Things to do in Khao Yai Thailand: Your Handy Guide to Nature and Fun Activities in this Rustic Town (2024)

Heading to Thailand soon? Bangkok is likely on your itinerary. But have you ever heard of a peaceful European escape in this country? Yup, that’s right! A little European-esque spot, just 2 to 3 hours from Bangkok. This town in Thailand is called Khao Yai, and here, you’ll find charming villages straight out of a storybook, endless vineyards, farm animals greeting you, and breathtaking natural wonders. And that cool mountain air? It’s a refreshing change from the city heat! 

In addition to the countryside vibes and natural beauty of Khao Yai, we think you’ll appreciate that it’s not as crowded as Bangkok. While Khao Yai is becoming more popular among travelers and social media influencers, we still think it’s somewhat underrated. So if you just want to relax, this is the perfect destination for you. A little heads up though: once you’re here, you won’t want to leave after just a day. So buckle up for a relaxed tour of Khao Yai, Thailand. We’ll show you the coolest spots, suggest cosy places to stay, and share all the tips you need for this trip.

Top Things to Do in Khao Yai                                                      

1. Dive into the wilderness of Khao Yai National Park and connect with nature

To start your trip to Khao Yai, the first thing to do is, of course, visit its most popular spot: Khao Yai National Park. You can escape the busy streets of Bangkok and enjoy the peace and quiet of this vast natural park. There are also plenty of different animals and plants to see! And if exploring UNESCO World Heritage sites is something you’ve always wanted to do, then you’re in luck! Khao Yai National Park is proudly recognised as one, so be sure to include it in your itinerary.

Coming from Bangkok, it’s pretty easy to take public transportation to get to this park. Though we recommend reserving a tour with Klook to make things easier for you. They will pick you up early from Bangkok and take you on a scenic drive through the park, stopping at the lovely waterfalls of Haew Suwat and Haew Narok. You just won’t have to worry about your itinerary.

2. Experience the art of wine tasting in a picturesque setting at PB Valley Vineyard

Even though wine isn’t traditionally a part of Thai culture, Thailand has some beautiful vineyards and wineries. Luckily, Khao Yai is home to a really popular one! PB Valley is where the Khao Yai Wine Region started, and it’s one of Thailand’s top wineries, right on the edge of Khao Yai. They offer guided tours where you can learn about the different types of grapes they grow. And the best part? You can book the tour on Klook too!

The guided tour package takes you on a 3-hour adventure through the area’s largest vineyard and orchard. There will be an English-speaking guide who will tell you about the different types of grapes and the fascinating history of wine-making in this area as you stroll around the beautiful estate. And if you’re lucky and visit during the right time of year, you might even get to pick fresh fruit straight from the trees.

3. Dive into the fun with rides and slides at Scenical World Water Park

As Khao Yai gets more popular, especially on social media, many people think it’s all about nature and relaxation. But guess what? There’s actually a theme park here too! If you’re visiting with friends or family, you must check out Scenical World in Khao Yai. It’s a combination of a theme park and water park, so you’ll find thrilling rides, exciting wave pools, and crazy slides. You can buy tickets through Klook too!

4. Set out on a cafe hopping journey for a day

Cafe hopping is a pretty popular activity in basically every country or destination that people visit nowadays. And we think trying this activity (whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or not) is a unique experience in Khao Yai. That’s because the coffee shops here give off either a European or a rustic vibe!

Imagine sitting with a drink or snack, surrounded by beautiful mountains, a calm lake, and lots of greenery—some even have roaming animals around! It’s the perfect chance to take a break, relax, and recharge in Khao Yai’s peaceful atmosphere.

Here are some top-rated cafes in Khao Yai that we think you’d love:

• BUCOLIC Khaoyai:

Besides drinks, this café has a mini zoo to explore, which we think will make your visit even more exciting. You’ll definitely love seeing these cute animals while you sip your favourite drinks. And if you get hungry, they have delicious pizzas and snacks to satisfy your appetite.

• Hokkaido Flower Park Khaoyai:

This place is actually a lovely flower field filled with bright flowers like daisies, verbena, and cosmos, with majestic mountains in the background. But there is a cafe inside that offers refreshing drinks and tasty snacks while you relax! It is also inspired by the calmness of Hokkaido, so you’ll really feel like you’re in Japan countryside, especially when the flowers are in bloom!

