Welcome to the SSNP
"Sri Satchanalai National Park"
A place that has many good memories for
me!
Simple fact: Arrival at the main gate of the SSNP.
A one time entrance fee is payable to give you access
to the Park. If you need to exit and return just notify
the duty officer so that you will not be charged again.
and hoisting the Thai flag.
Before going into the details of this magnificent natural national park, I would like to provide a brief history. In 1976 it was established as a National Heritage under the visionary guidance of the late King Rama 9 H.M King Bhumibol who saw it essential to protect Thailand 's vast natural habitats for future generations. The total area covers approximately 213 sq km of rich forest. It lies amidst a mountainous range covered by thick tropical vegetation and blessed by several waterfalls and a river.
The Main gate access point from which
explorations can begin!
Under the leadership of Director and Ranger Force Commander Suttavee Yussanan the Park has seen many changes that were preceded by the efforts of the former Director Piya Nunil and his Deputy Seksan Saibun with whom I spent many happy years sponsoring and assisting local students. Both have moved on to different senior positions in other locations since then.
Under Director Suttavee Yodsanun leadership many new additions and improvements were added to assist visitors to have more comfortable and enjoyable experiences. The work of supporting local communities and student activities has continued.
Thank you for supporting and
preserving this precious natural heritage.
And my sincere thanks to Khun Nick,
Forestry Technical Officer and all
the staff for their outstanding support
and assistance.
This Park is not easily accessible via traditional tourist routes as it is about 70 kms from Sukothai, yet for nature lovers and bird watchers who want to enjoy a peaceful and protected environment, have access to an ancient cave with stalactites and stalagmites with a large natural crystal formation, two beautiful waterfalls (the largest being 50 metres high), a nature trail, camping sites, a sunrise viewpoint, a bird pond for observation and a multitude of flora and fauna, this is the PLACE FOR YOU. This Park is completely natural. Bungalows though clean and comfortable do not have wi fi (although it can be accessed for emergencies at the HQ), no air con (fans works just as well), but it does provide the most beautiful forest soenery you are likely to find. (For accommodation details scroll below)
Signs clearly point the way to two of the many
famous major attractions
Tad Dao waterfall and the Thawarasan Cave
Tad Dao: 50 metres high and a spectacular sight to
View of the Tad Dao waterfall situated
about 4 kms from the HQ
visit and to swim. this area is never overcrowded.
(closed during the rainy season July to September
for safety and due to the presence of many leeches)
Thawarasan cave: an ancient natural rock cave
that is worth exploring
Large white crystal formation which is rare to see
There is also a smaller water fall not far from the headquarters where visitors can swim in protected areas in a very soothing environment. This is the Tad Duen waterfall and very accessible being 600 metres from the HQ. Visitors must only advise the officers on duty of their presence for safety reasons.
Tad Duan outside the rainy season is clear
and very refreshing.
Offers great picture opportunities and
a refreshing swim
I speak from personal experience with many students!
This site tends to be very popular with locals during
weekends and holidays.
One of the new attractions that has been introduced is the bird pond that was created to allow visitors to observe from a bird hide the various species drinking and refreshing close up. This requires to be booked to avoid overcrowding and disturbing the birds. The SSNP is AN IDEAL PLACE for bird lovers and bird watchers.
A bird hide was created to house bird watchers.
Booking is required due to limited space
Below some live clips taken by Officer Nick of
what you might see from the hide.
Just a few examples
Bird lovers: you will want to see this
and much more!
In addition visitors can visit the Visitor Centre which displays the different species of birds and their names in English and Thai. Below a small example of the species exhibited that can be found at the Park.
The centre has many examples of birds
displayed.
FOOD SERVICES
There is a small canteen or food court that offers a variety of Thai local dishes. Please note that western style take away food is not available. Vegetarian dishes can be requested.
The restaurant is open from 8.00 am to 4.30pm. Residents can order a take away dinner for the night.
A limited number of snacks, drinks and groceries is available for visitors.
ACCOMMODATION
Bungalows are available in three sizes, small, medium
and large depending on the number of guests, along the
small river They are basic but comfortable and serviced.
Charcoal stoves are available for cooking in
designated areas.
Simple but very comfortable
Walking or jogging around the Park is a choice
for many health lovers. About 1 km run
around the bungalow area to the main road and back.
are widely available in different locations.
SAFETY AND EMERGENCY SERVICES
Defibrillator in Visitor Centre
neighbouring districts if needed!
The Park is equipped with a fully equipped rescue ambulance, a defibrillator located at the visitor centre and trained first aiders. Although accidents are rare, injuries and health problems can occur. The staff here are very experienced in dealing with different kind of health issues resulting from excursions.
CONFERENCE CENTRE
A spacious conference centre is available
with dormitories and shower facilities for
both students and visitor groups
HABITAT PROTECTION AND RANGER RESPONSE FORCE
Rangers on patrol
Different patrols cover many areas in a
very large forested area
Its hard work and they need to face many
obstacles like army patrols
They are protectors
One of the many aspects of life that I have become more aware of during my stay here, is that regarding the role of the Wildlife and Conservation Department in preserving and protecting what is left of our pristine flora and fauna. These tough and brave men, with only the most basic of support structures available to them, look after and protect the precious remaining forests, caves and waterfalls - spending weeks in the jungle looking out for poachers, illegal loggers and individuals that cut down the forest for profit. They are at times outgunned and outnumbered. The poachers or illegal loggers are well equipped and perhaps supported by external third parties. On Thursday 12th 2013 at around 10.00 pm 2 officers were killed after a shootout with 5 poachers trying to take out the endangered remaining tigers at the Umphang East Thungyainarasuen Wildlife Sanctuary. The poachers were arrested but this is little consolation for the loss of life that ensued as a result of greed, gross ignorance and cruelty.
These protected habitats provide us with oxygen, clean water sources, bio-diversity, are a source of natural food and medicinal herbs and are also the home to spiritual energies as all those pursuing their own spiritual path know. Once the natural energy of the earth is destroyed and degraded decline always follows as does trouble.
LINK WITH THE COMMUNITY AND SPIRITUAL CARE
Thai rural communities have traditionally close ties with the local monastic community and use many occasions to make merit and receive blessings. This special bond especially with the forest monk order is an ancient and very special tradition connecting the people, their natural environment and the spiritual side of life. A special life balance is thus maintained.
Merit making and blessings are an important part
of rural life
These are special occasions brining everyone
together!
Giving is always a joyous occasion!
SSNP Welcomes not only students but also young
novices and monks to hold Dhamma camps in a
pristine and natural environment.
CONCLUSION
The SSNP continues to attract numerous visitors who appreciate its natural beauty, attractions, simplicity and variety of plant and animal species. As mentioned they also work closely with the local communities to support different conservation initiatives including providing a unique and natural educational environment for students and visitors.
Beauty in floral variety!
Serene and peaceful abodes!
Rivers originate in the mountains
Clean streams!
Watershed! Source of life and livelihood!
Forests home to many species
Waterfalls and caves
THANK YOU FOR PROTECTING OUR EARTH!