Khao Laem National Park: Where Adventure Meets Serenity in Kanchanaburi

The Bear Team 6 min read

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Kanchanaburi is Thailand's third-largest province, close to the border of Myanmar west of Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok). Hundreds of tourists yearly visit this beautiful province with the best flora and fauna. This place is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers. 

Among the treasures of Kanchanaburi is the Khao Laem National Park, celebrated for its verdant forests, the sprawling Khao Laem Reservoir, remarkable waterfalls, enticing hiking trails, and an array of captivating attractions. This makes it an essential destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

The park measures a medium 1,500 square kilometers. It has many stunning sights, including Kra Teng Jeng Waterfall and Mon Bridge - the longest wooden bridge in Thailand.

So, prepare yourself for a journey with us through the Khao Laem National Park and soak in the experience waiting for us.

 Fun Fact!

Kra Teng Jeng Waterfall is the main attraction in Khao Laem National Park, a medium-sized fall with 23 tiers and some good adjacent walking. 

A Jungle Retreat in the Heart of Thailand

The Khao Laem National Park is located near the Sangkhlaburi district northwest of Kanchanaburi province. This national park is a paradise for wildlife lovers and was made to honor King Bhumipol Adulyadej's 60th anniversary on December 5, 1987. 

With ultimate floral and faunal diversity, Khao Laem National Park is encircled by deep, fertile forests and underwater temples. This national park has a lot of sights to offer. Khao Laem is also known for its peaceful houseboat experiences that shouldn't be missed at all.

Khao Laem National Park is famous for its colossal reservoir - Khao Laem Lake, that covers the area from the northern regions of the park to Sangkhlaburi district. The national park has beautiful camping spots and floating houseboats on the reservoir for a captivating stay experience. Khao Laem has Thailand's longest wooden teak bridge. It is known as Uttamanusorn, or 'Mon Bridge,' measuring 850 meters long.

What to See in Khao Laem National Park?

Khao Laem National Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders, promising a memorable and immersive journey for all who venture here.

Khao Laem Lake 

Khao Laem Lake is a striking man-made reservoir enveloped by the pristine forests of Khao Laem National Park. This reservoir stands as the park's crowning jewel, beckoning to travelers seeking natural splendor. To explore this captivating beauty, you can rent a long-tail boat from Sangkhlaburi, offering a unique perspective of the park's pristine surroundings.

Koreng Krawia Waterfall and Kra Teng Jeng Waterfall

Khao Laem National Park is not only celebrated for its tranquil lake but also for its enchanting waterfalls. Within the park, you'll find the soul-soothing Koreng Kra Wia and Kra Teng Jeng Waterfalls, inviting you to bask in their natural splendor.

Mon Bridge

A visit to the Mon Bridge, Thailand's longest wooden teak bridge, is an essential part of the Khao Laem experience. This bridge serves as a connection between the Sangkhlaburi District and Mon Village, offering cultural insights and breathtaking vistas.

Mon Village

Beneath the serene waters of Khao Laem Lake lie submerged remnants of the Mon village, creating a unique and somewhat mystical experience for those who wish to explore these underwater depths.

Pom Pi View Point

Pom Pee Point, located just 2 kilometers from the park's headquarters, offers a beautiful viewpoint to savor the serene vistas of Khao Laem Reservoir. It's an ideal spot to witness the stunning sunset and immerse yourself in the park's tranquil scenery.

Essential Information About Khao Laem National Park

Inside the national park, the tourists can trek through the routes made to explore the forest and other attractions by enjoying walking through the natural trails. Various other activities are offered to visitors on a pay-to-enjoy basis inside Khao Laem. It includes rafting, canoeing, kayaking, etc.

While exploring the national park, visitors can also go bird-watching and try to spot endemic species of the region. For more adventurous visitors, exploring caves is also an option!

