Khlong Khang Nai Reservoir

Open Days: Saturdays, Sundays, And Public Holidays

Opening Hours: 08.00 – 18.00

 

Khlong Khang Nai Reservoir in Sukhothai Province, also known locally as Tha Din Daeng Reservoir, is an important irrigation reservoir and natural recreation area in Si Khiri Mat Subdistrict, Khiri Mat District. It is known for its wide water surface, peaceful atmosphere, mountain scenery, and views of the Khao Luang range. The reservoir was completed in 1989 and has a storage capacity of about 9 million cubic meters. With a dam crest of about 770 meters long and a height of about 14 meters, it supports approximately 15,000 rai of irrigated agricultural land. For visitors, it is a relaxing place for scenery, photography, picnics, swimming, boating, fishing, and watching water birds in the morning.

 

Khlong Khang Nai Reservoir is significant because it serves both practical and recreational purposes. Its main role is to store water for agriculture and local use in Khiri Mat District. During dry periods, the reservoir helps provide water for farmland and supports the livelihoods of farmers in the surrounding area. This makes the reservoir more than a scenic attraction. It is a vital part of the local water-management system and directly supports food production, agricultural stability, and the daily life of nearby communities.

 

The landscape around the reservoir is one of its strongest attractions. The upper part of the reservoir is surrounded by the Khao Luang mountain range, creating a beautiful natural backdrop. On clear days, visitors can see the water, sky, mountains, and green surroundings in one wide view. In the morning, the atmosphere is fresh and quiet. On some days, light mist may appear around the hills, making the place especially appealing for travelers who enjoy nature photography and peaceful scenery.

 

The reservoir is also an interesting place for observing local ecology. The large water surface supports aquatic life and attracts water birds, especially in the morning when birds fly and feed above or near the reservoir. This natural movement gives life to the landscape and makes the area suitable for visitors who enjoy quiet observation of nature. Although it is an irrigation reservoir, it also functions as a local ecological space where water, plants, fish, birds, and people coexist.

 

For local people, Khlong Khang Nai Reservoir is a familiar place for weekend relaxation. Families often come to sit by the water, enjoy food together, watch the sunset, and spend time in the open air. The atmosphere is casual and community-oriented rather than commercial. This local character is part of the charm. Travelers can experience a quieter side of Sukhothai, away from the more famous historical monuments and crowded tourist routes.

 

There are several ways to enjoy the reservoir. Visitors who prefer simple relaxation can sit by the water, enjoy the breeze, and look toward the Khao Luang mountain range. Those who enjoy photography should visit in the late afternoon when the warm sunlight reflects on the water and adds depth to the mountains. Families may enjoy picnicking, swimming, or boating in suitable areas. Fishing is also popular, as the reservoir is known as a good freshwater fishing spot among local people.

 

Fishing is one of the activities that reflects the close relationship between local people and the reservoir. Freshwater fish found in the reservoir make the area suitable for recreational fishing. People often come to fish slowly, spend time with friends, and enjoy the surrounding scenery. This activity is not only a form of leisure but also part of the local way of life in many Thai rural communities, where water bodies are connected with food, recreation, and community identity.

 

From an environmental perspective, Khlong Khang Nai Reservoir plays an important role in maintaining local ecological balance. The water helps add moisture to the surrounding area and provides habitat for aquatic species and birds. It also creates an open green-blue landscape for the community. Keeping the area clean is therefore essential. Pollution or littering would affect not only tourism but also agriculture, fish, birds, and the overall quality of the local environment.

 

The economic value of the reservoir is closely connected with agriculture. With an irrigated area of about 15,000 rai, the reservoir helps farmers plan cultivation more effectively, especially during periods when rainfall is limited. Reliable water storage supports crops, reduces the risk of water shortage, and contributes to household income. As the reservoir becomes better known as a local recreation area, it also creates opportunities for small community services such as food stalls, drinks, local restaurants, and weekend leisure activities.

 

For travelers, this reservoir offers a different perspective on Sukhothai. Many visitors know the province for Sukhothai Historical Park, Wat Mahathat, Wat Si Chum, and the legacy of the ancient capital. However, Sukhothai also has mountains, reservoirs, farming communities, and natural landscapes. Khlong Khang Nai Reservoir helps visitors see the contemporary rural side of the province, where water, agriculture, local recreation, and natural scenery remain closely connected.

 

The reservoir area is suitable for walking, light exercise, and slow travel. Visitors can walk along suitable reservoir-side areas, stop at viewpoints, and enjoy the changing scenery. Morning walks offer cool air and a peaceful atmosphere, while evening visits are ideal for sunset views. Travelers should choose safe areas for walking or sitting and avoid getting too close to the water’s edge, especially when traveling with children or elderly visitors.

 

Photographers should plan the visit according to the light. Morning is suitable for soft light, misty atmosphere, and quiet water scenes. Late afternoon is ideal for golden light, reflections, and silhouette-style photos with the mountains in the background. A good composition often includes the water surface and the Khao Luang range in the same frame. During the rainy season or just after rain, the surrounding greenery becomes more vivid and the overall landscape looks especially fresh.

 

The best season to visit depends on the experience travelers want. The rainy season and early cool season are good for greener scenery and fuller water levels. The cool season offers comfortable weather and clearer skies. In the hot season, visitors should come early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid strong sunlight. Although the reservoir can be visited in different seasons, preparation helps make the trip safer and more comfortable.

