Khao Yai National Park: A Hiker's Paradise Near Bangkok

Khao Yai National Park is a hiker's dream, offering seven trails of varying difficulty. Here's a detailed itinerary: Day 1 We traveled by train, but it's not recommended in April due to the heat. Consider researching bus options instead. If taking the train, depart from Bangkok's Krung Thep station, preferably on the 10:35 Express train for a shorter journey. Due to the heat, second-class seating with air conditioning is highly recommended. Third class only has fans and natural air, and it feels like your head is in an air fryer... We bought tickets last minute and only had standing room, but luckily managed to snag two empty seats for the whole trip, though it was still quite hot. Upon arriving in Pak Chong, we rented a motorbike (search "rent" on Google Maps for options). Consider getting a massage and waiting for the Pak Chong Night Market, located near the train station. Day 2 We rode our motorbike to Khao Yai National Park. The entrance fee is 300 baht per person + 20 baht for the motorbike. It's several kilometers from the entrance to the visitor center. Once there, book the night safari (600 baht per vehicle, regardless of the number of passengers). They'll tell you your vehicle number in advance so you can easily find your guide. Then, start hiking! You can choose your trail at the visitor center (see photo). Paid trails come with a guide. While the trails aren't particularly difficult, the guide helps you spot unique plants and animals. We saw gibbons, which we would have missed without our guide. Overall, for those accustomed to hiking around Sichuan, the trails here are of low to medium difficulty (personally, I found them less challenging than the Monk's Trail in Chiang Mai). Visitors not staying overnight gather at 7pm for the night safari. The night safari is truly fascinating! We saw foxes, porcupines, barking deer, weasels, snakes, and deer. Seeing elephants requires exceptional luck. Day 3 We stayed for two more days before returning to Bangkok from the same train station. We recommend the No. 72 express train, and again, second class with air conditioning! Summary: Khao Yai National Park is perfect for hiking enthusiasts who want to tackle multiple trails. Overnight camping is also an option. Less experienced hikers can choose free trails with minimal elevation gain and great views. Don't miss the night safari! It's a wonderful experience to engage your senses in the darkness and search for nocturnal creatures.