Khao Luang Mountain

Set your sights on Nakhon Si Thammarat province for a mountainous getaway to Khao Luang Mountain. Hiking through nature, encountering birds, waterfalls, and breathtaking views from the summit will fill you with wonder.

Geology

Khao Luang Mountain towers over the beautiful southern peninsula region of Thailand at an imposing altitude of 1,835 meters. Gracefully reigning over a range of steep hills belonging to the Nakhon Si Thammarat chain, a branch of the Tenasserim Hills sub-range. The mountain's geology features a granite core surrounded by loose soils, creating landslide risks when saturated with water. Over the years, parts of the surrounding forest have been cleared for rubber plantations.

Several significant rivers originate from the massif, including southern Thailand's longest river, Tapi, as well as the Klai, Nopphitan, and Pakphanang rivers.

Exploring Khao Luang Mountain

Embarking on Khao Luang Mountain requires good trekking experience. Hikes must be accompanied by a forest ranger. Plan for about three days of hiking with two nights spent under the stars to conquer the summit.

Preparing for the Khao Luang Mountain ascent

First and foremost, trekking Khao Luang Mountain demands good physical fitness. It's advised not to bring children under the age of 15 on this adventure.

As for equipment, obtain a hammock for overnight stays in the mountains. A mosquito net is essential for insect protection. Sturdy hiking shoes with solid grips are indispensable for navigating wet trails. Pack anti-leech socks and waterproof clothing. Bring a filtering bottle to collect water from streams. Use a headlamp for nighttime illumination. Lastly, pack spare batteries for your phone or camera. Ensure not to overload your luggage to conserve energy throughout the journey.

A hike promising beautiful discoveries

The hike takes you through lush, ancient jungle. You'll have the chance to admire the majestic Tualang, Southeast Asia's largest tree, commonly known as the "honey tree." Ferns, styrax, and Mesua ferrea also thrive in the area.

As with flora, the fauna offers a spectacular sight. Among the 90 mammal species recorded in Khao Luang National Park, you may encounter wild boars, porcupines, macaques, or gibbons during the trek. Tigers, leopards, and bears are more elusive.

Amateur ornithologists will enjoy exploring the region's rich birdlife. Hornbills, barbets, black eagles, wild cocks, noble pheasants, large-billed crows, and a variety of other birds will dazzle you with their colors. Additionally, note the reptiles, which include both venomous and non-venomous species such as the Malayan python, vine snake, red-headed krait, spiny turtle, and more.

The best time to visit

The optimal time for trekking Khao Luang Mountain is from February to May, when temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is moderate. Avoid the months of October to December, when rainfall is heavy.

How to get there

Khao Luang Mountain is located in the central part of Khao Luang National Park, in southern Thailand. From Bangkok, you can travel by plane or bus to Nakhon Si Thammarat, the nearest city to the reserve. Then, take a taxi or local bus, or rent a private car to reach the park. Once there, park guards will advise you on starting points and possible routes for climbing the mountain.

Opening hours and fees

To access Khao Luang Mountain, you need to pay an entrance fee to Khao Luang National Park:

• For Thai citizens: 40 baht per adult and 20 baht per child
• For foreign visitors: 200 baht per adult and 100 baht per child
• For motorcycles: 20 baht
• For cars: 30 baht