As of March 2025, Kui Buri National Park in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province is one of Thailand’s most important wildlife sanctuaries, renowned for its herds of wild elephants. Although the park is not listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it plays a vital role in preserving regional biodiversity.
Closure in 2013–2014
In December 2013, a mass die-off of gaurs (Indian bison) was recorded in the park. Initially, poaching was suspected, but an investigation by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) revealed a different cause.
Studies by veterinarians and epidemiologists identified the culprit: the Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease Virus (EHDV), transmitted by biting midges. The park was temporarily closed to tourists to reduce animal stress and contain the outbreak.
Community Response
Residents of nearby villages showed strong civic engagement: they raised around 100,000 THB to support the investigation and park protection. With no new animal deaths in three months, the DNP decided to reopen.
Reopening
The park resumed operations in May 2014. Before reopening, provincial authorities conducted:
- Farmer education on livestock disease prevention
- Enhanced patrols and camera trap installations
- Staff training in biosecurity protocols
Modern Significance (2024–2025)
Today, Kui Buri is one of the few places in Thailand where wild elephants can be seen in their natural habitat. From November to April, herds of up to 50 individuals are regularly observed. The park is also home to:
- Gaur — population restored to 120 animals
- Tapirs, leopards, Asiatic wild dogs (dholes)
- Rare birds, including the Malayan peacock-pheasant
Visiting in 2025
The park is open daily from 6:00 to 18:00. Best time to visit: November to April (dry season).
Entrance fees:
- Foreigners: 100 THB
- Thai citizens: 30 THB
Recommendations:
- Take a guided jeep safari
- Arrive early in the morning for wildlife viewing
- Maintain silence and distance from animals
- Bring water, binoculars, and a camera
Conservation & Future
The DNP continues conservation efforts:
- Expanding wildlife corridors for elephant migration
- The "Neighbors of Elephants" program — farmer collaboration
- Population monitoring via drones and camera traps
Conclusion
While the 2013–2014 closure followed a tragic event, it became a key lesson in reserve management. By 2025, Kui Buri is not only a successfully recovered park but also one of the world’s best sites for wild elephant viewing. It shows how science, local communities, and ecotourism can unite to protect nature.
Sources:
— Department of National Parks, Thailand (DNP): «Kui Buri National Park Annual Report 2024»
— Ministry of Natural Resources: «Wildlife Disease Control in Thailand»
— Bangkok Post: «Elephant Haven: Kui Buri’s Conservation Success», February 2025
— The Nation: «How Kui Buri Bounced Back After the Gaur Crisis»
— WWF Thailand: «Elephant Corridors Project»
Back to list
