Khao Laem National Park wilderness guide
National Park · Kanchanaburi Province, Thailand

Khao Laem National Park

Khao Laem National Park is a mountainous protected area in western Thailand known for its dense forests, diverse wildlife, and striking reservoir views. It offers excellent opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and boating on the Khao Laem Reservoir.

National Park337,500 acres4+ Trails
DesignationNational Park
Total Wilderness Area337,500 acres
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Khao Laem National Park

Khao Laem National Park is a mountainous protected area in western Thailand known for its dense forests, diverse wildlife, and striking reservoir views. It offers excellent opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and boating on the Khao Laem Reservoir.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Khao Laem National Park, located in Kanchanaburi Province, covers an extensive mountainous region along the Thailand-Myanmar border. Established in 1987, the park encompasses rugged terrain with peaks reaching up to 1,090 meters, dense evergreen and deciduous forests, and the expansive Khao Laem Reservoir. The reservoir, created by the Vajiralongkorn Dam on the Khwae Noi River, colors much of the park's landscape and allows for water-based recreation. Khao Laem's forests provide habitat for diverse wildlife species such as Asian elephants, gaurs, serows, and a rich variety of birds, including hornbills and raptors. The park's geography includes limestone caves, rocky cliffs, and several waterfalls, adding to its scenic diversity. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails that vary from short nature walks to more challenging mountain routes, suitable for spotting wildlife and taking in panoramic views of the reservoir and surrounding hills. Boat trips on the reservoir are popular and provide a unique perspective of the park's wilderness. Khao Laem’s remote location, combined with its rich biodiversity and serene water features, attracts outdoor enthusiasts looking for less crowded natural experiences. The park also offers camping areas and basic facilities for visitors seeking extended stays immersed in nature.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Khao Laem National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Khao Laem Reservoir with panoramic viewpoint spots✦ Diverse wildlife including Asian elephants and hornbills✦ Chong Yen Waterfall with natural pools for swimming✦ Tham Luang Nok Cave offering intriguing spelunking experience
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Khao Laem National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Khao Laem National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Khao Laem National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Khao Laem National Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Khao Laem National Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Khao Laem National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Khao Laem National Park
Park Recreation

Caving

Available in Khao Laem National Park
Park Recreation

Bird Watching

Available in Khao Laem National Park
Park Recreation

Boat Tours

Available in Khao Laem National Park
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Khao Laem National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Khao Laem National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Entrance fees apply; permits are required for some trekking routes; boat tours require advance booking.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Khao Laem National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Khao Laem Reservoir Camping Area

Located near the reservoir with basic facilities, ideal for lakeside camping and easy access to boat tours.

Pong Nam Ron Campsite

A remote campground close to hiking trails and waterfall access, providing a more rustic experience.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Khao Laem National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Si Sawat, Kanchanaburi Province
⌖ 59.31 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Si Sawat, Kanchanaburi Province

Si Sawat in Kanchanaburi offers a rich outdoor playground with hiking through waterfalls, kayaking on a large reservoir, and mountain biking in forested hills. Its national parks and waterfalls make it a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

November to February
Explore Town