Namtok Khlong Kaeo National Park

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08.00 – 16.30

 

Namtok Khlong Kaeo National Park in Trat Province is one of the most impressive inland natural attractions in Bo Rai District. Covering approximately 65,525 rai, the park is located in Bo Phloi Subdistrict, Bo Rai District, Trat Province. It protects a mountainous forest landscape with waterfalls, streams, humid forest, natural rock formations, and hiking routes that reveal a very different side of Trat beyond its famous islands, beaches, and eastern coastline.

 

This national park is ideal for travelers who want to experience a freshwater waterfall, walk through shaded forest, swim in natural stream pools, enjoy a quiet picnic, or learn about the forest ecosystem of Bo Rai. The main highlight is Khlong Kaeo Waterfall, a 7-tiered waterfall whose levels each have their own character. Water flows continuously from the upper tiers down through natural rock channels to the lower levels. The 4th tier is especially notable because it offers a scenic view over Bo Rai, making it both a waterfall destination and a viewpoint.

 

For travelers who need a quick planning summary, Namtok Khlong Kaeo National Park is a waterfall-focused national park in Trat with a 7-tiered main waterfall. Most visitors explore only the first 4 tiers because they are more accessible and suitable for a half-day visit. Those who want to reach all 7 tiers should allow nearly a full day, wear proper walking shoes, bring drinking water and light snacks, and check the weather before traveling. The park does not provide bungalow-style accommodation, but camping is possible in designated areas by contacting the park in advance.

 

The appeal of Namtok Khlong Kaeo National Park is not limited to the waterfall itself. The wider park landscape represents the forested mountain environment of Bo Rai District. The area contains streams, moist forest, large trees, ferns, mosses, riparian plants, insects, birds, and other small forest life. Travelers who slow down and observe carefully will notice details throughout the trail, from the sound of flowing water and birdsong to cool air rising from the stream and filtered sunlight under the forest canopy.

 

Khlong Kaeo Waterfall is a multi-tiered waterfall shaped by natural rock steps. Instead of dropping dramatically in one single fall, the water moves gradually from tier to tier through rocky stream beds. This gives each section a different mood. Some levels have pools suitable for relaxing or playing in the water, while others feature boulders, flowing channels, and viewpoints. The upper tiers require more effort and are better suited to travelers with enough time, good footwear, and a reasonable level of fitness.

 

Most visitors choose to explore the first 4 tiers because they provide a rewarding waterfall experience without requiring a full-day trek. These lower and middle sections are suitable for families, casual travelers, and those who want to enjoy the water and forest atmosphere at a comfortable pace. Visitors who plan to continue toward the higher tiers should start early in the morning and avoid rushing, as the return journey also takes time and energy.

 

The 4th tier is one of the most memorable points of Khlong Kaeo Waterfall. From this level, visitors can look out toward the landscape of Bo Rai District. The combination of running water, forested slopes, and distant views makes this a good place to rest, take photographs, and appreciate the geography of inland Trat. It also helps visitors understand why this national park is important not only as a recreation area but also as a protected forest and watershed.

 

Travelers who continue beyond the 4th tier should be prepared for steeper and more slippery sections, especially after rain. Proper shoes with good grip are strongly recommended. Flip-flops or smooth-soled sandals are not suitable for the upper trail. During heavy rain, or when park staff advise against continuing, visitors should follow all safety instructions. Water levels in forest streams can change quickly, and safety must always come before reaching every tier.

 

Besides Khlong Kaeo Waterfall, the park also includes other natural attractions such as Salat Dai Waterfall, Khlong Chai Waterfall, and Pha Lan Hin. These places add variety to a visit. Salat Dai Waterfall offers another waterfall environment within the park, while Khlong Chai Waterfall provides a quieter forest-stream atmosphere. Pha Lan Hin is a natural rock terrace that shows a different side of Bo Rai’s landscape and is suitable for travelers interested in rock formations, forest scenery, and photography.

