Sri Nan National Park

Sri Nan Overview

Sri Nan National Park, located in Nan Province in northern Thailand, spans an impressive 398 square miles (1,030 square kilometers) of stunning natural beauty. Nestled in the remote and rugged highlands, the park is named after the Nan River, which courses through this captivating region.

It is a haven for nature enthusiasts, showcasing a variety of landscapes, from lush evergreen and deciduous forests to dramatic cliffs and rolling hills. The terrain here is diverse, with notable landmarks such as the soaring Phu Hua Sing viewpoint, which offers breathtaking panoramas, and the striking Sao Din Na Noi, a cluster of eroded soil formations resembling natural sculptures.

The park’s forested areas are dense with a mix of teak, bamboo, and evergreen species, providing a rich green tapestry that contrasts beautifully with the blue skies and rocky outcroppings. Waterfalls, such as the serene Huai Kon Waterfall, punctuate the landscape, creating serene spots for visitors to enjoy. Mist often cloaks the hills during the cooler months, adding a magical touch to the already enchanting scenery.

Sri Nan National Park is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, making it a treasure trove for animal lovers and birdwatchers. The park’s mammals include barking deer, wild boars, and the occasional sighting of Asiatic black bears. It also hosts a vibrant bird population, with species like the black eagle, white-bellied woodpecker, and various hornbills delighting bird enthusiasts. Reptiles and amphibians, including various frogs and lizards, are also part of the park’s rich ecosystem. The park’s rivers and streams harbor aquatic life, adding to its biodiversity.

One of the park’s most popular attractions is the Phu Hua Sing viewpoint, which offers unforgettable views, particularly at sunrise. Other beloved features include the quiet charm of the Nan River, which provides opportunities for rafting and canoeing. The rugged trails throughout the park are ideal for trekking and exploring, leading adventurers to hidden waterfalls, caves, and remote scenic spots. The park is also culturally significant, with nearby villages offering glimpses into the traditional lifestyles of the local hill tribes.

Visitors can engage with the park through a variety of activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and camping under the starlit skies. The park’s management has also made efforts to promote eco-tourism, emphasizing minimal environmental impact while maximizing visitor experience.

Conservation remains a significant focus for Sri Nan National Park. Challenges such as illegal logging and poaching have been countered by strong enforcement measures and community engagement programs. Reforestation efforts and wildlife monitoring initiatives have shown success, with an increase in wildlife sightings and improved forest health over the years. The park’s management works closely with local communities to ensure the protection of its natural and cultural heritage, fostering a collaborative approach to conservation.

Park Map

Sri Nan National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Sri Nan National Park is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, with a vibrant array of species populating its forests and wetlands. Below are some of the park’s most remarkable birds:

Great Hornbill
A large and colorful bird, the great hornbill is easily recognized by its large casque and striking black and yellow plumage. It plays an important role in seed dispersal.

Blue-winged Pitta
This small, vibrantly colored bird features a mix of green, blue, and orange plumage. It is often found foraging on the forest floor for insects and worms.

Rufous Treepie
Known for its reddish-brown and black body with a long tail, the rufous treepie is an intelligent and vocal bird that feeds on fruits, insects, and small reptiles.

Asian Fairy Bluebird
This striking bird has a glossy blue body and jet-black wings. It prefers dense forests and feeds on fruits and nectar.

Red-headed Trogon
A medium-sized bird with bright red, white, and brown plumage, the red-headed trogon is often seen perching quietly in the forest undergrowth.

Oriental Pied Hornbill
Smaller than the great hornbill, this bird has a distinctive black and white body and a pale casque. It thrives in wooded areas and feeds on fruits, insects, and small vertebrates.

Black-naped Monarch
A small, elegant bird with a soft blue body and a black band across its neck, the black-naped monarch is a frequent insect hunter in shaded forest canopies.

Scarlet Minivet
This brightly colored bird, with males in scarlet and black and females in yellow and black, is often seen flitting through treetops in search of insects.

Mountain Hawk-Eagle
A powerful raptor, the mountain hawk-eagle has sharp talons and keen eyesight. It is a skilled predator, feeding on small mammals and birds.

Asian Barred Owlet
This small owl, with its barred brown and white feathers, is active during twilight and night, preying on insects and small vertebrates.