Recently, I spent a long weekend in the magical Khao Yai. I’ve been to Bangkok several times but this is my first time to Khao Yai, a mere 3-hours drive away from Bangkok. With its lush vineyards, nature trails, unique accommodations and European architecture, it’s hard to believe that Khao Yai is so close to home. It got me thinking: Why go to Italy when you can go to Khao Yai?
Check out my travel tips below for a suggested itinerary, where to stay and getting around in Khao Yai!
THINGS TO DO
1. Get in touch with nature in Khao Yai National Park
If you love to explore nature and spot wild animals in a natural night safari, visit Thailand’s first national park in Khao Yai. The highlight for me was spotting Asian elephants in the wild on the back of a truck. If you wish to visit the Khao Yai National Park, I’d highly recommend booking it via the Custom Bangkok Tour tour by Klook. As the name suggests, it is a customisable tour package so you can simply inform your driver that you wish to visit the park. Tickets can be purchased from the Visitor’s Centre at the park entrance. This is a great activity if you want a break from the bustling city life – our guide was experienced and took care of us very well.
Tip: Arrive before 5.00PM as the trail closes between 5.00PM – 6.00AM due to wildlife foraging times.
Made our way to this cliff to catch the first glimpse of sunrise. It was a short 15 minute walk down from the nearest convenient parking spot. Photo by Shawne Koh.
2. Sip on wine at the lush vineyards
PB Winery
Did you know? Khao Yai is a wine region in Thailand and it has one of the most beautiful vineyards. Enjoy an afternoon sipping wine at PB Valley Khao Yai winery while admiring the lush scenery.
3. Get up close with the friendly Alpacas
Primo Piazza
Over at Primo Piazza, we fed Alpacas, cradled a baby sheep and went trigger happy with the European architecture as our backdrop.
Primo Piazza; Mu Si, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand.
4. Find a piece of Europe in Thailand
Palio Village
Palio is an eclectic mix of independent shops and dining establishments. The terracotta-toned buildings are characteristic of a Tuscan village. We indulged in gelato, visited gift shops and shopped around for local snacks.
Palio Village; Thanarat Rd, Mu Si, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, 30130, Thailand.
5. Go Glamping
Lala Mukha Tented Resort
We were fortunate to be kindly hosted by Lala Mukha Tented Resort. With different accommodations available, you can choose to stay in a treehouse or tent. We stayed in a tent with an en-suite bathroom, and it was spacious and comfortable. For those who want to rough it out, they have non air-conditioned tents as well! Furthermore, there are dining options on-site so you do not have to travel out. Did I mention the food options are delicious too? A highlight for me was taking a dip in the infinity pool while admiring the sprawling landscapes. The entire glamping experience is the best so far, I will not hesitate to come back.
Lala Mukha Tented Resort; Mu Si, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand.
6. Pretend that you are in Santorini & dress up as a Hobbit
Over at Hobbit House, you can play dress up as a Hobbit or pretend you are in Santorini. For a unique experience, book a stay at the Hobbit or Santorini-inspired accommodations.
They also have a huge array of costumes and props for you to live like Bilbo Baggins or Princess Elsa for a moment. We had so much fun playing dress up!
Hobbit House; Lat Bua Khao, Sikhio District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30340, Thailand.
7. Dine at Hipster Cafes
Birder’s Lodge Cafe
Could this cafe overtake the hipster ones in Bangkok? This cafe won our hearts with its charming ambience. I’m amazed at its multi-faceted character which give endless opportunities for the ‘Gram. We were pleased with the food we ordered too. Additionally, a farmers market is held during the weekends.
Travel backpack from GastonLuga that is amazing in both form and function – I’ve been taking it with me everywhere! If you like it as much as I do, you can buy it from their website. Apply the discount code “vickiima15” for 15% off your purchase. ps. this is the Praper model.
Birder’s Lodge cafe; Mu Si, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand.
8. Eat like a local
Krua Khao Yai
This place serves up local Thai food and is well-known for their smoked meats. Indulge in their pork chops and ribs when you’re there. The coconut juice here is one of the sweetest and freshest I’ve ever tasted.
Krua Khao Yai; 27 หมู่ 7 ต.หมูสี Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand.
9. Feel like royalty for a day
Thames Valley
Be it a high tea and tête-à-tête session with your girl friend, Thames Valley will make you feel like royalty. Complete the experience with an exquisite high-tea set. Remember to save some tummy space for the delicious scones. Thames Valley is also a hotel available for bookings, and you will be guaranteed to feel like royalty!
Thames Valley Khao Yai; ถนน ธนะรัชต์ Tambon Mu Si, Amphoe Pak Chong, Chang Wat Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand.
Midwinter Green
We went to Midwinter Green for dinner and it was beyond gorgeous with its castle-like architecture and high ceilings. Their Midwinter Pizza and Ebi Mentaiko pasta were clear winners among us.
Midwinter Green; Nong Nam Daeng, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand.
GETTING AROUND
Khao Yai is under a 3-hour drive away from Bangkok airport. Klook kindly arranged for our transport to Khao Yai, and we chose to add on a tour guide for our full 4 days there. The driver and guide were professional and did a great job of bringing us around according to our planned itinerary.
If you would like the benefits of a fuss-free travel experience with the option of customising your trip like I did, check out this custom tour service by Klook. Thank you Klook travel for making this trip a memorable one!
Photography by Vickii unless otherwise credited.
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