, CC BY 3.0 httpscreativecommons.orglicensesby3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.jpg)
) to insert bird names in your own language. The birdnames will automatically be translated for other users!
Upload images
Allowed image types are jpeg,png,gif
Max file size is 20MB
Description
Kaeng Krachan National Park spans over 2,915 sq km across Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan provinces, sharing a border with Myanmar. The terrain is primarily mountainous rainforest, with elevations reaching 1,513 meters at the peak on the border. The park is a vital watershed area, with the Phetchaburi and Pranburi rivers originating within its boundaries. The main forest types include semi-evergreen, dry evergreen, moist evergreen, and montane forests, providing a variety of habitats for wildlife.
With approximately 480 bird species recorded, Kaeng Krachan is one of Thailand's top birdwatching spots. What makes the park special is that this is where many southern species have their northernmost outposts as well as being where many other species are at their southernmost extremity. It is the only place in Thailand where the Ratchet-tailed Treepie is found. Seven hornbill species have been recorded, including the Great Hornbill, Wreathed Hornbill and Oriental Pied-Hornbill. Another speciality of Kaeng Krachan national park are broadbills. Very difficult to find outside of the breeding season, but when they are nest-building, from mid February to July your chances are higher to spot Dusky Broadbill, Silver-breasted Broadbill, Banded Broadbill, Black-and-red Broadbill or Long-tailed Broadbill. A real challenge is to find shy ground-dwelling birds like Grey Peacock-Pheasant, Kalij Pheasant, Ferruginous Partridge, Blue Pitta and Eared Pitta.
Details
Access
Kaeng Krachan National Park is located about 60 km from Phetchaburi and 75 km from Hua Hin. The park is about three hours from Bangkok and just over an hour from Hua Hin. The real beauty of the park lies in its central part, accessible via a main road leading to two primary campsites: Ban Krang (at km 15, marked 1 on the map) and Phanoen Thung (at km 30, marked 2 at the map).
Access: Private vehicles are recommended. Note that the unpaved, steep road between Ban Krang and Phanoen Thung requires a 4WD vehicle (which can be hired from the park entrance) and operates on a strict one-way schedule at specific times of the day. Motorbikes and bicycles are not allowed in the central area.
Camping & Accommodation: Tents and camping equipment can be rented from the park headquarters. Basic restaurants are available at the campsites, but it is wise to bring your own food, especially on weekdays when restaurants may be closed. Bungalows are available near the headquarters.
For the best experience, a guided tour is highly recommended, as local guides have the expertise to spot wildlife and navigate the terrain effectively. The central parts of the park are generally closed from August to October due to the wet season.
Several private lodges and resorts are located just outside the park entrance, offering more comfort and amenities while still providing excellent access for day trips into the park. Many of these specialize in catering to nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Baan Maka Nature Lodge is a highly-rated lodge (approx. 6.5 km from the park entrance) it is a popular choice, particularly for birdwatching enthusiasts. It features an on-site restaurant with good Thai food, free Wi-Fi in public areas, and can arrange knowledgeable local guides and transportation (including 4WD trucks for the upper mountain road) for park excursions.