Kaeng Krachan National Park

Kaeng Krachan Overview

Kaeng Krachan National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติแก่งกระจาน), the largest national park in Thailand, covers an impressive 1,865 square miles (4,849 square kilometers). Located in the western part of the country, straddling Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan provinces, the park borders Myanmar and forms part of the Western Forest Complex, one of Southeast Asia’s most important biodiversity corridors. This lush expanse of wilderness is celebrated for its dense forests, misty mountains, and thriving ecosystems that offer a haven for wildlife.

The terrain of Kaeng Krachan National Park is a breathtaking blend of rugged mountains, deep valleys, and cascading waterfalls. Its highest peak, Khao Phanoen Thung, rises majestically to 1,207 meters (3,960 feet), often shrouded in mist during the early mornings, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. The Phetchaburi River, a lifeline for the region, winds through the park, feeding its lush vegetation and sustaining diverse habitats.

Visitors are drawn to its stunning waterfalls, including the multi-tiered Pa La-U Waterfall, which offers a serene retreat into nature. The park’s vegetation ranges from lowland evergreen and mixed deciduous forests to montane forests at higher altitudes, providing a vibrant tapestry of greens that shelter countless species.

Wildlife enthusiasts will find Kaeng Krachan a paradise. The park is home to an extraordinary variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. Iconic species such as elephants, leopards, clouded leopards, and Malayan tapirs roam its vast terrains. Birdwatchers flock to the park to spot rare and colorful birds like the great hornbill, blue pitta, and the elusive ratchet-tailed treepie, which is endemic to the region.

With over 400 bird species recorded, the park is recognized as one of Thailand’s premier birding destinations. It is also a habitat for reptiles such as king cobras and Burmese pythons, as well as a myriad of butterflies, which paint the landscape in vivid hues during their peak seasons.

Visitors can explore Kaeng Krachan through various activities, including trekking, birdwatching, and camping. The iconic Phanoen Thung viewpoint offers panoramic views of the park’s undulating landscapes, often cloaked in morning mist.

Boating on the Kaeng Krachan Reservoir provides a unique way to observe the park’s flora and fauna while enjoying its tranquil waters. The park’s extensive trail system invites adventurous trekkers to delve into its hidden corners, uncovering the secrets of its vibrant ecosystems.

Kaeng Krachan faces significant conservation challenges, including poaching and deforestation. However, ongoing efforts by park authorities and local communities have seen successes in wildlife protection and habitat restoration. In 2021, the park gained UNESCO World Heritage status as part of the Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex, highlighting its ecological significance and reinforcing its conservation importance.

Park Map

Kaeng Krachan National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Kaeng Krachan is also celebrated for its extraordinary diversity of bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Here are some of the popular birds in the park:

Great Hornbill
One of the most iconic birds in the park, the great hornbill is known for its large size and striking casque atop its bill. Its loud calls and strong, steady flight are unforgettable sights in the forest canopy.

Asian Fairy-bluebird
This vibrant bird, with its glossy blue plumage and striking red eyes, is often seen perched in the mid-canopy of the forest, feeding on fruits and insects.

Blue Pitta
A shy and ground-dwelling bird, the blue pitta has a dazzling blue body and contrasting black and orange head patterns. Its beautiful plumage blends into the dense forest floor.

Rufous-bellied Eagle
This medium-sized eagle is a majestic raptor that soars high above the park’s forests. It preys on small mammals and birds and is recognizable by its rufous underparts and striking white chest.

Orange-breasted Trogon
The orange-breasted trogon is a colorful bird with a striking combination of orange, green, and yellow hues. It is usually found perched silently in the mid-level of forests.

Green Magpie
The green magpie is a bright, lime-green bird with a long tail and a melodious call. It is intelligent and social, often found in small groups.

Scarlet Minivet
The scarlet minivet is a vividly colored bird with the male displaying bright scarlet and black plumage. Females are yellow and gray, making them equally striking.

Crested Serpent Eagle
This eagle is a common sight in the park, with its sharp, piercing call and striking yellow eyes. It hunts snakes and other small animals in the forest.

Oriental Pied Hornbill
Smaller than the great hornbill, the Oriental pied hornbill is known for its black-and-white plumage and prominent casque. It feeds on fruits and is often seen in pairs or small groups.

Sultan Tit
The sultan tit is a small, colorful bird with a striking yellow body and black head. Its active behavior and constant movement make it a delight to observe in the forest.