Geography and Climate

• The park features steep limestone mountains running in a north-south axis, serving as the source of rivers like the Kwai Noi River.
• The tropical climate is influenced by winds from the southern and Andaman Sea, leading to three distinct seasons:
  • Rainy season from the month of June to October (with heavy rains in July and August).
  • Winter from November to January, with temperatures dropping to 10°C.
  • Summer from February to May, peak temperatures of 38°C in April.

Flora and Fauna

• The park encompasses mixed deciduous, hill evergreen, and dry evergreen forests, providing habitats for diverse wildlife.
• This includes bears, tigers, guar, elephants, sambar deer, barking deer, wild pigs, and numerous bird species.

Facilities

• Headquarters: Offers accommodation, a restaurant, and parking facilities.
• Kroeng Kra Wia Waterfall ranger station: Provides accommodation, a visitors center, and parking.
• Pom Pee ranger station: Features accommodation and parking options.

Accommodation

• Bungalows with fans and hot water, suitable for 3 to 6 people, can be found at the headquarters, Kroeng Kra Wia Waterfall, and Pom Pee ranger stations.
• Camping sites are available at the headquarters and Pom Pee ranger station.

Transport

• Accessible by car or bus from Kanchanaburi.

Sample Itinerary When in Khao Laem National Park

• Day 1:

  • You may take a direct easy route with a taxi from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Khao Laem National Park (approximately 5 hours).
  • Head to Pom Pee Point for sunset and set up your tent at the campground.

• Day 2:

  • Explore the national park's forests and its rich flora and fauna.
  • Visit mesmerizing waterfalls.

• Day 3:

  • Visit Mon Bridge.
  • Enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and rafting in Khao Laem Lake.
  • Shop for souvenirs at the Mon market.

• Day 4:

  • Sightseeing, including Bodhgaya pagoda, the underwater temple, and other shrines.
  • Depart for Suvarnabhumi.

When is the Best Time to Visit Khao Laem National Park? 

The ideal time to visit the Khao Laem National Park is from November-February. With the beginning of winter and gorgeous weather - hot in the day and chilly at night - and a balanced number of tourists around.

Khao Laem National Park heavily rains from June to October, which doesn't make it a proper time to visit. Whereas during summer, from February to May, it's scorching hot there, it still attracts tourists and is usually the peak season.

Top Places Near Khao Laem National Park

The top places near Khao Laem National Park are: 

• Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok)
  • 248 kilometers from Khao Laem National Park

• Pattaya
  • Located 338 kilometers from Khao Laem National Park

• Hua Hin
  • Located 310 kilometers from Khao Laem National Park

• Sangkhlaburi
  • Located 21 kilometers from Khao Laem National Park

• Koh Samui
  • Located 632 kilometers from Khao Laem National Park

 Trivia

Khao Laem National Park is famous for its vast reservoir - Khao Laem Lake, that covers the area from Sangkhlaburi to the northern regions of the park.

Why Visit Khao Laem National Park in Kanchanaburi?

Located west of Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok), close to the Burmese border, Khao Laem National Park is defined by its immense lake. It offers a unique wilderness experience as the reserve is explored by boat.

With its karst scenery and thickly forested interior, the beautiful Khao Laem National Park has extraordinary biodiversity, supporting elephants, tigers, gibbons, and hundreds of bird species.

How to Visit Khao Laem National Park in Kanchanaburi?

Khao Laem National Park is situated in the northern region of the Kanchanaburi province and is 300-odd kilometers away from Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok).

It is advised that tourists hire a private car in Thailand and drive up north to the national park. The scenic beauty of the landscape on the way will be worth the 4-hour drive. 

 Did you know?

The national park has beautiful camping spots and floating houseboats on the lake for an enchanting stay experience.

Maps & More Information 

Khao Laem National Park has an area of 1,497 square meters in the Thong Pha Phum and Sangkhla Buri districts. It is a peaceful jungle sanctuary offering a wide selection of recreational activities. Namtok Kateng Cheng, a 23-level waterfall, is a popular relaxing spot for visitors. At the same time, walking trails are also available for those who wish to explore and admire tropical trees and wildlife. Beware of visiting the waterfall during the rainy season, though.