The Backyard Homestay Khao Yai Travel Guide

Introduction

Nestled in the cool, green hills of Pak Chong, the gateway to Thailand’s beloved Khao Yai National Park, The Backyard Homestay offers a peaceful retreat from Bangkok’s chaotic crowds. Far from the flashy resorts that line Khao Yai’s popular tourist corridors, this intimate family-run property leans into the region’s natural charm, prioritizing quiet comfort and local hospitality for travelers looking to disconnect and recharge. Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast heading to the park, a couple seeking a romantic weekend escape, or a family on a slow road trip through Isan, this homestay delivers a genuine taste of laid-back Thai country living.

Hotel Overview

The Backyard Homestay is located at 31/10 Pak Chong-Lam Saphung Road, Pak Chong, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, a 10-minute drive from Pak Chong train station and 20 minutes from the main entrance of Khao Yai National Park. The property caters to all travel styles with spacious non-smoking family rooms, soundproofed air-conditioned accommodations, and private en-suite bathrooms stocked with free toiletries, bidets, slippers, and a choice of shower or bathtub. Every room opens to a private balcony or terrace with scenic views of the surrounding hills, while common areas include a shaded picnic area, outdoor seating, and guest barbecue facilities.

Thoughtful touches extend to in-room electric kettles, clothes racks, flat-screen TVs, and minibars, while on-site services include 24-hour front desk support, private check-in/out, shuttle services, grocery delivery, and packed lunches for day trips. Breakfast is served daily, with options for in-room dining, children’s menus, and custom dietary requests on request. Free public parking is available nearby without a reservation, and the multilingual staff speaks both Thai and English. Note that the homestay intentionally does not offer Wi-Fi, encouraging guests to fully disconnect from work and social media during their stay.

Local Attractions

No trip to Khao Yai is complete without a visit to Khao Yai National Park, Thailand’s third-largest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, just 20 minutes from the homestay. Explore kilometers of hiking trails that wind through ancient rainforest, spot wild elephants, hornbills, and gibbons, and cool off at the spectacular Haew Narok and Haew Suwat waterfalls, made famous by the film *The Beach*.

For a whimsical afternoon, head to Primo Piazza Khao Yai, a European-style village open to the public 15 minutes from the homestay. Stroll past cobblestone streets lined with alpine-style buildings, feed grazing sheep in the open meadow, browse boutique shops, and stop for coffee at a sidewalk cafe with sweeping hill views.

Wine lovers will enjoy a trip to GranMonte Vineyard and Winery, 25 minutes from the property. This award-winning local winery offers guided tours of its sun-drenched vineyards, wine tastings of signature Thai-grown blends, and farm-to-table dining with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

Travel Tips

Since the homestay does not offer on-site Wi-Fi, download offline maps and hiking trail guides before you arrive to stay oriented during day trips. If you plan to visit Khao Yai National Park, book your entry ticket online in advance, as visitor numbers are capped daily to protect the park’s ecosystem. Visit between November and February for cool, dry weather ideal for hiking and outdoor activities; the rainy season (June to October) brings lush green scenery but occasional trail closures. Most local attractions are best accessed by car or motorbike, and the homestay can arrange