Khaw Noi National Park is located in Phitsanulok Province, covering areas in Wat Bot District, Chat Trakan District, Nakhon Thai District, and Wang Thong District. It is one of the most significant natural tourist destinations in Northern Thailand, with an area of approximately 139,915.33 rai, or around 223.86 square kilometers. The park encompasses Kaeng Chet Khwae Forest Park and Phu Daeng Ron Forest Park, and it is rich in natural resources, including forests, wildlife, and diverse landscapes.

 

The terrain of Khaw Noi National Park is characterized by long, complex mountain ranges that follow the Khaw Noi River and undulating hills, creating breathtaking scenery and diverse natural habitats. The park's forests are abundant and consist of mixed deciduous forests, dry dipterocarp forests, montane forests, and dry evergreen forests. Each forest type plays a vital role in the ecosystem and serves as a habitat for various wildlife species. Mixed deciduous forests contain valuable tree species such as teak, Makha Mong, redwood, rosewood, takian, and rubber trees, which are economically significant. Dry dipterocarp forests are open forests with drought-resistant plants and provide shelter for small wildlife. Montane and dry evergreen forests are highly biodiverse, hosting both large trees and understory plants, as well as offering food and shelter for numerous animal species.

 

The park experiences three distinct seasons. Summer, from February to April, is relatively hot, with an average maximum temperature of 32.2°C. The rainy season, from May to September, brings cool and pleasant weather due to winds from the Khaw Noi Dam Reservoir. The highest rainfall occurs in September, with an average annual rainfall of 1,482 millimeters. Winter, from October to January, is mild and suitable for tourism, with an average minimum temperature of 27.5°C.

 

Khaw Noi National Park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including mammals, birds, and reptiles. Common mammals include barking deer, wild boars, monkeys, gibbons, porcupines, rabbits, and civets. Birds, such as woodpeckers, sparrows, and kites, are abundant, while reptiles include various snake species and monitor lizards. The park’s rivers and ponds are rich in aquatic life, particularly many species of freshwater fish that inhabit the park's streams throughout the year.

 

The park's natural attractions include rock rapids, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints. Notable rapids include Kaen Kha Na Noi, Kaeng Chet Khwae, Kaeng Chon, Kaeng Tao Lek, Kaeng Bua Kham, and Kaeng Lan Kloy. Visitors can enjoy rafting or exploring these rapids while experiencing the excitement of flowing water. Scenic viewpoints such as Ban Nong Hin provide panoramic views of the forest and mountains, while nature trails at Kaeng Chet Khwae allow visitors to learn about the ecosystem, plant species, and wildlife of the park.

 

Waterfalls are another highlight, with the Five-Tier Waterfall and Nine-Tier Waterfall flowing year-round. The rainy season intensifies the waterfalls, making them ideal for photography and relaxation. Surrounding areas offer camping and picnic facilities, making them popular spots for tourists seeking outdoor activities and nature experiences.

 

Originally, the park was named Kaeng Chet Khwae National Park and encompassed Kaeng Chet Khwae Forest Park and Phu Daeng Ron Forest Park. The area is crucial for nature conservation due to increasing threats from encroachment and deforestation. Renaming and designating the area as a national park aligns with government policies to conserve forests and maintain ecological balance. Deforestation and land occupation negatively impact rainfall patterns and contribute to drought. Establishing Khaw Noi National Park helps prevent environmental degradation and promotes sustainable tourism.

 

Khaw Noi National Park is located at Moo 1, Khanchong Subdistrict, Wat Bot District, Phitsanulok Province 65160. It is easily accessible by private car or public transport, approximately 50–70 kilometers from Phitsanulok city depending on the route. The park also offers nature trails and hiking routes that allow visitors to explore deeper areas and fully appreciate the forests, mountains, and waterfalls.

 

The park plays a critical role in biodiversity conservation and serves as a research site for ecology and wildlife studies. Researchers can study forest ecosystems, water flow in streams, vegetation changes, and animal adaptations across seasons. It also functions as an educational site, raising environmental awareness among students, researchers, and the general public.

 

In addition to forests and wildlife, Khaw Noi National Park is an important water source. The Khaw Noi River flows through the park, supporting irrigation and recreational activities. It provides water for nearby farmers and communities and serves as a breeding ground for aquatic species, maintaining a diverse and healthy freshwater ecosystem. Preserving water quality and upstream forests is therefore essential for both humans and wildlife.

 

The park offers a wide range of facilities for visitors, including camping areas, lodges, and local food options. Camping sites near Kaeng Chet Khwae and waterfalls allow tourists to immerse themselves in nature. The park’s visitor centers provide maps, information, and trail guidance, helping tourists plan their trips efficiently. Park rangers ensure safety and assist visitors, making the experience both secure and enjoyable.

 

Tourist activities include rafting in Kaeng Chet Khwae, hiking on nature trails, sightseeing from Ban Nong Hin viewpoint, and exploring the Five-Tier and Nine-Tier Waterfalls. Hiking is not only enjoyable but also educational, offering insights into forest ecosystems, wildlife behavior, and seasonal natural phenomena.

 

The park also holds cultural and community value. Surrounding villages maintain traditional lifestyles, offering tourists opportunities to learn about local agriculture, herbal farming, fishing in the Khaw Noi River, and participating in cultural activities. Visiting Khaw Noi National Park thus provides both a natural and cultural experience.

 

One of the park’s highlights is its varied landscape, from lowland river plains to high mountains, waterfalls, and rapids. This diversity supports multiple activities, including rafting, hiking, climbing, and sightseeing, and makes it an ideal site for studying plants, wildlife, and freshwater ecosystems.

 

Park management emphasizes safety and conservation. Rangers monitor illegal activities and guide tourists to ensure a responsible and safe experience while protecting the park’s resources. Visitors are encouraged to follow guidelines to minimize their impact on the environment, such as avoiding littering, staying on designated trails, and respecting wildlife.

 

Khaw Noi National Park provides a comprehensive experience for tourists, combining scenic beauty, wildlife observation, cultural interaction, and environmental education. It is an ideal destination for those who want to enjoy nature, learn about ecosystems, and develop awareness of conservation. The park exemplifies sustainable eco-tourism, offering a model for balancing tourism with environmental protection.

 

Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, from relaxing by waterfalls and observing wildlife to trekking through the forest and participating in cultural experiences with local communities. The combination of natural beauty, biodiversity, and cultural value makes Khaw Noi National Park a must-visit destination in Northern Thailand, providing an unforgettable experience for all travelers who appreciate the harmony between nature and humans.