🔄 Updated 21 Jun 2026
Most people enter Khao Yai through the Pak Chong gate in Nakhon Ratchasima, but the national park actually has two ways up and down. The other one is the Noen Hom gate in Mueang Prachinburi district. The charm of going up the Prachin side is Route 3077, which climbs through orchards and viewpoints before reaching highlights like Heo Narok Falls ahead of the crowds. Once you cross the ridge, you can drop straight down to Pak Chong. So this trip suits anyone who wants to make the most of an underrated province like Prachin first, then tack Khao Yai onto the same trip.
Before you set off
During the rainy season (June–October), the climb up the Prachin side is steep and slippery, so use a vehicle with brakes and tyres in good shape. Check with the park beforehand whether the cross-route to Pak Chong is open at that time, since some stretches close for repairs or due to weather.
Route overview
From Bangkok, take Highway 33 (Suwannason) toward Nakhon Nayok–Prachinburi and spend a day in Prachin town, sleeping the first night in town or around Noen Hom. The next morning, from the Noen Hom junction turn onto Highway 3077 and climb up Khao Yai, passing Dasada Gallery before reaching the Prachinburi gate, stopping at Heo Narok Falls, then crossing the ridge down to the Pak Chong side in Nakhon Ratchasima. A 3-day, 2-night trip is the most relaxed, but if you only have 2 days you can trim the Prachin town part to keep it tight.
- Bangkok → Mueang Prachinburi — about 130 km, 2–2.5 hr drive on Highway 33
- Prachin town → Noen Hom junction → Khao Yai gate (3077) — about 25–30 km, but the climb takes longer than the distance suggests
- Prachin gate → Pak Chong (crossing the ridge) — a long drive inside the park with several stops along the way before dropping to the Korat side
Book the activities in your Prachinburi trip ahead
Booking online ahead on Klook or GetYourGuide is usually cheaper than the gate and skips the queue. Pick only the experiences you actually want — prices and availability are shown live on each site.
Day 1 — Around Prachin town
Mueang Prachinburi · herbs and history
The first day is deliberately easygoing — no rush, because day two takes some effort driving up the mountain and walking to the falls. Half a day to a full day is enough for Prachin town. If you arrive late from Bangkok, you can cut it down to Abhaibhubejhr plus Wat Kaeo Phichit and then head to your accommodation.
Day 2 — Up Khao Yai from the Prachin side
Noen Hom → Prachin gate → Heo Narok Falls
What to know about Khao Yai
The park adjusts opening hours, routes and attractions depending on the season and forest conditions. At times Heo Narok Falls closes for safety. Before you go, check announcements from the Department of National Parks or the official Khao Yai National Park page, and leave extra time over long weekends since cars queue a while at the gate.
Day 3 — Around the Pak Chong side
Pak Chong · vineyards, cafes, souvenirs
Can you do it in 2 days?
Yes. If you only have a Saturday–Sunday, trim Prachin town down to just Abhaibhubejhr in the morning, then climb Khao Yai from the Prachin side in the afternoon. Sleep one night on the Pak Chong side, and on day two visit a vineyard or cafe before heading back. That way you get both the underrated province and Khao Yai in one trip without wearing yourself out.
3 days, 2 nights (most relaxed)
A full day in Prachin town, the climb on day two, and Pak Chong on day three. Good for families or anyone who likes to travel in detail.
2 days, 1 night (a bit rushed)
Keep Prachin town short, focus on climbing Khao Yai from the Prachin side and dropping into Pak Chong. Good for a weekend trip.
Prep & things to watch out for
- Vehicle — the climb up the Prachin side is steep, so check your brakes and tyres. If you're not used to mountain roads, drive slowly and use a low gear on the way down.
- Time — allow for queues at the gate over long weekends, and Heo Narok Falls is about a 1 km walk in, so the round trip takes a fair while.
- Wildlife — there are elephants and other animals crossing the road in the park. Drive slowly, keep your lights on, don't honk to scare them off, and never feed them.
- Weather — the rainy season has lovely views but slippery ground, so pack a rain jacket and shoes with good grip. Late rainy season into early cool season is the best weather.
Want a place to stay on the Prachin side before the climb? Check out our hand-picked options.
See Top 10 stays in Prachinburi →