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Written by Moumita Dey
Co-written by Dawn Pillay

Take a trip into one of the lesser known regions of Thailand, Khao Yai, and dive right into the lush rainforest resorts available!

You’ll love Khao Yai for how it’s so distinctively Thailand, yet boasts its own unique charm – with really cute cafes and restaurants like the Ban Mai Chay Nam riverside museum/restaurant, and quirky attractions like the Tuscan Primo Piazza. And best of all? It’s only located a short 3 hours’ drive away from Bangkok.

bangkok to khao yai

Also read:

15 things to do in magical Khao Yai you never knew existed

14 unique cafes/restaurants in Khao Yai & Pak Chong you must visit

14 unique hotels in magical Khao Yai – 3 hours drive from Bangkok

When to travel to Khao Yai? (Tap to expand)

The best time to travel to Khao Yai would be during the winter season between November to February.

This is when the weather is absolutely perfect, and waterfalls actually have water in them. If you travel down outside of the winter season, the weather can get almost unbearably hot (not kidding at all)!

Getting to Khao Yai from Bangkok (Tap to expand)

1. By car:

– We highly recommend renting a car in Bangkok for your time in Khao Yai. Simply load the directions on GPS (or Google Maps on your phone). The journey is relatively straightforward, and will take up to 3 hours. The best part? Having a car will make exploring Khao Yai that much easier!
– When renting a car, make sure to check your rental car thoroughly – from ensuring that everything is working fine, to when it was last serviced.

2. By bus:

Make your way to Mo Chit Bus Station in Bangkok. There are several buses travelling to Pak Chong every half hour. Bus tickets will cost from USD $5. (Do double check that the bus you take stops at Pak Chong.)

3. By minivan:

The faster alternative, minivans located at Victory Monument travelling directly to Pak Chong leaves every 2 hours and cost from USD $5 per seat. Get to Victory Monument and find minivan companies on the south exit of the BTS skyline station, on the small stretch between Century Plaza and 7-eleven shop.

Resorts can also provide a one-way private minivan to pick you from your hotel in Bangkok for approximately USD $98 for up to 8 people.

4. By train:

The slowest way to get to Khao Yai, take the train from Hua Lampong Train Station in Bangkok Central to Pak Chong. Trains leave Hua Lampong Station for Pak Chong 4 times a day, and will take approximately 4-5 hours to reach. Tickets cost approximately USD $8 (depending on seat class)

(Make sure to pay a visit to the first national park of Thailand here, the Khao Yai National Park! The huge park sprawls over three western provinces of the Sankhamphaeng mountain range.

Interspersed by lofty mountain ranges, shimmering waterfalls, and wide grasslands, the National Park is a colorful sanctuary that includes Asian elephants and beautiful wild deer. We loved our time here and you will too!)

Without further ramblings, here you go with the best 12 rainforest resorts we’ve found in Khao Yai!

1. It’s the castle life for all kings and queens – Mövenpick Resort Khao Yai

Ever fancied living in a European castle of your own? Living the royal life is as simple as staying at Mövenpick Resort Khao Yai!

Photo by coffeoto

The gorgeous castle-like resort exudes a whimsical European elegance with a touch of countryside simplicity.

Newly opened, Mövenpick Resort Khao Yai boasts clean and spacious rooms featuring minimalist country chic furnishings – and is set amongst well manicured lawns great for romantic strolls and incredible OOTDs.

Photo via siriyathep, luckii.zhang, gibb_zaa

The grand accommodation also offers an on-site golf course for golfing enthusiasts, and a swimming pool for those who fantasise about spending days lounging by the pool.

Photo via visnie

Not to mention, it also comes with lovely mountain views! Needless to say, it definitely provides the perfect backdrop to a most relaxing vacation.

PS: Whichever room you choose, you’ll be well satisfied since every room is well decorated with attention to different details from fancy french windows to luxurious baths!

