Si Satchanalai National Park National Park

Address: Si Satchanalai National Park, Si Satchanalai District, Sukhothai Province, Thailand

Set in the hills of northwestern Sukhothai Province, this park covers just over 200 square kilometres and was designated a national park in 1981. It receives few visitors, making it an ideal place to escape the crowds at Sukhothai and spend a few days wandering nature trails. The terrain is very rugged, with hills ranging from 300 to 1,200 metres in height, and cliffs and waterfalls are common features.

The most dramatic waterfall is Nam Tok Huai Sai Khao, which tumbles into a deep pool about 3 kilometres from the park headquarters. Another draw is Thara Wasan Cave, just 1.5 kilometres from headquarters, with its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Accommodation is in cosy bungalows that sleep between two and eight people, set around a tidy lawn with a visitor centre and restaurant nearby.

Si Satchanalai National Park lies in Si Satchanalai District north of Sukhothai. The park is most easily reached by road from Sukhothai town (New Sukhothai/Sukhothai Airport area) - expect a drive of roughly 30-60 km depending on your starting point (under an hour by car in typical conditions). Local buses or songthaews run between Sukhothai and Si Satchanalai town; from Si Satchanalai town it’s a short drive to park entrances and trailheads.

• Visit in the rainy season (June-October) if your goal is waterfalls; go early in the day to avoid afternoon storms and muddy trails.
• Start at the main park entrance near Si Satchanalai town and consider combining the national park with Si Satchanalai Historical Park on the same trip.
• If you're after wildlife or birding, arrive at dawn and ask at the park office about quieter trails and recent sightings.