Phu Wiang National Park

Phu Wiang National Park is a 325 km² protected area in northwestern Khon Kaen province, renowned as one of the world's most important dinosaur fossil sites. Established as a national park in 1965, it sits in the Phu Wiang Mountains, a ring-shaped mountain range with a central basin formed by sedimentary layers of the Khorat Plateau. The park's topography ranges from 210 m to 844 m above sea level.

The park gained international recognition in 1996 when the remains of Siamotyrannus isanensis, a previously unknown family of carnivorous dinosaur, were unearthed here. Numerous excavation sites across the park have yielded an extensive collection of dinosaur bones, earning it the nickname "dinosaur graveyard." The best time to visit is the cool season from November to February; the park can be hot and dry from March to May and rainy from June to October.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Khon Kaen Airport (KKC), about 85 km southeast. From the airport, a taxi or rental car takes roughly 1.5 hours.

By Car / Road

Phu Wiang National Park is about 85 km northwest of Khon Kaen city via Highway 12 and local roads. The park entrance is clearly signposted. Buses from Khon Kaen to Phu Wiang district are available, after which a songthaew or taxi can complete the remaining distance to the park headquarters.

The park is best explored by private vehicle or motorcycle, as fossil sites are spread across multiple locations. The park headquarters can provide maps and guidance on the main excavation sites. Some sites require walking along marked trails.

• Phu Wiang Dinosaur Museum — A dedicated museum at the park entrance displaying fossils, skeletal reconstructions, and interpretive exhibits about the dinosaurs that once roamed the area.

• Dinosaur Excavation Sites — Multiple numbered dig sites (Sites 1–9) where dinosaur bones have been uncovered. The most notable is Site 3, where Siamotyrannus isanensis was discovered. Each site has informational signs.

• Mountaintop viewpoints — The outer ring of the Phu Wiang Mountains offers panoramic views over the central basin and the surrounding Khorat Plateau.

• Huai Sai Khao Waterfall — A small seasonal waterfall within the park, most impressive during the rainy season (July–October).

• Wildlife watching — The park is home to bird species including the Siamese fireback (Thailand's national bird), black-crested bulbul, and Eurasian jay, as well as mammals such as barking deer, masked palm civet, and slow loris.

• Walk the dinosaur excavation trail to see the actual dig sites and fossil beds.

• Hike to the mountain viewpoints for sunrise or sunset photography.

• Birdwatch in the dry forest areas, especially in the early morning.

• Camp overnight at the designated camping area near park headquarters.

A small restaurant near park headquarters serves simple Thai dishes. Visitors should bring their own food for longer day trips, as options inside the park are limited.

Bottled water is available at the park entrance and headquarters. Tap water in the park is not drinkable.

• Camping: The park offers tent rental at the headquarters area. Bring your own sleeping bag. Rates start at 150 baht per person.
• Budget: Basic bungalows are available for rent from the park office, around 600–900 baht per night.
• Nearby: Guesthouses in Phu Wiang district town, about 15 km from the park, offer additional options from 400 baht.

The Dinosaur Museum gift shop sells souvenirs, books, and T-shirts. Snacks and drinks are available at the park entrance and headquarters.

• Phu Pha Man National Park — 40 km west; caves, waterfalls, and Asia's oldest dinosaur footprints.
• Khon Kaen — 85 km southeast; the provincial capital with museums, dining, and nightlife.
• Ubolratana Dam — 50 km north; a large reservoir with boating and raft-house accommodation.
• Chum Phae — 45 km south; a market town with access to the King Cobra Village.