Khao Phra Thaew Royal Wildlife Reserve
Wildlife Reserve Rainforest reserve on Phuket island, biodiversity hotspot
On Phuket’s interior, Khao Phra Thaeo holds primary rainforest, waterfalls and an interpretive center; visitors hike signed trails to see gibbons, birds and old-growth forest patches.
Khao Phra Thaew Royal Wildlife Reserve is a protected rainforest area on the island of Phuket, Thailand, protecting one of the last sizable tracts of evergreen forest on the island. The reserve is important for watershed protection, wildlife habitat and short rainforest hikes.
Within the reserve are several short trails that lead to waterfalls and freshwater pools, notably Bang Pae and Ton Sai, which are popular for day visits and short hikes. A gibbon rehabilitation project and local conservation programs operate in the area to rehabilitate rescued primates and support habitat protection.
Management focuses on maintaining forest cover, regulating visitor access on designated trails and supporting wildlife rehabilitation and education. The reserve lies in northeastern Phuket, in Thalang District, and is accessed by road from Phuket’s main towns.
- Forest remnant: The reserve comprises Phuket's last significant area of evergreen rainforest, with short, shaded trails suitable for half-day visits.
- Waterfall conditions: Visiting the waterfalls is easiest during and shortly after the rainy season when flows are strongest, but trails can be slippery; downstream pools are used for swimming when allowed.
What to See #
- Bang Pae Waterfall: The main waterfall trail leads to Bang Pae Waterfall, a perennial cascade within the reserve and a common short-hike destination for visitors.
- Ton Sai Waterfall: A smaller trail leads to Ton Sai Waterfall within the same forest block, providing additional swimming pools and shaded jungle paths.
- Gibbon rehabilitation: A long-running gibbon rehabilitation and rescue program operates within the reserve to care for rescued gibbons and support local conservation outreach.
How to Get to Khao Phra Thaew Royal Wildlife Reserve #
Khao Phra Thaew Royal Wildlife Reserve (Khao Phra Thaeo) is on northern Phuket island, adjacent to the Bang Pae Waterfall and the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project. From central Phuket Town it’s roughly a 20-25 km drive (about 30-45 minutes depending on traffic) along the main northbound roads; taxis or private cars are the most convenient option. Some local songthaew (shared pick-up) routes and tour operators also run from Phuket Town and popular tourist areas; once at the reserve’s parking areas the trailheads and visitor facilities are a short walk (a few hundred metres) from the drop-off points.
Tips for Visiting Khao Phra Thaew Royal Wildlife Reserve #
- Enter Khao Phra Thaeo via the Bang Pae trailhead for the most direct access to Ton Sai waterfall and the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project; the Bang Pae gate houses the ranger station and registration point.
- Visit at first light for the best wildlife activity and quieter trails - gibbons and many birds are most active early and midweek visits avoid weekend crowds.
- Check Gibbon Rehabilitation Project opening hours before you go and plan to stop at the project during your visit; follow ranger guidance and stay on marked trails to protect the reserve's fragile forest.
Best Time to Visit Khao Phra Thaew Royal Wildlife Reserve #
Plan visits in the dry season (November-April) when trails are drier and wildlife-spotting conditions are generally better.
Weather & Climate near Khao Phra Thaew Royal Wildlife Reserve #
Khao Phra Thaew Royal Wildlife Reserve's climate is classified as Tropical Monsoon - Tropical Monsoon climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 22°C to 33°C. Heavy rainfall (2542 mm/year), wettest in September with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). Moderate rainfall (35 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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February
February is hot, feeling like 30°C due to high humidity. Moderate rainfall (49 mm).
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March
March is hot, feeling like 31°C due to high humidity. Moderate rainfall (74 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is the hottest month, feeling like 32°C due to high humidity. Significant rainfall (157 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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May
May is hot, feeling like 31°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (261 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is hot, feeling like 30°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (263 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is warm with stifling humidity (dew point 25°C). Heavy rain (309 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is warm with stifling humidity (dew point 25°C). Heavy rain (388 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is warm with stifling humidity (dew point 24°C). The wettest month with heavy rain (418 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is warm with stifling humidity (dew point 24°C). Heavy rain (340 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is warm with stifling humidity (dew point 24°C). Significant rainfall (191 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 24°C). Moderate rainfall (57 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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