Chat Trakan Waterfall National Park is one of the most remarkable natural destinations in Phitsanulok Province, Thailand. Established in 1987, the park was created to preserve the abundance of forest ecosystems, wildlife, and important watershed areas. Covering parts of the Luang Prabang rainforest, the park is characterized by evergreen forests, lush mountains, and rivers that nourish the region. It is the origin of several waterways, including the Kwae Noi River, and has become an ideal place for travelers who seek to experience pristine natural beauty, cascading waterfalls, and the cultural heritage hidden within the landscape.

 

The highlight of the park is undoubtedly Chat Trakan Waterfall, also known by locals as Pak Rong Waterfall. This waterfall consists of seven tiers, each with its own unique character and charm. The first tier, named Maliwan, forms a wide pool that catches the stream from the second tier. With a height of about eight meters, the water plunges powerfully into the basin below, creating refreshing mist and a natural swimming area where visitors can cool down. Safety signs are placed in deeper areas to guide tourists. The second tier, called Kannika, is more challenging to reach as the trail is steep and requires caution. The reward, however, is a breathtaking view of cascading water flowing over layered rock formations, then slipping through channels into the first tier below. The third tier, known as Karaket, resembles a large natural pool where visitors can swim and enjoy the coolness of the water surrounded by forest.

 

Each tier of the waterfall offers its own character, from dramatic cliffs to gentle cascades, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The further one climbs, the more the scenery unfolds, offering tranquil pools and panoramic views of the forest canopy. The journey itself becomes part of the experience, as the trail is surrounded by dense trees, the chirping of birds, and the earthy scent of the rainforest.

 

Beyond Chat Trakan Waterfall, the park is filled with other natural attractions worth exploring. Pha Daeng, or the Red Cliff, is a striking sandstone cliff that stands out with its reddish hue against the lush greenery. The trail to this cliff is challenging and requires a park ranger as a guide, but the sweeping views from the top are unforgettable. Another fascinating site is Pha Kradan, known for its prehistoric rock carvings. These geometric shapes etched into the cliffside reveal traces of ancient human presence, evidence that the area was once inhabited thousands of years ago.

 

The caves within the park also add to its intrigue. Nam Mut Cave was formed by streams from Na Chan Waterfall splitting into three separate flows that carve their way through the rock, creating a hidden underground wonder. Ka Cave is equally captivating for archaeologists and history enthusiasts, as it preserves carvings made by ancient humans on large rock slabs, believed to be over 7,000 years old. These discoveries shed light on the cultural history of the region and highlight the deep connection between humans and nature in this area since prehistoric times.

 

The biodiversity of Chat Trakan Waterfall National Park is another treasure worth preserving. The park is dominated by evergreen forests that remain green throughout the year, with abundant tree species such as dipterocarps, palms, and bamboo. These forests are not only vital for ecological balance but also provide habitats and food sources for a wide range of wildlife. Visitors may encounter barking deer, wild boars, mouse-deer, squirrels, and tree shrews along the trails. Red junglefowl call out in the early morning, while various bird species soar through the canopy, adding vibrant life to the park. The richness of flora and fauna makes the park an invaluable reservoir of biodiversity, significant both for conservation and scientific study.

 

Traveling to Chat Trakan Waterfall National Park is relatively convenient. From downtown Phitsanulok, visitors can drive along main highways into Chat Trakan District, enjoying the scenery of mountains and rice fields along the way. The park is well managed, with organized facilities that ensure both safety and environmental protection. Accommodations are available in the form of lodges and camping grounds. Spending the night in the park, with the sound of cascading waterfalls and the stillness of the forest, offers an unforgettable experience close to nature.

 

Adventure travelers will find the park especially rewarding. Hiking trails range from short and easy walks suitable for casual visitors to longer, more challenging routes for those who seek deeper immersion into the wilderness. Along the way, hikers can learn about native plants, observe wildlife, and listen to stories from park rangers about local legends and history. For photography enthusiasts, the park is a treasure trove of opportunities. From dramatic waterfall shots to sunbeams filtering through the forest canopy, and from close-ups of plants to unexpected encounters with wildlife, every step presents a new frame to capture.

 

The park is also an educational site that provides valuable lessons about ecosystems and conservation. Schools and universities often organize field trips here to help students learn firsthand about the environment, biodiversity, and the importance of protecting natural resources. Experiencing the forest in person allows a deeper appreciation and understanding than books alone can provide, instilling awareness of the need to care for the planet.

 

Sustainable tourism plays a crucial role in the management of Chat Trakan Waterfall National Park. Park officials actively promote guidelines for responsible travel, including not leaving litter, refraining from cutting plants or damaging natural features, and avoiding feeding wild animals. These rules are essential to preserve the delicate balance of the ecosystem and ensure that future generations can also enjoy the park’s beauty.

 

Chat Trakan Waterfall National Park is therefore much more than a scenic destination. It is a sanctuary where natural beauty, biodiversity, and cultural heritage converge. Visitors who come here do not only enjoy stunning views of waterfalls and forests but also experience peace, learning, and connection with nature. Every moment spent within the park leaves a lasting impression, whether it is the thrill of climbing to higher tiers of the waterfall, the tranquility of watching wildlife, or the awe of standing before prehistoric carvings. This blend of natural wonders and cultural richness makes Chat Trakan Waterfall National Park a destination that deserves to be explored at least once in a lifetime.