BUTTERFLIES GALORE
Keang Krachan
Kaeng Krachan National Park, with its awe-inspiring landscapes, rich biodiversity and immersive experiences, is a nature lover's paradise. Whether you're into butterflies, hiking, a wildlife enthusiast, or a seeker of authentic cultural encounters, this hidden gem in Thailand will leave an indelible mark on your heart and soul. So, pack your adventurous spirit and get ready to explore the untamed beauty of Kaeng Krachan, where nature's wonders await at every turn.
Butterflies Galore!
Kaeng Krachan (แก่งกระจาน) is the largest national park in Thailand, covering an area of 2,914 km². It is also home to some of Thailand's best locations for watching rare birds and butterflies. There are around 300 butterfly species and 480 bird species to be found in the park. For those wishing to see butterflies, it is possible to see hundreds, even thousands of butterflies gathered where there are mineral-rich deposits. One such spot is the Baan Kraang Camp (บ้านกร่างแคมป์). Butterflies are more active during the winter and dry seasons, so look to visit from March to May.
The park is also home to eight globally endangered fauna species, including the Asian elephant, making it a particularly important national treasure.
Campsites
The essential beauty of the park lies in the central areas, around Baan Kraang and Phanoen Thung campsites, both accessible via the Khao Sam Yot Checkpoint. Please note that you are not permitted to enter the park on motorcycle, bicycle or on foot and only pickups and SUVs with 4WD are allowed to drive all the way up to Phanoen Thung Campsite, due to the more arduous road.
Various species of butterfly can be spotted around the campsites, so Lepidopterists and those simply keen on viewing and photographing these beautiful butterflies, can watch these colourful creatures to their hearts content if they visit the Baan Kraang Camp from March to May each year.
Transportation costs 20 baht to take you from the campsite up to the river, where the spectacle is simply stunning, with literally thousands of butterflies flitting here, there and everywhere.
Kaeng Krachan Info
Kaeng Krachan National Park is situated in two provinces; both Prachuap Khiri Khan and Phetchaburi. The park itself is about 75 km from Hua Hin and 60 km from Phetchaburi. Declared a national park in June 1981, UNESCO listed it as a World Heritage Site in July 2021. It is one of Thailand's most popular national parks, whether it is hiking, camping, wildlife or simply the spectacular viewpoints you are after.
The road between Baan Krang and Phanoen Thung is far too steep and narrow to allow 2 way traffic, therefore traffic is scheduled only one way between certain hours.
Baan Krang campsite and the highly popular Pa-Lau-U Waterfall are open all year round, but the Phanoen Thung campsite is closed from August to October each year due to the rains.
Guidelines
The Dan Khao Sam Yot checkpoint is open from 5am to 5pm
Only cars, pickups and SUVs are permitted into the park
From Baan Krang Camp to Phanoen Thung: 5am to 8am & 1pm to 3pm
From Phanoen Thung to Baan Krang Camp; 9am to 11:30 am & 4pm – 5pm