Photo via ooups_oil

Mövenpick Resort Khao Yai

Rate: From 4000 Baht / approx. USD $130
Address: 334 Moo 6, Tambon Wang sai, Amper Pak chong,Nakhon Ratchasima, 30130 Ban Wang Sai, Thailand (Coordinates here)

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2. It’s a baroque extravagance – Chateau de Khao Yai Hotel & Resort

Enjoy a stay steeped in baroque extravagance at Chateau de Khao Yai.

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Photo via scindyv

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Photos via paradee.p, n.sp_

Surrounded by lush greenery, this rainforest resort lets you enjoy views from right in the jacuzzi! Simply opt to stay at the Charlotte Room, and enjoy extravagance that extends all the way to bathtime with the jacuzzi with a view!

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Other facilities available in the resort are the fitness center, sauna, spa, outdoor swimming pool, hot tub, steam room, and even a tennis court.

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Photo via chompooooooooo

The residence also offers bicycle rentals for guests who want to explore the park by themselves. (We’d highly advice visitors to enter the park with an experienced guide!)

Chateau de Khao Yai comes complete with luxurious rooms, a banquet hall, and available arrangements for river rafting, mountain hiking, and trekking through forest trails – this is a good option for adventurers.

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For those looking to bring kids along, there’s a kiddy playground and swimming pool too. All in all, it is the lovely retreat for an enchanting vacation!

Chateau de Khao Yai Hotel & Resort

Rate: From 2500 Baht / USD $70
Address: 9 Moo18 Thamaprang-Nongkhum Road, Tambon Moosi, Pakchong District , Khao Yai National Park, Khao Yai, Thailand 30130
Contact: 044-929-929
Website

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3. It’s super quaint and starry – Sasima Moonlight Villa

The quaint Sasima Moonlight Villa is perfect for the cosiest retreat when you return after a weary day wandering through Khao Yai’s attractions.

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Photo via niznew

There are 2 things we love about this whimsically named villa – the Moonlight Villa that has access to the pool, and Garden Villa that looks out to a gorgeous lake view.

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Photo via eim over, petcha ploy

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Photo via fukohapp, mangmoommmm

Facilities in the villa grounds include a coffee shop, and a swimming pool! Spend a lazy day swimming and lounging by the crystal azure waters of the pool.

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Photo via neng ps, ladythanya

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Photo via babiesom

The villa is also adjacent to several local attractions such as the Khao Yai Art Museum, Khao Yai Panorama Farm, and the Sheep Land Farm – making it a convenient base to travel from and providing super accessibility to the town!

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Sasima Moonlight Villa

Rate: From 2009 Baht / USD $57
Address: 171 Moo 11 Kanhong Pra District, Khao Yai Thailand 30130
Contact: 090-353-3265, 090-353-3266, 091-832-6309
Website

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4. Enjoy a panoramic park view – Sala Khao Yai

For a panoramic view of the national park from your room, book a stay at one of the timber cottages of Sala Khao Yai.

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The boutique property offers excellent living facilities paired with most beautiful scenery – think amazing sunset views from various lounging spots around the property. From the pool to a secluded cosy hangout area, you’ll be able to indulge in private chill time with the views to boot!

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Photo via gif lee, tee rattanakul

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Photos via youpao, pookky_kovin

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Photo via bonusratgrao

The vaulted timber villas also come with secluded balconies, where guests can enjoy the magnificent panorama of this ancient rainforest land. If you’d like, make sure to opt for the private pool villas that come with a great view too!

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Photos via fonsutina, bommbamm

Other room features include private pools, sunken lounge rooms, and gorgeous bathrooms with a strict focus on seclusion and relaxation.

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Photo via joyjeeun36

In addition, you’ll enjoy access to a library or lounging poolside. The on-site restaurant also provides a good selection of food on the menu so you’ll never go hungry!

