The park's namesake, Thung Salaeng Luang, refers to a specific grassland area that looks like an open field, contrasting with typical Thai jungle terrain.
The Khek River rafting season is restricted to the rainy season when water levels are high enough for navigation.
The park is home to a unique species of pine, the Pinus merkusii, found in the highland savanna sections.
It covers two distinct provinces, Phetchabun and Phitsanulok, making it one of the largest national parks in Northern Thailand.
The Nong Mae Na zone is the most accessible part of the park for casual hikers and campers.
Thung Salaeng Luang National Park is a massive protected area spanning 1,262 square kilometers across Phetchabun and Phitsanulok provinces. It is distinct for its savanna-like landscape, dominated by grasslands rather than dense rainforest. The park features the Thung Nang Phaya grasslands, a rare ecosystem in Thailand that turns golden during the dry season. Visitors engage in mountain biking, trekking, and whitewater rafting along the Khek River. The park serves as a habitat for diverse wildlife, including wild elephants, barking deer, and various hornbill species. It is a popular destination for camping, with designated zones in the Nong Mae Na area. The park's elevation ranges from 480 to 1,028 meters above sea level, contributing to a cooler climate than the lowlands. Whitewater rafting is primarily conducted on the Khek River, known for its challenging rapids categorized from level 3 to 5.
The viewpoint at Thung Nang Phaya during the golden hour provides an expansive view of the open grasslands.
Rent a mountain bike to explore the flat trails surrounding the savanna grasslands.
If planning to go whitewater rafting, ensure you schedule your trip during the monsoon months.
Bring a high-quality raincoat and waterproof gear if visiting during the rainy season.
Attempting to hike deep into the savanna without a park ranger guide, as the terrain is expansive and easy to lose orientation.
The Khek River rafting activity is seasonal and typically closed during the dry season due to insufficient water levels.
Avoid loud noises to prevent disturbing wildlife; do not collect plants or rocks; pack out all personal trash.
