Khao Phra Thaeo National Park

Located in the north of Phuket this park contains the only remaining virgin rainforest on the island. The park conserves a number of species of wild animal: langurs, barking deer, mouse deer, bears, wild boar, monkeys and gibbons. About one hundred species of bird also inhabit the forest vegetation, which consists of huge trees, creepers and climbers of every description.

The reserve has several forest trails for hiking and guides can be hired from the reserve office near Ton Sai waterfall. There is also a small museum and information centre.

Ton Sai Waterfall:

Located near the park headquarters at the entrance to the park, this waterfall is not very big but quite scenic. There is also a reasonable restaurant with excellent views if you get hungry.

Getting there:

To get to Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, head north on Thepkasattri Road from Phuket City for about 20kms until you reach the main intersection at Thalang. Take the road heading east, which cuts through rubber plantations for about 7kms until it reaches the Forestry Department checkpoint.