Huai Thian Reservoir

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Open Days: Open daily (public areas on the dam crest and around the reservoir)

Opening Hours: 06:00 – 18:00

 

Huai Thian Reservoir in Kanchanaburi Province is a medium-sized reservoir under the responsibility of the Royal Irrigation Department. It plays a crucial role in local water resource management, supporting both domestic consumption and agricultural activities, while also serving as a recreational area for the public. The open dam crest provides space for relaxation, fishing, and enjoying natural scenery throughout the day—especially in the morning and evening, when reflections on the water and the surrounding mountains create a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere.

 

Huai Thian Reservoir is significant as a Royal Initiative Project. On June 9, 1981, His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great, the late King Rama IX, graciously issued a royal initiative to officials of the Royal Irrigation Department to construct this reservoir to provide water assistance to local residents facing water shortages, both during the dry season and throughout continuous agricultural cultivation periods. This royal initiative marked the beginning of an important medium-scale irrigation project that has greatly improved the well-being of people in Kanchanaburi Province.

 

According to the Royal Irrigation Department’s plans, Huai Thian Reservoir was designated as a medium-scale irrigation project of the reservoir type, with a storage capacity of approximately 10.65 million cubic meters. The project’s main components include an earthen dam headworks, as well as right-bank and left-bank water conveyance systems. These were designed to distribute water efficiently and equitably to agricultural areas and communities, reflecting a sustainable water management approach that considers local terrain and actual water-use needs.

 

Construction of Huai Thian Reservoir began in 1984 and was completed in 1987. Upon completion, the reservoir was able to supply water and support approximately 7,000 rai of agricultural land. This has enabled year-round cultivation, reduced drought risk, and enhanced income stability for farming households across the area.

 

Physically, Huai Thian Reservoir is an earthen dam that is both robust and well integrated into its surrounding environment. The long, open dam crest serves both engineering and public purposes, allowing residents and visitors to relax, exercise, or engage in recreational activities such as fishing and scenic viewing. The left and right water conveyance systems distribute water systematically to agricultural areas, ensuring maximum efficiency in water utilization.

 

The reservoir’s role in domestic water supply is no less important than its agricultural function. Water stored in the reservoir serves as a reserve source for nearby communities, helping to alleviate water shortages during the dry season and strengthening overall water security for daily life. Its large storage capacity makes Huai Thian Reservoir a key component of the province’s water management system.

 

In agriculture, Huai Thian Reservoir continuously supports local farming activities. Water supplied from the reservoir enables the cultivation of rice, field crops, and horticultural plants throughout the year, reducing dependence on rainfall alone. Many farmers can plan cultivation more accurately, resulting in more consistent yields and improved crop quality.

 

Beyond water use, Huai Thian Reservoir also offers significant landscape and recreational value. Its expansive water surface, surrounded by mountains and natural scenery, makes the reservoir an attractive viewpoint—especially in the early morning, when light mist floats above the water, and in the evening, when the setting sun reflects across the reservoir. The dam crest has therefore become a popular relaxation spot for both locals and visitors.

 

Popular activities at Huai Thian Reservoir include freshwater fishing, walking along the dam crest, and relaxing while enjoying the surrounding natural scenery. The calm atmosphere makes the area ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat in nature. Although it is not a commercial tourist destination, the reservoir possesses a unique charm as a shared public space for the community.

 

Getting There Huai Thian Reservoir is primarily accessible by private vehicle. Travelers can follow local routes within Kanchanaburi Province toward nearby irrigation project areas. The surrounding roads are local routes that provide convenient access to the dam crest and reservoir area, making it suitable for a short day trip or a stopover during travel within the province.

 

 

A: Construction began in 1984 and was completed in 1987.

 

A: The reservoir has a storage capacity of approximately 10.65 million cubic meters.

 

A: It supports approximately 7,000 rai of agricultural land.

 

A: Visitors can relax, fish, walk along the dam crest, and enjoy scenic views in the morning and evening.

 

A: Public areas are open daily from 06:00 to 18:00.