Travel Guides
Khao Yai Travel Guides: Getting There, When to Go and Itineraries
Practical planning for international visitors — transport from Bangkok, seasons, park essentials and day-by-day plans you can adapt.
Getting to Khao Yai
By car or private transfer
The most flexible option, because there is no public transport inside the park. From central Bangkok allow roughly 2.5–3.5 hours to the Pak Chong area, depending on traffic. The usual route follows Highway 1 and Highway 2 (Mittraphap Road), then Thanarat Road (Route 2090) towards the park’s northern gate. Sections of the new M6 motorway have been opening in stages — check the latest status before travelling.
By train
State Railway of Thailand trains run from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal to Pak Chong several times a day, taking about 2 hours 40 minutes to over 3 hours. Book via the SRT D-Ticket website, then take a taxi or arranged transfer.
By bus or minivan
Services from Bangkok’s Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit) run to Pak Chong; you will still need local transport onward.
Best time to visit
| Season | Months | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Cool | October–February | Clear, cool weather; December–January nights can drop below 10°C. Busiest period. |
| Hot | March–May | Warm days, milder in the hills; lower waterfalls. |
| Rainy | June–September | Lush forest and powerful waterfalls; slippery trails and leeches; some trails close. |
Park essentials
- Gates are listed as open 06:00–18:00.
- Foreign and Thai visitors pay different fees, plus a vehicle fee — see the official fee page.
- Some trails require a registered guide; register at the visitor centre.
- Fuel up and carry water and snacks — services inside are limited.
Itineraries
2 days: highlights
- Day 1: arrive, check in, and visit a winery or farm in the afternoon.
- Day 2: sunrise at the Km 30 viewpoint, Haew Suwat Waterfall, then the Nong Phak Chi tower.
3 days: forest and slow time
- Day 1: arrival and an easy afternoon at your villa.
- Day 2: full park day with a guided trail, waterfalls and the night safari.
- Day 3: Haew Narok Waterfall or a lazy morning by the pool before driving back.
Choosing where to stay? Read how to choose a pool villa resort in Khao Yai and our hotel reviews.
What to pack
- A warm layer for early mornings and evenings
- Walking shoes with grip
- Leech socks and insect repellent in the rainy season
- Binoculars
- Reusable water bottle and a bag for your rubbish
Last reviewed: 28 September 2026. Confirm details with Khao Yai National Park and the State Railway of Thailand.