Rating: 4.5/5 (4 votes)

Open Days: Open Daily

Opening Hours: 08:00 – 16:30

 

Tham Than Lot National Park is one of Thailand’s standout national parks for its distinctive landscape of cave systems, waterfalls, and forest trails within the western forests of the country. Located in Kanchanaburi Province, the park covers approximately 36,875 rai. Much of the area consists of limestone mountains interwoven with forested hills and natural streams, giving the park a unique identity in terms of terrain, ecosystems, and nature-based travel experiences that feel noticeably different from many other national parks in Thailand.

 

Tham Than Lot National Park was officially declared a national park on 12 February 1980. Its primary purpose is to protect valuable natural resources, including caves with underground streams, multiple waterfalls, watershed forests, and the flora and wildlife that depend on these habitats. National park designation elevated the area from general land use to conservation-focused management designed to sustain natural resources over the long term.

 

The park’s terrain is dominated by limestone formations shaped by water erosion over long periods, creating networks of small and large caves that connect in certain sections. Many caves contain streams that flow year-round, giving rise to the name “Tham Than Lot,” referring to caves where water flows through and under the rock. This geological character is not only visually impressive, but also supports specialized habitats for cave-dwelling fauna, small aquatic organisms, and moisture-dependent species adapted to consistently humid conditions.

 

One of the park’s major highlights is its internal trekking system, designed to align with real field conditions and to help visitors experience nature closely. The main trekking routes are divided into 2 routes. The first route runs from Tham Than Lot Noi Cave to Tham Than Lot Yai Cave, with a total distance of approximately 2.5 kilometers. The route begins at Tham Than Lot Noi Cave, where visitors can see beautiful stalactites and stalagmites, along with a stream known as Lam Kaphroi flowing throughout the cave, creating a cool, humid, and tranquil atmosphere.

 

After exiting Tham Than Lot Noi Cave, visitors continue trekking for about 1.5 kilometers through relatively shaded forest terrain to reach Tri Trueng Waterfall, a medium-sized waterfall with a natural pool that is suitable for a rest stop and nature viewing. From there, the trail continues for roughly another 1 kilometer to Tham Than Lot Yai Cave, a large cave with a spacious, open interior that marks the endpoint of this route. Overall, this trail is suitable for visitors with moderate fitness who want a genuine nature-trekking experience.

 

The second route leads to Than Ngern Waterfall and Than Thong Waterfall, with a distance of approximately 1.8 kilometers. This route is popular with general visitors because it is not too long and can be completed within a shorter timeframe. Than Ngern Waterfall is a small, tiered waterfall with up to 7 levels, and it takes about 35 minutes to walk from the park headquarters to the first level. Than Thong Waterfall is larger and has up to 15 levels, yet it takes only about 25 minutes to walk from the park headquarters to the first level, making it a convenient option for families and visitors with limited time.

 

In terms of natural resources, Tham Than Lot National Park contains a variety of forest types, including dry evergreen forest, mixed deciduous forest, and deciduous dipterocarp forest. Plant life along trails and around waterfall areas is diverse, ranging from large canopy trees to understory plants, ferns, and moisture-loving vegetation near caves and streams. These forest habitats also support a range of wildlife. While sightings depend on seasonality and how quiet the area is, the overall biodiversity reflects a well-functioning ecosystem within the park.

 

Tourism at Tham Than Lot National Park aligns well with “eco-friendly and conservation-minded travel.” Visitors should reduce their impact on nature by avoiding loud noise, not littering, not feeding wildlife, and following ranger instructions carefully. For trekking and cave visits, it is advisable to prepare appropriate gear such as non-slip shoes, a flashlight, drinking water, and breathable clothing, especially during the rainy season when trails can be slippery and humidity is high.

 

Entrance Fees for Tham Than Lot National Park are currently set as follows: Thai nationals – adults 20 baht, children 10 baht; foreign visitors – adults 200 baht, children 100 baht. These fees support site maintenance, waste management, and conservation of natural resources within the park.

 

Getting There Tham Than Lot National Park is approximately 97 kilometers from Kanchanaburi town. After arriving in Kanchanaburi, drive straight for about 7 kilometers, then turn right onto the Kanchanaburi–Thung Masang route for about 23 kilometers. Next, enter Highway 3086, passing through Bo Phloi District toward Nong Prue. At Nong Prue Market, follow signs for Tham Than Lot for about another 19 kilometers. The road is paved throughout. If traveling by public transport, you can take a bus from Kanchanaburi Bus Terminal to Nong Prue Market, then hire a local songthaew to the park.

 

 

A: It is ideal for visitors who enjoy trekking, nature, and learning about cave and waterfall ecosystems.

 

A: Plan at least half a day. If you want to complete multiple routes, a full day is recommended.

 

A: The park offers both easier and moderately challenging routes, suitable for most visitors with normal fitness.

 

A: The rainy season and cool season are especially attractive, with lush forests and stronger waterfall flow.

 

A: Yes. The park provides lodging and camping areas. Contact the park directly for current availability and details.