No forest in Central Thailand is as magnificent as the one found in Mae Wong National Park. Covering only two provinces—Kamphaeng Phet and Nakhon Sawan—this park is part of the most pristine area of forest in the western part of the country. Mae Wong National Park spans 558,750 rai (approximately 894 square kilometers) and is bordered by Khlong Lan National Park to the north, the Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary in Uthai Thani to the south, and the Um Phang Wildlife Sanctuary in Tak to the west. It was officially declared a national park on September 14, 1987. The majority of the park consists of deciduous forest, evergreen forest, and mixed deciduous forest, boasting numerous valuable tree species such as teak, rosewood, ironwood, rubber, and many others. Moreover, it is home to various rare wildlife, including wild elephants, gaurs, tigers, deer, mouse deer, bears, marbled cats, and over 305 bird species from 53 families. Some of these birds can only be found in a few select areas of Thailand, such as the giant black-and-white kingfisher, red-necked hornbill, whiskered treecreeper, green-eared barbet, and the long-tailed broadbill. The best time to visit is during the winter months from November to February. Recommended activities within the park include: - Enjoying small pleasures by the river at Kaeng Phakoi Nang, located 1,800 meters from the park headquarters. This site features large rocky rapids along the Khlong Khlung River. A 350-meter walk from here leads to the Phakoi Nang waterfall, a small four-tiered waterfall where you can also set up a campsite. - Taking in the stunning views of the surrounding forest at Kiu Khing Viewpoint, which is 81 kilometers from the park headquarters. Following the Khlong Lan-Um Phang road for approximately 16 kilometers will bring you to a cliff where you can walk and enjoy scenic views over the lush treetops. Camping is allowed in this area. - Ascending to the highest point of the Khlong Lan-Um Phang road to experience the cool mist and refreshing chill that can rejuvenate your spirit year-round. Chong Yen, at an elevation of 1,340 meters above sea level, is located at kilometer mark 93, 28 kilometers from the park headquarters, with an average temperature of 20 degrees Celsius. Don't miss the breathtaking sunset views. The area contains common damp forest, and you may spot rare orchids such as the eye-rolling lion orchid and the black giant fern. Birdwatchers can also find endangered species such as the red-necked hornbill and the Burmese pheasant-tailed jacana. There are accommodations and tent camping facilities available, but be sure to bring your own supplies, including plastic sheets, warm clothing, lanterns or flashlights (as there is no electricity), cooking gear (like a gas stove), insect repellent, and bags for waste disposal. Note that the route to and from "Chong Yen" is narrow and not suitable for two-way traffic; thus, the park has set specific times for ascending and descending: - Ascending: 5:00 AM - 6:00 AM, 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM, and 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM - Descending: 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, and 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM. - Enjoying various waterfalls, such as Mae Krasa Waterfall, which is the largest in the park with nine tiers and stands 900 meters tall, located about 18 kilometers away from the park headquarters. Mae Ri Wa Waterfall, approximately 21 kilometers from park headquarters, boasts five beautiful tiers. Mae Ki Waterfall is situated near Mae Ri Wa and Mae Krasa, originating from the Thanon Thong Chai mountain range. Nangle Waterfall and Tiger Waterfall are located at kilometer 99 on the Khlong Lan-Um Phang road, with Nangle requiring a 200-meter descent and Tiger requiring a one-kilometer walk. Note that both waterfalls necessitate notifying park staff beforehand. The park also offers a 6.4-kilometer nature trail to Nangle Waterfall and the Tharn Boon nature trail, which takes about two hours, allowing you to explore rare plant and bird species. - Experience the abundant fish at Kaeng Lan Nguang during dry season, where you'll find various species, particularly the hard-to-find bobber and the snakehead fish. **Important Tips:** Many jungle enthusiasts enjoy long-distance trekking in Mae Wong National Park. During the peak tourist season, the park establishes a yearly schedule for long-distance hikes that all visitors must adhere to. It's advisable to contact the park in advance to book your spot and seek guidance on how to prepare and what equipment to bring. Facilities such as accommodations and camping sites are available but must be reserved in advance for a fee of 1,000 baht. 1. From Nakhon Sawan, take Highway 1072 (Nakhon Sawan-Lad Yao-Khlong Lan) and follow Highway 1117 (Khlong Lan-Um Phang) to reach the park headquarters at kilometer 65. 2. From Bangkok, travel to Nakhon Sawan, then continue to Khuan Wilai and Khlong Lan, following Highway 1117. The total distance from Bangkok to Mae Wong National Park is approximately 386 kilometers.