 

Pha Lan Hin is not a waterfall, but it has its own quiet appeal. The rock surface, surrounding forest, and shifting light create a natural setting that contrasts with the water-based scenery of Khlong Kaeo Waterfall. For photographers, it offers a different subject: rock textures, forest shadows, and the stillness of the mountain environment. The presence of waterfalls, streams, and rock terraces within the same park makes Namtok Khlong Kaeo a more diverse destination than a simple swimming spot.

 

The park is also suitable for birdwatching, butterfly observation, and plant appreciation. Moist forest and streamside habitats attract many small forms of wildlife. Early morning and the period after rain are especially good times to experience forest sounds and fresh greenery. Travelers interested in nature study should walk slowly, keep noise low, and observe the surroundings rather than rushing directly to the waterfall pools.

 

The best season to visit is usually from the late rainy season to early cool season, when the waterfall has more water, the forest is green, and the weather is relatively pleasant. The rainy season can be beautiful but requires extra caution because trails may be slippery and streams may rise quickly. In the dry season, the water volume may be lower, but access is often easier and conditions are more suitable for walking and relaxing in the forest.

 

Visitors should plan to arrive in the morning. The park has fixed operating hours, and a multi-tier waterfall walk requires enough time for both the ascent and return. Starting early allows visitors to explore the lower tiers, swim, take breaks, and return safely before late afternoon. It is not advisable to begin walking to the upper tiers late in the day because light fades faster inside forested areas.

 

Accommodation inside the park is limited to camping. The park does not provide bungalow-style houses, but visitors may bring their own tents and camp in designated areas after contacting the park. Those who plan to camp should ask in advance about camping areas, toilets, electricity, food preparation rules, fees, and current conditions. Travelers who prefer more comfort can stay in small resorts or local accommodations in Bo Rai District and visit the park in the morning.

 

Camping at Namtok Khlong Kaeo National Park is suitable for travelers who want to be close to nature. The experience includes forest sounds in the evening, cool morning air, and easy access to the waterfall trail. Campers should bring a tent, sleeping mat, sleeping bag, flashlight, mosquito repellent, rain protection, personal trash bags, and simple food supplies. Clean camping practices are essential: do not leave food scraps, do not litter, and always follow park staff instructions.

 

Swimming should be done only in safe and permitted areas. Some pools may be deeper than they appear, and rocks can be slippery. Visitors should avoid jumping from rocks, climbing near fast-flowing water, or entering the stream when the water becomes muddy or rises suddenly. Children must be supervised at all times. If heavy rain begins or the water changes color, visitors should leave the stream area immediately.

 

One of the strengths of Namtok Khlong Kaeo National Park is that it is quieter than many famous waterfall destinations in Thailand. The atmosphere is peaceful and suitable for travelers who want to avoid crowded places. For visitors who have already explored Trat’s islands and beaches, Bo Rai and Khlong Kaeo Waterfall offer a fresh inland route focused on forest, streams, and local geography.

 

Bo Rai District also has a fascinating local history connected with gemstones. The area was once known for ruby and gem trading, especially around Bo Phloi and the former gem markets of Bo Rai. A trip to Namtok Khlong Kaeo National Park can therefore be combined with a cultural route exploring the old gem-trading communities, local markets, and the story of Siamese rubies in Trat Province. This combination gives travelers both nature and local heritage in one itinerary.

 

Getting There from Bangkok is straightforward by private car. Follow Highway 3 toward Trat Province. When reaching Saen Tung Market in Khao Saming District, turn left onto Highway 3157, the Saen Tung-Bo Rai route. Continue for about 33 km, then turn left past Border Patrol Police Unit 116 and drive another approximately 8 km to reach Khlong Kaeo Waterfall. This route is best suited to travelers with a private car or rental car because it allows flexible timing and stops around Bo Rai.

 

From Trat town, travel toward Khao Saming and continue to Bo Rai District. The drive usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the starting point and road conditions. Before entering the park area, travelers should check the route, refuel, and prepare basic supplies because shops and services become more limited near the park entrance than in town.

