Ramkhamhaeng National Park: Where Every Step Leads to Serenity

Bangkok Airways Round-Up

• Ramkhamhaeng National Park spans 341 square kilometers, making it a must-visit destination in Sukhothai. The highlight is hiking up Khao Luang, the highest mountain in the province. Stand high above the ground and admire the stunning view of Sukhothai. 
• Ramkhamhaeng National Park is a paradise for nature lovers. Whether you are looking for a day trip or an overnight stay, you’ll be captivated by the park’s vast landscapes and tranquil trails.

Into the Wild: Discover the Calm of Ramkhamhaeng National Park

Ramkhamhaeng National Park covers a vast area of Mueang Sukhothai District, Khiri Mat District, and Ban Dan Lan Hoi District. Stretching over 341 square kilometers, the national park is home to high mountains, cascading waterfalls, and lush rainforests. 

The mountain range at the park is teeming with life, boasting tall, green trees and a rich diversity of flora and fauna. The flourishing environment attracts abundant wildlife, making it a natural paradise for those seeking a calm getaway. From adventurous hiking trails to stunning waterfalls, this national park is a must-visit destination when exploring Sukhothai, Thailand. 

Bangkok Airways gathered the best 5 places to visit in the park in this comprehensive guide. Embark on a memorable journey and experience the pristine nature of Ramkhamhaeng National Park.

A Nature Lover’s Guide: 5 Best Things to Do in Ramkhamhaeng National Park

1. Khao Luang

Khao Luang is a popular mountain in Ramkhamhaeng National Park. It is also the highest peak in Sukhothai. Soaring 1,200 meters above sea level, it is the most prominent mountain that can be spotted from afar.

Consisting of four different peaks, Khao Luang offers stunning panoramic views of the park:

• Khao Phra Na Rai: Perfect sunrise spot in the early morning
• Khao Jedi: Incredible sunset spot in the evening
• Khao Phu Ka and Khao Phra Mae Ya: Ideal for embracing and immersing yourself in the lush greenery

The adventure begins with a 3.7-kilometer trail leading to the peak of the mountain.The incline ranges from 45 to 90 degrees and is considered safe, but caution is advised, especially during the rainy season. Depending on your fitness level and the weather, the hike may take approximately 3 to 4 hours to reach the summit. Starting at the visitor center, the hike is considered challenging due to occasional steep elevation and rugged terrain, but the breathtaking views are definitely worth the effort.

Along the way, there are signs indicating your progress until you reach the summit. Immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings as you trek on the rocky trail. The journey to the top is full of calmness, accompanied by the sound of nature, leading you to the stunning summit. 

At the top, there is a campsite where you can stay overnight, either in a tent or the park’s accommodation. Many hikers choose to stay overnight to explore the circular trail around a couple of peaks and admire the sunrise and sunset from the top of Khao Luang. Travelers are free to choose from renting the park’s accommodation or bringing their own tent. 

To make the hike more comfortable, the porters can bring your belongings to the campsite while you trek your way up the mountain. Surrounded by untouched nature, this is the perfect place for all nature lovers, from observing the giant trees in the thick forest to taking in the serene atmosphere. 

Tips:

• The trail is open from 8.00 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. Start the hike early to ensure you finish before dark.
• Contact the National Park before the hike.
• Bring enough food and water for the hike, and wear sturdy hiking shoes for the best experience.

2. Lum Kliao Waterfall

Lum Kliao Waterfall is a medium-sized waterfall that flows year-round. Surrounded by mixed deciduous forests and dry evergreen forests, the atmosphere here is cool and shaded, allowing you to unwind and enjoy the peaceful nature.

Located 20 kilometers from the national park headquarters, Lum Kliao Waterfall is one of the most popular natural attractions in Sukhothai. This three-tiered waterfall can be enjoyed by trekking to the different levels of the falls or just relaxing while gazing at the stream. 

To explore all the tiers, the first level is a 1,100-meter walk, the second is a 1,200-meter walk, and the last is a 1,300-meter walk. With crystal clear water and flourishing forests all around, the weather at the waterfall is nice and cool. Experience the beauty of Lum Kliao Waterfall by trekking and listening to the sound of the forest.

3. Klong Khang Nai Reservoir

Also known as Tha Din Daeng Reservoir, Klong Khang Nai Reservoir is a small water storage area at the foot of Khao Luang. The reservoir can be reached by following a smooth road that stretches along the ridge of the dam. 

