Natural Sights to See in Thailand
Thailand is known as the Land of Smiles. That’s because there is a lot to smile about when exploring the country. There are over 140 national parks in Thailand. So why not connect your smile with nature?
Thailand is home to everything, from mountain views and trekking pathways to beaches and diving spots. Thailand isn’t only known for its commercial districts and nightlife. It is home to plenty of indigenous flora and fauna.
Let’s look at a couple of these natural masterpieces.
1. Doi Inthanon National Park
It is nicknamed “the roof of Thailand.” This is because it hosts the country’s highest mountain ranges which stand between 2,625 to 8,415 ft. Just a 60 kilometers drive from Chiang Mai, you can experience this mountainous wonderland. Take pictures with a lover in front of the variety of waterfalls in the area.
It is also home to a variety of forest vegetation and 383 types of birds. It holds the second most number of bird species in the country. Apart from the flora and fauna, it is home to Karen and Meo Hmong villages in the less traveled areas of the park.
If you decide to trek around the area, it can reach as low as 10 to 12 degrees Celsius. So, bring something warm if you decide to hike up the ranges.
2. Khao Yai National Park
Khao Yai National Park was opened in 1962. It is Thailand’s first national park and its third largest. The mountain ranges here span from 1,300–3,300 feet. On July 14, 2005, it was awarded a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
To reach the park from Bangkok it is best to take either a bus or train heading to the district of Pak Chong. The estimated travel time to reach the park is around 3 to 4 hours. It is best to reserve a place to stay, so you can easily return whenever you decide to travel within the area.
It is best to visit the park with a tour guide to make the best of your trip. Upon entering the park you will find it full of wild flora, fauna, birds, waterfalls, hiking trails, and wild elephants that the country is known for.
There are three waterfalls to visit: the Haew Narok Waterfall, the Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall, and the Haew SuWat Waterfall. If you are interested in trekking and hiking, you can roam the Khao Rom mountain known as the highest in the park with Kao Laem mountain as the second largest mountain.
Temperatures range from 13°C during the rainy season and can peak to almost 30°C in the hot season, so be sure to plan accordingly.
3. Nong Nooch Botanical Garden
Nong Nooch Botanical Garden is located in Chonburi Province. It spans 500 acres and serves as one of its key tourist attractions in the area. It also hosts a scientific center that is dedicated to the research of cycads.
In 1954, the Tansacha family purchased the original 800 acres with the intent of developing it as a fruit plantation. However, this idea was abandoned and they decided to plant tropical flowers and plants instead. As it developed, they decided in 1980 to open the garden to the public. The management of the park was transferred to Kampon Tansacha in 2001.
If you want to visit, your best approach is to take a bus, pick-up service from the hotel, or travel by a rented van. The drive should take less than an hour this way and you can return easily after your visit
As you stroll through the gardens, you can see flowers and plants artistically arranged. They have a small zoo, fish ponds, elephant shows, cafes, restaurants, a hotel with a swimming pool, and rental houses.
As a bonus, the garden hosts a cultural village where you can see traditional Thai dances, religious ceremonies, and Muay Thai demonstrations. They even have a car showroom and a dinosaur-themed garden.
Thailand is a great place for nature lovers.
Thailand should be known for its natural beauty. The country hosts a multitude of parks and nature spots. Come to Doi Inthanon and Khao Yai National Park for the mountains, lush greenery, and wildlife. Apart from the natural parks, the country has countless botanical gardens like the Nong Nooch Botanical garden.
Yet, these are just a few examples of the greenery inside the country. What more about the beaches and coral reefs on its shores? If you’re still up for an adventure and the quest to find love in Thailand. Leave your comfort zone and give yourself a trip through Thailand’s protected nature spots.
