Khao Yai Tops National Park Visits Over New Year Holiday

A record-breaking start to 2026 for Thailand’s natural wonders

Thailand’s national parks welcomed a surge of visitors over New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, with more than 500,000 people exploring natural attractions, according to the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP). Khao Yai National Park emerged as the most popular destination on January 1, 2026, drawing 60,235 visitors, followed by Doi Inthanon and Khlong Lan.

The DNP reported that, despite free entry for Thai tourists, 107 parks still collected service fees, generating over 13 million baht in revenue. Across 156 national parks, staff responded to 43 incidents, including accidents and medical emergencies, ensuring visitor safety.

The festival atmosphere also benefited local businesses, with notable destinations such as Lacol Khaoyai attracting guests seeking premium experiences, alongside a range of accommodations from casual stays to a hotel in Khaoyai. Officials thanked visitors for practicing responsible tourism and urged careful planning for future park visits.