Explore the National Parks in Khon Kaen

Those who love nature or outdoor adventures have much to look forward to on a visit to Khon Kaen; national parks in the province rich in flora and fauna offer unforgettable journeys of discovery.

Phu Kao-Phu Phan Kham National Park

The Phu Kao-Phu Phan Kham National Park features forest landscapes and a couple of sandstone mountains. Those visiting here from a hotel Khon Kaen has to offer can look forward to camping in certain areas while highlights include the Tat Fa Waterfall and the Ubonr at Reservoir for fishing and boating.

Nam Phong National Park

More exploration awaits at the Nam Phong National Park, ideal for an excursion from properties such as Avani Khon Kaen Hotel & Convention Centre. Set amidst mountains and views of the local dam, the site’s main attractions include the Hin Chang Si viewpoint and Famue Daeng Cliffs with its prehistoric paintings.

Phu Wiang National Park

If you love dinosaurs you are bound to love Phu Wiang National Park where you can see excavation sites showcasing findings of dinosaur bones! The Dinosaur Museum provides more insights into the prehistoric findings, while you can also enjoy hiking and visiting sites such as the Thap Phaya Suea Waterfall.

Phu Pha Man National Park

More nature expeditions await at the Phu Pha Man National Park known for its idyllic waterfalls and caves. The parkhas some key places of interest like the Phaya Nakarat Cave featuring intriguing stalactites and stalagmites, Lai Thaeng Cave with paintings depicting pre-historic life and the scenic Tad Fah Waterfall.

Crazy Extreme Adventures

A tropical holiday in Thailand doesn’t always have to be about lounging on the beach, working on your tan, especially if you are the kind of person that wants to experience the open spaces and blue seas of Thailand with your whole being. Here are some adrenaline-inducing water sports and adventures you can do to go beyond your comfort zone.

1. White Water Rafting

Head further inland from the beach and try a little white-water rafting. Some rapids range on all levels in Pai, Chiang Mai and Chumpon to name a few.

2. Scuba Diving with Whale Sharks

If you are planning to try out some diving when you check into a hotel in Khon Kaen, consider signing up for scuba diving with whale sharks. The best time is during the season of February to April. If your preferred choice of hotel is one like Avani Khon Kaen Hotel & Convention Centre, you can ask them to book ahead for you.

scuba diving

3. Kiteboarding

Kiteboarding requires a bit of navigation in your part and something you should be careful of if you’re a first timer. But it’s never too late to try.

4. Rock Climbing

If you want something to get the blood pumping that doesn’t involve you getting wet, try a little rock-climbing in the Krabi province.

5. Wakeboarding

There are wake parks all over Thailand thanks to wakeboarding’s recent popularity so why not get in on the rush?

A Fun Day at the Dino Water Park in Khon Kaen

If you are holidaying in Khon Kaen with the family, make sure you put down Dino Water Park on your itinerary. From thrilling rides to laid-back fun in the water, it offers a memorable day out for all.

Getting There

Billed as Southeast Asia’s largest water park, this popular attraction can be found on Mittraphap Road (or Highway Number 2). Within a 20 minute drive from AVANI Khon Kaen Hotel & Convention Centre, this site is right near the Pratunam Wholesale Market.

The Thrilling Rides

Spread across 40 acres, Dino Water Park features nine zones with different attractions. Kamikaze, Looping Rocket, Aqua Tower, Freefall, Giant Body Slide and Space Hole are amongst the most exciting rides to try here. Tip; since there is so much to do, plan to get here early from your hotel in Khon Kaen so you have more time to enjoy.

Laid-back Fun

This water park is not all about action-packed rides; The Lazy River which offers a relaxed adventure, the Wave Pool which simulates an ocean setting and the Aqua Tower play structures that encourage creative minds can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Opening Hours & Tickets

Dino Water Park is open from 10am to 6pm from Monday to Friday and from 10am to 8pm on Saturday and Sunday. A Casual Day Pass and Lite Day Pass are around 200 and 300 Thai baht respectively and offer access to a few attractions. The Premier Day Pass on the other hand, which is about 600 Thai baht, offers access to all zones.

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+