Situated in the Phanom district of Surat Thani province to the southwest, Khlong Phanom National Park is a protected area in southern Thailand. From Khao Sok, the park is only a few kilometers off Highway 401. It continues to the southwest with the Tonpariwat Fauna Sanctuary, which safeguards 410.40 square kilometers of Phuket Mountains forest. A national park designation was given to it on November 17, 2000. Just 20% of the park's land is made up of plains; the majority of the land is hilly. At 870 meters above sea level, the park's tallest point is located in the middle. The majority of tourists visiting Khao Sok have unknowingly seen the park. The western road offers views of Khlong Phanom's towering vertical cliffs, which provide some of the most breathtaking scenery on route to Khao Sok Lake.

Some interesting things about Khlong Phanom National Park

The majority of the park is occupied by impressive, sharply defined karst cliffs. Although these cliffs pose challenges for exploration, they come with the added benefit of safeguarding the Thai jungle environment from external threats. Moreover, they offer an ideal habitat for some extraordinary plant species. 

In contrast to other sites in Khao Sok, this one is easily accessible with a Thailand jungle trip and is unknown to tourists. To transport tourists up into the hills above the Soi Tham Peung Boulevard, a pickup truck comes in handy. A quick, steep trek will take you to the blossoms after this! This trek is rather fascinating. There are some fantastic off-trail parts and steep hill climbs, but not many breathtaking views.

Flourishing in this environment are orchids and lianas, transforming the cliff faces into vertical forests that support rare endemic palms. Among the notable plant species in Khlong Phanom is the Mai Pai Chiang Ruun, the largest bamboo species in Thailand and one of the largest globally. Recently, we organized a forest tour in Thailand that led to a grove of this colossal bamboo, making it one of our most cherished treks in the Thai jungle. You can find detailed information about this experience here.

The plants are integral components of the ecosystem

Rafflesia Kerrii is another well-known Thailand jungle plant that grows in Khlong Phanom National Park.

Rafflesia Flower -  The biggest flower in the world

Things to do and see in Khlong Phanom National Park

Visitors can explore Khlong Phanom National Park both underwater and on land

In Wateray

Exploring by waterway offers a memorable and diverse adventure for visitors

Exploring Khlong Phanom National Park presents a rich array of experiences, particularly when navigating its waterways. A popular and easily accessible method for visitors is embarking on a canoe journey that commences at the Wat Tham Wararam cave temple. This Thailand forest tour initiates at the temple, leading participants through a refreshing cave walk to reach the river. An opportunity arises to interact with a lively school of wild fish among the rocks before embarking on a relaxing canoe trip. As canoes drift along the river, vibrant birds soar overhead, and playful monkeys frolic in the trees, creating a captivating journey through Khlong Phanom National Park.

For those seeking a more comprehensive adventure, Khao Sok Riverside Cottages provides a unique canoe and trekking activity. This Thailand forest tour seamlessly blends a canoe excursion, delving into less-explored sections of the Sok River, with a hike through the lush Thai jungle in Khlong Phanom. The canoe trip reveals hidden areas of the Sok River, while the trek leads participants to the ancient "Tam Gao" cave, dating back 65 million years. This cave once served as a dwelling for indigenous mountain tribes, preserving traces of the ancient rituals they once practiced.

Another exciting option is river tubing, offering an intimate encounter with Khlong Phanom National Park. This tubing adventure commences at kilometer 92 and traverses exhilarating stretches of the river. Due to the challenging terrain, this activity requires a guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, eliminating the risk of getting lost in the jungle.

In the jungle

Forest scene through the lens of trekking

Venturing away from the river and delving into the heart of the Thailand jungle, Khlong Phanom National Park offers various options for adventurers, featuring several distinct hiking destinations. Due to the rugged terrain, the treks within the park are, at best, moderate. Navigating Khlong Phanom's trails necessitates the guidance of an experienced guide and may even require the assistance of a park ranger. The lack of well-maintained paths and forest signage underscores the untamed nature of Khlong Phanom.

One notable destination for a Thailand forest tour within the park is the Khao Wong camp, historically used as a hideout by communist rebels in the 1960s and 70s. Departing from the park headquarters and passing by the Khao Wong waterfall, participants encounter a grassy meadow adorned with fruit trees like jackfruit, guava, and lime - remnants of past human habitation. Following the course downstream, a massive cave awaits exploration, serving as another former hideout for communist rebels.

Beyond recent history, a Thailand forest tour in Khlong Phanom National Park unveils neolithic cave paintings. Regarded as one of the more challenging hikes around Khao Sok, this trek promises a unique and demanding experience for those intrigued by such historical art.

It's important to note that hiking in Khlong Phanom can be significantly influenced by rain. The karst cliff faces act as conduits for rainwater, leading to ground-level accumulation that can flood the lush Thailand jungle. Despite the challenges, exploring these flooded forests can be a magical experience for those willing to embrace a bit of water.

Price of Sightseeing Tickets

Despite being overshadowed by its vastly more famous neighbor, Khlong Phanom National Park remains largely undiscovered by visitors to Khao Sok, despite its proximity - only about 15 minutes down the same highway as Khao Sok National Park! For those seeking less-traveled trails, it might be the perfect time to explore trekking in Khlong Phanom National Park.

For the experienced and physically fit adventure-seeker, Khlong Phanom National Park offers a unique opportunity to venture far off the beaten path. In these untouched corners of the Khao Sok jungle, true marvels await those willing to explore.

The price for tourists want to discover 

Foreigner Adult - 100.00 TBH

Foreigner Child - 50.00 TBH

How to get there

From Surat Thani, you can take a bus or minivan to the town or area near Khlong Phanom National Park. Buses may have different routes, so check with local transportation services for the most suitable option.
Local Transportation to the Park: From the town near Khlong Phanom, you may need to arrange local transportation to reach the park entrance. Taxis or shared transportation services might be available.