Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park

Khao Sam Roi Yot Overview

Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, meaning “Mountain of Three Hundred Peaks” in Thai, is a striking coastal park located in the Prachuap Khiri Khan Province of Thailand. Covering an area of approximately 37 square miles (98 square kilometers), the park is famed for its dramatic limestone mountain ranges, expansive wetlands, and pristine beaches that stretch along the Gulf of Thailand. Established in 1966 as Thailand’s first marine national park, Khao Sam Roi Yot is a haven for biodiversity and an ideal destination for nature lovers.

The park’s terrain is a breathtaking mix of rugged limestone hills that rise sharply from the coastal plain, interspersed with freshwater marshes and mangrove forests. Notable features include the majestic Khao Daeng Peak, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, and the iconic Phraya Nakhon Cave.

Inside the cave, visitors can marvel at the Kuha Karuhas Pavilion, a small royal pavilion bathed in sunlight streaming through a natural skylight, creating a surreal and awe-inspiring scene. The wetland areas, among the largest in Thailand, are teeming with reeds and other aquatic vegetation, forming an important habitat for many species.

Wildlife enthusiasts visiting Khao Sam Roi Yot can encounter a variety of fascinating species. The park is a key stopover for migratory birds, with over 300 bird species recorded, including the purple swamphen, painted stork, and black kite.

Mammals such as dusky langurs, crab-eating macaques, and small Indian civets roam the park, while the mangroves and marshlands host an array of reptiles and amphibians. Additionally, the surrounding marine environment is home to numerous fish and crustacean species, making it an essential area for ecological balance.

Among the park’s popular attractions are the Thung Sam Roi Yot Freshwater Marsh, ideal for birdwatching, and the serene Laem Sala Beach, perfect for a relaxing escape. Visitors also enjoy boat tours along the Khao Daeng Canal, where they can explore the mangrove ecosystems and witness the interplay of land and water habitats. Hiking trails of varying difficulty levels allow for deeper exploration of the park, and Phraya Nakhon Cave remains a must-see for its cultural and natural significance.

Khao Sam Roi Yot faces conservation challenges such as habitat degradation from tourism and encroachment, as well as the management of freshwater and marine ecosystems. However, ongoing efforts to protect its wetlands and rehabilitate mangrove forests have shown positive results. The park’s designation as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance highlights its critical ecological value and underscores the commitment to its preservation.

Park Map

Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

The wetlands and forests of Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park are internationally recognized as a haven for birdwatchers, hosting a remarkable variety of resident and migratory bird species.

Asian Openbill Stork
This large wading bird, characterized by its distinctive open bill and long legs, is commonly seen in the park’s marshlands.

Painted Stork
With its vibrant pink and white plumage and yellow bill, the painted stork is a striking bird often found in shallow waters and mudflats.

Black-Capped Kingfisher
This colorful kingfisher, with its striking blue back and black cap, is a common sight along rivers and mangroves.

Oriental Darter
Also known as the snakebird, this species is known for its slender neck and ability to swim with its body submerged.

Purple Heron
A large, elegant wading bird, the purple heron is distinguished by its reddish-brown plumage and is commonly seen in the park’s wetlands.

Greater Spotted Eagle
This migratory bird of prey is a majestic sight in the park’s open areas, soaring with broad wings as it hunts for small mammals.

Eurasian Curlew
This long-billed wader is often found in mudflats and shallow coastal areas, where it probes the ground for small invertebrates.

Pacific Golden Plover
This medium-sized migratory bird, with its golden-brown plumage, frequents the park’s grasslands and mudflats during its migration.

Grey-Headed Fish Eagle
A powerful raptor, the grey-headed fish eagle is known for its piercing call and prowess in catching fish from the park’s rivers and wetlands.

Little Egret
This elegant white heron is a common resident in the park, often seen stalking fish and insects in the shallow waters.