• Primo Piazza:

This is actually an Italian-themed attraction in Khao Yai that offers a unique taste of Italy in Southeast Asia. It features charming cobblestone streets, rustic buildings, and lush gardens that give off a romantic and peaceful ambiance. There are also adorable animals like alpacas and sheep, adding to the overall experience! But you’ll find a couple of cafes in Primo Piazza itself, and one of the most popular is Primo Posto Coffee.

5. Have a thrilling day in the tranquil setting of Khao Yai with Speedkart

If you’re up for some thrilling fun in Khao Yai, we highly recommend visiting Khao Yai Speedkart. There are many places to ride go-karts and ATVs around, but this one is truly fantastic. The tracks are well-maintained, and the vehicles are in excellent condition. Plus, they have a charming little farm you can explore too!

6. Bask in ultimate luxury at Toscana Valley

If you’re feeling a bit fancy and want to treat yourself, then we can’t recommend Toscana Valley enough. It’s a luxury spot with comfortable places to stay, fun golf courses, and relaxing spas. Inspired by Tuscan legends, the entire place makes you feel like stepping into a dreamy landscape of rolling hills and calm lakes that spread over nearly 830 acres. You can also go horseback riding or just chill at the clubhouse with some yummy Italian food. It’s pretty interesting, so give Toscana Valley a shot!

7. Take in the natural rustic beauty of Khao Yai at Farm Village

There is something about the rustic charm that makes you feel peaceful. And we think Khao Yai Farm Village captures that exact feeling and vibe! It has this classic red barn house that is definitely the spot to capture IG-worthy moments. You can also watch the sheep roam freely as you feed them! And if you’re traveling with little ones, they’ll absolutely love the range of activities tailored for kids: planting workshops, baking banana cakes, and a lot more!

8. Add art to your trip with a visit to Khao Yai Art Museum

After gathering a lot of information about Khao Yai, we can definitely say that this place has something for everyone. If you love nature, you’ll enjoy the spots we’ve listed above. But if you’re into art, then you’re in luck because Khao Yai has something for art lovers like you! Don’t miss out on visiting Khao Yai Art Museum. It is located in Pak Chong district, Nakhon Ratchasima, and inside, you’ll find lots of amazing paintings and sculptures from different parts of the world. There’s also a cafe on the premises, so maybe you can include this place on the day you plan to go cafe hopping!

9. Get into strawberry picking for a mix of outdoor fun and yummy treats

Strawberry lovers, heads up! Strawberry picking in Khao Yai is a fun experience where you can pick fresh berries during certain times of the year, typically from November to February. You can also buy strawberry products like jams and snacks. So, if you’re in Khao Yai during the strawberry season, don’t miss the chance to pick strawberries!

10. Take a stroll through the night market for shopping and enjoying local cuisine

When it comes to experiencing night markets in Thailand, Bangkok isn’t the only game in town! Khao Yai boasts its fair share of vibrant night markets, with one of the most popular being the Pak Chong Night Market. It’s right in the heart of the Pak Chong District, so it’s a lively showcase of local culture, where you’ll encounter friendly vendors peddling their goods, whipping up tantalising street food, and offering the freshest produce.

And if you’re interested in visiting more markets, don’t forget to explore Save One Market, Mittraphap Market, Roi Pee Mueang Ya Market, R.N. Yard Night Market, and many others spread throughout the area.

There’s actually a lot more things to do and places to visit in Khao Yai, but we’ll limit it to 10 so you also have room to explore on your own. But if you think they are enough to make the most of your stay in Khao Yai, Klook offers customised chartered tours! You can pick a 1-day, 2-day, or 3-day tour tailored specifically for nature trips. Plus, there’s the Khao Yai all-time favourite tour, which includes stops at the PB Valley Winery and Primo Piazza. And if you feel like 3 days isn’t enough (we feel the same way!), there’s also a 5-day private tour available on Klook to make the most of your time in Khao Yai.

