Poi Waterfall

Open Days: Check With Khao Krayang Forest Plantation Before Visiting

Opening Hours: Daytime Visit Recommended

 

Poi Waterfall in Phitsanulok Province is one of the most distinctive natural waterfalls in Wang Thong District. Located in Moo 1, Kaeng Sopha Subdistrict, Wang Thong District, Phitsanulok, it lies along the Khek River, one of the important waterways of the area. The waterfall is large and wide, stretching almost 200 meters across and reaching about 10 meters in height. Instead of falling as one narrow vertical stream, the water spreads across many rocks, rapids, and natural stone formations, creating a complex and impressive landscape.

 

The unique charm of Poi Waterfall comes from the width of the river and the way the water divides itself over many rock channels. As the Khek River reaches the waterfall, the current breaks into smaller streams that flow through low and high rocks. Some sections form white foam as the water crashes over stone, while others move more gently into lower pools. This variety gives Poi Waterfall a rich visual character and makes it interesting to view from different angles.

 

Poi Waterfall is located in the area of Khao Krayang Forest Plantation, a green and shaded forest setting managed in connection with the Forest Industry Organization. The surrounding trees provide a cool and relaxing atmosphere, making the area suitable for families, friends, nature lovers, photographers, and travelers who want an easy natural escape without a long trek. The sound of flowing water, the forest shade, and the open riverside scenery create a calm setting for a restful day trip.

 

One of the most interesting aspects of Poi Waterfall is that its character changes clearly with the seasons. During the rainy season, the Khek River carries a larger volume of water. The waterfall becomes powerful, loud, and dramatic, with brownish water caused by natural sediment. During this period, swimming is not recommended because the current is strong and can be dangerous. However, the rainy season is excellent for viewing the waterfall’s power from a safe distance.

 

During the cool season and hot season, the water level usually becomes lower and calmer. The water often appears clearer, with a greenish tone in some areas. This is the period when visitors can relax near the stream and enjoy safer riverside areas, especially around the downstream section and the edges of the river. Families often come during this time to rest, picnic, take photos, and enjoy the cool water where conditions are safe.

 

Poi Waterfall is also convenient to reach. It is located along Highway 12, the Phitsanulok–Lom Sak route, between kilometer markers 59 and 60. From the main road, visitors turn into a side road for about 2 km to reach the waterfall area. Because of this accessibility, Poi Waterfall is a practical stop for travelers heading toward Khao Kho, Phu Hin Rong Kla, Kaeng Sopha Waterfall, Kaeng Song Waterfall, or other attractions along the Wang Thong–Lom Sak route.

 

The journey from Phitsanulok city is suitable for a day trip by private car. The route passes through Wang Thong District and continues toward the mountainous road to Lom Sak. Along the way, travelers can find local restaurants, cafés, resorts, and riverside attractions. Poi Waterfall can be planned as a half-day stop, a full-day nature visit, or an overnight stay for those who want to camp or stay in the forest plantation area.

 

For light outdoor activities, Poi Waterfall is a very suitable destination. Visitors can walk around the riverside area, photograph the waterfall, rest under the trees, sit near the stream, or enjoy food and drinks at nearby cafés. Some nearby camping and café areas take advantage of the waterfall scenery, allowing visitors to stay close to the water and relax with the sound of the river.

 

For photographers, Poi Waterfall offers many angles. The wide waterfall, rock formations, flowing water, white foam, reflections, and surrounding forest create strong visual variety. Early morning or late afternoon light is usually more comfortable for photography than harsh midday sunlight. However, visitors should avoid climbing wet rocks or stepping into fast-flowing water for photographs, as the stones can be slippery and dangerous.

 

Poi Waterfall is part of the Khek River ecosystem. The river supports the natural scenery, local tourism, and the surrounding landscape of Wang Thong District. This makes the waterfall more than a scenic viewpoint. It is also an example of how water, forest, rock, and local community life are connected. Visitors should help protect the area by not littering, not using soap or shampoo in the river, not disturbing aquatic animals, and not damaging riverside plants.

 

During the rainy season, safety is especially important. The water level and current can change quickly. Even if some areas appear shallow, the force of the water can be strong enough to cause loss of balance. Visitors should obey warning signs, follow local advice, and stay in safe viewing areas. Respecting seasonal water conditions is essential when visiting any waterfall in Thailand.

 

During the cool and hot seasons, the waterfall becomes gentler and more suitable for riverside relaxation. Even then, visitors should choose safe areas only, especially along the downstream edges and calm sections. Children should always be supervised closely. They should not climb rocks, run near the water, or enter areas with strong current.

