Khao Noi Khao Pradu Wildlife Sanctuary

Khao Noi-Khao Pradu is a non-hunting area — เขตห้ามล่าสัตว์ป่า, not the permit-gated เขตรักษาพันธุ์สัตว์ป่า (“wildlife sanctuary” in the strict sense) — covering 129 square kilometres of forest and hills northeast of Phitsanulok. It was established in 1998 and spans parts of Mueang Phitsanulok, Wang Thong, and Wat Bot districts, with its headquarters area roughly 25 km from Phitsanulok city. Entry is free, and because a non-hunting area’s core purpose is banning hunting rather than restricting public access, there’s no permit process to visit.

The distinction matters for what to expect. This isn’t a fenced reserve with a single gate and ranger check-in — it’s a protected stretch of forest that birders in particular already know: the area shows up as an active eBird hotspot, and species recorded here include hornbills and a range of forest birds typical of lowland-to-hill habitat in this part of the lower north. Mammals — deer, wild boar, smaller forest species — are present but genuinely shy; a casual daytime visit is far more likely to turn up birdlife and tracks than a clear mammal sighting.

Insider Tip: If wildlife-watching is the goal rather than just a walk in the forest, come with a birder’s mindset — early, quiet, and patient — rather than expecting a wildlife-park experience. This is conservation land first, tourist attraction second.

Facilities are minimal by design. There’s no ticket booth, gift shop, or paved trail network to speak of — bring your own water, sun protection, and insect repellent, and wear long trousers if you plan to leave any marked paths. A private vehicle gives far more flexibility than relying on local transport from Phitsanulok, since the area is spread across a rural district rather than concentrated at one accessible point.

Watch out: Don’t confuse this with a “true” wildlife sanctuary elsewhere in Thailand that requires advance permission — the different Thai legal category (non-hunting area vs. wildlife sanctuary) is the reason this one doesn’t. If a listing elsewhere describes permit requirements or entrance gates for “Khao Noi Khao Pradu,” it’s likely describing the wrong category of protected area.