Perched on a scenic hilltop in the national park area, it is the best place for nature lovers as the resort offers guided tours of wild trails and mountain hikes along with tours to vineyards and golf courses.

Sala Khao Yai

Rate: From 9500 Baht / USD $269
Address: 99 Moo 11, Wangkata, Pakchong, Khao Yai National Park, Khao Yai, Thailand 30130
Contact: 66-89-846-0500
Website

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5. Living in a Luxurious Grassland Tent – Lala Mukha Tented Resort Khao Yai

Experience the romanticism of living in a luxurious tent at the foothills of Khao Yai looking out at the wonderful view of the Khao Yai wilderness. Lala Mukha is the perfect choice for travelers seeking to enjoy the most beautiful private moments.

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The accommodation is equipped with all the best facilities of modern living such as free WiFi, a bar, laundry service, and daily housekeeping.

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The outdoor swimming pool is an excellent place to spend a lazy day at – and you can also enjoy the most beautiful time of your life at the adjacent colorful garden.

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Photo via som pimpich

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Photo via P nuitetoile barbie jane

While the tents are set in the open, there is 24 hour security service. The 24 hour front desk is always ready to attend your queries and room service is available in both English and Thai.

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Lastly, its location at the foothills of Khao Yai makes it a great place to set off from and enjoy wildlife tours. However, visitors should take note never to visit the jungle alone without an experienced guide.

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Photo via Bestto321, lalizlizta.s

Lala Mukha Tented Resort Khao Yai

Rate: From 2269 Baht / USD $64
Address: 515 Moo. 5 Tambon Mu Si, Amphur Pakchong,, Khao Yai National Park, Khao Yai, Thailand 30130
Website

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6. Have a regal ride on the horses – D Varee Charnvee Khao Yai

The classy accommodation at D Varee Charnvee Khao Yai has been designed to provide guests with a luxurious abode.

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From the 2-bedroom villa that offers a relaxing balcony with a daybed looking out to serene lake views – to the direct pool access rooms with a little lounging nook right before you step out to the pool… D Varee Charnvee oozes luxury with thoughtful facilities like these.

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The residence has its own ranch with 20 horses. Enjoy the freedom of rainforest grasslands on the back of their trained horses – it makes for an unexpectedly regal experience!

The facilities also include an 18-hole golf course for those who can’t get enough of this sport, and a clubhouse to relax in.

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And when you’re hungry, you may dine at any of the two restaurants in the hotel or in the clubhouse. To make complete the experience, you may also opt for the private host service that is available for guided tours to nearby attractions like the Chok Chai Farm!

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D Varee Charnvee Khao Yai

Rate: From 2600 Baht / USD $74
Address: 333/2 Moo. 12 Khanongphra Pakchong Nakhonrachasrima, Khao Yai National Park, Khao Yai, Thailand 30130
Contact: 044-756-210-3
Website

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7. Get a taste of cottage life – Baan Phu Luang

Baan Phu Luang resort is the perfect place to enjoy your holiday in Khao Yai. Nestled in a lush valley – opt for the Mountain View Suite that will give you the perfect vantage point to admire Khao Yai’s dynamic landscape from the comfort of your stay.

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The cottage type accommodation offers a special living experience that would satisfy any traveller, and the rooms are well-equipped with a kitchenette and more to ensure a comfortable stay.

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In addition, room service is excellent!11-3-room

Strolling in the garden is a wonderful relaxing experience during your downtime – and the nearest attractions include Khao Paeng Ma, and Thanunporn Vineyard.

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And if you intend to bring your family here, you might be interested to know that there is a family room for those bringing the kids along!

Baan Phu Luang

Rate: From 2000 Baht / USD$ 57
Address: 88 Moo 5 T.Wang Nam Khieo A.Wang Nam Khieo, Wang Nam Khieo, Khao Yai, Thailand 30370
Website

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8. It’s a dreamy oriental experience – Kirimaya Golf Resort and Spa

In the evenings, when a dreamy yellow illumination surrounds the poignant oriental ambience of Kirimaya Golf Resort, you will find yourself falling in love with Khao Yai.