 

Travelers using public transport should first reach Trat town or Khao Saming, then arrange local transport or a private vehicle to Bo Rai and the national park. Public transport to the park entrance is limited compared with major tourist routes, so advance planning is necessary. Small groups may find it more practical to hire a local vehicle for a day trip.

 

Recommended items for the trip include shoes with good grip, quick-dry clothing, a towel, a waterproof bag for phones, drinking water, light snacks, personal medicine, mosquito repellent, a trash bag, and rain protection during the rainy season. Visitors who plan to walk to several tiers should pack light, because some parts of the trail require balance and care.

 

A half-day visit is enough for travelers who want to explore the lower tiers and enjoy the stream at a relaxed pace. A full-day plan is better for those who want to walk farther, visit other areas in the park, or spend time photographing nature. Rushing through the park can cause visitors to miss the small details that make Khlong Kaeo special, such as streamside plants, moss-covered rocks, forest sounds, and changing light under the canopy.

 

The visitor center should be the first stop before beginning the trail. Park staff can provide updated information on trail conditions, water levels, safety warnings, and accessible waterfall tiers. This is particularly important during the rainy season or after heavy rainfall. If staff recommend limiting the route, visitors should follow their advice because it reflects real conditions inside the park.

 

Responsible travel is essential in any national park. Visitors should avoid single-use plastic and foam containers, take all trash out of the trail area, keep noise low, avoid feeding wildlife, and never remove plants, rocks, or natural objects from the park. Respecting these rules helps preserve the waterfall, forest, and wildlife habitats for future travelers.

 

For photographers, the park offers many opportunities. Morning light is soft and the trail is usually quieter. After rain, the forest becomes greener and the waterfall can be more powerful, but trail conditions also become more slippery. A waterproof camera bag or phone pouch is useful because of mist, splashes, and humid forest conditions.

 

Namtok Khlong Kaeo National Park is suitable for nature lovers, families, light trekkers, photographers, campers, and travelers who want to explore a lesser-known side of Trat Province. Its strengths are the 7-tiered waterfall, quiet forest atmosphere, camping opportunities, and proximity to other attractions in Bo Rai. For travelers seeking more than beaches and islands, this park deserves a place on the Trat travel itinerary.

 

Overall, Namtok Khlong Kaeo National Park shows the natural diversity of Trat. The same province known for islands, beaches, mangroves, border towns, and fruit orchards also has forested mountains and freshwater waterfalls. A visit here reveals a deeper inland identity of Trat and makes a journey through the province more complete and meaningful.

 

 

A: Namtok Khlong Kaeo National Park is located in Moo 2, Bo Phloi Subdistrict, Bo Rai District, Trat Province. It is an inland national park known for waterfalls, moist forest, and natural streams.

 

A: Khlong Kaeo Waterfall has 7 tiers. Most visitors explore the first 4 tiers, while reaching all 7 tiers requires more time and nearly a full-day plan.

 

A: The park is open daily from 08.00 to 16.30. Visitors should arrive in the morning to allow enough time for walking, swimming, and returning safely.

 

A: The entrance fee is 20 baht for Thai adults and 10 baht for Thai children. For foreign visitors, the fee is 100 baht for adults and 50 baht for children.

 

A: The park does not provide bungalow-style accommodation, but visitors can contact the park about bringing tents and camping in designated areas.

 

A: The late rainy season to early cool season is usually the best time, when the forest is green, the waterfall has good water flow, and the weather is pleasant. Weather and park announcements should be checked before travel.

 

A: Follow Highway 3 to Saen Tung Market in Khao Saming District, turn left onto Highway 3157 toward Bo Rai for about 33 km, then turn left past Border Patrol Police Unit 116 and continue about 8 km to the park.

 

A: Nearby places include Bo Rai Gem Market, Hua Thung Gem Market, Wat Nong Bon, Wat Rattanawanaram, Ban Mamuang Border Trade Point, and Ban Muen Dan Border Trade Point.