The InterContinental Khao Yai is not your typical resort. Designed by the visionary architect Bill Bensley, the property draws inspiration from the region’s railway heritage, transforming upcycled train carriages into one-of-a-kind luxury suites.
Nestled on the edge of Khao Yai National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage site and just under three hours from Bangkok—the InterContinental Khao Yai is a luxurious haven. Surrounded by lush greenery and far removed from the noise of city life, this resort offers an entirely different side of Thailand that's tranquil, immersive, and beautifully designed.
We spent three nights in one of the Heritage One Bedroom Carriage Villas, a cleverly repurposed train car that felt like boarding a stationary luxury train. After checking in at the charming station-inspired lobby—complete with vintage memorabilia—we explored our unique accommodation.
Though narrow in layout, the villa was surprisingly spacious for our family of four. The rear housed a cosy lounge with a kitchenette and private terrace overlooking the lake; the front was our sleeping quarters with a king-sized bed and an extra mattress for the kids. In the middle, the vanity and storage area bridged the space, flanked by a shower and bathroom on either side.
The interiors were rich and moody—dark maroon, black marble, and dim lighting softened by natural light streaming through the windows. The design reminded us of Chiang Mai’s 137 Pillars House, also by Bensley. For kids, the stay felt like an extraordinary adventure aboard a real train.
Dining at InterContinental Khao Yai is a standout experience. Among all the properties we visited in Thailand, this one left the most lasting impression on our taste buds. Local dishes, like the unforgettable Pomelo Salad at Somying’s Kitchen, were elevated to new heights thanks to fresh ingredients and masterful seasoning.
Every meal was an opportunity to pause and savour. We recommend sticking to the Thai menu over Western options—this is where the chefs shine. Our children, meanwhile, happily devoured the gourmet mac & cheese every night. Breakfast by the lake at Somying is a serene, soul-nourishing ritual—especially if you arrive early and grab a lakeside table.
For more refined dining, Poirot offers French cuisine in an elegant setting reminiscent of golden-age train travel. Meanwhile, Papillon, an artful bar inside a restored carriage, serves classic French cocktails in timeless style. Another highlight was the Tea Carriage, where afternoon tea is served in a luxurious train cabin setting, complete with dark wood interiors, yellow leather seating, and ornate tables. Both sweet and savoury treats are offered alongside a fine selection of teas.
No stay would be complete without a visit to the Back on Track Spa, where treatments are held in converted train carriages. I indulged in two massages during our stay, both of which were wonderfully restorative.
While I relaxed, the kids were having fun at the nearby Planet Trekkers Kids Club, which is open daily from 9am to 5pm. The club offers a range of engaging activities, from treasure hunts in the botanical garden to bike tours around Swan Lake.
Daily activities cater to adults too. Our favourite was morning yoga by the lake pavilion. As a family, we loved the mini train ride outside Poirot and Papillon, which runs every 30 minutes along a short, preserved track. The experience was nostalgic and fun for all ages.
InterContinental Khao Yai encourages you to slow down, unplug, and connect with your surroundings. With just one pool (located near the bar) and a well-equipped yet intimate gym, the emphasis here is on quality over quantity. It’s a place to breathe, reset, and experience Thailand differently.
From immersive design and exceptional dining to serene landscapes and family-friendly activities, InterContinental Khao Yai stands out as one of our top picks for a meaningful and memorable family escape in Thailand.
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