Khao Yai was Thailand’s first established national park and is the country’s second largest. Set in Thailand’s north, the natural beauty and serenity of the area draws in both domestic and foreign visitors every year. Khao Yai is best reached by bus or train, a journey of about three hours from Bangkok.

The park’s bat and gibbon population are some of the main draws to the area. A cave on the edge of the park is home to some one million bats, and their nightly migration makes for quite a site. Treks and night safaris are likely to reveal an abundance of other wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and bears. This UNESCO World Heritage site is also home to over 320 species of birds and 3,000 species of plants.

When not becoming one with nature, visitors gravitate towards the golf course and wineries. The park’s waterfalls are definitely top attractions, even making an appearance in movies, most noticeably The Beach. Hiking, day and night safari tours, and camping can be enjoyed and easily arranged at most hotels. Accommodation in Khao Yai ranges from jungle bungalows to fully-fledged luxury resorts. The wet season is the greatest time to visit, as the cooler season could see the waterfalls slow to a drip.

Be sure to check out the interactive map of Khao Yai for information on hotel locations, attractions, and must-see destinations.