Sai Sorn Reservoir Khao Yai is a scenic freshwater lake located in the heart of Khao Yai National Park, Thailand. Situated just 1.5 kilometers (a 3-minute drive) from the Khao Yai Visitor Center, this serene landmark is famous for its panoramic landscape, calm waters, and vibrant pine tree surroundings. Visitors flock here primarily for its legendary sunset views, easy accessibility, and frequent wildlife sightings, including wild deer, macaques, and exotic birds. Whether you are seeking a peaceful spot for photography, a quiet relaxation break during your park tour, or a chance to observe native animals in their natural habitat, Sai Sorn Reservoir Khao Yai is an absolute must-visit attraction.
Overview of Sai Sorn Reservoir Khao Yai
Originally constructed as a vital water storage basin for park operations and forest fire prevention, Sai Sorn Reservoir Khao Yai has evolved into one of the most photographed nature spots in Nakhon Ratchasima province. The reservoir is named in honor of Mr. Sai Sorn, a dedicated former park official who contributed significantly to the development and conservation of Khao Yai National Park.
The area features a paved promenade running alongside the water, framed by towering pine trees and rolling green hills in the background. Because of its open layout and calm environment, it offers a distinct contrast to the dense jungle trails found elsewhere in the park.
- Attraction Type: Man-made reservoir / Nature viewpoint
- Location: Inside Khao Yai National Park, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima
- Key Highlights: Golden hour sunsets, wild deer encounters, peaceful atmosphere, easy photo opportunities
- Ideal Visitor: Families, nature photographers, couples, and road-trippers
How to Get to Sai Sorn Reservoir Khao Yai
Reaching Sai Sorn Reservoir Khao Yai is straightforward, as it sits directly along the park’s main paved road (Highway 3077).
By Private Car or Rental Motorbike
The most convenient way to travel around Khao Yai National Park is by private vehicle or rental scooter.
- From Bangkok: Take Highway 2 (Mittraphap Road) toward Pak Chong, then turn onto Highway 2090 (Thanarat Road) leading up to the northern park entrance gate. Drive up the mountain road for approximately 23 kilometers until you reach the main park hub.
- From Khao Yai Visitor Center: Head south on Highway 3077 for just 1.5 kilometers. You will clearly see the expansive reservoir on your right-hand side.
- Parking: A dedicated parking area is available directly across from the reservoir. It easily accommodates cars, vans, and motorbikes.
By Public Transport & Park Hire
If you do not have a private vehicle, you can take a songthaew (shared pickup truck) or train from Bangkok to Pak Chong town. From Pak Chong, hire a local songthaew or private driver for a day tour inside the park. Ensure you ask the driver to include Sai Sorn Reservoir Khao Yai in your itinerary, as it is located right along the central loop.
Difficulty & Trail Length
One of the greatest appeals of Sai Sorn Reservoir Khao Yai is its accessibility. Unlike deep forest hikes like the Haew Suwat Waterfall trek, visiting this reservoir requires virtually no physical exertion.
- Trail Difficulty: Very Easy / Flat terrain
- Walking Distance: 100 meters to 500 meters along the paved bank
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly and stroller-friendly along the main road paved shoulder
- Required Time: 30 to 45 minutes for pictures and relaxing
You can simply park your vehicle, step onto the open embankment, and enjoy the scenery. A short dirt path runs around part of the shoreline, allowing visitors to walk closer to the water’s edge, but sturdy hiking boots are not necessary—casual sneakers or walking shoes are perfectly fine.
Best Time to Visit Sai Sorn Reservoir Khao Yai
Timing your visit correctly enhances your experience at Sai Sorn Reservoir Khao Yai, both in terms of weather and lighting.
Best Time of Day: Late Afternoon & Sunset
The absolute best time to visit is between 4:30 PM and 6:00 PM. As the sun begins to set behind the mountain ridge, the sky transforms into shades of orange, pink, and purple. The calm surface of the lake mirrors these colors, creating a surreal environment for landscape photography. Late afternoon is also when wild sambar deer often walk down to the grass banks to graze.
Best Season: Cool Season (November to February)
- November – February (Cool & Dry): The weather is crisp, clear, and comfortable, with morning temperatures occasionally dipping below 15°C (59°F). Sunset reflections are clearest during these months.
- March – May (Warm Season): Clear skies, though temperatures can rise during midday. Late afternoon breeze near the reservoir makes it pleasant.
