Wang Nok Aen Waterfall (Sakunothayan Arboretum)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08.30 – 16.30

 

Wang Nok Aen Waterfall, also known as Sakunothayan Waterfall, is one of the most accessible nature attractions in Wang Thong District, Phitsanulok Province. Located inside Sakunothayan Botanical Garden along Highway 12 between Phitsanulok and Lom Sak, the waterfall is formed by the Khek River as it flows over a broad rocky ledge and descends into a shaded riverside landscape. For foreign travelers, this is a convenient stop for a short nature break, a family-friendly walk, photography, and a refreshing pause on the route from Phitsanulok toward Khao Kho, Phetchabun, or Lom Sak.

 

Wang Nok Aen Waterfall is not only a scenic waterfall. It is also part of a protected botanical area with historical, ecological, and educational value. The site was formerly known as Wang Nok Aen Forest Park before it became Sakunothayan Arboretum and later developed as Sakunothayan Botanical Garden. Today, the area functions as both a natural recreation site and a learning space where visitors can observe trees, mixed deciduous forest, dry dipterocarp forest, riverside plants, and the local ecology of the Khek River.

 

Upon entering the garden area, visitors are welcomed by large trees and a calm natural atmosphere before reaching the waterfall zone. The waterfall itself is a single-tier cascade, approximately 10 meters high, with a wide curtain of water flowing across a rocky formation. During periods of strong water flow, the sound of the river becomes one of the most memorable parts of the experience. The setting feels peaceful and refreshing, especially for travelers who want to take a break from long-distance driving without trekking deep into the forest.

 

The name Wang Nok Aen reflects the original local identity of the area and its connection with Wang Nok Aen Subdistrict. The name Sakunothayan was later adopted for the conservation area. The word evokes the image of a peaceful natural sanctuary associated with birds, trees, and shaded riverside scenery. This makes the waterfall more than a simple roadside stop; it is a place where local geography, natural conservation, and historical memory come together.

 

The history of Sakunothayan is important to Phitsanulok Province. The area was first established as Wang Nok Aen Forest Park after government authorities recognized its natural value and potential as a public recreation site. On 28 February 1958, King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit visited the forest park during a royal trip to northern Thailand. After that visit, the site received the royal name “Sakunothayan.” In 1961, the Royal Forest Department changed the area into Sakunothayan Arboretum in line with forestry and botanical management practices.

 

One of the distinctive historical features of the area is the royal reception pavilion on the western side of the site. It was built for the royal visit and is located in a position overlooking the Wang Thong or Khek River. On the eastern side, a riverside pavilion offers another viewpoint over the river landscape. These structures add a cultural and historical layer to the visit, making Wang Nok Aen Waterfall different from many other small waterfalls in Thailand.

 

The surrounding atmosphere is ideal for slow travel. Visitors can walk under the shade of mature trees, rest by the river, photograph the waterfall, and learn about local plants through botanical name signs. The scenery changes throughout the day. In the morning and late afternoon, sunlight filters through the trees and gives the waterfall, rocks, and riverside vegetation a softer appearance. This makes the site suitable for landscape photography, casual portraits, and travel photos with a natural background.

 

Although Wang Nok Aen Waterfall is not a large mountain waterfall, its strength lies in accessibility and atmosphere. It is close enough to Phitsanulok City for a half-day trip, yet natural enough to feel like a genuine escape from urban surroundings. The site is especially suitable for families, older travelers, children, and anyone who prefers an easy nature visit rather than a demanding hike. It is also useful as a stopover for travelers driving from Phitsanulok toward the mountains of Phetchabun.

 

About 500 meters before the main waterfall area, visitors can find the route to Kaeng Sai, a nearby rocky rapid within the same natural setting. Kaeng Sai features rocks across the stream and a peaceful riverside atmosphere. It is suitable for relaxing, taking photographs, and enjoying the sound of flowing water. Many visitors combine the main waterfall with Kaeng Sai because the two areas offer slightly different experiences: the waterfall provides a broader cascade view, while the rapid gives a closer riverside feeling.

 

Visitors should understand that the main waterfall area is not recommended for swimming. The water can form strong currents and whirlpools, especially during the rainy season when the Khek River carries a larger volume of water from the Phetchabun mountain range. Travelers should follow warning signs and local safety instructions at all times. The safest way to enjoy the site is to use it for sightseeing, nature walks, photography, resting, and learning about the botanical environment.

 

The best time to visit is from morning to early afternoon, when the weather is usually more comfortable and there is enough daylight to walk around the area. Travelers who want to see a more powerful waterfall may prefer the rainy season or early cool season, but heavy-rain days should be avoided for safety. The cool season and dry season are better for relaxed walking, photography, and botanical learning because paths are generally easier to use and the atmosphere is clearer.

