Khao Yai National Park

Thailand’s first national park sits on a cool plateau, a world apart from city heat. May showers wake up grasslands and waterfalls, and dusk brings peak wildlife movement. Drive the loop road to Haew Suwat and Haew Narok, then book a ranger night drive for a shot at porcupines, civets, and deer. Short trails near visitor centers suit kids, while longer routes need guides and permits. Base in Pak Chong or Khao Yai’s hotel strip for easy park access and wine-country dinners. Leech socks help on wet paths, and you should keep a gap from macaques at viewpoints and parking lots. Start early, rest at midday, then go again near sunset.