- June – October (Monsoon/Green Season): The surrounding forest turns vibrant green, and the reservoir fills up completely. Afternoon rain showers are common, so bring an umbrella or raincoat.
Entrance Fee & Operating Rules
Because Sai Sorn Reservoir Khao Yai is located inside Khao Yai National Park, entry to the reservoir itself is covered by your standard national park admission ticket.
National Park Entrance Fees
- Foreign Adults: 400 THB
- Foreign Children (Ages 3–14): 200 THB
- Thai Nationals (Adults): 40 THB
- Thai Nationals (Children): 20 THB
- Car Fee: 50 THB per vehicle
- Motorbike Fee: 20 THB per vehicle
Park Rules to Keep in Mind
To preserve the natural ecosystem and ensure safety, strict guidelines apply around Sai Sorn Reservoir Khao Yai:
- No Swimming or Boating: Swimming, wading, and water sports in the reservoir are strictly prohibited.
- Do Not Feed the Wildlife: Feeding deer, monkeys, or birds is illegal and harms animal behavior.
- No Drones: Operating drones inside the national park without a official permit from the Department of National Parks (DNP) is strictly forbidden.
- Keep Noise Low: Avoid loud music or shouting so as not to disturb resting wildlife.
- Pack Out Your Trash: Always dispose of litter in designated bins to keep the site pristine.
First-Hand Experience & Travel Tips
Stepping out onto the grass bank of Sai Sorn Reservoir Khao Yai late in the afternoon is an unforgettable experience. The cool mountain air mixed with the pine scent creates an immediate sense of calm. During our visit, a small herd of sambar deer grazed peacefully just twenty yards away, completely unbothered by tourists taking photos from a respectful distance.
Essential Tips for Your Trip
- Bring a Telephoto Lens: If you enjoy wildlife photography, bring a zoom lens (70-200mm or higher). This allows you to capture detailed shots of deer and birds without getting too close and startling them.
- Pack Light Jackets in Winter: Evening temperatures drop quickly once the sun dips below the horizon, especially from November through January.
- Watch Out for Macaques: Keep food, plastic bags, and small belongings secure inside your vehicle or backpack. Wild macaques near the road can be opportunistic.
- Combine with Night Safari: The reservoir area is a popular starting point for the park’s official Khao Yai Night Safari truck tours, which depart from the nearby visitor center at 7:00 PM.
Nearby Attractions in Khao Yai National Park
Maximize your trip by visiting these popular destinations located just minutes from Sai Sorn Reservoir Khao Yai:
- Khao Yai Visitor Center (1.5 km away): The main hub for park maps, trail registration, educational exhibits, souvenirs, and booking night safari tours.
- Nong Pak Chi Watchtower (4 km away): An iconic wildlife observation tower overlooking an open grassland and salt lick, ideal for early morning animal sightings.
- Haew Suwat Waterfall (12 km away): Khao Yai’s famous waterfall made world-famous by the movie The Beach.
- Pha Diew Dai Viewpoint (15 km away): A breathtaking cliffside boardwalk viewpoint offering sprawling mountain vistas across the reserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an additional admission fee for Sai Sorn Reservoir Khao Yai?
No, access to Sai Sorn Reservoir Khao Yai is free once you have paid the main Khao Yai National Park entrance fee at the gate.
Can you camp at Sai Sorn Reservoir Khao Yai?
Direct camping right beside the reservoir edge is not permitted. However, official park campsites such as Lam Ta Khong Campsite are located just a few minutes drive away.
Are wild animals safe around Sai Sorn Reservoir Khao Yai?
The sambar deer around the reservoir are accustomed to human presence, but they remain wild animals. Always maintain a safe distance (at least 5–10 meters), do not try to pet them, and never offer them human food.
Can I visit Sai Sorn Reservoir Khao Yai at night?
The main park roads are open until the park closes at 6:00 PM. Access after dark is generally restricted unless you are participating in a guided night safari organized by park rangers.
Conclusion
Sai Sorn Reservoir Khao Yai stands out as one of the most accessible, scenic, and rewarding spots in Thailand’s oldest national park. Whether you are looking to capture stunning golden hour photos, spot wild deer roaming in the open, or simply pause and enjoy the peaceful mountain scenery, this site offers incredible value for minimal effort. Make sure to schedule your visit for late afternoon, bring your camera, and include Sai Sorn Reservoir Khao Yai as a central highlight of your Khao Yai itinerary!