Khao Kho Highland Agricultural Research Station

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08:00–16:30

 

Khao Kho Highland Agricultural Research Station is located in Sadao Phong Subdistrict, Khao Kho District, Phetchabun Province, Thailand. It is one of the important agricultural learning destinations in Khao Kho, operated under Thailand’s Department of Agriculture through the Horticultural Research Institute. The station focuses on research, experimentation, and adaptation of temperate crops for Thailand’s highland environment, especially in areas where the climate is cooler than the lowlands. For travelers, this place offers more than a simple sightseeing stop; it is a meaningful destination where agriculture, nature, research, and highland tourism come together in one setting.

 

The station is especially suitable for visitors who want to understand another side of Khao Kho beyond sea-of-mist viewpoints and mountain scenery. While Khao Kho is widely known for cool weather, scenic viewpoints, wind turbines, temples, and cafes, Khao Kho Highland Agricultural Research Station presents the district as a center of agricultural experimentation. Visitors can see how plants that normally require cooler climates are studied, cultivated, and adapted to local conditions in Thailand. This makes the station valuable not only for tourism but also for education, local agriculture, and the development of highland farming knowledge.

 

One of the main highlights of the station is its collection of temperate fruit crops. The area features experimental plantings of persimmons, nectarines, macadamia nuts, coffee, olives, lychee, passion fruit, strawberries, avocados, and other highland crops. These plants require specific environmental conditions, especially suitable temperature, soil, humidity, and care. Seeing them grow in Khao Kho helps visitors understand how research can support agricultural diversity in Thailand. The station also demonstrates how highland areas can be used for valuable crops that differ from those commonly found in the plains.

 

Besides fruit crops, the station also includes highland vegetable plots. These may include vegetables commonly associated with cooler climates, such as salad greens, broccoli, cabbage, and other temperate vegetables. These plots are useful for learning how vegetables respond to highland conditions and how cultivation methods can be improved for better growth. For students, agricultural groups, and visitors interested in farming, this section provides practical insight into crop adaptation and sustainable production.

 

The flower garden is another attractive part of Khao Kho Highland Agricultural Research Station. Visitors can enjoy temperate and ornamental flowers such as orchids, caladiums, bromeliads, rhododendrons, anthuriums, and other colorful plants. This area adds a softer and more relaxing dimension to the station. It is suitable for photography, slow walking, and observing the beauty of plants grown in a cool highland climate. For many travelers, the flower plots make the station feel less like a formal research facility and more like a peaceful garden destination.

 

The herbal garden is also an important feature. It gathers different types of Thai medicinal plants and allows visitors to learn about their uses, cultivation, and value in everyday life. This part of the station connects modern agricultural research with traditional Thai plant knowledge. It is especially interesting for travelers who care about wellness, natural remedies, herbs, and local wisdom. The herbal garden helps show that agriculture is not only about food production but also about health, culture, and practical knowledge passed down through generations.

 

The overall atmosphere of the station is peaceful, green, and refreshing. Because it is located in a highland area of Khao Kho, the weather is generally pleasant, especially during the cool season. Visitors can walk around the planting areas, observe different crops, enjoy the flowers, and learn at a relaxed pace. The station is suitable for families, students, agricultural study groups, nature lovers, and travelers who prefer quiet destinations with educational value.

 

The station can be visited throughout the year. However, the experience may differ depending on the season, crop cycle, and flowering period. Some crops or flowers may be more visible during certain months, while other sections may be focused on research or maintenance. Travelers who want to see specific flowers or fruit crops should plan their visit with seasonal variation in mind. Even when some plots are not at peak display, the station remains useful as a learning destination because its value lies in the overall agricultural environment and research setting.

 

Facilities and accommodation are available within the station area, making it suitable for visitors who want to spend more time studying or relaxing in the highland environment. This feature is useful for educational groups, research visitors, and travelers who prefer a quieter stay close to nature. The setting allows guests to experience the slower rhythm of Khao Kho while remaining close to other attractions in the district.

 

Getting There is most convenient by private car. Visitors can travel from Phetchabun city toward Khao Kho District, then continue to Sadao Phong Subdistrict. The station is located at 51 Moo 3, Sadao Phong Subdistrict, Khao Kho District, Phetchabun 67270. Travelers using the Phitsanulok–Lom Sak route can connect to Khao Kho routes and follow navigation to the station. Since the area includes mountain roads, careful driving is recommended, especially during rainy weather, foggy mornings, or busy holiday periods.

 

A visit to Khao Kho Highland Agricultural Research Station can be combined with several nearby attractions. Travelers can continue to Khao Kho Viewpoint, Khao Kho Memorial, Khao Kho Wind Turbine Field, Wat Phra That Pha Sorn Kaew, or other scenic areas around Khao Kho. This makes the station a practical stop for travelers who want a balanced itinerary that includes agriculture, nature, photography, and cultural landmarks.

 

In summary, Khao Kho Highland Agricultural Research Station is more than an agricultural facility. It is a highland learning destination that shows how scientific research, local environment, and tourism can support one another. Visitors can learn about temperate crops, highland vegetables, ornamental flowers, medicinal plants, and the wider role of agricultural research in Thailand. For anyone looking for a quieter and more meaningful place to visit in Phetchabun, this station is a strong choice.

 

 

A: It is known for agricultural research, temperate fruit crops, highland vegetables, flower gardens, herbal plants, and educational tourism in Khao Kho.

 

A: It is located at 51 Moo 3, Sadao Phong Subdistrict, Khao Kho District, Phetchabun Province, Thailand.

 

A: Yes, the station is open daily from 08:00 to 16:30.

 

A: Visitors can see temperate fruit crops such as persimmons, nectarines, macadamia nuts, coffee, strawberries, avocados, highland vegetables, ornamental flowers, and medicinal herbs.

 

A: Yes, it is suitable for families, students, educational groups, and travelers interested in agriculture, nature, and highland farming.

 

A: Yes, accommodation is available within the station area for visitors who want to stay longer or join educational visits.

 

A: The most convenient way is by private car, using navigation apps to reach Sadao Phong Subdistrict in Khao Kho District.