Where to Stay: Best Hotels & Resorts in Khao Yai, Thailand

Luxury

1. The Private Pool Villas at Civilai Hill Khao Yai

The Private Pool Villas at Civilai Hill Khao Yai are perched high on a hill with stunning views of Khao Yai–it’s definitely the hotel’s highlight. But aside from that, this place has a touch of charm from Provence! Imagine yourself in your own private villa, complete with a heated outdoor pool, Japanese bath, and sauna–perfect spots to unwind after a day of adventures. Inside, you’ll also find a cosy retreat with calming decor and spacious living areas, where large windows frame peaceful garden views. And let’s not forget those dreamy private bathrooms–hello, spa baths and rain showers! This hotel resort can truly make you feel like royalty, so if you’re up for a bit of splurging in Khao Yai, we can’t recommend this place enough.

2. MUTHI MAYA Forest Pool Villa Resort

For a super private and seriously peaceful getaway to Khao Yai, MUTHI MAYA Forest Pool Villa Resort is definitely one of the best options. It’s tucked away against the jaw-dropping backdrop of Khao Yai National Park, so it is all about blending luxury with nature’s finest. They take pride in their Forest Pool Villas—airy spaces, private pools, and chill pavilions are the main highlights!

There’s also a spa and restaurant that they take pride in. But aside from that, what’s amazing about MUTHI MAYA is the location. It has easy access to nearby spots like Chokchai Farm and Granmonte Winery, plus perks like airport transfers! The hotel can take care of all the little details so you can just focus on enjoying your time.

3. InterContinental Khao Yai Resort, an IHG Hotel

Looking for a getaway that feels like a treat from the stars, surrounded by nature’s beauty? Check out InterContinental Khao Yai Resort, an IHG Hotel. This resort nestled near the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Khao Yai National Park was designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley, blending luxury with the area’s history. Here you can enjoy fancy rooms crafted from old train carriages, delicious meals, and relaxing spa treatments!

What’s more, you’ll find comfy rooms with stunning mountain views, free WiFi, and extras like minibars and private balconies. So don’t miss the chance to treat yourself to a getaway fit for a celebrity at InterContinental Khao Yai Resort.

4. Sala Khaoyai

sala Khao Yai is a cosy boutique hotel nestled in the tranquil hills that is perfect for those who want a peaceful escape to Khao Yai with just a handful of fellow travelers. With only twelve rooms and pool villas, you’re guaranteed a private and intimate stay away from the crowds. Imagine enjoying a meal at the sala hilltop restaurant and bar, taking in the beautiful views of the countryside, or going for a swim in the calm infinity-edged pool. All in all, sala Khao Yai is a laid-back and intimate retreat for anyone looking for some tranquility.

5. Toscana Valley Castello Della Valle

Since we’ve already got Toscana Valley on our list of top spots to check out in Khao Yai, why not make a night of it and crash there too? Enter Castello della Valle, aka “castle of the valley,” sitting smack dab in the center of Toscana Valley, right by the clubhouse and the first tee-off of the golf course. It’s also designed to give off those cool vibes of southern European castles, so it has the killer views of the valley’s golf course and the rolling mountains beyond. With around fifty condo units spread across four buildings, ranging from cosy to spacious, and surrounded by lush greens, this place is like a golfer’s paradise!

Mid-range

6. Mövenpick Resort Khao Yai

Get close to nature without breaking the bank at Mövenpick Resort Khao Yai! It’s tucked away in one of the coolest spots on earth, with awesome views of mountains and forests. You can breathe in the fresh mountain air, stroll through gardens filled with flowers, and check out the golf course nearby. Plus, you’ll wake up to the sound of birds singing as the sun comes up. But if you want a luxurious vacation, this hotel resort has a 5-bedroom villa and a penthouse for the ultimate luxury experience as well!

With its cosy vibe and comfy temperatures all year round, we think Mövenpick Resort Khao Yai is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature at its best.

7. Hotel Labaris Khao Yai

Another chill place to stay in Khao Yai that won’t break the bank is Hotel Labaris Khao Yai. It is tucked away in Pak Chong amidst the mountain scenery and it’s literally steps from Hokkaido Flower Park Khao Yai–perfect if you’ve already included this in your itinerary! Aside from that, you’ve also got all the basics covered: free bikes, parking, and a cool outdoor pool to splash around in. And when it’s time to unwind, there’s a restaurant, terrace, and even a hot tub waiting for you. Rooms are cosy with private bathrooms, and if you’re lucky, you might snag one with a balcony and mountain view.

