If you’re dreaming of colorful winter landscapes, flower fields, and scenic mountain roads, you don’t need to go as far as Japan or Korea. Thanarat Road in Khao Yai offers all that, and more, just a few hours from Bangkok.

Thanarat Road may be only around 30 kilometers long, but it’s one of Thailand’s most iconic scenic routes. The road winds through forested hills, rural villages in Mu Si subdistrict, and leads straight into Khao Yai National Park, ending near the viewpoint close to Haew Suwat Waterfall. Along the way, resorts, cafés, restaurants, and attractions line both sides of the road, making every kilometer worth exploring.

What makes Thanarat Road special is its variety. Numerous side roads branch off to major destinations, including routes to Wang Nam Khiao and Muak Lek. On the Wang Nam Khiao side, travelers may spot wild gaurs around Khao Phaeng Ma. Meanwhile, the Muak Lek route is famous for its vineyards, especially PB Valley Khao Yai Winery and GranMonte Vineyard and Winery, where visitors can tour wine cellars, taste local wines, and learn about grape cultivation in Thailand’s cool-climate region.

During the winter season, flower gardens become the main attraction. Among the many gardens, three stand out for their scale, beauty, and atmosphere:

• Rai Manee Sorn Sunflower Field
  A vast sunflower farm stretching across hills and plains. From mid to late winter, the fields bloom bright yellow, creating stunning panoramic views perfect for photography.

• Hokkaido Flower Park Khaoyai
  Inspired by Japan, this garden features colorful winter flowers set in a valley, with Japanese-style buildings, food and drinks, and even kimono rentals for photo lovers who want a touch of Hokkaido, without leaving Thailand.

• Floryday Khaoyai
  A multi-layered flower garden on gentle slopes, surrounded by mountains. With cafés, bakery treats, and countless photo angles, it’s one of the most picturesque spots along the road.

Beyond gardens, Thanarat Road also offers unique experiences such as Stardoi Farm Khaoyai, where visitors can meet sheep, or enjoy kayaking along the Lam Takhong River, an activity available most of the year, except during very dry periods.

Short but rich in experiences, Thanarat Road is a destination that truly has it all: mountain scenery, winter flowers, vineyards, stylish resorts, and diverse dining options. It’s a place where you can slow down, breathe in the cool air, and capture beautiful moments, without boarding a plane.

This winter, if you’re looking for scenic views, colorful gardens, and an easy escape into nature, Khao Yai’s Thanarat Road is waiting to be explored.

Editor in Chief : Nampetch Siramanon
Editor: Pacific Leisure (Thailand)
Content Creator : Mr. Saroj Na Ayutthaya