33 Things to Do in Khao Yai: Explore Thailand's Mini Europe Only 2.5 Hours From Bangkok!

Grace Oktaviani

Last updated 6 Apr 2024

Best Things to Do in Khao Yai

Welcome to Thailand’s very own mini Europe – Khao Yai. It may not snow during the winter here, but you can find everything else (yes, even the cool weather!) in this idyllic city just 2.5 hours from Bangkok.

From vineyards and wine-tasting sessions to a Tuscan-themed village and national parks, it’s the perfect city to explore with your loved ones. There are also tons of cafes and restaurants serving both Thai and Western delights, as well as unique stays for those looking to spend a couple of nights here.

Interested in finding out more about this picturesque escape near Bangkok? Read on and find out all about the best 33 things to do in Khao Yai - and get inspired for your next European-themed trip to Thailand!

Planning Your Trip to Khao Yai

The only way to reach Khao Yai from Bangkok is by car. As such, we highly recommend booking a private car charter so you can tour around the city hassle-free.

For further peace of mind during your travels, remember to book your other travel essentials like travel insurance and local SIM card too!

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Hotels

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👉🏼 Things to Do in Khao Yai

Explore the various must-visit spots in Khao Yai to take your loved ones too, from sunflower fields and Italian-style villages to a UNESCO geopark with dinosaur fossils and prehistoric cliff drawings!

1. PB Valley Vineyard and Winery

If you thought wine was only produced in cold European countries, think again! PB Valley Vineyard and Winery is the largest vineyard in Khao Yai and the birthplace of the Khao Yai wine production.

Here's where you can take a tour of Khao Yai's Tuscan-like vineyard, and learn about the process of wine-making with a wine tour that will take you through the delicate steps of producing locally brewed wine.

The highlight, of course, is the wine-tasting session, where you can try their renowned white, red and rose wine – or their pure Shiraz grape juice for the alcohol-free drinkers!

Address: 102/2 Moo5, Mitraparp Road Payayen Pakchong Nakhon Ratchasima 30320, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Daily from 9am to 8pm (Winery tours at 9.30am, 11am, 1.30pm, and 3pm)

Book Your PB Valley Vineyard and Wine Tasting Tour Here!

2. High Tea and Rose Spa at Thames Valley

Head over to the beautiful Thames Valley and pamper yourself with an English-themed royal treatment.

The iconic English bridges and castle-esque buildings here may only be accessible by hotel guests, but you can still duck into the cafe and enjoy their Afternoon Tea Set, which comes with finger sandwiches, cakes and a pot of tea perfect for sharing.

You can also book a session at the Rose Spa and enjoy a full-course spa treatment complete with a body scrub and milk or salt bath to further unwind.

Address: 999 Mu Si, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30450, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Daily from 11am to 9pm (restaurant) and 10am to 9pm (spa)

Book Your Stay at Thames Valley Khao Yai Here!

3. Primo Piazza

Primo Piazza is a cute replica of a Tuscan village and you'll feel just like you're in Europe with its Tuscan-style architecture reminiscent of a European countryside village.

Other than taking pictures, you can also stroll around the pretty village, meet the llamas and feed goats and horses!

Address: 200/2 หมู่ที่ 10 Mu Si, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Daily from 9am to 6pm

4. Khao Yai National Park

Whether you’re looking to do some outdoor activities or revel in the natural landscape, Khao Yai National Park has it all.

Encompassing forest and grassland areas, choose from biking and hiking trails, waterfalls, and reservoirs, or even take a wildlife tour and explore nature’s beauty as its finest.

Address: PO.9 Pak Chong, Musi Pakchong, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand 30130 (Map)
Opening hours: Daily from 6am to 6pm

Book Your Khao Yai National Park Tour Here!

5. Farm Chokchai

Learn first-hand how milk products like ice cream and milk are produced by taking a farm tour at Farm Chokchai. Here, you’ll visit the barns where the cows live before seeing how milk is processed into ice cream (sold under the local brand Umm! Milk).

