The borders of Thailand and Malaysia are filled with long stretches of pristine forests. There are 2 Forest parks along and within these natural surroundings. Hala-Bala, a new park in the east and Thale Ban in the west. Thale Ban is smaller of the two but it sounded like a more interesting destination. To a non-Thai, the name itself. Then unknown to many, the forest is nestled at the foot of a series limestone hills. To complete the scene, a small lake filled with water Lilies, painted a panoramic sight. The park contains 3 terrestrial habitats - Tropical evergreen, semi-evergreen and meadow land. It is rich in both flora and fauna. Besides the many species of animals found, notable is the sighting of a rare frog, locally named "water dog" Thale Ban is better known among birders. The boast of having recorded 289 species of birds with 8 hornbills on the list. Surpassing the number seen in larger park like Khao Yai. Then the park is also within the flight path of the annual Raptors migration. With so much being publicised, this August 2005, we made a special trip to check up the Park.