Get your bags packed, grab a warm jacket, and prepare to experience romance under the stars, as the grand annual stargazing festival, “Dark Sky Star Party 2026” Season 2, is set to return in full swing at the Khao Rom viewpoint campground in Khao Yai National Park.
This event takes place in one of Thailand’s best Dark Sky Reserve areas, renowned for its exceptional visibility of the night sky. Participation is free, with only the national park entrance fee required.
This important gathering is a collaboration between the Khao Yai Tourism Association, the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT), and many partners, ready to transform an ordinary night into a fun and educational star party, perfect for campers, photographers, and families alike.
Packed Activities "A caravan of over 50 telescopes" From the Pak Chong Astronomy Club and astronomers nationwide, offering you the chance to observe nebulae, galaxies, star clusters, Jupiter, Mars, and Venus up close.
"Including mobile phone astrophotography training" No professional camera needed; experts will teach how to photograph celestial objects through telescopes and capture the Milky Way at dawn using smartphones. "Learn about stars in an easy-to-understand way" Presented by astronomy communicators, along with an introduction to the Thai-developed stargazing app "NAPA".
"Featuring glowing art and DIY activities" Visitors can marvel at light painting with a Stars & Planets theme that transforms the forest into a glowing spectacle and enjoy crafting glowing constellation boxes.
Additionally, there are extra activities such as "Night Safari" An invitation to ride through the forest at night to observe wildlife up close. Reservations must be made at the visitor center by 6:00 p.m. on the day of use. The cost is 600 baht per vehicle (up to 8 passengers). Inquiries can be made at the visitor center before 6:00 p.m. Importantly, there will also be "Community food stalls" Offering delicious local dishes themed around the sky, forest, and stars.
The Dark Sky Star Party 2026 will be held on Saturday, 21 March 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. at the Khao Rom viewpoint campground in Khao Yai National Park, Nakhon Ratchasima Province.
Entrance fees apply only for the national park: 40 baht for Thai adults and 20 baht for children; for foreigners, 400 baht for adults and 200 baht for children. Seniors, people with disabilities, and young children enter free.
For vehicles entering, fees are 30 baht for cars and 20 baht for motorcycles. Camping sites and accommodations charge a 30 baht per person fee for tent spaces.
Prepare by checking the weather in advance and bring appropriate clothing. You may bring camping chairs or mats to relax, even if you don’t stay overnight.
Information and photos: Tourism Authority of Thailand, Nakhon Ratchasima Office