This national park north of Lampang covers 1284 square kilometers, and actually extends through Lampang, Ngao, Mae Moh, and Chae Hom districts.
There are a wide variety of landscapes through the park, with altitudes ranging from 280m to 1,253m above sea level, with the highest point being Doi Mae Khwan peak, near the border of Phayao Province.
Tham Pha Thai (tham means ‘cave’) is one of the most convenient sights to access from park headquarters, and a beautiful arrangement of stalactites and stalagmites can be seen through the one kilometer stretch leading from the entrance. This beauty can only be outdone by Lhom Phu Kaew, where the view of the large crater makes you wonder if you’re looking down on a volcano set to erupt.
This park, visited by thousands of visitors annually, also has water attractions. Kiw Lom Dam Lake is 34kms north of Lampang, and is easily accessible on boat excursions, with floating raft houses that allow you to stay the night if you find you want to stay here awhile. There is plenty of wildlife here as well, including wild boar, porcupines, moles, rabbits, and even monkeys. If you find you’ve had enough observing nature, you can take some time to immerse yourself in it by taking in a rafting or canoeing trip, go swimming or kayaking, and even enjoy getting wet underneath one of the many beautiful waterfalls.
The best time to enjoy the park is between November and February.
Getting There
65kms north on Highway 1 from Lampang, via taxi or bus for around 1 hour.
Need to Know
- What is it? A huge national park in the northwest part of Thailand, near Lampang.
- Opening hours: 06:00-18:00 daily.
- Entrance fees: 200 baht (adults), 100B (kids)
- Where: north of Lampang, also within Muang, Chae Hom and Ngao districts.