Bangkok is a busy city full of cars, tall buildings, and crowded streets. For many people, it might seem like a place far from nature. But if you love walking, fresh air, and green forests, you don’t have to go far to find beautiful hiking trails. Just outside Bangkok, there are many parks and natural areas where you can enjoy hiking and discover Thailand’s amazing landscapes.
In this guide, you will learn about the best hiking spots near Bangkok, what to bring, and how to prepare for your trip. Whether you want an easy walk or a longer adventure, there is something for everyone.
Why Hiking Near Bangkok Is a Great Idea
Living or traveling in Bangkok can be fun, but the city life can also be stressful. Traffic, noise, and pollution make it hard to relax. Hiking near Bangkok helps you:
- Get fresh air and breathe clean nature. Forests and hills near the city have better air quality.
- Exercise your body and mind. Walking on trails is good for your heart, muscles, and mood.
- See beautiful views and wildlife. From green forests to waterfalls, hiking lets you see nature’s wonders.
- Take a break from city noise. Enjoy peace and quiet surrounded by trees and birds.
- Spend time with family and friends. Hiking is a fun outdoor activity for everyone.
Top Hiking Spots Near Bangkok
1. Khao Yai National Park
- Distance: About 2-3 hours from Bangkok by car or bus.
- Why visit? It is Thailand’s first national park and one of the largest. The park covers mountains, forests, and waterfalls.
- Trails: You can find easy to medium hiking trails. Popular ones include the Haew Suwat Waterfall trail and Nong Phak Chi wildlife trail.
- Wildlife: You may see monkeys, deer, birds, and sometimes even elephants or hornbills.
- Tips: Visit during cooler months (November to February). Bring insect repellent and wear long sleeves to avoid mosquito bites.
2. Erawan National Park
- Distance: Around 3 hours from Bangkok.
- Why visit? Famous for its beautiful seven-level waterfalls called Erawan Falls.
- Trails: The hike is easy to medium difficulty, and you can swim in clear blue pools under the waterfalls.
- Family-friendly: This park is great for families and beginners. There are walking paths and picnic areas.
- Tips: Start early to avoid crowds. Bring swimwear and towels if you want to swim.
3. Sam Roi Yot National Park
- Distance: About 3 hours from Bangkok, near the Gulf of Thailand coast.
- Why visit? This park has limestone hills, caves, wetlands, and beaches.
- Trails: Hiking trails lead to viewpoints such as Khao Daeng, where you see the sea and wetlands below.
- Highlights: Visit Phraya Nakhon Cave, famous for its royal pavilion with sunlight shining through the cave’s roof.
- Tips: The best time to visit is the dry season (November to April). Wear good shoes for walking on rocky trails.
4. Khao Sam Roi Yot Mountains
- Distance: Near Sam Roi Yot National Park, about 3 hours from Bangkok.
- Why visit? Short trails that take you up limestone hills for amazing views of the sea and surrounding wetlands.
- Difficulty: Easy and good for beginners or families with kids.
- What to see: Beautiful views, many birds, and peaceful nature.
- Tips: Bring water and sun protection because parts of the trail are exposed to the sun.
5. Phu Kradueng National Park
- Distance: Around 5-6 hours from Bangkok, better for serious hikers.
- Why visit? Phu Kradueng is a mountain with many trails, waterfalls, and viewpoints.
- Trails: Hiking here is more difficult and longer, often requiring overnight camping on the mountain.
- Nature: The park has pine forests, misty mornings, and cool weather.
- Tips: This park is perfect if you want a real adventure and don’t mind rough trails.
6. Namtok Chet Sao Noi National Park
- Distance: About 1.5-2 hours from Bangkok.
- Why visit? It has a beautiful waterfall and a forest trail that is good for short hikes.
- Difficulty: Easy to medium, suitable for families and beginners.
- Highlights: Relax by the waterfall or walk on shaded forest paths.
- Tips: Visit during the rainy season for full waterfalls but be careful of slippery paths.
What to Bring on a Hiking Trip Near Bangkok
- Good walking shoes: Choose comfortable shoes with grip to avoid slipping.
- Water bottle: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Snacks: Bring light snacks like fruit, nuts, or energy bars.
- Sun protection: Wear a hat, sunglasses, and use sunscreen.
- Insect repellent: To keep mosquitoes and bugs away.
- Light jacket or raincoat: The weather can change quickly, especially in the rainy season.
- Backpack: Carry your things easily on your back.
- First aid kit: Include band-aids, antiseptic cream, and any medicines you need.
- Phone and camera: For safety and to capture beautiful moments.
Hiking Safety Tips
- Always hike with a friend or group for safety.
- Follow marked trails to avoid getting lost.
- Check the weather forecast before you go. Avoid hiking in heavy rain or storms.
- Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
- Take your trash with you. Keep nature clean.
- Listen to your body. Rest if you feel tired or dizzy.
- Respect the wildlife and plants. Do not disturb or feed animals.
Best Time to Go Hiking Near Bangkok
The best time to hike near Bangkok is during the cool season, which is from November to February. During these months, the weather is cooler and less humid. It is more comfortable for walking and outdoor activities.
Avoid hiking during the hot season (March to May) because temperatures can be very high. The rainy season (June to October) brings heavy rains and slippery trails, which can be dangerous.
How to Get to Hiking Spots from Bangkok
- By car: Renting a car or driving is the easiest way to reach many parks. It gives you freedom to stop and explore.
- By bus: Some parks have buses or vans from Bangkok. It’s cheaper but may take longer.
- By tour: Many companies offer day trips and tours that include hiking and transportation.
Conclusion
Hiking near Bangkok is a great way to explore nature, stay healthy, and take a break from city life. Whether you want a short easy walk or a longer adventure, there are many parks and trails close to the city.
Remember to prepare well, bring the right gear, and respect nature. Hiking will help you feel refreshed, see beautiful places, and enjoy Thailand’s wonderful outdoors.
Next time you want to escape the busy city, try one of these hiking spots near Bangkok. You will be surprised how close and easy it is to enjoy nature!
