Khao Luang National Park covers Amphoe Muang, Amphoe Phipun, Amphoe Phrom Khiri, Amphoe Lan Saka, Amphoe Chawang, King Amphoe Chang Klang, and King Amphoe Nop Phitam. Having a land area of 597 square kilometres, it was declared a national park on December 18, 1974. The park has a winding mountain range, with the Khao Luang peak the highest of the peaks in southern Thailand at 1,835 metres above sea level. It is the watershed of more than 15 streams and rivers. The park’s rainforest is home to a multitude of tropical flora and fauna. There is a route that takes visitors around the park to see unspoiled natural scenery, the variety of wildlife and rare animal and plant species, some of which can only be found in the park. The beauty and completeness of the park, its fascinating nature, the park’s efforts to encourage the local community and tourists to be aware of the importance of nature, and its excellent tourist service system have all combined to help the park win the 1998 Thailand Tourism Award in the natural destination category. For more information and accommodation bookings, please contact Khao Luang National Park at Karom waterfall, Tambon Khao Kaeo, P.O. Box 51, Amphoe Muang, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80000, tel. 0- 7530-9047.

Ban Khiri Wong is an ancient community that settled at the foot of Khao Luang in Tambon Kamlon, near a path that goes up the mountain. This peaceful village is like one big, happy family. The main occupation is growing fruits, such as mangosteen, rambutan, durian, and Sato. The village was faced with catastrophe on November 21, 1988 when a flash flood swept away some 100 houses. The local monastery and villagers still maintain the damaged convocation hall and houses as monuments to those who perished. Ban Khiri Wong is considered a prototype of eco-tourism management and the place won the 1998 Thailand Tourism Award in the city and community category.

The village is a good example of local people living in co-existence with nature. Residents have developed tourism services to be a new business for the area through the Eco-tourism Club, a central organization that delegates responsibilities to groups in the community to create cooperation. The services include trekking tours, porters and homestay programs. Tourists can appreciate the way of life here all year round, with the most attractive time during July to September when fruits are on sale. Trekking up Khao Luang must start at Ban Khiri Wong. One can get to the village by taking a mini-bus from Talat Yao. Buses depart from 7 a.m.-4 p.m. The fare is 17 baht. Alternatively, one can drive on the Amphoe Mueang-Lan Saka route for 26 kilometres. The sign pointing to the village is at the 20-km marker on the right. For more information, contact the Tambon Kamlon Administration Office at tel. 0-7530-9010. 

Karom waterfall is 9 kilometres from the city. Take Highway No. 4016, then turn left onto Highway No. 4015 for 20 kilometres, and the entrance to the waterfall will be on the right. The waterfall originated in the Nakhon Si Thammarat mountain range and cascades down 19 levels, with names like Nan Phung, Nan Nam Ruang, Nan Dat Fa, and Nan Soi Dao (the highest level at 1,300-1,400 metres). Kings and royal family members have visited this waterfall, as evidenced by the initials of King Rama V and King Rama VI carved there.