Khao Pu-Khao Ya National Park

Khao Pu-Khao Ya National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติเขาปู่-เขาย่า) is a mountainous protected area spanning Phatthalung, Trang, and Nakhon Si Thammarat provinces in Southern Thailand. Established in 1982, the park covers approximately 694 square kilometres of the Banthat Mountain Range, with Khao Hin Thaen as its highest peak. The park's name translates to "Grandfather Mountain–Grandmother Mountain," reflecting the local affection for these forested peaks.

The park protects mostly moist evergreen forest at elevations ranging from 200 to over 1,200 metres. It is home to an impressive diversity of wildlife, with over 60 species of mammals including Asian elephants, Malayan tapirs, wild boar, deer, macaques, langurs, and possibly tigers. Birdlife is abundant with hornbills, broadbills, and many forest species. The park features dramatic limestone karst formations, extensive cave systems with impressive stalactites, and several waterfalls.

The climate follows the Southern Thailand monsoon pattern: rainy May to January, hot February to April. The best time to visit is December through April, when the trails are drier and wildlife viewing is at its best. During the peak rainy months (September–November), some trails and cave access may be restricted.

By Plane

The nearest airports are Trang Airport (TST, about 70 km south-west) and Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport (NST, about 80 km north-east). From either, take a taxi or minivan to the park (about 1–1.5 hours).

By Train

The park is accessible from Phatthalung Railway Station (about 40 km east) or from railway stations on the Trang–Huai Yot line. Arrange a minivan from the station to the park.

By Car / Road

From Phatthalung town, take Highway 4 west toward Trang, then turn onto Highway 4122 at the Kong Ra junction and follow signs for about 32 km. The drive takes about 1 hour. From Trang, take Highway 4 east for about 60 km. The park headquarters has parking for visitors.

The park is large and requires a vehicle to get around. The main roads inside the park connect the headquarters to the major caves and trailheads. Walking is the primary mode for exploring trails. Hiring a local guide is recommended for cave exploration and wildlife trekking.

• Tham Matcha Pla Won (ถ้ำมัจฉาปลาวน): A large cave about 2 km from park headquarters with three spacious chambers, impressive stalactites, stalagmites, a limestone curtain, and many bats. Look for the Asian giant toad and colourful millipedes.

• Tham Sumano (ถ้ำสุมะโน): A system of 18 interconnected caves with spectacular stalactite and stalagmite formations. The cave is used for meditation and Dharma practice and requires a guide to explore safely.

• Pha Phueng (ผาผึ้ง): A limestone cliff about 300 m from the headquarters where giant honeybees build hundreds of hives annually from February to April. An extraordinary natural spectacle.

• Khao Hin Thaen: The highest peak in the park, offering panoramic views of the surrounding forest and mountains.

• Waterfalls: Several seasonal waterfalls within the park, best visited during or shortly after the rainy season (June–January).

• Evergreen forest: The park's moist evergreen forest is rich in tropical flora, including giant dipterocarps, palms, and ferns.

• Cave exploration: The park's extensive cave systems are the main attraction. Tham Sumano and Tham Matcha Pla Won are the most accessible. Bring a torch, sturdy shoes, and a guide.

• Wildlife trekking: Guided nature walks through the forest to spot mammals, birds, and reptiles. Early morning and late afternoon are best for wildlife sightings.

• Hiking: Several trails of varying difficulty through the forest, from short nature loops to full-day treks to viewpoints.

• Birdwatching: The park is excellent for forest birds including hornbills, broadbills, babblers, and woodpeckers.

• Pha Phueng bee viewing: From February to April, watch giant honeybees build their spectacular honeycomb hives on the cliff face.

• Photography: The limestone landscapes, cave formations, and forest wildlife provide excellent photo opportunities.

The park headquarters has a small restaurant serving simple Thai dishes during daylight hours. Packed lunches should be arranged in advance for full-day treks. There are food stalls at the park entrance on weekends and holidays.

Bring plenty of drinking water. The park restaurant sells bottled water and soft drinks. Tap water at the park is not drinkable.

• Park accommodation: The national park offers basic bungalows and camping areas. Bungalows sleep 4–6 people and cost 600–1,200 baht per night (advance booking recommended). Camping is 50 baht per person — bring your own tent or rent one from the park.
• Budget: The park's own lodgings are the only accommodation inside the park boundary.
• Mid-range: Small resorts and guesthouses are available in the Kong Ra area and along Highway 4 between Trang and Phatthalung.
• Upscale: Limited options — the nearest upscale accommodation is in Trang town or Nakhon Si Thammarat.

There are no shops of significance inside the park. Stock up on supplies, water, and snacks before arriving. The nearest towns for provisions are in the Kong Ra area or Phatthalung.

• Phatthalung (40 km, 1 hr): Provincial capital with Khao Ok Thalu mountain, Songkhla Lake, and shadow puppet culture.
• Thale Noi (50 km, 1 hr): Thailand's premier birdwatching wetland, famous for lotus blooms and waterfowl.
• Trang (60 km, 1 hr): Provincial capital with markets and great food, gateway to the Andaman islands.
• Namtok Phraiwan Waterfalls (20 km, 30 min): A scenic waterfall in the Khao Banthat Wildlife Reserve on the park's southern edge.
• Nakhon Si Thammarat (90 km, 1.5 hr): Historic city with the famous Wat Phra Mahathat temple and vibrant night market.