There’s also a cowboy show and pet show you can see here, as well as a steak and burger restaurant you can visit after the tour. Don't forget to check out the souvenir store before you leave too!

Address: 169 หมู่ที่ 2 Thanon Mittraphap, Nong Nam Daeng, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Mon-Fri from 9am to 4.30pm, Sat-Sun & PH from 9am to 5pm

6. Ban Tha Chang Spring

Here's where you can swim in a natural turquoise spring pool surrounded by trees that feel like a mystical fairy pond in the middle of a forest at Ban Tha Chang Spring.

The water is also so clear that you can see the rocks at the bottom of the pool! But if you don’t want to swim or take a dip, you can also opt to kayak or stroll around the area instead.

Address: Soi DPT., Mu Si, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Daily from 8.30am to 4.30pm

7. Jim Thompson Farm

Most people visit Khao Yai for its sunflowers, but at Jim Thompson Farm, you’ll not only find sunflowers but other glorious flower fields you can take a stroll in and get some of your best shots at.

You can also take a glimpse at how this famous Thai silk brand produces its silk, as well as purchase fresh produce before you leave the farm!

Note: Jim Thompson Farm only opens for one month from December to January during the flower blooming season. Visit their website to check out the exact opening dates.

Address: 2072, Takhop, Pak Thong Chai District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30150, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: December to January (please check their website for the specific dates and opening hours)

8. Scenical World

Similar to Siam Park City in Bangkok, Scenical World comprises both an amusement park with dry rides like roller coasters and a water park with kid-friendly swim areas and thrilling water slides.

With tons of rides available for various age groups, it's great fun for everyone!

Address: 777 Moo 5 Thanaratch Rd, Mu Si, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30450, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Thu-Tue from 10am to 6pm (Closed on Wednesdays)

Book Your Scenical World Water Park Khao Yai Tickets Here!

9. Secret Art Garden

How about taking a trip to this hidden art gallery in a forest? Secret Art Garden has been established since 1984, and this is where you'll be able to discover numerous artworks displayed inside the house, with paintings covering entire walls.

At this hidden art garden in the middle of an artificially-made forest, you can also unleash your creativity by painting pots outside the cafe, while soaking in all the artsy vibes at their cafe - which offers light refreshments and meals like Carbonara.

Address: Moo 9 99 Klang Dong, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Fri-Mon from 9am to 5pm (Closed every Tue-Thu)

10. Bonanza Exotic Zoo

Are you an animal lover? Then you’ll love it here at Bonanza Exotic Zoo with tons of animals to check out, including giraffes, orangutans, horses, pigs, and even birds. You’ll have to walk quite a bit in the zoo though, so be sure to wear proper shoes if you're planning to explore this zoo!

Address: 236, Khanong Phra, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Daily from 9am to 5pm

11. Khorat Geopark

Not just your regular national park, what’s unique about Khorat Geopark - a UNESCO Global Geopark - is that it’s home to numerous fossils of prehistoric animals, including four dinosaurs, as well as prehistoric cliff drawings dating back to 4,000 years ago!

It also consists of many historical sites like Prasat Hin Phanomwan (a Khmer-style Hindu temple) and the remains of the Sema ancient city.

Address: สถาบันวิจัยไม้กลายเป็นหินฯ บ้านโกรกเดือนห้า, อำเภอเมือง 30000 Suranari, Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Tue-Sun from 9am to 4pm (closed every Mon)

12. Khao Yai Farm Village

Looking for a family-friendly attraction to bring your kids to (or even go on a fun date at)? Look no further than Khao Yai Farm Village!

There are many family-friendly activities that families and young kids can partake in - such as feeding rabbits, riding horses, milking cows, and joining art and cactus workshops.

Address: Moo 7 16 Khanong Phra, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Daily from 8am to 5pm

13. Hokkaido Flower Park

Treat yourself to a variety of sweet floral scents at Hokkaido Flower Park, with plenty of flower varieties and colours covering the entire field - making it totally IG-worthy!

