Rare floral display: Rama’s Spittoon” blooms in Kaeng Krachan National Park!

Rare floral display: Rama’s Spittoon” blooms in Kaeng Krachan National Park!

In Kaeng Krachan National Park, the largest national park in Thailand, there is exciting news from the natural world: the fascinating “Rama’s spittoon” (Sapria ram) is blooming in large numbers, attracting the attention of nature lovers and photographers alike. As the Nation of Thailand reported, this is an unusual parasitic flowering plant that only occurs in Thailand.

Visitors can admire the flowering specimens along the Ban Krang Nature Trail to Panoen Thung. This plant species, which belongs to the Sapria himalayana group, grows on the roots of other plants and develops its flowers at altitudes between 200 and 750 meters above sea level. The impressive flowers are 8 to 10 cm in diameter and showcase deep maroon and reddish pink petals with some white flecks at the base.

A natural paradise on your doorstep

The national park is located in the Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan provinces, not far from the popular coastal city of Hua Hin. With an area of ​​over 2,914 km², it was declared a national park on June 12, 1981 and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since July 2021. The diverse flora and fauna attracts visitors who want to be active in nature, whether hiking, camping or enjoying the breathtaking viewpoints.

The park is home to an impressive number of animal inhabitants, including leopards, elephants and many different species of birds - around 480 in number. Of particular note is the Ratchet-tailed Treepie, which is only found in this park. Those interested also have the opportunity to observe wild animals, as at least three tigers were documented in the park in 2025.

Activities in the park

The main activities in Kaeng Krachan National Park are diverse. In addition to wildlife-viewing camping, visitors can explore the rugged landscapes by hiking. The park has several waterfalls and smaller caves that provide the setting for exciting discovery tours. The Pala-U waterfall in particular is easily accessible and a popular place to enjoy nature to the fullest.

Visiting times and entrance fees are also worth mentioning: Sam Yot Checkpoint, the entrance gate to the park, opens its doors daily from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m., and entry costs 300 baht for adults and 150 baht for children aged 3 to 14 years. If you want to learn more about the impressive wildlife, you have the option of hiring rangers for guided hikes to ensure safety during your stay.

The Kaeng Krachan National Park is not only known for its biodiversity, but also as an important refuge for many animal species. During a visit you can definitely take a look at the fascinating elephants that are often spotted in the area. A visit to this natural paradise will be an unforgettable experience that is all about relaxation and adventure in the midst of Thailand's lush nature.

For more details about this beautiful national park, those interested can visit the website Thai National Parks as well as Tusk Travel which provide comprehensive information about the flora and fauna and activities in Kaeng Krachan National Park.