8. The Wild Khao Yai

Since the entirety of Khao Yai gives off a rustic vibe, one way to fully immerse yourself in the place is to camp out! That’s why we highly recommend checking out The Wild Khao Yai. Imagine having all the luxuries of a hotel but with the thrill of camping under the stars. Here, you’ve got everything you could ask for a fitness centre, free parking, and even a shared lounge where you can swap stories with fellow travellers. And the restaurant? It’s top-notch, serving up delicious meals that’ll fuel your adventures. Plus, there’s a kids’ club for the little ones and room service for those mornings when you just want to relax. Trust us, if you’re up for a unique and unforgettable experience, The Wild Khao Yai is the place to be.

Budget

9. The Peri Hotel Khao Yai

When it comes to finding a cosy spot to crash in Khao Yai that is affordable, one that we can think of is The Peri Hotel Khao Yai. It is inspired by the adventurous spirit of “Out of Africa,” so it features a chilled-out vibe with tribal patterns and animal prints galore. It’s also surrounded by lush rainforests, making it the ideal spot for a laid-back getaway without the hefty price tag. This hotel is just the perfect choice for a relaxed and wallet-friendly stay!

10. Patravana Resort

What we love about the Patravana Resort is It’s got everything you need for a relaxing break without burning a hole in your pocket. Just imagine yourself chilling in one of the cosy rooms, soaking up those breathtaking garden and mountain views while catching up on your favourite TV shows or lounging in the cool AC. Feeling like a bit of activity? Just head to the gym or sauna, or simply unwind by the pool. And with the friendly staff always around to lend a hand and free daily cleaning to keep things fresh, you can truly kick back and enjoy your stay. Oh, and don’t forget to indulge in the unlimited breakfast–it’s the perfect way to fuel up for your adventures without splurging!

Best time to visit

For most parts of Thailand, including Khao Yai, we recommend aiming for the dry season, typically from November to April. During these months, the weather is just great for outdoor adventures like hiking and spotting wildlife, with clear skies and lush greenery making it even better. And if you want to avoid rain ruining your plans, it’s best to skip the wet season from May to October. Choosing weekdays over weekends can also help you avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed exploration of the national park’s beauty. Just keep an eye on the weather forecast to make sure your trip goes smoothly.

Getting to Khao Yai

We’ve mentioned that Khao Yai is just a few hours away from Bangkok, but that doesn’t mean the journey is easy! To get to Khao Yai, you have a few options: by bus, train, or car. Don’t worry because we’ll teach you how to get there using each mode of transportation so you can find the best way according to your plans and budget.

By bus

If you wish to go the DIY route, the most affordable option is to take the bus to Khao Yai National Park. According to their official website, you can take the Bangkok-Nakhon Ratchasima coach or Bangkok-Pak Chong private minivan and get off at Pak Chong. From there, you can hire a taxi (which we recommend since a taxi can take you straight to your accommodation) or take the Pak Chong-Khao Yai bus, which drops you off at Chao Por Khao Yai Shrine Visitor Center (Entrance gate to the National Park). 

However, we suggest heading straight to the entrance gate of Khao Yai National Park only if you’re backpacking and want to make the most of your itinerary. But if you’re traveling with a large group or family, we suggest going directly to your accommodation, either by taxi or by arranging a transfer with your hotel.

By train

Another option is taking the train! Take the North-eastern line (Bangkok-Pak Chong) and get off at Pak Chong station in Nakhon Ratchasima province. Again, you may hail a taxi from this station that takes you straight to your accommodation. Otherwise, you can take a songthaew bus from Pak Chong Market to Khao Yai National Park, getting off at Chao Por Khao Yai Shrine Visitor Center (Entrance gate to the National Park).

By taxi/car

Unlike Bangkok, it’s quite tricky to get around Khao Yai without a car. There aren’t many transportation options in town, so the best way to go and explore Khao Yai is by renting a car or hiring a taxi. It might cost more, but it’s the most flexible and fastest option. We think the extra cost is worth it because you’ll get around quicker and more comfortably. Many private car companies (like Klook!) also offer tours to Khao Yai so you just need to book one.

Conclusion

Wrapping up, we think we have pretty much covered the basics to plan for your trip to Khao Yai. Now it’s up to you! Our final tip is to decide which attractions you want to visit and make sure they’re open before choosing your travel dates. If you want more information about a specific attraction or any updates on the locations and hotels we’ve mentioned, feel free to let us know in the comments below so we can keep the content updated.