And when you’re ready to take a break (but not so eager to leave yet), take some time to kick back and relax at the small Japanese-themed cafe located on the grounds of the flower park.

Address: Mu Si, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Mon-Sat from 7.30am to 6pm & Sunday from 7.30am to 5pm

14. Evergreen Khao Yai

Not a big fan of strawberries? Try mulberries instead! Pick as many of these small dark red and black berries as you want from the trees and pay based on their weight at Evergreen Khao Yai.

You'll also get to try their mulberry juice – they sell them in bottles too - so if you love the juices, be sure to stock up on some bottles to bring them back home!

Note: Other than Evergreen Khao Yai, you can also visit Mulberry Khao Yai for mulberry picking if the former is closed.

Address: Mu Si, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Daily from 10am to 4pm

15. The Birder’s Lodge Farmer’s Market

With the barn fully covered with plants (and stunning yellow flowers if you’re lucky and they're in season!), The Birder's Lodge Farmer's Market is the perfect spot to take great pictures for your social media feed.

There are also numerous agricultural produce and homemade products for sale in this farmer's market – so you can easily shop all the organic and local products you'd like.

Address: Mu Si, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Friday from 10am to 6pm, Saturday from 9am to 7pm, Sunday from 9am to 6pm

16. Thong Somboon Club

Looking to get an adrenaline rush? The 17 activities available at Thong Somboon Club are perfect for thrill seekers!

From go-karts and ATVs to horse-riding, flying fox and more, spend an exciting afternoon trying all kinds of fun activities. And don’t miss out on the heart-shaped tree in the middle of the spacious green field too – it makes for great photos and a resting spot!

PS: They also have accommodation available, for those wanting to stay here overnight.

Address: 119 Moo 10 Pak Chong, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Mon-Fri from 9am to 6pm, Sat-Sun from 8.30am to 6pm

Book Your Stay at Thong Somboon Club Here!

17. Rancho Charnvee Khao Yai

There's plenty to do over at Rancho Charnvee Khao Yai. First, choose your red, blue, or green classic electric car and zip around the country club in antique cars, tandem or solo as you pass by trees and English-style buildings in the vehicle of your choice.

If that’s not enough fun, play a game at the golf course, go horseback riding, ride on ATVs, or even just cycle around the country club while enjoying the breeze and picturesque views.

And when you find yourself running low on energy, stop by the cafe and recharge with your favourite drink!

Address: 333/2 Moo 12 Khanong Phra, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Do call to check for specific opening hours for the activity of your choice!

Book Your Stay at Rancho Charnvee Khaoyai Here!

18. Special Mention: The Verona at Tub Lan

Although located 2 hours from Khao Yai, you’ll regret it if you don’t make time to stop by this gorgeous mini Italian-inspired village!

At The Verona at Tub Lan, walk across the lake on a beautiful bricked bridge and roam around the piazza - just like how Romeo and Juliet did on their secret dates around Verona.

Don’t miss out on the flower gardens too, filled with white, yellow, and many other coloured flowers. And if you can’t bear to leave, you can always spend a night at the hotel here.

Address: 270 Bu Phram, Na Di District, Prachin Buri 25220, Thailand (Map)

👉🏼 Places to Eat in Khao Yai

Discover the best eateries to visit in Khao Yai, from IG-worthy cafes to vintage Thai restaurants!

19. Midwinter Green

Dine on castle grounds and feast on delicious pizza and other Western dishes at the beautiful Scandinavian castle settings of Midwinter Green.

Serving Western and Thai fare like B.B.Q. Pork Rib and Pad Thai - you may opt to dine at the outdoor grounds or within the castle, although we recommend dining outdoors to fully enjoy the vast ground views and cool breeze.

Address: 88 88 Moo 10 Thanaratch Rd, Nong Nam Daeng, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Daily from 10am to 10pm

20. PenLaos Restaurant

Try this Michelin-awarded Isaan cuisine in Nakhon Ratchasima at PenLaos Restaurant - especially if you're looking for spicy Thai dishes generously topped with flavourful herbs and spices.

