Chet Khot-Pong Kon Sao Nature Study and Ecotourism Center

Open Days: Open Daily

Opening Hours: 08.00 – 20.00

 

Chet Khot-Pong Kon Sao Nature Study and Ecotourism Center is one of the most important natural attractions in Saraburi Province and a favorite destination for visitors who enjoy hiking, waterfalls, camping, and ecotourism. The area covers about 13,750 rai and is located in Moo 5, Tha Maprang Subdistrict, Kaeng Khoi District, Saraburi. Because it connects to the western forest zone of Khao Yai National Park, the center remains rich in biodiversity and is known for its forest landscapes, streams, wildlife, and multiple waterfall trails.

 

The strength of Chet Khot-Pong Kon Sao lies in the diversity of its ecosystem. The area includes dry evergreen forest, moist tropical forest, mixed deciduous forest, and grassland. This range of habitats supports a wide variety of plant life, medicinal herbs, mushrooms, orchids, ferns, and native vegetation. It also creates ideal conditions for streams and waterfalls, which is why the center is especially attractive to travelers looking for a nature experience that feels both immersive and educational.

 

Wildlife is another major highlight. The forest is home to species such as wild elephants, gaurs, bears, deer, barking deer, slow lorises, civets, mouse deer, and wild boar. Birdlife is especially notable, with around 158 bird species recorded in the area. Since this forest zone is ecologically linked with Khao Yai, many species move between the two landscapes, making the area significant from a conservation perspective as well as a tourism perspective.

 

For visitors, one of the main attractions is the range of hiking routes available. If you prefer a shorter and easier walk, the small loop to Chet Khot Nuea Waterfall is a good choice. It is about 1.2 km long and usually takes around 1 hour. This route is suitable for beginners and gives a pleasant first impression of the forest environment without requiring a long trek.

 

A more popular choice for general visitors is the medium loop, which covers Chet Khot Nuea, Chet Khot Klang, and Chet Khot Tai waterfalls. This route is about 3 km long and takes roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes. It is well liked because each waterfall has a different character. Chet Khot Nuea is a four-tier waterfall surrounded by bamboo forest, Chet Khot Klang has a large pool suitable for relaxing, and Chet Khot Tai is a dramatic single-drop waterfall of around 40 meters.

 

For those who want the most scenic main trail, the large loop is often considered the best. It includes Chet Khot Nuea, Chet Khot Klang, Chet Khot Tai, and Chet Khot Yai waterfall. The total distance is around 4 km and the route generally takes about 4 hours. Chet Khot Yai is especially valued because it holds water year-round, while some of the other waterfalls are most impressive during the rainy season.

 

Adventurous hikers often come here for the route to Krok E-Dok Waterfall, one of the most famous waterfalls in the area. It is a demanding trail that can take around 7 to 8 hours and is best suited to physically prepared hikers with proper gear. However, the reward is considerable. Krok E-Dok is known for its impressive height and for the dramatic beauty of its upper levels, especially the sixth and seventh tiers.

 

Another route leads to Khao Raet Waterfall and can be done as an overnight trip. In addition, the center offers educational nature trails connected with the Sap Pa Wan reservoir, Hin Dat Waterfall, Khlong Phak Nam Waterfall, and the Chet Khot waterfall group. This gives the destination a broad appeal, from light nature walking to more serious trekking and overnight forest experiences.

 

One reason hiking here feels especially rewarding is the detail found along the trails. Visitors can see flowering plants, bamboo, herbs, ferns, butterflies, dragonflies, freshwater crabs, and many small forest creatures that make the walk more than just a physical activity. In some periods of the year, especially around December, flowers appear along the stream routes, adding color and softness to the forest scenery.

 

For overnight stays, the center has 21 accommodation units and also offers tent rentals. Tent rental prices are generally around 200–300 baht per person per night, while sleeping bags are available for around 50 baht per person per night. Visitors should prepare their own supplies in many situations, especially on weekdays when the welfare shop may not be fully open. Open-fire cooking is not allowed, but picnic stoves and charcoal stoves are permitted under the site’s rules.

 

The camping atmosphere around the reservoir is one of the reasons many people return even without doing every major hiking route. The landscape is peaceful, open, and surrounded by forested hills. It is ideal for relaxing, taking photos, and enjoying a quiet outdoor night. In cooler months, the area becomes especially attractive for camping trips.

 

Getting There From Saraburi town, take Highway 2 (Mittraphap Road) toward Kaeng Khoi. The entrance road is on the opposite side of Furukawa Company, and from there you continue about 17–18 km into the center. Road signs are generally clear. A private car is the most convenient option. Visitors planning overnight stays or guided hiking routes should contact the center in advance, especially if they need accommodation, tent rental, or a trail guide.

 

 

A: Yes. It is generally open daily, with published hours around 08.00 to 20.00.

 

A: There is no general admission fee, but some hiking routes require service fees and trail guides.

 

A: The small loop to Chet Khot Nuea Waterfall, about 1.2 km, is a good beginner-friendly choice.

 

A: It is best suited to physically prepared hikers with proper gear, as the route is long and demanding.

 

A: Campers should prepare food supplies, camping gear, and contact the center in advance if they need accommodation or tent rental.

 

A: The area is enjoyable year-round, but the rainy season to late year is especially attractive for waterfalls and lush forest scenery, while cooler months are ideal for camping.