Chao Ram Cave Wildlife Sanctuary

Chao Ram Cave Wildlife Sanctuary, located across Sukhothai and Lampang Provinces, is one of Thailand’s most significant natural conservation areas. This sanctuary was originally declared a wildlife hunting prohibited area in the Royal Gazette on January 23, 1990, covering Mae Phan Lam–Mae Mok forest in Klang Dong Subdistrict, Thung Saliam District, and Na Khun Krai Subdistrict, Si Samrong District, Sukhothai Province. The initial protected area spanned 15,875 rai, or approximately 24.5 square kilometers. Later, in 1995, the Royal Forest Department recognized the ecological importance of surrounding forests and watersheds, leading to an expansion of the sanctuary to encompass reserved forests in Sukhothai and Lampang. This expansion established Chao Ram Cave Wildlife Sanctuary with an area of around 211,250 rai, or 338 square kilometers.

 

At the heart of the sanctuary lies Chao Ram Cave, a large cave with outstanding ecological significance. The cave is home to vast colonies of insectivorous bats. These bats play a crucial role in regulating insect populations and dispersing plant seeds, thereby maintaining ecological balance. The cave is not only a geological wonder but also a cornerstone of the sanctuary’s ecosystem. The sight of bats emerging from the cave at dusk has become a remarkable natural spectacle and a strong attraction for eco-tourism in the area.

 

The sanctuary’s forests are rich with valuable hardwood species such as Afzelia xylocarpa (ma kha mong), Lagerstroemia (ta baek), Hopea odorata (ta khian), Shorea roxburghii (phayom), teak, and Pterocarpus macrocarpus (pradu). These species are important for both ecological stability and economic value. The forest also provides habitat for numerous wildlife species including barking deer, sambar deer, wild boars, serows, squirrels, tree shrews, reptiles, amphibians, and a variety of birds. This biodiversity underscores the sanctuary’s status as an invaluable conservation area.

 

Environmentally, Chao Ram Cave Wildlife Sanctuary is an essential watershed for the Yom River basin. The forests help regulate water flow, prevent soil erosion, maintain humidity, and act as carbon sinks, mitigating climate change. Local communities benefit directly through water security, agricultural productivity, and overall environmental health. The sanctuary thus plays a vital role in sustaining both nature and human livelihoods.

 

From a tourism perspective, the sanctuary holds great potential for eco-tourism. Activities include trekking along nature trails, studying native flora and fauna, and visiting Chao Ram Cave to admire its stalactites and stalagmites. The highlight for many visitors is watching millions of bats emerge from the cave at dusk, a breathtaking phenomenon that illustrates the interconnectedness of life within ecosystems. Such experiences not only inspire visitors but also generate income and strengthen local communities.

 

Nature trails in the sanctuary vary in length and difficulty. Short trails provide opportunities to learn about local vegetation, while longer trails require several hours of trekking to reach deeper forested areas offering tranquility and pristine scenery. Some routes lead to viewpoints with sweeping vistas of the forest, showcasing the vastness and grandeur of the sanctuary’s natural landscapes. These experiences appeal to both adventurers and academic researchers alike.

 

The best time to visit Chao Ram Cave Wildlife Sanctuary is from November to April, when the cool and dry climate makes trekking more enjoyable. The rainy season, while enriching the forest’s beauty, can make travel more challenging due to slippery paths and potential flash floods. Visitors are advised to plan carefully and prepare appropriate gear depending on the season.

 

Access to the sanctuary is convenient from both Sukhothai and Lampang. From Sukhothai city, travelers can drive toward Thung Saliam District, then continue to Klang Dong or Na Khun Krai Subdistricts, where the cave is located. From Lampang, visitors can travel through Thoen District to reach the sanctuary. The routes are best suited for private vehicles, making the sanctuary an ideal destination for eco-tourism trips that can also link to nearby attractions.

 

Chao Ram Cave Wildlife Sanctuary represents the harmonious integration of ecological value, watershed preservation, biodiversity, local culture, and eco-tourism potential. Conservation of this sanctuary is not only about safeguarding nature for the present generation but also about passing on a natural heritage to future generations. With proper management involving collaboration between government, local communities, and visitors, this sanctuary can remain pristine and serve as a model for wildlife and forest conservation in Thailand. It stands as a symbol of pride and an invaluable natural treasure of the nation.