Park officials had no other choice than to close the entrance, and this caused public anger, especially among those who had travelled a long way from homes in the southern part of the country. Like many national parks, Khao Yai lacks adequate manpower to effectively guard the forest and wildlife. With the easing of the overnight stay ban, the park is trying to provide camping areas to facilitate increasing demand during long holidays. Mr Somkiat said that in the next two years, other improvements will be completed, including an upgraded road of 70 kilometres that bisects the park area at a cost of more than 90 million baht. As well, there are plans for a mini-theatre room where visitors can deepen their appreciation of the park by viewing documentary films.
Road conditions remain poor for now, with many potholes.
But when the improved road is completed, new concerns will arise about fast-moving vehicles possibly putting roaming wildlife in greater danger, as the road cuts through the forest. In the past, when the road was cut from Prachin Buri, some animals were reportedly killed by vehicles. Visitors to Khao Yai should take advantage of the visitor centre at the park entrance, where they can learn about the park and its denizens. Waterfall lovers, meanwhile, will find the park dotted with as many as 30 sites that fulfill their needs. Heo Suwat waterfall is the easiest to reach, located at the end of Thanarat Road.