|
This
national park, created in 1961, is by far the most noteworthy
natural attraction in the region and perhaps all of
Thailand. Recently named as an ASEAN National Heritage
site, this park is widely considered to be amongst the
world's best national parks and has been recognized
as such by the United Nations.
Covering
over 2,176 square km, this park extends into four provinces
and offers one of the largest monsoon forests anywhere.
Additionally, the diversity of the terrain provides
for several different types of vegetation. There are
sections of evergreen rainforest, semi-evergreen rainforest,
hill-evergreen forest and deciduous forest. In addition
to this wide variety of vegetation, Khao Yai boasts
an impressive abundance of wildlife, including wild
elephants, bears, tigers and leopards, just to name
a few. Birds are also plentiful and some particularly
rare species, such as the great hornbill, thrive in
Khao Yai. In addition, over 50 km of hiking trails,
most formed by animal movement, make Khao Yai an extremely
accessible park and guides are available at the park
ranger station.
Transportation
to Khao Yai is available from Bangkok and Nakhon Ratchasima.
From Bangkok take the bus to Pak Chong, which leaves
from the Northern Bus Terminal. An air-conditioned bus
is usually around 65 baht to Pak Chong. From Pak Chong
there will be songthaews to the park for around 10 baht.
From Nakhon Ratchasima, take the Bangkok-bound bus to
Pak Chong.
|
