Just a few hours’ drive northeast of Bangkok lies Pak Chong and Khao Yai, a destination that blends natural wonder, spiritual calm, and unexpected indulgence. Whether you’re seeking a hike through the jungles, mountain biking, serene meditation retreats, or wine-tasting experiences, Khao Yai offers a refreshing escape. From November to February, when the temperature cools down, you’ll see colourful flower farms along the roads.
Into the Wild: Khao Yai National Park
Declared Thailand’s first national park in 1962 and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Khao Yai National Park spans over 2,000 sq. km. across four provinces. The park is a treasure for nature lovers, with lush jungles, thundering waterfalls, diverse wildlife and rich biodiversity.
Highlights include:
- Haew Suwat Waterfall – famous from the film The Beach, it’s easily accessible and a great spot for photos.
- Haew Narok Waterfall – a three-tiered cascade plunging 150 meters, ideal for those willing to take a more strenuous hike.
- Wildlife spotting – keep your eyes peeled for elephants, gibbons, hornbills, deers, and even elusive leopards. There’s also night tour organised by the national park.
- Trekking and birdwatching – guided hikes reveal hidden trails, seasonal wildflowers, and diverse bird species.
You can camp inside or stay at accommodations near the national park. With cool temperatures year-round — especially from November to February — the region is a favourite weekend getaway for both Thais and expats living in Bangkok. For a more serene experience, consider visiting on weekdays.
Mindful Escapes: Meditation Retreats and Forest Temples
Khao Yai is not just about physical exploration — it’s also a place for inner journeys. The area is home to tranquil forest monasteries and mindfulness retreats, where visitors can pause and reflect amid peaceful surroundings.
One notable retreat is Wat Pa Phu Hai Long, perched on a mountain ridge with panoramic views and a calm atmosphere. Whether you join a silent retreat or simply visit for morning chanting and meditation, the experience invites a sense of peace and grounding.
Other temples like Wat Thep Phithak Punnaram, famous for its giant white Buddha statue overlooking the valley, offer both spiritual inspiration and scenic photo opportunities.
There are also many meditation centres in this region that welcome English-speaking visitors. Examples include:
- Thai Plum Village International Practice Center – Located near Khao Yai National Park, this centre follows the teachings of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh. It offers retreats and mindfulness practices in English, ideal for both beginners and seasoned practitioners.
- Khao Yai Meditation Center – Situated in Pak Chong, this centre is a branch of Wat Sanghathan and offers 7-day intensive meditation retreats. While primarily in Thai, they have welcomed English-speaking participants in the past.
- Dhamma Kamala Vipassana Meditation Center – Located in nearby Prachinburi province, this centre offers 10-day Vipassana meditation courses in the tradition of S.N. Goenka. Courses are conducted in English and are suitable for new and experienced meditators.
- Sasipawan Wisdom Center – Located along Thanarat Road, Sasipawan is a place for Buddhist study and meditation, especially for monks and Dharma teachers. It’s a peaceful sanctuary to study the Buddha’s teachings and practice in a nurturing, contemplative environment.
These centres provide opportunities to immerse yourself in mindfulness and meditation amidst the serene nature.
Additionally, the nearby district of Wang Nam Khiao is renowned for its eco-tourism initiatives and sustainable agricultural practices, making it an excellent destination for mindful and eco-conscious travellers.
Local Flavours and Markets: Pak Chong Morning and Night Markets
No trip to the area is complete without experiencing the local markets in Pak Chong. The Pak Chong Morning Market, conveniently located near the highway, is a vibrant hub where locals shop for fresh produce, Thai breakfast staples, seasonal fruits straight from nearby farms and vintage collectible items. It’s a great place to observe daily life and sample authentic local bites. The old town, near Pak Chong Railway Station is another spot my family love to go for breakfast. I love the rice with BBQ pork at Supun at the corner of Thetsaban 17 Road and Sathani Rotfai Road and Is Crepe Cafe on Thetsaban 17 Road.
In the evening, head to the Pak Chong Night Market in the town centre. With a more relaxed vibe, this market offers mainly ready to eat street food with some stalls selling cheap clothes.
Mountain Biking in Khao Yai
For eco-adventurous travellers, Khao Yai is a haven for mountain biking, offering a range of trails for all skill levels. You can ride through the national park along scenic trails, including routes passing Khao Rom, the highest peak in the San Kamphaeng Range.
For a more leisurely ride, combine cycling with wine tasting — just remember to pace yourself!
Spiceroads offers a 4-day/3-night organised cycling tour through Khao Yai, blending adventure with culinary and cultural experiences.
Thailand’s Wine Region: A Toast to Local Flavours
Few expect to find vineyards in Thailand, but Khao Yai’s cooler microclimate has made it the country’s leading wine-producing region. A visit to PB Valley or GranMonte Vineyard reveals rolling hills lined with vines, wine cellars, and sun-drenched terraces perfect for a long lunch. There are other boutique vineyards worth exploring as well.
What to do at the vineyards:
- Take a guided tour of the vineyard and wine production facilities
- Enjoy a wine-tasting session
- Pair your tasting with farm-to-table cuisine at the onsite restaurants. PB Valley serves western and Thai food, whereas GranMonte serves Italian food. I went to both, and they were great.
A Well-Balanced Escape
Khao Yai’s charm lies in its diversity — lush jungles for trekking, peaceful temples for meditation, and delicious food and wine to indulge in. It’s an ideal destination for anyone seeking balance between adventure and mindfulness.
Tips for Visiting Khao Yai:
- Best time to visit: November to February for cool weather and clear skies. Accommodations may be more expensive during these months.
- How to get there: Rent a car from Bangkok or book a private transfer. The route is straightforward and well-signed in English. Some resorts offer shuttle services for a small extra fee.
- Where to stay: Choose from luxurious resorts, boutique hotels, Airnbs, wellness retreats, or vineyard lodges.
- Pack for variety: Bring hiking shoes, a jumper for cool nights, and something nice for winery visits.
Ready to escape to Khao Yai? Let it surprise you with its depth, beauty, and quiet charm.