 

Useful items to bring include footwear with good grip, quick-drying clothing, drinking water, towels, personal medicine, sun protection, and a personal trash bag. Visitors planning a picnic should choose a safe spot away from strong water flow and should take all rubbish back out. Keeping the area clean helps protect the river, the rocks, the forest, and the experience of future visitors.

 

Poi Waterfall is suitable for a half-day or full-day itinerary. Travelers leaving Phitsanulok city in the morning can stop for coffee or food along Highway 12, spend time at the waterfall, and continue to Kaeng Song Waterfall, Sakunothayan Waterfall, or Kaeng Sopha Waterfall afterward. The location makes it a convenient part of a broader nature route in Wang Thong District.

 

For travelers who want to stay overnight, the Khao Krayang Forest Plantation area and nearby locations offer forest accommodation, camping areas, cafés, and resorts along the Wang Thong–Khek River route. Staying overnight allows visitors to enjoy the quieter atmosphere of the area in the evening and early morning, when the sound of the waterfall and the shaded forest feel especially peaceful.

 

Poi Waterfall is also a good place to appreciate the importance of forest conservation. The surrounding forest and riverside vegetation help maintain shade, moisture, and the scenic quality of the waterfall. When the forest is protected, the waterfall remains beautiful and useful as a recreation area for local people and travelers. A visit here can therefore be both relaxing and educational.

 

The name Poi Waterfall is associated with the way the water falls in fine, separated streams over the rocks, resembling delicate strands of water. This flowing pattern gives the waterfall its memorable identity. Unlike waterfalls that drop in one heavy curtain, Poi Waterfall spreads across rock surfaces and forms multiple streams, creating a softer and more textured appearance when the current is calm.

 

In the rainy season, Poi Waterfall feels powerful and dramatic. In the cool and hot seasons, it becomes gentler, clearer, and more relaxing. These seasonal changes make each visit different. Travelers who enjoy observing nature may find that the same waterfall can offer completely different moods depending on when they visit.

 

Families should choose resting areas away from strong current and wet rocks. Sitting under the trees, listening to the water, and enjoying a simple meal together are ideal activities here. Groups of friends can also use Poi Waterfall as a relaxing stop before continuing toward Khao Kho, Phu Hin Rong Kla, or other destinations on Highway 12.

 

Although the waterfall is easy to access, travelers should check information before visiting, especially during the rainy season or if planning to stay overnight. Conditions, camping fees, accommodation availability, and safety guidance may change according to season and local management. Calling the forest plantation or related local staff before traveling helps visitors plan more accurately.

 

Poi Waterfall is a complete natural attraction for travelers who want beauty, shade, easy access, and a relaxing riverside atmosphere. It is suitable for nature lovers, families, photographers, campers, and anyone seeking a scenic waterfall stop in Phitsanulok Province. For foreign travelers exploring the Wang Thong–Lom Sak route, Poi Waterfall is a worthwhile stop that combines natural scenery with convenient access.

 

Getting There Use Highway 12, the Phitsanulok–Lom Sak route, toward Wang Thong District and Kaeng Sopha Subdistrict. Poi Waterfall is located between kilometer markers 59 and 60. From the main road, turn into the access road for about 2 km. A private car is the most convenient option. Visitors should drive carefully during rain and contact Khao Krayang Forest Plantation before traveling if they plan to stay overnight, camp, or check water conditions.

 

 

A: Poi Waterfall is located in Moo 1, Kaeng Sopha Subdistrict, Wang Thong District, Phitsanulok Province, in the Khao Krayang Forest Plantation area along Highway 12.

 

A: It is a large waterfall on the Khek River, almost 200 meters wide and about 10 meters high, with water flowing through many rock formations and rapids.

 

A: Swimming is suitable only when the current is calm, usually during the cool and hot seasons around the riverside or downstream areas. Swimming is not recommended during the rainy season because the water is strong and muddy.

 

A: The rainy season is best for viewing the powerful waterfall, while the cool and hot seasons are better for relaxing, taking photos, and enjoying calmer water.

 

A: Use Highway 12, the Phitsanulok-Lom Sak route, to Kaeng Sopha Subdistrict in Wang Thong District. The waterfall is between kilometer markers 59–60, then about 2 km from the main road.

 

A: Yes. Khao Krayang Forest Plantation has accommodation and a camping area, and nearby locations also offer cafés, camping grounds, and resorts along the Wang Thong-Khek River route.

 

A: Travelers should contact Khao Krayang Forest Plantation, especially if they plan to book accommodation, camp, or check water conditions during the rainy season.

 

A: Nearby attractions include Kaeng Song Waterfall, Sakunothayan Waterfall, Kaeng Sopha Waterfall, Khek River rafting areas, and other nature stops along the Wang Thong-Lom Sak route.