Things To Do
in Pak Chong
Pak Chong is a welcoming district in Nakhon Ratchasima province, Thailand, acting as a gateway to the Khao Yai region. It sits along Route 2 (Mittraphap) and blends a laid-back market town vibe with easy access to forested hills and waterfalls. The area is rich in Isan influences, fresh farm produce, and nature-driven activities that suit families and solo travelers alike.
Visitors come for outdoor adventures, strawberry picking in season, and comfortable bases to explore northeast Thailand.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early by entering Khao Yai National Park. Enjoy the refreshing morning air while hiking through lush trails where you might encounter elephants, monkeys, and stunning waterfalls. Take your time to connect with nature and capture breathtaking images of the scenery.
After a morning of exploration, have a picnic lunch amidst the beautiful surroundings. Continue your adventure by visiting the park's visitor center to learn more about its wildlife and ecosystems. Don’t forget to take short scenic drives to spot more animals along the way.
As the sun sets, head back to Pak Chong and unwind at your accommodation. Relish a traditional Thai dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Thai cuisine. End your day with a leisurely stroll around the town, absorbing the night atmosphere.
Kick off your morning by visiting the PB Valley Khao Yai Winery, where you can take a guided tour of the vineyards. Learn about the winemaking process and the different grape varieties cultivated in the region. Enjoy a wine tasting session, sampling some of the finest local wines.
After your tasting, indulge in a sumptuous lunch at the winery's restaurant, accompanied by breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards. Spend some time exploring the winery's shop for unique wine-related souvenirs. If time allows, take a bike ride through the scenic vineyard paths.
As evening approaches, return to Pak Chong and find a cozy café to relax in. Enjoy a cup of locally sourced coffee or a refreshing beverage while reflecting on the day's experiences. As night falls, consider attending a cooking class to learn how to create authentic Thai dishes.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🥗Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $20-40 |
| 🚕Short taxi or local transport | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Gateway to Khao Yai and nature
- Affordable prices and good value
- Rich Isan culture and markets
- Wide range of outdoor activities
- Limited nightlife
- Hot humidity in summer
- Some attractions require driving on winding roads
- Seasonal changes can affect accessibility to farms and trails
- "สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ" - Hello (male/female)
- "ขอบคุณครับ/ค่ะ" - Thank you
- "ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน" - Where is the bathroom?
- "ฉันต้องการอาหารมังสวิรัติ" - I would like vegetarian food
- "ราคาเท่าไหร่" - How much does it cost?
- "ช่วยด้วย" - Please help
- "ช่วยเรียกแท็กซี่" - Please call a taxi
- "คุณพูดภาษาอังกฤษไหม" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Pak Chong
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic waterfall with forest backdrop; best early morning light and quiet trails.
A powerful, multi-tiered waterfall set in lush jungle; great for dramatic long-exposure shots.
Seasonal fields around town provide vibrant red berries and neat rows perfect for dawn photography.
Wide views over pine forests and rolling hills; capture sunsets behind the ridges.
Colorful market stalls, lanterns and locals; lively golden-hour and evening shots.
Food in Pak Chong
Pak Chong Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy, spicy salad made with shredded green papaya, chilies, peanuts and lime; widely available at markets and stalls.
Must-Try!
Juicy skewers brushed with a sweet-sour glaze, common at street stalls along Mittraphap Road.
Zesty Isan-style pork salad with herbs, lime juice and fish sauce.
Char-grilled chicken served with sticky rice and spicy dipping sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market where you can taste fresh fruit, sticky rice and grilled treats; best in the morning.
Casual stalls along the highway offering barbecue, papaya salad and coconut sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a wai (hands pressed together) and a smile; address older people with respectful language.
Dress modestly, shoulders and knees covered; remove shoes when entering temple buildings.
Do not point feet at people or sacred objects; use the right hand for giving/receiving.
Safety
Tipping in Pak Chong
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not required but appreciated for standout service; small tips (20-50 THB) for guides or drivers, occasional rounding up in restaurants.
Cash in Thai Baht is widely used; credit/debit cards accepted in hotels and larger restaurants; ATMs are common in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and often dry; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon; carry water and sun protection.
Humid with frequent showers; trails can be slippery; lush greenery makes for vibrant photos but bring a lightweight rain jacket.
Cool and dry; comfortable for hiking and outdoor photography; strawberry season peaks in some areas.
Pak Chong at Night
Hiking in Pak Chong
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Several trails through pine forests and waterfalls, including Haew Suwat and Haew Narok-adjacent routes.
A forested loop near the park entrance offering birding and shaded paths.
A viewpoint trail that rewards you with panoramic forest landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Pak Chong by plane.
Thailand’s main international gateway; approximately 170-200 km southeast of Pak Chong, with road transfer time of about 2.5-4 hours depending on traffic.
Bangkok’s domestic and some international flights; similar distance to Pak Chong as BKK, often used by budget travelers.
Small regional airport in the Korat area; limited flights, primarily domestic.
A regional airport in Buriram Province; alternative for some travelers, about 3-4 hours by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant local population with Isan cultural influences; many people work in agriculture and service sectors.
A mix of domestic travelers, nature lovers, and agricultural tourists, especially during fruit seasons.
Some international visitors and long-term residents are drawn to Khao Yai’s resort areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Thai boxing is popular nationwide and you may find local gyms or events in nearby towns.
Khao Yai has several golf courses and resort-level facilities nearby.
Scenic rural roads and hills around Pak Chong attract long-distance cyclists.
Rural trails around Khao Yai offer guided horse riding experiences.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pak Chong.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Isan and Thai dishes can be adapted: ask for no fish sauce or shrimp paste; opt for tofu-based curries and stir-fries; consider temple-friendly Jay meals if available.