Thungyai Naresuan Wildlife Sanctuary

Thungyai Naresuan Wildlife Sanctuary is a large protected area in western Thailand that conserves extensive lowland and montane forest and associated wildlife. It is one of the country’s principal large-scale conservation areas and forms part of a transboundary forest complex of international conservation significance.

The sanctuary supports populations of wide-ranging large mammals and other species typical of mainland Southeast Asian forests, contributing to regional biodiversity and ecological connectivity. Access is controlled and limited to protect habitats and species, with regulated entry for researchers and authorised visitors.

Established in the 20th century to protect forests and wildlife under Thai conservation legislation, the sanctuary has been subject to ongoing management for anti-poaching, habitat protection and scientific monitoring. It is managed alongside adjacent protected areas to maintain landscape-scale conservation.

Thungyai Naresuan lies in western-central Thailand along the Tenasserim mountain chain, spanning a remote, forested region that is several hours’ drive from major provincial centers; its terrain includes valleys, ridges and river systems.

• UNESCO World Heritage: Part of the UNESCO-listed Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex together with neighboring reserves, recognised for high biodiversity including large mammals such as tiger and Asian elephant.

• Contact Thailand's Department of National Parks or the local park office well before travel: access into Thungyai Naresuan is controlled, remote, and often requires permits or arranging a guided visit.
• Plan for the dry season (roughly November-February) for easier access on forest roads and better wildlife viewing; many routes and ranger facilities are difficult or impassable in the rainy season.
• Don't expect tourist infrastructure-arrange local guides and logistics in advance and be prepared for multi‑day treks from the nearest towns, as many interior areas are only reachable on foot or by arranged transport.