For those that can stand the heat, try one of their spicy Thai salads with your favourite toppings, and for non-spicy eaters, they also have options like Korat fried noodles and crispy fried pork belly!

Address: 56 Moo 17 Thanaratch Rd, Mu Si, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30450, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Mon-Thu from 9.30am to 6pm, Fri-Sat from 9.30am to 8pm, Sundays from 9.30am to 7pm

21. Fairy’s Scone House Khao Yai

Walk into a fairytale at Fairy's Scone House Khao Yai and spend your afternoon at this homey fairytale cottage with some hot tea and their signature scones.

Enjoy your drinks and bites with the soothing background sounds from the water fountain and lush views of the surrounding greenery. And don't forget to order some desserts like cake and ice cream if you've got a hankering for something sweet!

Address: ถนน โยธาธิการ นครราชสีมา 2049 Nong Nam Daeng, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Mon-Fri from 8.30am to 5.30pm, Sat-Sun from 8.30am to 6.30pm

22. Journey Cafe

Nope, you’re not anywhere near the Mediterranean coast, but with the palm trees, green and white-themed seating areas, and inviting pool set in the middle of Journey Cafe, it definitely feels like you might just be in a beach house located somewhere in the Mediterranean!

Try one of their signature drinks, such as Roasted Mali Blue, and Into the Wild fruit smoothie as you relax here. You can also try one of their 11 signature cocktails like In The Jungle and Wild Flower from their cocktail bar – the first of its kind in Khao Yai!

Address: 369/42 Moo.4 Tanarat Rd., Tambol Mu si Mu si, khaoyai, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Mon-Thu from 10am to 10pm, Fri-Sun from 9am to 10pm

23. Baan Mai Chay Nam

We've been to Baan Mai Chay Nam ourselves, and we can fully vouch for this cool vintage riverside restaurant - the food's great (that pineapple fried rice... MMMMM 🤤) and the ambience is pretty unique too.

Here you'll find yourself surrounded by antique items, old telephone boxes, and statues as you savour the tranquil atmosphere while tucking into steaming Massaman curry, Gai Yang (grilled chicken), and many other Thai delicacies - alongside the river!

Address: 21 หมู่บ้านเกาะแก้ว Pak Chong, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Daily from 9am to 9pm

24. Krua Nan Nam

You’ll love the Thai food here at Krua Nan Nam, whether you choose to get Green Curry, Pad Thai, or any other Thai dishes. But what’s better is its relaxing atmosphere beside the river, with trees gently swaying in the breeze – you’ll find your dining experience unforgettable!

If you can’t bear to leave, you can also opt to stay at the resort situated on the premises.

Address: 109/1 ถนน มิตรภาพ หนองสาหร่าย Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Daily from 10am to 9.30pm

25. Pirom Cafe

Need your daily dose of caffeine or perhaps looking for a refreshing ice blended drink made of Shiraz grapes after your day of exploring Khao Yai?

Visit Pirom Cafe where you’ll find lovely green views that look just a tad like the iconic green tea fields at Jeju with bushes perfectly trimmed and lined up. Set against the mountainous backdrop and with wide lake views, the scene is utterly picturesque and simply daydream-worthy.

Address: 234 Pirom Cafe, Phaya Yen, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30320, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Daily from 8.30am to 5pm

26. The Witches Brew Khao Yai

Spend a great evening at The Witches Brew Khao Yai, located in front of a vast field (of flowers, if it's in season!). Offering loads of Western food options from grilled ribs and sausages to good ol’ spaghetti and pasta - top off your meal with a refreshing drink, sit back and unwind!

Address: Thanarad Road Moosi, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Sun-Thu from 11am to 10pm, Fri-Sat from 11am to 11pm

27. Pak Chong Night Market

No one does authentic local snacks better than the stalls at the markets, and that’s exactly what you can expect to find here at Pak Chong Night Market!

