Rating: 4.5/5 (4 votes)

Opening days: Daily

Opening hours: 06:00 – 18:00

 

Wang Wao Waterfall, Prachin Buri is a hidden cascade deep within the forest of Khao Yai National Park. Its charm lies in the challenging access—hours of trekking in exchange for a wide, multi-tiered waterfall set among rugged boulders, thriving nature, and a simple yet powerful riverside camping atmosphere.

 

The general route starts from Bangkok heading to Saraburi–Pak Chong. Before the Khao Yai entrance gate, turn left onto road NM 3052, passing Pong Talong–Wang Mhee–Ban Bu Chao Khun. Follow the signs to Protection Unit KHY.4 Khlong Plakang, the main trailhead for the trek to Wang Wao Waterfall. This approach is the most convenient compared to the route from Hin Phoeng, which is tougher and more strenuous.

 

From the unit, a vehicle is needed to drop you at the foothill to shorten the distance, then the trek begins up to the ridge. The first section is fairly steep before leveling out into a long plateau. The trail skirts a mountain range that feels like a natural wall separating forest from community. Along the way are broad rock fields—perfect for photography—where forest flowers such as Euan Ma Wing (a local orchid) bloom in vivid hues, and flocks of Paris peacock butterflies descend to sip minerals on sandy banks. It’s the forest’s reward for those who walk far.

 

In the afternoon, even though the path is relatively flat, it is “truly far.” Keep a steady pace and take brief rests at small streams until reaching a larger creek in the dense forest. The roar of water may suggest the waterfall is near, but grit is still required. As legs tire yet spirits push on, you finally reach the upper riverside above the falls by evening—quickly set up camp with hammock or tent, pitch a flysheet, light a fire, cook, and let the river’s music score the night.

 

Cool mornings are ideal for exploring photo angles at Wang Wao Waterfall. Skirting the falls on the side reveals a broad sheet of water spreading across the stream width, with small rock steps breaking the flow into graceful tiers. A distinctive large boulder sits mid-falls, forming striking geometric lines. From above, you’ll see white water plunging powerfully onto rocks below before running downstream through rocky rapids.

 

Another highlight lies about 1 kilometer downstream: an area where dinosaur footprints were once found on a rock slab (some blocks have been washed away by flash floods). If time and trail conditions allow, plan a careful visit.

 

This route is better suited to 1–2 nights camping rather than a same-day return—for safety and to fully soak in the experience. Essential gear includes: hammock or tent with flysheet, rain jacket, sturdy trekking shoes with good grip, flashlight/headlamp, first-aid kit and personal medication, insect/leech repellent, dry bags for gear, and trash bags to pack out waste. Most importantly, go with a local guide or experienced ranger, as sections can be slick and steep, seasonal flash floods are possible, and mobile signal may be unavailable.

 

On the way back from the falls, don’t miss the wildlife observation tower at Khlong Plakang. Chances of seeing gaur are quite high—often grazing in the late afternoon. Some days you’ll see small groups; other days, a large herd of over ten. The viewing distance from the tower to the grassland is just right for clear observation without disturbing the animals.

 

Season matters. Rainy season—roughly July to October—is when the waterfall is at its best: full flow, lush forest, and lively flowers and butterflies. However, avoid days of continuous heavy rain due to flash-flood risk and trail damage. With good planning and ample time for trekking and rest, you’ll capture the full “hidden gem” of Khao Yai—the waterfall’s power, the forest’s quiet beauty, and nights warmed by campfire beside the stream.

 

Getting there: Bangkok–Saraburi–Pak Chong → turn left onto NM 3052 (Pong Talong–Wang Mhee–Ban Bu Chao Khun) → follow signs to Protection Unit KHY.4 Khlong Plakang → 4WD drop at foothill → trek 4–5 hours to the upper riverside above the falls

 

 

It lies within Khao Yai National Park, Na Di District, Prachin Buri. The popular trailhead is Protection Unit KHY.4 Khlong Plakang.

 

On average 4–5 hours from KHY.4 Khlong Plakang, depending on weather, load, and group fitness.

 

Technically yes, but exhausting and riskier. A 1–2 night camp is recommended for safety and a richer experience.

 

Strongly recommended. Sections are steep and slippery, mobile signal can be absent, and water levels change with rain.

 

Rainy season (roughly July–October) when the flow is full and the forest lush—avoid continuous heavy rain due to flash-flood risk.

 

Footprints were recorded about 1 km downstream; some slabs have been washed away. Explore cautiously if conditions allow.

 

Hammock or tent with flysheet, rain jacket, grippy trekking shoes, headlamp/flashlight, first-aid kit, personal meds, insect/leech repellent, dry bags, and trash bags to pack out.

 

At the wildlife observation tower near Khlong Plakang. They often graze in late afternoon to evening, with a high chance of sightings.