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Photo via iamnicknicky

Kirimaya Golf Resort is undoubtedly one of the best places to stay in terms of design. The resort embraces quaint naturalism through its décor and services. The naturalism extends even to the lovely pool that looks out to awe-inspiring views of the mountainous landscape.

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What else is there to do? Enjoy the exquisite Maya Spa and spend a glorious day at the Jack Niklaus golf course.

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Photo via iparty04, punchtossawan

The floors at Kirimaya are lined with water hyacinth rugs, and room facilities include a bamboo daybed. Stroll by thatched covered roadways and enter into dreamy spaces past exquisite hand-carved hardwood doors from India.3-4-Kirimaya-Golf-Resort-_-Spa

In keeping with the philosophy of natural dining, most of the food you’ll find here are grown in the resort’s own kitchen gardens. Sounds like an incredible back-to-nature experience,  no?

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Kirimaya Golf Resort and Spa

Rate: From 3440 Baht / USD $98
Address: 1/3 MOO 6 Thanarat Road Moo-Si, Pakchong, Khao Yai
Contact: +66 (0) 4442 6000
Website

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9. Nothing short of a grand stay at this vineyard guesthouse – Gran Monte Guesthouse

Located right in a vineyard, book one of the seven rooms in the Gran Monte Guesthouse and enjoy Tuscany-worthy vineyard views. You’re guaranteed to have a grand place to relax – after enjoying a day at the Khao Yai National Park!

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Located close to city attractions like the Secret Art Garden, and Bloom by TV Pool Garden, it’ll be easy to head out and enjoy your day in stunning Khao Yai.  It’s only 160 km from the town and with facilities like shuttle service, and car rentals available, it’s definitely one retreat with convenient options.

Once you’re at the guesthouse, free WiFi awaits, along with the shared lounge area complete with a TV. Other than that, rooms are equipped with LCD Plasma TV along with facilities such as refrigerator, coffee maker, and mini bar.

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And if you’re hungry but lazy to head out, don’t forget to stop by the on-site VinCotto Restaurant where daily complimentary breakfast is served!

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Photo via rang2

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PS: The residence also has special arrangements for disabled guests to ensure a comfortable stay for everyone.

Gran Monte Guesthouse

Rate: From 2815 Baht/ USD $80
Address: 52 Moo 9 T. Phayayen A. Pakchong, Khao Yai, Thailand 30320
Contact: +66 44 009 543
Website

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10. Great location coupled with great views! – Chantara Valley

The villas located in Chantara Valley offer visitors the perfect chance to enjoy the vastness of Khao Yai in private seclusion. Guests can enjoy the serenity of luxurious poolside stays, overlooking an amazing scenery of the ancient rainforest land.

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The animated website itself provides a glimpse of the magical experience you simply cannot miss in Khao Yai!

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The poolside bar at Chantara Valley is a favorite space to unwind, and guests can enjoy BBQ facilities for a complete group bonding experience too. If you’re bringing kids, there’s a theme park for the kiddos too – along with a kiddy pool.

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Other convenient facilities such as daily housekeeping, free WiFi, 24 hour security – and the resort’s own convenience store are available to help guests feel right at home.

Its proximity to Thanunporn Vineyard and Khao Paeng Ma also offers fantastic travel options, in case you were wondering!

Chantara Valley

Rate: From 2700 Baht / USD $77
Address: 115 Moo 15 Wang Nam Kiew, Wang Nam Khieo, Khao Yai, Thailand
Contact: 081-7777-580
Website

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11. Luxurious and oh-so-exclusive – The Private Pool Villas at Civilai Hill

Newly opened in 2014, The Private Pool Villas at Civilai Hill is the perfect base for a luxurious stay to come back to while exploring Khao Yai.