Discover light snacks like mini crepes as well as grilled river prawns and crispy fried pork belly. Other than food, there are also a few stalls selling the usual Thai night market merch such as graphic t-shirts and cartoon bags.

Address: Tambon Pak Chong, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Daily from 5pm to 10pm

28. Please Don’t Tell Khao Yai

Head over to Please Don't Tell Khao Yai if you're looking for an IG-worthy cafe with sweeping mountain views. There might not be any wildlife around the area, but with the porch overlooking tall trees, green fields, and mountains, it certainly feels like you could possibly be at a wildlife observation station.

The only difference is that you get to relish majestic views of nature while sitting down and sipping on your Iced Cappuccino or Mango Summer Splash. And if you’re in luck, you may also find the trees filled with red flowers – they look amazing in photos!

Address: Mu Si, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Daily from 8.30am to 5.30pm

29. Lago Di Khao Yai

Lago Di Khao Yai is a rustic wooden cafe that may look like a hunting lodge, but enter and you’ll be surprised to find what's within.

With aesthetic rows of ceramic bottles and glasses decorating the cafe and a pond featuring a mini waterfall on the rocky walls and golden carp swimming... This cafe is one of our favourite finds and a great place to enjoy some iced coffee and cakes too!

Address: 888 Moo 10 Mu Si, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand (Map)
Opening hours: Daily from 9am to 5pm

👉🏼 Places to Stay in Khao Yai

Discover the best places to spend a night or more in Khao Yai, from English castles to safari camps!

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30. Casa de Montana

Stay in a bubble igloo glamping tent or an air-conditioned caravan that goes nowhere at Casa de Montana!

Whether you've always wanted to try caravan living (each of the caravans here comes with a bed big enough for 2, kitchenette, toilet and sofa), or if you’re keen on the bubble tents (for something a little more unique and possibly more romantic too) - this is just the place for you.

Rate: From SG$77 (for caravan), From SG$107 (for bubble igloo tent)
Address: 168 Moo.3 Ban Thamaprang Village, Thanarat road, Mu Si, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand (Map)

31. Lala Mukha Tented Resort

Who says you have to go to Africa to experience a Safari-themed camping experience? Simply head to Lala Mukha Tented Resort in Khao Yai and stay at this resort that oozes all the safari vibes you might need.

Located in the middle of the mountains, you can choose to stay in a cabin on stilts or a tent. Come nighttime, you can sit around at one of the tables surrounding the ambient bonfire site for your meals!

Rate: From SG$123 (for Deluxe Safari Tent)
Address: 515 Moo 5 Musi Pak Chong Nakhon Ratchasima Thailand (Map)

Book Your Stay at Lala Mukha Tented Resort Khao Yai Here!

32. Movenpick Resort

Find yourself teleported to the 1800s and feel like royalty when you stay at Movenpick Resort, a regency-themed castle resort. Spend your afternoon exploring the vast castle grounds, get on the golf course for a game, or even go for a swim at the indoor or outdoor pool.

For the adventurous ones, we recommend checking out My Ozone Animal Club for various activities like ATV, horse riding, animal feeding, and more!

Rate: From SG$168 (for Deluxe King Room)
Address: A, T Wangsai, Nakornratch, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand (Map)

Book Your Stay at Movenpick Resort Khao Yai Here!

33. Toscana Valley

Feeling like an Italian vacation? This Italian-inspired area at Toscana Valley might be just what you're looking for.

Equipped with a golf club, hotels, villas, residences, and restaurants, you won't have to go anywhere else to unwind.

Most importantly, with everything looking just like an Italian village, it feels a little like you’re in Europe, minus the pricey long-haul flight!

Rate: From SG$197 (for Casetta Lago)
Address: Pong Ta Long, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand (Map)

Book Your Stay at tel La Casetta by Toscana Valley Here!

With plenty of incredibly scenic places to explore, great food, gorgeous stays and fun things to do in Khao Yai, easily plan your trip to Khao Yai soon and enjoy a dreamy adventure in Thailand!