Hala Bala Forest, Yala: Wildlife, A Scenic Waterfall & A Large Lake

Hala Bala Forest in Yala

Take a break from the city chaos and explore wildlife and nature at Hala Bala Forest – an enormous lush forest spanning across Yala and Narathiwat.

The forest, known as the Amazon of Asia, is located near the Thailand-Malaysia border and it is rich in greenery and wild animals. You can enjoy jungle trekking, bird watching, and boat riding on a crisp, emerald lake.

Indulge yourself in nature and get in touch with wildlife

Image credit: @sudip_saha_nature via Instagram

Due to its massive surface area, Bang Lang National Park consists of 80% forest.

As a tranquil rich wildlife sanctuary, Hala Bala Forest is a great location for a retreat if you wanna explore nature or unplug yourself from city life.

If you visit during the rainy season or winter, you will see the forest covered in thick fog.

Image credit: @jirayu.ekkul via Instagram

The Bang Lang National Park boasts over 500 species of plants, 50 species of mammals, and 300 species of birds, including over 10 species of hornbills. If you love bird-watching, this place is worth your attention.

Image credit: @tom.mmmm_

Another interesting spot is the giant Sompong tree located a 300-metre walk away from the forest protection office. While you may spot that words and names in the tree by visitors, we strongly recommend that you help preserve its natural beauty by refraining from doing so.

Image credit: @oneeyed_milkman via Instagram

While exploring, come by Pa Hin Yok Viewpoint where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the forest.

Visit Halazah Waterfall

hala bala forest - waterfalls Image credit: @aeyvarat via Instagram

At Chulaporn Village 9, you can head to relax by a spectacular 100-metre waterfall – the Halazah Waterfall.

Another nearby waterfall to see is the Rainbow Spray Waterfall.

Ride a boat on the lake

Image credit: @apw_tar via Instagram

Bang Lang Dam is a massive lake where you can enjoy a long-tail boat ride with friends at Ta Phayao Pier from ฿500 (~USD2.91) per five people per boat. You’ll be viewing forests and green rolling hills surrounding the lake for up to one hour. Or, you can opt for a 2D1N trip on the lake on a large boat at ฿15,000 (~USD435.92) per boat per 35 people. You can split the fare with other passengers.

If you don’t have a car, you can contact Chulaporn Village 9’s phone number +6697 117 5567 or their Facebook page for rides while exploring the forest. The fare varies depending on the distance. They also offer a tour guide from ฿1,300 (~USD37.82) per person per 2N1D trip if you come with five people or more.

The trip includes accommodation, three meals, morning and evening forest and waterfall treks, a boat ride, and fog gazing.

Explore Hala Bala Forest in Yala

If you’re looking for a nature retreat in the south of Thailand, consider a trip to Hala Bala Forest where you can surround yourself with greenery and peace.

To get to the forest, you can fly to Betong International Airport and rent a car to drive to the location in two and a half hours or try contacting Chulaporn Village 9 for a pick-up in Yala.

For more interesting places to visit in Thailand, read Wat Sirindhorn Wararam: a glowing temple with a Mekong River view, Komol’s Corner Bamboo Rafting: a relaxing bamboo rafting ride and Phuket has a big Buddha on a hilltop with 360° views of the ocean.

Address: 4062, Lochut, Waeng District, Narathiwat 96160
Contact: +6697 117 5567 | Chulaporn Village 9’s Facebook | Google Maps

Cover image adapted from: @aeyvarat, @sudip_saha_nature and @apw_tar via Instagram