add-banner

Mae Wong Overview

Mae Wong National Park, or อุทยานแห่งชาติแม่วงก์ in Thai, is a stunning expanse of natural beauty located in Kamphaeng Phet and Nakhon Sawan provinces in northern Thailand. Spanning approximately 558 square miles (1,445 square kilometers), the park is part of the vast Western Forest Complex, one of Southeast Asia’s largest remaining forested areas. Known for its dense rainforests, rugged terrain, and misty mountain peaks, Mae Wong is a haven for wildlife and an adventure-seeker’s paradise.

The park’s terrain is marked by dramatic hills and valleys, with elevations ranging from 250 to 1,964 meters (820 to 6,444 feet) above sea level. The highlight is Khao Mo Ko Chu, the park’s highest peak, offering breathtaking views and challenging trekking routes. The landscape features evergreen and deciduous forests, creating a rich tapestry of flora that includes bamboo groves, towering dipterocarp trees, and wild orchids.

Rivers such as the Mae Wong River and Mae Rewa River cut through the park, creating picturesque waterfalls like the Nang Nuan and Mae Kra Sa. These waterfalls are not only scenic but also serve as refreshing stops for hikers.

Mae Wong National Park is a biodiversity hotspot, home to an impressive array of wildlife. The park is part of the habitat for several rare and endangered species, including the Indochinese tiger, clouded leopard, and Asiatic black bear. Other mammals like sambar deer, Asian elephants, and wild boars are often spotted.

Bird enthusiasts will be thrilled by the park’s avian diversity, as it is home to over 300 bird species, including the green peafowl, Oriental pied hornbill, and several species of woodpeckers and eagles. The forests are alive with the sounds of these creatures, offering an immersive experience in nature.

Popular features of the park include the scenic viewpoints at Chong Yen and Mo Ko Chu, which are especially favored by campers and photographers for their panoramic views of the mist-covered hills. The park is also a trekker’s dream, with trails leading through dense forests, along rivers, and to remote waterfalls. Visitors can explore the park on foot, by bicycle, or via organized guided tours. Wildlife enthusiasts often set out on night safaris to glimpse the park’s nocturnal inhabitants.

Conservation efforts at Mae Wong National Park have faced challenges, particularly concerning deforestation, poaching, and human-wildlife conflicts. However, significant successes have been achieved in recent years, including increased patrols and the establishment of wildlife corridors to support animal movements. The park has become a symbol of Thailand’s commitment to protecting its natural heritage, with local communities playing an active role in its conservation and sustainable tourism initiatives.

Mae Wong National Park is a jewel of northern Thailand, offering visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a vibrant ecosystem while contributing to its preservation. Its untouched beauty and rich biodiversity make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

advertisement banner
Park Map
advertisement banner

Mae Wong National Park Highlights

Popular

Mae Wong National Park, located in western Thailand, is renowned for its rich biodiversity and lush mountainous terrain. The park is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including many rare and endangered species. Here are some of the more popular animal species found in Mae Wong National Park:

Asian Elephant
These majestic animals are among the largest land mammals in the park. They roam in herds and are often spotted in the forested areas, where they feed on grasses, fruits, and bark.

Indochinese Tiger
This elusive predator is a symbol of the park’s conservation efforts. While rare to spot, the tiger plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.

Leopard Cat
A small wild cat, the leopard cat is known for its spotted coat and nocturnal habits. It can be found hunting small prey in the park’s dense forests.

Clouded Leopard
An arboreal predator with a beautiful spotted coat, the clouded leopard is a rare and striking inhabitant of the park’s highland forests.

Indian Pangolin
This shy, nocturnal mammal is covered in protective scales and feeds primarily on ants and termites. Its presence indicates the park’s healthy insect populations.

Sambar Deer
The largest deer species in the park, sambar deer are often seen grazing in open areas or near water sources during the cooler parts of the day.

Malayan Porcupine
Recognizable by its sharp quills, this nocturnal rodent can often be seen foraging for roots and fruits along the forest floor.

Asian Golden Cat
This rare feline, known for its reddish-gold coat, is an elusive predator inhabiting the park’s dense jungle.

Smooth-coated Otter
These playful mammals live in and around the park’s rivers and streams, where they hunt for fish and other aquatic prey.

Banteng
A wild cattle species, banteng are grazers found in the park’s grasslands and open forests. Their population is a conservation priority.

Birds

Mae Wong National Park is also a haven for birdwatchers, with a wide variety of popular bird species. Here are some of the most notable birds found in the park:

Great Hornbill
This large and striking bird is known for its enormous bill and distinctive yellow casque. It can often be seen flying between tall trees or feeding on fruits.

Oriental Pied Hornbill
Smaller than the great hornbill, this bird is equally fascinating with its black-and-white plumage and a prominent casque on its bill.

Blue Pitta
A vividly colored ground-dwelling bird, the blue pitta is often seen foraging in the forest undergrowth.

Rufous-necked Hornbill
This rare species is recognized for its vibrant reddish neck and impressive bill. It prefers dense forest habitats.

White-rumped Shama
Known for its melodious song, this bird is a favorite among birdwatchers and is often found in shaded forest areas.

Scarlet Minivet
This brightly colored bird, with its striking red and black plumage, adds a splash of color to the park’s canopy.

Silver Pheasant
A striking bird with shimmering white feathers and a black crest, the silver pheasant is often spotted in the forest’s undergrowth.

Asian Fairy-bluebird
This beautiful bird has glossy blue and black plumage and is frequently seen in fruiting trees.

Himalayan Cuckoo
A migratory bird, the Himalayan cuckoo is known for its distinctive call and preference for open forest areas.

Gray-headed Fish Eagle
A powerful raptor, this eagle is often seen near water bodies, where it hunts fish and other small aquatic creatures.