Enjoy the cool mountain breeze as you take in the sweeping views of lush, green fields. The captivating scenery stretches across a vast area, creating a peaceful atmosphere ideal for relaxation. The reservoir is a perfect place to unwind as you sit and admire the clear water with a majestic backdrop of Khao Luang.

Tips:

• Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy the sunset as it disappears behind the mountain.
• Bring your own food to have a picnic while soaking in the calm surroundings at the reservoir.

4. Sai Rung Waterfall

Sai Rung Waterfall is one of the most famous natural attractions in Sukhothai. Located around 40 kilometers from the Ramkhamhaeng National Park, the waterfall is surrounded by a flourishing mixed deciduous forest.

As the largest and most beautiful waterfall in the park, Sai Rung Waterfall is a must-visit destination with four tiers to explore. The highest tier offers the most stunning scene and can be reached by trekking 2 kilometers upstream. Starting from the park ranger station, you can hike to all four tiers of the waterfall by walking 880 meters, 960 meters, 1,160 meters, and 1,200 meters, respectively. Walk through the forest as you explore the serene nature and take in the beauty of Sai Rung Waterfall. 

At the base of the waterfall, there is a big pool where you can dip in and swim around to enjoy the clear water. The best time to witness a breathtaking sight of the waterfall is between 11.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m., when the sunlight strikes the rocky formations and water cascades down the cliffs, creating a shimmering scene with a glimpse of a rainbow that will leave you in awe.

5. Hin Rang Waterfall

Hin Rang Waterfall is located approximately 2 kilometers away from the Ramkhamhaeng National Park headquarters. Discover this hidden small waterfall that flows over rocky boulders into streams. 

Walk through the mixed deciduous forest and follow the Khlong Phra Ruang Nature Trail to find the Hin Rang Waterfall nestled in the middle of the forest. This hidden waterfall is also an important water source for wild animals and local communities in the area. The cascading water can be seen only in the rainy season between August and October.

Best Time to Visit Ramkhamhaeng National Park

Ramkhamhaeng National Park is open year-round, offering different landscapes in each season. The best time to explore nature at its most vibrant is from June to October.

• November to February (Winter Season): The weather is at its coolest, with the temperature ranging from 19 to 32 degrees Celsius. Enjoy the refreshing breeze as you explore the dense forest and vast area of the park.
• March to May (Summer Season):  The temperatures can reach up to 40 degrees Celsius during the day in this period. Typically, the park might be closed for the annual nature restoration. Please check the park announcement before traveling. 
• June to October (Rainy Season): This is the best period to visit the park. Waterfalls are full of water cascading down the cliffs, while morning mist blankets the sky and the forests flourish in vibrant green. The weather is comfortable with an average of 27 degrees Celsius. However, be careful of the gushing water and contact the national park for safety precautions before hiking.

Entrance Fees & Opening Hours for Ramkhamhaeng National Park

Opening hours: Daily, 8.00 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.

Entrance fees:

• Thai – Adult 40 baht, Child 20 baht
• Foreigner – Adult 200 baht, Child 100 baht

Other fees:

• Hiking porter – 25 baht per kilogram of belongings

How to go to Ramkhamhaeng National Park

If you are traveling from Bangkok, the fastest way is to take a direct flight to Sukhothai with Bangkok Airways. In about 1 hour and 20 minutes, you will arrive at your destination with ease. After a comfortable flight, you can take public transport or rent a car to head straight to Ramkhamhaeng National Park.

• By car: From Sukhothai, follow Highway 101 to Khiri Mat district. Continue for about 20 kilometers, and  you will find the park at KM 414.
• By public transport: Hire a local tuk-tuk or motorbike taxi from Sukhothai City  directly to Ramkhamhaeng National Park.

FAQs About Ramkhamhaeng National Park

Discover More Travel Destinations in Sukhothai, Thailand

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• Inspiring Things to Do in Sukhothai, Thailand’s First Capital

Discover the Wild Beauty of Sukhothai with Bangkok Airways

Escape the bustling city and allow yourself to relax and unwind at Ramkhamhaeng National Park. Walk through the rugged trails amidst the forest and cool off at the hidden cascading waterfalls. If you are looking for a challenge, climb the highest mountain in Sukhothai and conquer the peak of Khao Luang. Get ready to fly with Bangkok Airways and start your incredible adventure with comfort and seamless service.

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