Khun Chae National Park

Khun Chae Overview

Khun Chae National Park, known locally as “อุทยานแห่งชาติขุนแจ,” is a serene and ecologically rich area located in the northern region of Thailand, within Chiang Rai Province. Spanning an area of approximately 171.4 square miles (444 square kilometers), this park is part of the Thoeng District, a region characterized by its lush forests and dramatic mountainous landscapes. Established in 1995, the park is an integral part of Thailand’s efforts to preserve its natural heritage and biodiversity.

The terrain of Khun Chae National Park is predominantly mountainous, with elevations ranging from gentle hills to steep peaks. One of its most striking features is Doi Mot, the highest mountain in the park, rising to an impressive height of 1,728 meters (5,669 feet) above sea level. The park is home to verdant valleys, dense forests, and meandering streams that contribute to its enchanting beauty.

Visitors can marvel at the evergreen forests and mixed deciduous woodlands that make up the bulk of the park’s vegetation. These forests are punctuated by bamboo groves and patches of wildflowers, especially during the blooming season. Waterfalls like Khun Chae Waterfall and Mae Tho Waterfall further enhance the park’s natural allure, providing tranquil spots for visitors to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of cascading water.

Khun Chae National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The diverse ecosystems within the park support a variety of animal species. Mammals such as barking deer, wild boar, and civets are commonly spotted. The park is also home to an array of bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Visitors may encounter colorful species like the red junglefowl, great barbet, and blue-throated bee-eater. Reptiles and amphibians also thrive in the park’s streams and forest floors, contributing to its vibrant biodiversity.

Among the park’s most popular features are its trekking routes, which lead visitors through dense forests to stunning viewpoints. The trails range from moderate to challenging, making Khun Chae a favorite destination for adventure seekers. The ascent to the summit of Doi Mot is particularly rewarding, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Camping is another popular activity, with designated sites providing opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the natural surroundings. Additionally, the park’s waterfalls and streams are excellent spots for picnics and photography.

Conservation remains a priority for Khun Chae National Park. Efforts to manage and protect the park’s resources include reforestation projects, wildlife monitoring, and community engagement programs. Challenges such as illegal logging and poaching have been met with stringent measures and increased awareness campaigns, leading to significant improvements in the park’s ecological health. The collaboration between local communities and park authorities has been a cornerstone of its conservation success, ensuring the sustainable use of its resources while preserving its natural beauty for future generations.

Park Map

Khun Chae National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Khun Chae National Park, located in northern Thailand, is a stunning destination known for its mountainous terrain, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can encounter a variety of fascinating species in this park, from elusive mammals to unique reptiles and amphibians. Below are some of the more popular species found in Khun Chae National Park:

Asian Black Bear
The Asian black bear, also known as the moon bear, is a medium-sized bear with a distinctive white crescent marking on its chest. These bears are primarily nocturnal and can often be found foraging for fruits, insects, and small mammals in the dense forest.

Bengal Slow Loris
This arboreal primate is known for its large, round eyes and nocturnal habits. The Bengal slow loris moves slowly through the trees, feeding on fruits, leaves, and insects. It is a unique and fascinating resident of the park’s forests.

Clouded Leopard
A shy and elusive predator, the clouded leopard is known for its distinctive cloud-like spots and remarkable climbing ability. It preys on small mammals and birds in the park’s dense forests.

Malayan Porcupine
The Malayan porcupine is a ground-dwelling rodent covered in sharp quills that it uses as a defense mechanism. These nocturnal creatures forage for roots, tubers, and fallen fruits.

Sunda Pangolin
Known for its protective keratin scales, the Sunda pangolin is an insectivore that uses its long, sticky tongue to feed on ants and termites. It is a critically endangered species found in the park.

Indochinese Tiger
One of the top predators in the park, the Indochinese tiger is a majestic yet rare sight. These tigers are solitary hunters, preying on deer and wild boars in their natural habitat.

Leopard Cat
This small wildcat has a sleek, spotted coat and is known for its agility and adaptability. It primarily hunts small mammals and birds and is active during the night.

King Cobra
As one of the longest venomous snakes in the world, the king cobra is an impressive reptile found in Khun Chae. It is known for its hood flare and powerful venom, preying mainly on other snakes.

Tokay Gecko
The tokay gecko is a large and colorful species with vibrant blue and orange spots. These nocturnal reptiles are known for their loud mating calls and ability to climb vertical surfaces.

Asian Water Monitor
This large lizard is a semi-aquatic species commonly seen near water sources in the park. It feeds on fish, amphibians, and carrion, showcasing its adaptability.

Birds

Khun Chae National Park is also home to an impressive array of bird species, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts. These birds add vibrant colors and beautiful songs to the park’s landscapes. Below are some of the popular bird species in the park:

Oriental Pied Hornbill
The Oriental pied hornbill is a striking bird with a large, curved bill topped with a casque. Known for its distinctive call, this bird is often seen feeding on fruits and small animals.

Red Junglefowl
Considered the ancestor of domesticated chickens, the red junglefowl is a colorful bird with a glossy plumage of reds, greens, and golds. They are ground-dwellers often spotted in open areas of the park.

Great Barbet
A large, colorful bird with a stout bill, the great barbet is known for its melodious, repetitive call. It feeds on fruits, insects, and occasionally small vertebrates.

Asian Fairy-bluebird
This brilliantly colored bird has striking blue feathers with contrasting black wings and tail. The Asian fairy-bluebird is often found in forest canopies, feeding on fruits.

Scarlet Minivet
The scarlet minivet is a vibrantly colored bird with males displaying bright red plumage and females showing yellow. These birds are often seen in small flocks, foraging for insects.

White-throated Kingfisher
A vivid blue and chestnut bird, the white-throated kingfisher is easily recognizable by its bright red bill. It is often seen near water, hunting for fish and insects.

Rufous Treepie
A long-tailed bird with warm brown and black plumage, the rufous treepie is known for its sharp, varied calls. It is a common sight in the park’s wooded areas.

Blue Whistling Thrush
With its dark blue plumage and loud, whistling song, the blue whistling thrush is a striking bird. It is often found near streams and waterfalls in the park.

Golden-fronted Leafbird
This small, vibrant bird has green plumage with a golden forehead and black mask. It feeds on nectar, fruits, and insects, often seen flitting through the trees.

Himalayan Griffon Vulture
One of the largest birds in the park, the Himalayan griffon vulture is a scavenger often seen soaring high above, searching for carrion. Its impressive wingspan makes it a breathtaking sight.