A Walk Through Erawan National Park: Thailand’s Wildlife Sanctuary

Exploring Thailand’s Wildlife Haven

If you’re looking for an adventure in Thailand, Erawan National Park is a must-visit.

Located in the western province of Kanchanaburi, this wildlife sanctuary is home to exotic species of flora and fauna.

With its waterfalls, hiking trails, and wildlife, it’s a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Here’s a guide to help you plan your trip to Erawan National Park.

A Day in Erawan National Park

Erawan National Park is open from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm every day.

You can spend a whole day exploring the park, or just a few hours if you’re short on time.

Here’s how you can spend a day in the park:

• 8:00 am: Arrive at the park entrance and buy your tickets. The entrance fee for foreigners is 300 baht per person.
• 8:30 am: Start your hike up to the Erawan Waterfall. It’s a 2.5-kilometer hike that takes about an hour. Along the way, you’ll see beautiful scenery and wildlife.
• 10:00 am: Reach the Erawan Waterfall and take a dip in one of the seven tiers. You can also have a picnic by the waterfalls.
• 12:00 pm: Head back down the trail and stop at one of the restaurants for lunch.
• 1:00 pm: Visit the Phartat Cave, which is a short walk from the park entrance. Inside the cave, you can see ancient stalactites and stalagmites.
• 2:00 pm: Take a dip in the park’s natural hot springs. The water is believed to have healing properties.
• 3:00 pm: Visit the park’s museum to learn about the history of the area and the wildlife that lives there.
• 4:00 pm: Head back to the park entrance and leave before the park closes at 4:30 pm.

Discovering the Park’s Hidden Gems

Erawan National Park has more to offer than just the Erawan Waterfall. Here are some of the park’s hidden gems:

• Huay Mae Khamin Waterfall: This seven-tiered waterfall is a bit further from the main entrance but is worth the trek. It’s less crowded than the Erawan Waterfall, and you can swim in the crystal-clear waters.
• Ta Duang Cave: This cave is located near the Huay Mae Khamin Waterfall and is home to a colony of bats. You can take a guided tour of the cave to see the bats and the beautiful rock formations.
• Khao Chang Phueak Hiking Trail: This trail is a 10-kilometer hike that takes you to the top of a mountain. From the top, you can see panoramic views of the park and the surrounding area.
• Lawa Cave: This cave is located near the Erawan Waterfall and is home to a colony of swiftlets. You can take a guided tour of the cave to see the swiftlets and the beautiful rock formations.

Wildlife Spotting: A Walkthrough Guide

Erawan National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, gibbons, and deer. Here are some tips for spotting wildlife in the park:

• Take a guided tour: The park offers guided tours with knowledgeable guides who can help you spot wildlife and teach you about the park’s flora and fauna.
• Be quiet: Wildlife is more likely to come out when it’s quiet, so try to keep noise to a minimum.
• Look up: Some animals, like gibbons and monkeys, spend most of their time in the trees.
• Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon: Wildlife is more active during these times.

FAQ

What should I wear to the park?

Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for hiking. It’s also a good idea to bring a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

Can I swim in the waterfalls?

Yes, you can swim in the Erawan Waterfall and the Huay Mae Khamin Waterfall. However, be careful of the strong currents.

Can I camp in the park?

Yes, you can camp in the park. The park has several campsites, and you can rent tents and camping equipment at the park entrance.

Are there any restaurants in the park?

Yes, there are several restaurants in the park that serve Thai food and drinks.

Is it safe to hike in the park?

Yes, it’s safe to hike in the park as long as you follow the park’s rules and regulations.

It’s also a good idea to hike with a guide if you’re not familiar with the area.