Rating: 3.5/5 (4 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08:30–16:00 (may vary by season and weather; calling ahead is recommended)

 

Khao Chamao–Khao Wong National Park is a protected area of high ecological importance in Eastern Thailand. It spans Khao Chamao and Klaeng Districts in Rayong Province and parts of Khao Khitchakut District in Chanthaburi Province. Covering about 52,300 rai (approximately 83 square kilometers), the park was established on 31 December 1975. Most of the landscape comprises continuous tropical evergreen forest along ridgelines and valleys, interspersed with cliffs and numerous limestone caves, creating striking scenery and diverse ecosystems. The park also forms the headwaters that nourish surrounding communities, especially the Prasae River basin, reflecting its ecological value and the ecosystem services it provides to society.

 

The terrain consists of steep ridges alternating with rolling hills, with Khao Chamao as the most prominent peak. Geomorphology includes both granite and carbonate (limestone) formations, weathered over time to create caves, sheltered hollows, and distinctive rock strata. Rainwater flowing from peaks to lowlands forms multiple waterfalls. The water is clear and generally perennial, especially abundant during the rainy season.

 

The climate is tropical monsoon with three distinct seasons: the hot season (March–May), which is warm and humid; the rainy season (May–October), when rainfall is abundant—ideal for witnessing vigorous streams though visitors should beware of slippery surfaces and rising water levels; and the cool season (November–February), when the weather is pleasant and well suited to hiking and camping.

 

The park’s ecosystems are dominated by lush tropical evergreen forest with high biodiversity. Common tree species include dalbergia (chingshan), padauk, makha, yellow meranti, white meranti, and agarwood. The understory is rich with gingers and other herbaceous plants, ferns, and bamboo. Numerous wild orchids cling to branches and rock faces, adding color to the forest, especially in the morning. Wildlife signs and use of habitat by serow, muntjac, wild boar, macaques, and langurs are encountered, along with many bird and reptile species—evidence of healthy habitats and connected forest corridors.

 

Getting There From Bangkok, take Motorway Route 7 to Chonburi, then Highway 344 (Ban Bueng–Klaeng) to Klaeng District. Continue on Highway 3 (Sukhumvit) for about 7 km to Ban Khao Din, turn left onto Highway 3377 for about 17 km to Ban Nam Sai, then turn right for approximately 1 km to reach the park headquarters. Total distance from Bangkok is roughly 180–200 km (about 3–4 hours). From Chanthaburi, two access routes are available: via Talat Yai Am (approx. 15 km) or via Talat Kong Din (approx. 11 km). For public transport, take a van or bus from Bangkok to Klaeng and continue by songthaew or motorcycle taxi to the headquarters.

 

The park provides two nature study trails designed for learning about natural resources. Trail 1 is about 2 km (around 1 hour) and suitable for beginners and families with gentle ascents and descents. Trail 2 is about 3 km (around 1 hour 30 minutes), passing wetter forest zones with notable medicinal plants, mineral licks, and wildlife traces. Visitors must register at the visitor center before starting either trail and should strictly follow staff guidance for safety.

 

Khao Chamao Waterfall (Khlong Nam Sai Waterfall) is the park’s most popular stream-and-waterfall complex. Branching off Sukhumvit Road around kilometer marker 274, it lies about 16 km from the turnoff. The clear stream features a chain of falls extending roughly 3 km. The well-known tiers include Wang Nueng, Wang Matcha, Wang Morakot, Wang Sai Ngam, Pha Kluai Mai, Chong Khaep, Nam Tok Hok Sai (Six-Streams Fall), and Pha Sung. Wang Matcha is noted for large schools of mahseer, indicating excellent water quality and intact aquatic habitat. Exercise caution, especially in the rainy season when rock surfaces are slippery and water levels can rise quickly.

 

Pha Sawan Viewpoint is about 1.5 km from the headquarters. It opens to sweeping ridge-and-forest vistas and is ideal for photographing mist-draped evergreen canopy in the morning. Wear suitable footwear and avoid hiking during heavy rain for safety.

