Kui Buri National Park

Established in 1991, Kui Buri National Park is one of Thailand’s hidden gems, spanning over an area of 969 square kilometers. Located in the Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, it forms part of the Tenasserim Hills, a unique mountain range that stretches from the Isthmus of Kra down to the Malay Peninsula. This lush, sprawling park is the perfect destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Kui Buri National Park is predominantly covered with moist and dry evergreen forests, interspersed with mixed deciduous forests. With an elevation that varies from 100 to 1,200 meters above sea level, the park features unique topography that creates a diverse ecosystem. The park is also part of the Western Forest Complex, a network of protected areas in Thailand and Myanmar that covers over 18,000 square kilometers.

Flora and Fauna

The park’s diverse landscape is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. The lush vegetation consists of various tree species such as Dipterocarpus, Hopea, and Shorea. You can also find exotic plants like the Rafflesia kerrii, a rare parasitic plant known for its enormous flowers and pungent smell.

Kui Buri National Park is renowned for its thriving population of wildlife. It’s an important habitat for the Asian elephant and one of the best places in Thailand to observe these gentle giants in the wild. The park is also home to other rare and endangered species such as gaurs, Malayan tapirs, bantengs, and several species of deer. Birdwatchers will be delighted with over 320 bird species recorded in the park, including the rare plain-pouched hornbill and the great slaty woodpecker.

How to Get There

Kui Buri National Park is approximately 280 kilometers southwest of Bangkok. You can reach the park by car, bus, or train. If you choose to drive, take Highway 4 (Phetkasem Road) from Bangkok to Prachuap Khiri Khan, then follow the signs to the park. The journey takes approximately four hours.

Alternatively, you can take a bus from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal to Kui Buri town, then hire a taxi or a songthaew (a shared taxi) to the park. The bus journey takes around five hours. If you prefer to travel by train, take the southern line from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Railway Station to Kui Buri Railway Station, then hire a taxi or songthaew to the park.

Where to Stay and Eat

There are a few options for accommodation within and around Kui Buri National Park. The park offers basic bungalows and camping facilities. The bungalows can accommodate two to eight people and are equipped with basic amenities like beds, fans, and private bathrooms. Camping sites are available near the park headquarters, and you can either bring your own tent or rent one from the park.

If you prefer more comfortable accommodations, there are several resorts and guesthouses in the nearby towns of Kui Buri and Prachuap Khiri Khan. Some popular choices include X2 Kui Buri Resort, Kui Buri Hotel, and Hadthong Hotel. These establishments offer a range of amenities, such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and swimming pools.

For dining options, there’s a restaurant at the park headquarters that serves simple Thai dishes. Alternatively, you can find more diverse food options in the nearby towns, which offer local, regional, and international cuisines.

Wildlife Watching: One of the main attractions of Kui Buri National Park is its abundant wildlife. Join a guided safari tour to observe the park's incredible animals, especially the Asian elephants. The best time for wildlife watching is during the dry season, from November to April, when animals are more likely to gather around water sources.

Hiking: The park offers several trails for hiking enthusiasts, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. Some popular trails include the Namtok Huai Yang Trail, which leads to a beautiful waterfall, and the Khao Luang Trail, which offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes, water, and a hat, and remember to stay on the marked trails to minimize environmental impact.

Birdwatching: Kui Buri National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 320 bird species recorded. Bring your binoculars and explore the park's diverse habitats, such as the evergreen forests, grasslands, and wetlands, to spot rare and endemic birds.

Photography: The park's breathtaking landscapes and vibrant wildlife make it a paradise for photographers. Capture the beauty of the park's lush forests, majestic waterfalls, and incredible wildlife encounters. The early morning and late afternoon hours are ideal for taking advantage of the golden light.

Educational Programs: The park offers educational programs and workshops for visitors to learn more about the park's ecosystem, wildlife, and conservation efforts. These programs are an excellent opportunity to enhance your understanding of the park's importance and the challenges it faces.

Respect the park's rules and guidelines, including not feeding or disturbing the wildlife.
Be prepared for unpredictable weather. Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a rain jacket.
Cell phone reception can be limited in the park. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time before heading out on a hike.
To avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene experience, visit the park during weekdays or off-peak seasons.
Book your accommodations and guided tours in advance, especially during the high season, to ensure availability.

Kui Buri National Park is an ideal destination for a wide range of visitors. Nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and birdwatchers will find the park's diverse ecosystem and thriving wildlife populations particularly fascinating. Hikers and photographers will enjoy the park's stunning landscapes and trails, while families and groups can participate in educational programs to learn more about the park's unique environment.

Kui Buri National Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders waiting to be explored. With its abundant wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich biodiversity, it offers a memorable experience for visitors of all interests and ages. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of Kui Buri National Park.