Mainland Serows, in Thai known as liang phah, mostly inhabit forested, steep mountainous areas, including limestone cliffs. At first glance, this animal is somewhat similar in appearance to the male Nilgai (fig.).

They have a relatively short body and long legs, with a grey to black bristly fur, sometimes with a reddish brown tinge, especially on and around the legs.

They have short, slightly curved horns and a mane of long hairs, that are dark near the body, but pale towards the top.