Khlong Lan National Park is located in the subdistricts of Khlong Lan Phatthana, Khlong Nam Lai, and Pong Nam Ron, covering an area of approximately 187,500 rai. It was officially declared a national park on December 25, 1982. The park is renowned for its rich and diverse natural environment, including dry dipterocarp forest, dry evergreen forest, and mixed deciduous forest. Its forested areas remain well-preserved and serve as the headwaters for several rivers, including the Khlong Khlung, Khlong Suan Mak, and Khlong Lan, which flow into the Ping River, making the park environmentally and ecologically significant.

 

The park is home to at least 265 species of wildlife from 81 families, including mammals, birds, and reptiles, making it an important site for nature study. In addition to its diverse flora and fauna, Khlong Lan National Park features varied terrain, from steep mountains and streams to ponds, offering ideal conditions for outdoor activities such as hiking, rafting, and nature relaxation. The best time to visit is between November and February when the weather is cool, and the streams are clear, perfect for relaxation and photography.

 

Khlong Lan Waterfall is the most popular attraction in the park. It originates from the Khlong Lan, Khlong Khlung, and Khlong Suan Mak mountain ranges, with a height of approximately 100 meters and a width of 40 meters. The pool at the base of the waterfall is suitable for swimming and is only 200 meters from the park headquarters and about 4 kilometers from Khlong Lan Market. Visiting this waterfall provides a serene experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the majestic view and observe wildlife in the surrounding area.

 

Khlong Nam Lai Waterfall, also known as Pang Khwai Waterfall, is about 25 kilometers from the park headquarters. From Highway 1117, at kilometer markers 35-36, a sign directs visitors to the entrance, which is 10 kilometers away. This nine-tiered waterfall cascades from a height of about 60 meters into a large pool at the base, suitable for swimming. Water flows year-round, making it a refreshing spot for visitors, especially during hot weather.

 

Kaokorai Rapids can be reached via Highway 1117. At Pong Nam Ron junction, turn into a dirt road for about 16 kilometers. The rapids flow through rocky channels, creating small island-like formations. From the Khlong Suan Mak ranger station, visitors take a 4x4 vehicle along a 5-kilometer dirt road to the boarding point at Tad Pha Daeng. From there, rafting passes through scenic spots such as Pha Chom Chan and Tad Chong Khae, with rocks and forest lining both sides. The rapids’ intensity is rated 2-3, and the rafting trip lasts approximately 1.5 hours. The best time for rafting is from August to January when water levels are higher, offering a more thrilling experience.

 

Near the Khlong Suan Mak ranger station, there are also two notable caves: Sai Hai Sok Cave and Yao Santisuk Cave. Sai Hai Sok Cave is about 2 kilometers from the station and features stalactites, stalagmites, and a large population of bats. Yao Santisuk Cave similarly has stalactites, stalagmites, and bats. Visitors must be guided by park staff and bring their own flashlights to safely explore and appreciate the caves’ beauty.

 

For accommodations, the park offers six guesthouses. Visitors wishing to camp can use the camping area at the Khlong Suan Mak ranger station but must bring their own tents and cooking equipment. Overnight stays allow guests to fully immerse themselves in the peaceful forest atmosphere, stargaze at night, and enjoy natural sounds.

 

The park is accessible via multiple routes. From Bangkok, travelers can take Highway 1 through Nakhon Sawan Province for about 17 kilometers to Nong Ben, turn left to Lat Yao District, then take Highway 1072 (Lat Yao-Khlong Lan route) for 102 kilometers to the Khlong Lan Market intersection and continue 6 kilometers to the park headquarters. From Kamphaeng Phet Province, take Highway 1 to kilometer marker 346 at Ban Khlong Mae Lai, turn right to Khlong Lan District, then take Highway 1117 for 46 kilometers to the Khlong Lan Market intersection, then another 6 kilometers on a paved road to the park. Public transport options include buses from provincial bus stations or minivans on the Kamphaeng Phet–Khlong Lan route, with local songthaews available from Khlong Lan Market to the park.

 

Visitors planning to hike or explore caves should prepare with appropriate gear, such as hiking shoes, flashlights, hats, drinking water, and insect repellent. Campers should also bring cooking equipment and overnight supplies. During the rainy season, visitors should monitor park announcements as some areas may be subject to flash floods.

 

The park offers diverse activities, including hiking to study and experience nature, rafting at Kaokorai Rapids for excitement, photographing waterfalls and scenic landscapes, and exploring Sai Hai Sok and Yao Santisuk caves for those who enjoy nature and adventure. Visitors can learn about plant species, wildlife, and forest ecosystems while enjoying the serenity and beauty of the preserved environment.

 

Khlong Lan National Park is therefore an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It serves as an important site for ecological study while preserving its abundant ecosystems, including waterfalls, streams, rocky rapids, caves, and diverse hiking trails. Visitors gain enjoyment, excitement, and a genuine understanding of nature.

 

For more information, tourists can contact Khlong Lan National Park at Khlong Lan Phatthana Subdistrict, Khlong Lan District, Kamphaeng Phet Province 65120, phone: 0 5576 6022-3 or 0 5576 6425, or visit the website of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation to inquire and plan their trip in advance.