Khao Phra Thaeo National Park

At Aleenta, we find inspiration in the natural beauty that surrounds us. A short journey from our resort lies a hidden sanctuary where time slows and the tropical forest tells stories older than the island. Khao Phra Thaeo National Park is a place we hold dear for its pristine beauty and the calm and clarity it offers those who wander beneath its canopy.

This national park is more than a scenic escape. It is Phuket’s last remaining expanse of virgin rainforest – a place of quiet power, teeming with life, and a living reminder of the island’s original landscape before tourism and development took root. For guests seeking a deeper connection to Phuket’s natural side, Khao Phra Thaeo offers a profoundly grounding experience.

The Spirit of the Forest

Tucked away in the northern part of Phuket, Khao Phra Thaeo covers roughly 22 square kilometres of evergreen rainforest. Unlike many other parts of the island, this land has never been cleared or cultivated. As a result, it remains a stronghold of biodiversity, protecting a host of rare species and offering an authentic view of the island’s untamed beauty.

Towering trees stretch skywards through a rich understory of vines and ferns. The air is cool and heavy with the scent of damp earth and flowering plants. Birdsong fills the space between ancient trunks, while the gentle sound of water flowing through natural streams creates a soothing backdrop. This is a forest that invites presence and quiet exploration.

Encounters with Wildlife and Plant Life

Khao Phra Thaeo is home to an extraordinary range of creatures, many of which are rare or endangered. Among its most famous residents are the white-handed gibbons, whose melodic calls can sometimes echo through the trees. Other animals include civets, wild boars, porcupines, and various reptiles and amphibians.

Birdwatchers will find this park especially rewarding. Species such as the Black-crested Bulbul, the Greater Racket-tailed Drongo, and the striking Asian Fairy Bluebird are often spotted among the branches. The forest also shelters numerous types of butterflies and tropical insects.

The park is a botanical treasure trove. It harbours rare palms, creepers, ancient hardwoods, and plants traditionally used in Thai medicine. Native orchids bloom high in the treetops, while the forest floor is blanketed with mosses and fungi, all contributing to the park’s lush atmosphere.

A Walk Among Waterfalls

The park offers two main waterfall sites – each with its personality. Bang Pae Waterfall is the more accessible and visited of the two. Its gentle cascade makes it a popular spot for a refreshing dip and a peaceful picnic. The path to the falls is short and well-maintained, making it suitable for visitors of all ages.

Further afield, Ton Sai Waterfall offers a quieter experience. With fewer visitors, this spot feels wonderfully secluded. The small visitor centre nearby provides valuable background on the park’s flora and fauna, setting the tone for the adventure ahead.

A jungle trail links these two waterfalls for those seeking a more immersive experience. The walk stretches approximately four to five kilometres through the heart of the rainforest. It is not overly strenuous, but it does require decent footwear, a good sense of balance, and plenty of water. Along the way, you’ll pass towering bamboo groves and twisty fig trees, and you may hear the rustle of wildlife just out of sight.

Giving Wildlife a Second Chance

Near the entrance to Bang Pae Waterfall is one of the park’s most meaningful initiatives: the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project. This non-profit centre rescues gibbons taken from the wild as infants and used in the tourist trade. Many have suffered trauma and need extensive care before they can be returned to the forest.

Visitors can learn about the gibbons’ stories, the centre’s work, and the challenges facing wildlife conservation in Thailand. While direct interaction with the animals is not permitted, for their safety and well-being, simply observing their recovery is moving and informative. Supporting the centre, whether through donations or responsible tourism, contributes directly to their rehabilitation.

Planning a Thoughtful Visit

December through April is generally the best time to visit Khao Phra Thaeo. The dry season offers comfortable walking conditions, though the park retains its green vibrancy year-round thanks to its rainforest climate.

A modest entrance fee helps support the park’s upkeep. We recommend arriving early in the day to enjoy cooler temperatures and quieter paths. Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring insect repellent, and carry a reusable water bottle. Guided tours are available and well worth considering for those wanting to learn more about the local ecosystem and wildlife.

Most of all, respect the rhythms of the forest. Stay on marked trails, avoid loud noises, and resist the urge to feed animals or pick plants. Every visitor contributes to the preservation of this remarkable place.

Linking Nature to Wellness at Aleenta

A walk through Khao Phra Thaeo is an extension of our wellness journey at Aleenta. The sense of peace found beneath the forest canopy mirrors what many of our guests seek during their stay: a pause from the modern world, a return to self, and a reconnection with nature.

We encourage visitors to pair a rainforest walk with a rejuvenating spa ritual, a yoga session overlooking the ocean, or a quiet evening dining on nourishing cuisine. The park’s natural energy complements our holistic approach to wellness and offers a beautiful contrast to beachside relaxation.

Exploring Khao Phra Thaeo with Aleenta

Khao Phra Thaeo National Park remains one of Phuket’s best-kept secrets. Its trails may not be marked on every tourist map, but the experiences it offers linger long after the walk ends. It is a place where conservation is lived, nature reigns undisturbed, and the soul finds space to breathe.

We invite you to step into this living forest during your stay at our Phang Nga Resort & Spa. Let it ground you, inspire you, and offer a different perspective on the island we call home.

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