Khao Yai Emerges as Thailand’s Top National Park as Authorities Enforce Safety and Sustainability Ahead of New Year

Published on December 13, 2025

Khao Yai National Park has claimed the top spot as Thailand’s most-visited national park in 2025, drawing over 2.14 million tourists. As the New Year approaches, authorities are stepping up safety measures, crowd management, and sustainability initiatives, including a strict zero food waste policy, to ensure a secure and eco-friendly experience for both domestic and international visitors.

In preparation for the influx of tourists, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation has rolled out a comprehensive plan focused on visitor safety, crowd management, and environmental sustainability. Central to this strategy is a “Zero Food Waste” campaign aimed at reducing environmental impact while promoting responsible tourism practices.

Enhanced Visitor Safety and Crowd Control

Authorities have intensified safety measures across all parks. Additional rangers and staff have been deployed to key sites, while infrastructure improvements ensure safer access to trails, lookouts, and recreational areas. Emergency response systems have been strengthened, including the establishment of “New Year Tourist Service and Rescue Centres” at strategic locations. These centres are staffed with rangers and rescue teams equipped with modern lifesaving tools and rapid patient transfer systems integrated with the national medical network.

Traffic and crowd management protocols have been reinforced to prevent congestion within parks. Warning signs, lighting, and protective railings have been installed in high-risk areas such as cliffs and steep slopes, while staff monitor hazardous spots to provide immediate assistance when necessary. Regular maintenance and cleaning of restrooms, campsites, bungalows, and other facilities have been intensified. Free drinking water stations and information points staffed with multilingual personnel are in place to support international visitors, while tourist numbers are controlled based on each park’s carrying capacity.

Zero Food Waste and Environmental Initiatives

Environmental conservation remains a top priority alongside visitor safety. The “Return Your Waste” campaign encourages tourists to dispose of trash responsibly or use designated recycling points. Single-use plastics and foam containers are prohibited throughout national parks, reflecting Thailand’s commitment to protecting natural environments.

The “Zero Food Waste” initiative urges visitors and vendors to minimise food leftovers, use reusable containers, and adopt practices that reduce overall food wastage. Visitors are also asked to avoid bringing alcohol, disturbing wildlife with loud noises, feeding animals, or bringing pets into park areas. In marine parks, sunscreens containing chemicals that harm coral reefs and marine life are strictly banned to protect fragile underwater ecosystems.

Promoting Sustainable Tourism

The popularity of Khao Yai and other national parks underscores a growing interest in Thailand’s nature-based tourism. To accommodate this growth responsibly, authorities are combining safety measures with sustainable practices. By managing visitor numbers, enforcing environmental rules, and offering educational initiatives, the parks aim to deliver an enjoyable yet eco-conscious experience.

Educational campaigns have been launched to raise awareness about wildlife protection, waste management, and responsible park behavior. Well-marked trails, information centres, and clean rest areas help visitors navigate parks safely while understanding the importance of conservation.

Looking Ahead

As the New Year period approaches, Thailand’s national parks are expected to see a high influx of tourists from both domestic and international markets. Scenic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and recreational opportunities make these parks a top choice for nature enthusiasts. Authorities remain focused on ensuring visitor safety, minimizing environmental impact, and providing a seamless experience.

Khao Yai’s record visitor numbers reflect a broader trend of increasing demand for natural and eco-friendly tourism. Through strict safety protocols, zero food waste initiatives, and enhanced emergency services, Thailand’s parks are setting new standards for responsible tourism.

By maintaining a balance between visitor satisfaction and environmental conservation, national parks in Thailand are positioning themselves as world-class destinations. With careful planning and sustainable practices, these parks will continue to attract millions of tourists while preserving the country’s unique landscapes and ecosystems for future generations.

Thailand’s national parks demonstrate that it is possible to provide memorable experiences for visitors while protecting natural resources, promoting sustainability, and setting an example for tourism management worldwide.