National Parks in Thailand, a Journey into Beauty

(by Ida Bini) Dense, ancient rainforests valleys, exotic fauna and enchanting underwater scenery: with the its rich biodiversity, Thailand is a paradise for nature lovers. Last year 17 million people visited its 154 protected areas, each with its own character distinctive, which are worth the trip. Here are eight, from north to south of the country. At 2,565 metres above sea level, the National Park Doi Inthanon, in Chiang Mai province, is the 'roof of the Thailand', famous for its majestic peaks, waterfalls, evergreen forests and numerous scenic spots. Inhabited by goral, mountain goats that move between steep walls rocky and narrow crevices, and by over 340 species of birds, The park is a paradise for birdwatchers. It is open all year round, while the Kew Mae Pan trail, a route of 4 km through humid forests and mountain meadows, is accessible only from November to May. Erawan National Park, in Kanchanaburi, covers 550 km squares along the Kwae Yai River and the rainforest at western border of Thailand. Erawan Falls, with their seven jumps that descend into calm lagoons, make it the country's top destination for an open-air swim in the heart of the tropical jungle. Well-maintained paths wind through through lush forests and lead to caves mysterious, such as Tham Phra That, known for its glittering limestone formations. The cooler months, from November to February, or the warm season, from March to May, are ideal for visiting the Park. In the heart of Thailand lies Khao Yai National Park. Yai, a UNESCO heritage site, located in Nakhon Ratchasima province Ratchasima. It boasts a reserve of natural wonders and numerous trails leading to famous waterfalls such as Haew Narok and Haew Suwat; elephants, deer, bears, gibbons and a wide variety of species of birds populate the area. Lovers of outdoor activities in the open air they can dedicate themselves to trekking, bird watching and to day and night nature safaris, along well-marked paths cared for with different levels of difficulty. In the surrounding area, also vineyards, golf courses, elegant lodges and glamping campsites. Located 160 km north of Phuket Island, the National Park of Khao Sok in Surat Thani houses one of the oldest rainforests in the world, dating back 160 million years. Here the biodiversity is surprising among majestic formations limestone and thick foliage inhabited by macaques and gibbons. The Park It hosts 48 species of mammals, 311 of birds, over 30 of bats and a myriad of reptiles and insects. In the center is find Cheow Lan Lake, a peaceful oasis surrounded by towering sheer cliffs, an ideal place for a boat or kayak tour kayaks and for stays in floating resorts. The commitment to a sustainable tourism further enhances the Park's appeal. On the border with Laos, along the course of the Mekong, it extends Pha Taem National Park, Ubon Province Ratchathani. Famous for its cliffs overlooking the river and for its ancient cave paintings dating back over 3,000 years ago, it is a perfect destination for nature and photography enthusiasts. Among the marine parks, the Mu Ko Ang Thong one stands out, in the area of Surat Thani: an archipelago of 42 jungle-covered islands, reachable in two hours by speedboat from Koh Samui. It offers postcard tropical landscapes: ivory beaches, vegetation lush and crystal clear waters. The paths lead towards spectacular views, such as the one from the top of Koh Mae Koh, overlooking an emerald green salt lake nestled between the cliffs. Laem Son National Park, which includes several islands in the Andaman Sea, such as Kang Kao and Kum, is particularly recommended in summer, from May to August. Between its beauties, the long white sandy beach of Bang Baen, surrounded by a natural pine forest, and that of Lam Son, ideal for bird watching. The islands of Kam are also located here Yai and Kam Nui. Finally, the Mu Ko Similan National Park, in Phang Nga province, it can be reached in an hour and a half from Khao Lak. Located in the Andaman Sea, the fascinating park The marine area extends over 128 square kilometers and includes 11 islands, famous for its seascapes, rainforests, boulders granite and beaches of fine white sand, protected by pristine coral formations.