Rating: 2.9/5 (13 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00 (Recommended to visit during daylight hours)

 

Roi Chang Phueak Waterfall is a natural attraction valued not only for the beauty of its flowing water and surrounding forest, but also for the deep historical narratives and collective memories preserved by the local community. Located in Thong Pha Phum District, Kanchanaburi Province, this waterfall is known for a legend passed down through generations, telling the story of villagers who once fled war and invasion in the past.

 

The story of Roi Chang Phueak Waterfall dates back to a time of unrest, when Burmese invasions forced local villagers to abandon their homes. Families fled together, carrying children and leading elephants, horses, cattle, and buffalo through forests and mountains in search of safety. One of the escape routes passed through a small stream, which at that time was nothing more than an ordinary creek. No one could have imagined that the footprints left behind by people and animals on that journey would one day become traces remembered and named by later generations.

 

As large groups of people and animals crossed this stream repeatedly, the weight of elephant feet, horse hooves, and cattle tracks pressed into the rocks and ground along the watercourse. Over time, these impressions formed distinctive markings that remain visible even today. The local community came to call this place “Roi Chang Phueak Waterfall,” in remembrance of those events, symbolizing the journey, survival, and resilience of their ancestors.

 

From the community’s perspective, Roi Chang Phueak Waterfall is more than a tourist site. It is regarded as a “witness of history,” where nature itself has recorded human stories. The marks seen along the stream were not created for tourism purposes; they emerged from real lives lived during a turbulent era. These traces therefore hold deep emotional significance and clearly reflect the relationship between humans, animals, and the natural environment.

 

In terms of geography, Roi Chang Phueak Waterfall takes the form of a stream flowing across naturally layered rock formations. Water cascades gently down the sloping terrain before gathering into small pools at various points. The characteristics of the rocks and streambed make it relatively easy to observe the markings believed to have been formed by repeated passage in the past, especially during periods when the water flow is not too strong.

 

The surrounding environment remains fairly well preserved, with forested areas and the moisture typical of a watershed ecosystem. This creates an overall atmosphere of calm and shade, making the area suitable for quiet walks, nature study, or unhurried reflection on the stories of the past, rather than rushed sightseeing.

 

The beauty of Roi Chang Phueak Waterfall changes with the seasons. During the rainy season, the stream carries more water, giving the flow a stronger presence while the surrounding forest turns intensely green. Late rainy season into early winter is particularly popular, as the water remains attractive while paths and rock surfaces are less slippery than during heavy rainfall. In the dry season, water levels may drop, but this period allows clearer observation of the various markings along the stream.

 

Visiting Roi Chang Phueak Waterfall today therefore offers a blend of nature-based tourism and local historical learning. Many visitors choose to spend time quietly observing the traces, listening to stories from local residents, or imagining the hardships faced by ancestors who once passed through this landscape.

 

Getting There To reach Roi Chang Phueak Waterfall, start from Kanchanaburi town and follow Highway No. 323 (Kanchanaburi–Thong Pha Phum) for approximately 125 kilometers. Upon reaching Thong Pha Phum District, continue for about 25 kilometers. A turnoff from Highway No. 323 leads to the waterfall, with an additional distance of around 3 kilometers. The access road is fully paved, making travel by private vehicle convenient.

 

As the area is a natural environment, visitors should take extra caution, especially during the rainy season. Rocks may be slippery, and water levels can rise quickly. Appropriate clothing and footwear with good traction are recommended. Visitors are also encouraged to help preserve the site by keeping it clean, not leaving litter, and avoiding damage to the natural traces that hold historical significance.

 

Roi Chang Phueak Waterfall is therefore not merely a place for relaxation, but a landscape that closely connects the past with the present. Visiting with understanding and respect for the community’s stories adds depth and meaning beyond visual beauty alone, helping ensure that the history and legends of this place continue to be passed down for generations.

 

 

A: It is a waterfall associated with a legend about villagers and animal caravans migrating to escape war in the past.

 

A: Access is convenient via Highway No. 323, followed by a 3-kilometer paved road into the area.

 

A: Late rainy season to early winter offers attractive water flow and safer walking conditions.

 

A: Swimming is possible in certain areas depending on water conditions, but caution is advised due to slippery rocks and strong currents during the rainy season.

 

A: Visitors should respect the natural environment, avoid damaging traces, carry out all trash, and travel responsibly.