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The luxe villas are located on a hill with views of the mountainous Khao Yai kandscape – and have been specially crafted for leisure travelers, honeymoon couples, and families too.

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Photo by The Unique Collection

Trivia: These villas are inspired by the French countryside village of Provence!

Every villa comes with a Japanese bath, sauna and a private heated swimming pool that also features a waterfall and jacuzzi jets – not forgetting the large bathrooms with a huge Jacuzzi tub.

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If you’re looking for an accommodation that caters to your every need, you might want to consider a stay at one of these villas – especially since guests of each villa will be assigned a personal butler.

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From arranging local tours and activities, to customised services like private picnics and barbeques, you can be sure to have your every need well attended to.

The Private Pool Villas at Civilai Hill

Rate: From 8000 Baht / USD $220
Address: 495 Moo 7 Tumbol Nongsarai, Pakchong, Khao Yai National Park, Khao Yai, Thailand 30130
Contact: 66 (0) – 92 972 7529
Website

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12. A garden hotel with a great location – Na Ya Garden Hotel

At Na Ya, guests can look forward to intoxicatingly fresh air and the beautiful scenery of Khao Phaeng Ma.

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This garden hotel has six fantastic rooms designed to please both business and leisure travellers, and it provides easy access to all the activities due to its convenient location.

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The rooms come with free WiFi, comfortable air conditioning, refrigerator, LCD TV, balconies – basically everything you might be looking for in a comfortable stay.

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The hotel also offers a host of recreational amenities to enrich your Khao Yai travel experience!

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Na Ya Garden Hotel

Rate: From 2100 Baht/ 60 USD
Address: 229 Moo 3 Baan Klong Song T.Wang Nam Khieo, Wang Nam Khieo, Khao Yai, Thailand 30370
Contact: 081-590-1888, 084-945-2525 , 089-861-7273
Website

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13. It almost feels like a treehouse! – Steak Tonnam Boutique Hotel

This boutique hotel presents a wonderful staying  experience offering visitors the best from both worlds, urban and the wild.

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The overall architecture quaintly intertwines with natural elements such as trees that are maintained as a part of the room’s charm. You actually may feel like you’re living in a treehouse at some of the best rooms!

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Photo via takoomi09

In fact, the boutique residence follows a unique approach of keeping the experience subtly rustic. (This is probably the reason that unlike most other hotels, room wi-fi is not available here.)

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Each room offers modern facilities and come with separate balconies so you may enjoy the view while having a private moment all to yourselves!

Steak Tonnam Boutique Hotel

Address: 174 Moo.11 Korat-Kabin buri 304 Rd., T. Udomsub, Wang Nam Khieo, Khao Yai, Thailand 30000

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Special Mention: Embrace the flowery landscape – The Bloom Hotel

Can you envision living in a place surrounded by thousands of seasonal flowers in bloom? This amazing dream can be real only at the wonderful The Bloom Hotel in Khao Yai.

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This fantastic hotel ensures that guests have access to all the modern facilities of urban life while providing a surreal floral landscape.

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Photo via ladycatchy

The fully free WiFi zone makes sure that your friends back home are sharing the extraordinary experience with the most beautiful nature photos you can take!

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Other facilities include a coffee shop, a cool fitness center, a poolside bar, and great restaurants.

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Nearby attractions such as Gran Monte vineyard and the Secret Art Garden will help to complete your Khao Yai experience – and the hotel can also help to arrange wonderful tours with experienced professional guides to Khao Yai National Park!

The Bloom Hotel

Rate:
Address: 357 Moo 5 Tambon Prayayen Amphur Pakchong, Khao Yai National Park, Khao Yai, Thailand 30320
Contact: 02-733-9000 ext. 457
Website

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How great are these rainforest resorts in Khao Yai? We absolutely loved our time in Khao Yai and are sure you will too!

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PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you!
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