 

Khlong Pla Kang Waterfall is around 3 km from the headquarters with seven tiers aligned along the stream: Wang Chang Phan, Lan Phi Suea, Aeng Khruea Saba, Lan Pratu Pha, Than Ko Klang, Wang Krachai, and Than Sai Mok. The last two offer particularly striking scenery. Lan Pratu Pha is notable where the current squeezes between two large boulders like a natural “stone gate.” The approach passes through intact forest rich in understory plants and wild orchids. A designated camping compound supports overnight nature study.

 

Khlong Hin Phloeng Waterfall lies toward the park’s eastern side in Chanthaburi Province, about 10 km from the headquarters. Medium-sized yet perennial, it is surrounded by evergreen forest with abundant understory gingers and ferns, making it a restful ecotourism stop and a good site for plant observation under deep shade.

 

Khao Wong Cave Complex comprises several limestone domes forming a ring with a central lowland. More than 80 caves with beautiful speleothems have been recorded, with about 16 opened to visitors, including Tham Phet (Diamond), Tham Lakorn (Theatre), Tham Singto (Lion), Tham Khang Khao (Bat), Tham Rong Bon (Gaming House), and Tham Tao (Turtle). Some chambers are wide and airy, with draperies, bells, columns, and crystalline formations. The foothills also provide habitat for the serow—a nationally protected species—indicating high-quality habitat. Guided visits with park staff are recommended for safety and proper geologic interpretation.

 

Ecotourism and Learning Activities include nature walks, birdwatching, interpretation of evergreen-forest ecology, and both landscape and macro photography (understory flora, orchids, ferns). Camping is available at designated areas. Activities should follow Responsible Tourism and Leave No Trace principles and comply with park regulations.

 

Safety Guidance Wear footwear with good traction; avoid river edges and boulder fields during heavy rain; do not swim where signs prohibit or currents are strong; do not feed wildlife; carry out all trash; and follow staff instructions at all times. Notify staff before entering caves and bring appropriate lighting.

 

Facilities and Services The park offers a visitor center, parking, restrooms, limited shops, camping areas, and cabins. Accommodation reservations should be made via the Department of National Parks’ system. Plan ahead during holidays and peak seasons due to high demand.

 

Best Time to Visit The end of the rainy season into the cool season (November–February) is recommended for pleasant weather, clear but manageable flows, and soft morning light in evergreen forest. In the rainy season, monitor official warnings for flash floods or landslides and avoid approaching stream channels during intense rainfall.

 

Community Networks and CBT (Community-Based Tourism) Surrounding communities maintain forest-aligned livelihoods and produce local farm and handicraft goods. Visitors may opt for community-based ecotours to learn local knowledge and support the grassroots economy while minimizing environmental impacts.

 

 

A: Thai visitors: adult 40 THB, child 20 THB; Foreign visitors: adult 200 THB, child 100 THB. Additional vehicle fees may apply in some cases; please verify latest information before your trip.

 

A: Generally 08:30–16:00 daily. However, access times for individual sites may change by season or safety advisories. Please confirm with the park headquarters.

 

A: Yes. Both cabins and designated camping areas are available. Book through the Department of National Parks reservation system and check details directly with the park, especially during peak holidays.

 

A: Two main trails: about 2 km (around 1 hour) and 3 km (around 1 hour 30 minutes). Registration at the visitor center is required before hiking.

 

A: “Wang Matcha” is renowned for clear water teeming with mahseer. Other scenic tiers include Wang Morakot, Pha Kluai Mai, Chong Khaep, Six-Streams Fall, and Pha Sung.

 

A: Over 80 caves have been recorded, with about 16 typically open to visitors. Guided entry with park staff is recommended for safety and resource protection.

 

A: Footwear with good traction, a rain jacket in the wet season, insect repellent, sufficient drinking water, a trash bag, and a flashlight if visiting caves.

 

A: November–February offers cool, pleasant conditions and clear waterfalls. The rainy season also showcases abundant flows, but exercise extra caution.