Grand European estates, the American Wild West, and a Hobbiton replica are probably the last things you would think of when it comes to Thailand, but here in the Khao Yai National Park, just 3 hours from Bangkok, these are just some of the magical playgrounds you can visit and enjoy.
Officially declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Khao Yai is the third largest national park in the country, with a total land area of 2,168 square kilometers. It covers the 4 provinces of Saraburi, Nakhon Nayok, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Prachinburi. It’s also one of the most popular nature and adventure destinations in the country, thanks to its lush tropical forests, spectacular waterfalls, and incredible manmade attractions such as theme parks, vineyards, and farms.
While there are a number of first-class resort hotels in the area, budget travelers will be happy to know that there are cheap accommodations in Khao Yai (ที่พักเขาใหญ่ราคาถูก) as well. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to enjoy the magical attractions in the park. Just choose the attraction that really interests you, and skip the rest that don’t tickle your fancy. Here are just a few suggestions of places that you can visit.
Baan Suan Noi Hobbit House
The Lord of the Rings fans won’t need to fly to New Zealand to get a taste of Middle Earth, since they will also be able to experience life in the Shire at the Baan Suan Noi Hobbiton Village in Khao Yai. With costumes and props available for visitors to borrow, you can live your fantasy Hobbit life here, at least in pictures and videos that you can show to your family and friends. What’s more, you can even stay overnight in one of the charming hobbit houses, complete with circular doors and pint-sized furniture pieces.
PB Valley Khao Yai Winery
You’d probably be surprised to know that Thailand has a thriving winery that’s open to visitors. Go on a wine tasting tour at the PB Valley Khao Yai Winery, pick grapes from their verdant vines, and eat sumptuous meals at their in-house restaurant, all while taking in the beautiful landscapes that won’t look out of place in the great vineyards of Italy and France.
Farm Chokchai
If you’re coming to Khao Yai as a family, your kids will definitely love the fun activities in Farm Chokchai. In this dairy farm, kids will get to meet different farm animals, as well as real-life cowboys that herd the cattle. Different rides are also available here, including a fun tractor ride through the farm and a horse cart ride with a farm hand. Best of all, you and your kids can make your own ice cream using the freshest milk produced by the farm’s bovine denizens.
Primo Piazza
Get transported to Tuscany when you enter the Primo Piazza, which boasts an undoubtedly Mediterranean-inspired architecture and surrounded by lush landscapes. Here, you can feed alpacas, donkeys, and sheep, as well as take hundreds of photos with the picturesque settings. Indeed, no one will question you if you geotagged your pictures to the Italian city.
Panther Creek Resort
Fans of classic Wild West movies will enjoy this themed resort destination, set on 45 acres of land. From teepees and saloons to a real train, this resort has got everything Americana covered. They even have a show every evening that theatrically recreates grand battles between frontiersmen and Native Americans, an extravaganza that also features fire dancing and blowpipe demonstrations. Moreover, rooms that are faithfully decorated according to the theme are available for booking.
Banmai Chay Nam
Banmai Chay Nam is a museum-restaurant-hotel resort crammed with vintage knick-knacks for visitors to see. With a huge restaurant area, the place is incredibly busy, but you don’t have to get bored while waiting for your order here. Take a look around their museum that’s full of retro memorabilia such as arcade games, toys, and more. And before you leave, don’t forget to take your picture on the wonderful wooden bridge that leads to the resort hotel.
It’s no wonder that Khao Yai receives so many visitors every year. There’s always something new to explore and activities to try. Even if you come as a solo traveler or bring a large family, this park will have something magical for everyone.
