Khao Phanom Bencha

Facts

• Elevation: 1,397 m (4,583 ft)
• Prominence: 1,320 m
• Ribu category:  Kurang Tinggi
• Region:  Southern Thailand
• Coordinates: 8.2792, 98.9342
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• Other names: เขาพนมเบญจา
• World Ribus ID: 68574

Khao Phanom Bencha is the highest point in Krabi Province, forested and rugged and within Khao Phanom Bencha National Park. The park was designated in 1981 and is ecologically significant, boasting ancient rainforest and over 200 bird species, including hornbills and the endangered Gurney’s Pitta. A multi-day trek to the summit ridge is well-recorded, taking hikers through virgin rainforest, waterfalls, caves and panoramic ridgelines.

The approach seems to be from the east via Ton Han waterfall, though online maps show the trail leading to a lower north-eastern peak (approx 1,300m) rather than the true summit. There looks to be a camp spot at around 1,200m.

Practicalities

• • Getting there: The park is located approx 25 km north of Krabi town. Public transport is not available, so visitors must rent a car, motorbike or hire a taxi/songthaew to reach the site.

• • Permits: Entry into Khao Phanom Bencha National Park requires standard admission tickets – roughly 100 THB for foreigners and 50 THB for children, with lower Thai-national fees and a vehicle fee of 30 THB. Overnight trekking routes to the summit are official and permitted; guides are optional but recommended, especially for multi-day routes. Trekkers must register at the park ranger station before starting.

• • Water sources: Water is available along the lower trail but probably not reliable higher up.

Local Average Monthly Rainfall (in Krabi)

Location