Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park Itinerary: Complete Travel Guide.

Hey!! What’s Up Dear? Thinking of visiting interesting places in Thailand? Then, Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park cannot be missed. We present itinerary plans with where, how, and cost details at your doorstep.

This 307 km² highland park is primarily located in Phitsanulok Province, around 130 kilometers from the city center. It stretches eastward into the provinces of Loei and Phetchabun, about 40 km from the Laotian border.

Overview of Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park

• Location:  Nakhon Thai District, Phitsanulok Province and Dan Sai District, Loei Province, Thailand.
• Area: 307 square kilometers (119 square miles).
• Elevation:  Ranges from 400 to 1,600 meters above sea level.
• Entrance fees:
  • Thai Citizens- Adults: 40 Baht, Children: 20 Baht
  • Foreign Visitors- Adults: 200 Baht, Children: 100 Baht
• Car Parking: 30 Baht
• History: Former stronghold of the Communist Party of Thailand (CPT) during the 1960s-1970s.
• Opening Hours: 6 AM to 6 PM
• Best Time to Visit: November-February 
• Visitor Facilities: Visitor center, museum, hiking trails, basic guesthouses & camping.

Map

About Phu Hin Rong Kla

Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park, nestled in Thailand’s mountains, is a unique blend of history and nature. Once a stronghold of the Communist Party of Thailand, the park now offers remnants like hideouts and a museum, alongside stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and diverse plant and animal life. Hike scenic trails, explore rock formations like Lan Hin Taek, and immerse yourself in this captivating park.

History of Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park

Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park has a complex history rooted in Thailand’s political struggles. During the 1960s and 1970s, the park’s remote mountains and dense forests made it an ideal base for the Communist Party of Thailand (CPT). The area witnessed intense fighting between the CPT and the Royal Thai Armed Forces. Later, a change in military tactics and cooperation with local hill tribes led to the CPT’s surrender in 1982. Just two years later, in 1984, Phu Hin Rong Kla was declared a national park, preserving its natural beauty and historic significance for future generations.

Wildlife

Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park in Thailand is a haven for a diverse range of wildlife.  The park’s varied terrain of rugged mountains, lush forests, and waterfalls provides habitats for a number of fascinating species.  While large mammals like tigers are now sadly rare due to pressures during the war years, visitors might still encounter some incredible creatures such as:

• Mammals: Leopards, leopard cats, Asian black bears, Asian golden cats, hog badgers, Indochinese serows, and barking deer.
• Birds: Phu Hin Rong Kla boasts an impressive collection of over 200 bird species. Some notable residents include the Siamese fireback, gray peacock-pheasant, Hodgson’s frogmouth, rusty-naped pitta, and the white-gorged flycatcher. 

The park is a great place to go birdwatching and experience the rich natural diversity of Thailand.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park depends on what you’re looking to experience:

• Coolest Weather:  November to February is the dry and cool season. Temperatures are pleasant for hiking and exploring the park’s historical sites.
• Flowers in Bloom:  If you want to see wildflowers at their peak, plan your trip during January or February.
• Waterfalls at their Best:  The rainy season is from July to October. This is when the park’s waterfalls will have the most impressive flow. Be prepared for rain and muddy trails.
• Avoiding Crowds:  The park is quietest on weekdays, especially during the shoulder seasons (March-June and September-October).

What to expect Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park

When visiting Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park, here’s what you can expect:

Rich History: The park was a significant stronghold for the Communist Party of Thailand (CPT) during the 1960s and 1970s. You’ll find remnants of this era, including:

• The CPT’s former headquarters
• A school for political and military tactics
• Lan Hin Taek, an area of rock formations where troops could hide from aerial attacks.

Beautiful Nature: The park’s diverse landscape includes rugged mountains, lush forests, and waterfalls. This provides a perfect setting for:

• Hiking and enjoying the natural beauty
• Birdwatching
• Spotting wildlife like macaques, barking deer, and various bird species

Waterfalls: There are several notable waterfalls in the park, including:

• Tat Mok Waterfall
• Romklao Waterfall
• Man Daeng Waterfall

Cool Climates: Located in the mountains, the park has cooler temperatures compared to the lowlands. It’s a great way to escape Thailand’s heat and humidity.

Visitor Facilities: The park has a visitor center, museum, camping grounds, and bungalows for rent.

2 days at Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park, including nearby attractions

Where to Stay

• Camping: Phu Hin Rong Kla offers a campsite with tents available for rent.
• Park Bungalows: The park provides bungalows at various price points. Reservations should be made in advance, especially during busy times.
• Resorts in Nearby Areas: Find resorts and hotels in Khao Kho or around Phu Thap Buek, depending on where you spend your afternoon on Day 2.

Where to Eat

• Park Restaurants: There are a few restaurants near the Phu Hin Rong Kla park entrance offering simple Thai meals.
• Local Restaurants Near Your Accommodation: Find local eateries wherever you choose to stay.

How to reach Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park

There are a few ways to reach Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park, each with its advantages:

By Air:

• Nearest Airport: Phitsanulok Airport (PHS). Several airlines, including Nok Air and Thai Air Asia, offer regular flights from Bangkok to Phitsanulok.
• From the Airport: Phu Hin Rong Kla is about a 2-hour drive from Phitsanulok Airport. You can:
  • Rent a car: For the most flexibility in exploring the park and surrounding areas.
  • Hire a taxi or private driver: A more convenient option if you don’t want to drive.
  • Take a Bus: (See the “By Bus” section for details)

By Bus:

• Phitsanulok: Buses depart regularly from Bangkok’s Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit) to Phitsanulok. The journey takes approximately 5-6 hours.
• From Phitsanulok to Phu Hin Rong Kla:
  • Direct buses: These depart from Phitsanulok Bus Terminal and go directly to Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park. The trip takes about 3 hours and is the most convenient option.
  • Local buses: You can take a bus from Phitsanulok to Nakhon Thai and then catch another bus or Songthaew (shared pick-up truck) to Phu Hin Rong Kla.

By Train:

• Phitsanulok: Take a train from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Railway Station to Phitsanulok. From Phitsanulok, follow the bus instructions above.

By Car:

• Road Trip: Phu Hin Rong Kla is accessible by car from both Bangkok and Chiang Mai, offering a scenic road trip option. The drive from Bangkok takes approximately 7-8 hours.

What to Carry:

• Hiking boots or sturdy shoes
• Sunscreen and hat
• Insect repellent
• Raincoat or poncho
• Water bottle
• Snacks and packed lunch (if needed)
• First-aid kit
• Camera
• Flashlight or headlamp

What to Avoid:

• Flip-flops or sandals
• Heavy luggage
• Excess valuables
• Loud music or disruptive behavior
• Littering