 100 preserves. It is impossible to list all of them, but I will highlight some of the most popular sites which are worth a visit during your holiday in Thailand. |
Northern Thailand National Parks
Northern Thailand is covered by preserved mountainous areas. This is due to the fact that much of the north is a watershed for the Central region which includes the ever expanding Bangkok metropolis.
The most famous Thailand National Park in Northern Thailand is Doi Inthanon. The park is located only 90 minutes from Chiang Mai and is home to the highest peak in the Kingdom. Towering 2,565 meters (8300 feet) above sea level, Thailand weather at the top stays cool all year round. If you plan to visit Northern Thailand, a trip up the mountain makes a great outing for the day. |
Central Thailand National Parks
Central Thailand has a much smaller number of Thailand National Parks than does the Northern region. However, the largest Thailand National Park is southwest of Bangkok and it borders Myanmar. The park is called Kaeng Krachan and it covers over 2900 square kilometers of land area. The Park headquarters are east of Phetchaburi, which is a three hour drive from Bangkok.
Kaeng Krachan National Park is made up of tropical rainforest which provides habitat for many types of birds and some large mammals as well. One of the main attractions in the park is the Pala-U waterfall. This 16 tier fall flows year round near the Myanmar - Thailand border. A trip to the Pala-U falls is a popular tourist excursion from the lovely beach resort known as Hua Hin. |
Southern Thailand National Parks
The landscape of southern Thailand is covered with limestone outcroppings and surrounded by crystal clear water. The land area is rather limited so the number of Thailand National Parks is limited as well.
Undoubtedly, the most famous national park in the south is the one that includes the Phi Phi Islands, Hat Noppharat Thara - Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park. A trip or holiday on the Phi Phi Islands usually means time spent scuba diving, sea kayaking and snorkeling. There are literally hundreds of islands in Krabi and Phuket provinces which are included in one of the southern Thailand National Parks. |