 

Khlong Khang Nai Reservoir is also suitable for a simple picnic. Visitors may bring a mat, snacks, drinking water, and basic supplies to sit by the reservoir. However, all rubbish should be taken back. Food waste, plastic, and other litter should never be left in the area or thrown into the water. This is important because the reservoir is both an irrigation water source and a natural community recreation area.

 

As an irrigation reservoir, the site has several important zones: the dam crest, the main water body, reservoir-side viewpoints, leisure areas, swimming and boating areas when conditions are suitable, fishing areas, and the natural upper reservoir area connected with the Khao Luang landscape. Visitors should use each area appropriately and avoid entering technical or unsafe irrigation structures. If local staff or caretakers provide instructions, travelers should follow them carefully.

 

The reservoir’s structure reflects the role of modern irrigation development in local water management. Completed in 1989, it has served Khiri Mat District for many decades. Its 9-million-cubic-meter capacity, 770-meter-long dam crest, and 14-meter height allow it to store a large volume of water. When connected with an irrigated area of about 15,000 rai, the reservoir becomes an important piece of infrastructure rather than a small local pond.

 

Getting There is most convenient by private car or motorcycle. From Sukhothai town or Khiri Mat District, travel toward Si Khiri Mat Subdistrict and search for “Khlong Khang Nai Reservoir” or “Tha Din Daeng Reservoir” on the map. The final section of the route may use local roads, so visitors should drive carefully, especially after rain or in the evening. The destination can be combined with Ramkhamhaeng National Park, Khao Luang Sukhothai, and other attractions in Khiri Mat District.

 

Travelers coming from Sukhothai Historical Park can plan a half-day or full-day route by visiting the historical sites first and then continuing to the reservoir in the afternoon. This creates a good balance between cultural heritage and natural scenery. The route is suitable for visitors who want to experience both the ancient capital and the rural landscapes of Sukhothai in one trip.

 

Nearby attractions in Khiri Mat District include Ramkhamhaeng National Park, Khao Luang Sukhothai, Wat Si Khiri Suwannaram or Wat Tha Din Daeng, and Prang Khao Pu Ja. Travelers with more time may continue to Sukhothai Historical Park, Wat Mahathat, Wat Si Chum, and Ramkhamhaeng National Museum. This makes the reservoir a useful stop in a broader route that connects mountains, reservoirs, local communities, and ancient heritage.

 

Families visiting the reservoir should choose safe resting areas and supervise children closely. If swimming or boating, travelers should remain in suitable areas and avoid deep water. Weather should also be checked before visiting, especially during the rainy season, because strong wind or heavy rain may make reservoir-side activities less safe. With basic care, the reservoir can be a relaxing and memorable place for a family outing.

 

Responsible travel is essential at Khlong Khang Nai Reservoir. Visitors should keep the area clean, avoid littering, avoid loud behavior, park only in appropriate areas, and avoid activities that may harm fish, birds, water quality, or other visitors. A good visit should not only produce beautiful photos but also help preserve the reservoir for local people and future travelers.

 

Overall, Khlong Khang Nai Reservoir combines 3 key values: irrigation, nature, and community recreation. Its 9-million-cubic-meter storage capacity and 15,000 rai of irrigation area show its practical importance, while the Khao Luang scenery, water birds, sunset views, and reservoir-side activities make it appealing as a travel destination. It is suitable for travelers who want to see a modern rural side of Sukhothai where water, mountains, farming, and local life meet.

 

A visit to Khlong Khang Nai Reservoir does not need to be long, but it is worth slowing down for. Those who only want to take photos may spend 30 minutes to 1 hour. Visitors who want to picnic, fish, swim, boat, or wait for sunset may spend several hours. The reservoir is a good choice for a short holiday, a relaxing afternoon, or a peaceful nature stop in Sukhothai Province.

 

Khlong Khang Nai Reservoir is therefore a destination that should not be overlooked in Khiri Mat District. It has clear irrigation importance, beautiful natural scenery, and a strong connection with local life. Visitors can see how one reservoir can support farming, protect ecological balance, provide family recreation, and serve as a scenic viewpoint of the Khao Luang range. For travelers who want to understand Sukhothai beyond temples and ancient ruins, this reservoir is a meaningful addition to the itinerary.

 

 

A: Khlong Khang Nai Reservoir, also known as Tha Din Daeng Reservoir, is located at Moo 7, Si Khiri Mat Subdistrict, Khiri Mat District, Sukhothai Province.

 

A: The reservoir is known for its large water surface, Khao Luang mountain scenery, peaceful atmosphere, sunset views, morning water birds, and recreational activities such as picnicking, swimming, boating, and fishing.

 

A: No. There is no admission fee for visitors.

 

A: Morning and late afternoon are the best times. Morning is good for fresh air and bird watching, while late afternoon is ideal for sunset views and photography.

 

A: Visitors can enjoy scenery, take photos, picnic, swim, boat, fish, walk, and relax with family in a natural setting.

 

A: Travelers can drive or ride a motorcycle from Sukhothai town or Khiri Mat District and search for “Khlong Khang Nai Reservoir” or “Tha Din Daeng Reservoir” on the map.

 

A: Visitors should stay safe near the water, supervise children closely, keep the area clean, take rubbish back, and avoid activities that may affect water quality or the local ecosystem.

 

A: Nearby attractions include Ramkhamhaeng National Park, Khao Luang Sukhothai, Wat Si Khiri Suwannaram, Prang Khao Pu Ja Archaeological Site, and Sukhothai Historical Park.