 

Sakunothayan Botanical Garden also plays an educational role. Its landscape includes plains, gentle hills, riverside zones, mixed deciduous forest, and dry dipterocarp forest. The soil is mainly sandy loam and lateritic soil with good drainage. Visitors can observe different tree species, shrubs, and riverside plants. Plant name signs make the site useful for students, families, teachers, and nature lovers who want to combine recreation with environmental learning.

 

For families, one of the main advantages of Wang Nok Aen Waterfall is convenience. The parking area is not far from the main scenic zone, and basic visitor facilities are available in the area. During busy periods, small shops near the parking area may offer simple food and drinks. Still, visitors should bring drinking water, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a personal trash bag to keep the natural area clean.

 

Getting to Wang Nok Aen Waterfall is straightforward by private car. From Phitsanulok City, take Highway 12 toward Wang Thong and Lom Sak. The entrance is around kilometer marker 33 on the right-hand side when traveling from Phitsanulok. After turning into the entrance road, continue for about 1 kilometer to reach the parking area. The road is suitable for normal cars, but drivers should be cautious during weekends, holidays, and rainy conditions because Highway 12 is used by both tourists and transport vehicles.

 

The distance from Phitsanulok City is around 30-35 kilometers, with a driving time of about 40-50 minutes depending on traffic. Travelers continuing toward Khao Kho, Phetchabun, or Lom Sak can use the waterfall as a comfortable break before entering the hillier sections of the route. Public transport is possible only with additional local transfer arrangements, so a private car or rental car is the most convenient option for visiting several places in Wang Thong District in one trip.

 

Nearby attractions can easily be combined into a one-day itinerary. Kaeng Sai is the closest point, while Kaeng Song Waterfall, Poi Waterfall, Wat Ratchakhiri Hiranyaram, and the Khek River rafting route are all within driving distance. During the rafting season, usually around August to October, the Khek River becomes one of the best-known adventure routes in Phitsanulok. This makes the area suitable for travelers who want to mix soft nature sightseeing with more active outdoor experiences.

 

Restaurants around Wang Thong range from riverside Thai restaurants and local cafés to resort dining areas along the Khek River. Many places focus on Thai food, fish dishes, local flavors, coffee, and cold drinks. Travelers can stop for lunch or refreshments before or after visiting the waterfall. For overnight stays, there are riverside resorts, nature lodges, rafting-area accommodations, and hotels in Phitsanulok City. Staying in Wang Thong is convenient for nature-focused travel, while staying in Phitsanulok City provides easier access to shopping, temples, transport, and urban facilities.

 

Responsible travel is important at Wang Nok Aen Waterfall. Visitors should not leave trash, climb dangerous rocks, swim in restricted areas, disturb wildlife, or make excessive noise. Historical structures such as the royal reception pavilion and riverside pavilion should be treated respectfully. By traveling responsibly, visitors help preserve the beauty, safety, and ecological value of this natural site for future travelers.

 

Overall, Wang Nok Aen Waterfall in Sakunothayan Botanical Garden is a worthwhile nature stop in Phitsanulok for travelers who appreciate quiet scenery, easy access, and meaningful local history. It offers a waterfall, river landscape, botanical learning, shaded walking areas, nearby rapids, and historical landmarks in one compact destination. For foreign visitors exploring northern lower Thailand by road, this waterfall is a practical and rewarding stop between the city of Phitsanulok and the mountainous routes toward Phetchabun.

 

 

A: Wang Nok Aen Waterfall, also known as Sakunothayan Waterfall, is located inside Sakunothayan Botanical Garden in Wang Nok Aen Subdistrict, Wang Thong District, Phitsanulok Province.

 

A: Yes. Wang Nok Aen Waterfall is the original local name, while Sakunothayan Waterfall is the later name associated with the conservation area.

 

A: The waterfall area is open daily from 08.30 to 16.30.

 

A: No. Visitors can enter without an admission fee, making it a convenient nature stop along Highway 12.

 

A: Swimming at the main waterfall is not recommended because of strong currents and whirlpools. Visitors should follow warning signs and local safety instructions.

 

A: Take Highway 12 toward Lom Sak. The entrance is around kilometer marker 33; turn right and continue about 1 km to reach the parking area.

 

A: It is suitable for families, nature lovers, road-trip travelers, photographers, and visitors who prefer an easy nature walk without a long trek.

 

A: Nearby places include Kaeng Sai Rapid, Kaeng Song Waterfall, Poi Waterfall, Wat Ratchakhiri Hiranyaram, and the Khek River rafting area.