Rating: 3.1/5 (21 votes)

Opening Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08:00 - 17:00

 

Hin Dad Waterfall is a small stopover that keeps its humble charm intact. It sits about 500 meters off Highway 304 (Kabin Buri–Nakhon Ratchasima), tucked behind the tree nursery at Ban Hin Dad, Moo 3, Thung Pho Subdistrict, Na Di District, Prachin Buri Province. Clear water runs over terraced rock slabs amid a scrub forest. It doesn’t pretend to be a grand waterfall; it’s more of a brief, refreshing pause for travelers on Route 304—park the car, splash your face with cool water, listen to the gentle stream, then carry on.

 

The first scene as you turn off the main road is a shady canopy gradually casting its shadow over the stream. The water is crystal clear, revealing gravel, sand, and rock plates smoothed by the current. The flow isn’t rapid but steady, giving a simple, safe feel. It’s ideal for families with kids to soak their feet, for a light picnic, or for road-trippers who want to rest their eyes after descending from Khao Krachom–Khao Yai.

 

Hin Dad Waterfall has a special appeal for map-and-water geeks: this area is one of the headwater zones feeding the Bang Pakong River, one of the East’s major rivers. Tiny threads of water from the scrub forest gather and grow into small creeks, then merge with other flows to become a large river bound for the Gulf of Thailand. Standing by this brook feels like standing at the river’s “opening scene.”

 

The surroundings are scrub forest—not as dense as montane rainforest, yet shaded and humid enough. Low shrubs, bamboo, wild bananas, and small vines creeping over old logs paint a backdrop of layered greens. Come early and you’ll hear birds and insects in full chorus. Raindrops falling from leaves onto the water make overlapping ripples; watch long enough and your breathing naturally slows in a way the city can’t teach.

 

Seasons matter here. During the rainy months—especially late June to October—the water volume swells, the flow looks gorgeous, and the sound grows more resonant. Some rock surfaces turn slick, so wear grippy soles and mind mossy patches. From late cool to early hot season, the flow is still clear but lower—great for sitting, paddling in the shallows, and close-up shots of rock textures and bubbles slipping along grooves: a different kind of beauty.

 

Recommended activity: actually rest. Silence notifications for half an hour, lay a thin mat under the shade, soak your feet, or stroll slowly along the rock plates following the stream. Find a spot to shoot slow-shutter water (a small tripod and ND filter make it more fun). For book lovers, the water and breeze provide the perfect soundtrack.

 

Environmental asks: pack out all trash; don’t wash dishes with soap in the stream; don’t pick plants or chase small creatures (crabs, mayfly nymphs, or freshwater barnacles are bioindicators of clean water). If you use insect repellent, spray away from the water and rocks and wait for the mist to dissipate before entering. It helps keep aquatic life from direct chemical exposure.

 

Getting there is fairly easy. Your main reference is Highway 304 (Kabin Buri–Na Di) heading uphill toward Nakhon Ratchasima. Look for the Ban Hin Dad tree nursery. Shortly after passing it, there’s a turn into the local community. From the shoulder into the stream is roughly 500 meters. A standard sedan can make it, though right after fresh rains there may be small potholes—drive slowly.

 

From Kabin Buri District: take the 304–359 junction north for about 30–35 km to reach the Ban Hin Dad area. From Pak Thong Chai–Wang Nam Khiao heading downhill, expect steep gradients and consecutive curves. After the descent, the road levels out. Not far before Na Di District, slow down and watch for the tree nursery on your left.

 

Public transport: Songthaews or vans running Kabin Buri–Na Di–Khon Buri use Highway 304, but you must tell the driver to drop you near the turnoff. From the roadside it’s still a walk into the stream area. If you’re unfamiliar with the area, renting a motorbike in town or coming with a friend by car is safer.

 

Basic safety: Some rocks carry algae and are slippery—walk, don’t run, on wet plates; never jump into unknown depths. Probe with a stick or step in slowly first. For kids, use strap-on water shoes and supervise closely. Short, intense showers can cause sudden surges—if the sky turns ominously dark, move ashore.

 

Facilities: This isn’t a full-fledged national-park waterfall. There are no eateries or visitor centers on-site. Bring your own drinking water, snacks, trash bags, towel, and a change of clothes. Public toilets may be available at nearby temples or community spots—best handle the essentials in town and use this area mainly to rest your eyes and mind.

 

For trip chaining, this area is a handy hub. You can continue to Khao Yai (Prachin Buri gate), visit Than Thip Waterfall or Khao Ito, stay overnight in Prachin Buri town for riverside cafes the next day, or loop to Wang Nam Khiao–Lam Phra Phloeng Reservoir. A Bangkok day trip is doable, but for slow life, give it one night so your body truly resets to nature’s tempo.

 

Pro tips: Come at dawn or late afternoon for soft light; the water renders in creamy tones. Don’t set food too close to the water—forest ants are nimble. A small waterproof box for your phone helps when stepping across rocks. Watch for glass shards or can lids some visitors leave; if you can, carry a piece out—the forest will thank you.

 

In the end, Hin Dad Waterfall doesn’t ask for much “action.” It’s made for stopping, resetting, and listening to yourself alongside the whisper of clear water over stone. No rush, no checklist. Take a couple of photos, carry out a small piece of litter, then move on. Route 304 will be just as long as before, but your heart will feel a touch lighter.

 

 

It’s family-friendly with shallow, gently flowing water. Wear anti-slip footwear and supervise children closely.

 

Late rainy to early cool season (September–November) for fuller flow and lush greens. Short showers can make rocks slippery—use caution.

 

The stream area is a simple natural spot. Bring your own drinking water and essentials. Use public toilets at nearby community locations before entering.

 

Preferably avoid to protect local wildlife and water quality. If brought along, keep on leash at all times and do not let them enter the water.

 

Vehicles on Route 304 pass the area, but you’ll need to request a roadside drop-off and then walk/transfer for the last stretch. If unfamiliar, a private vehicle is more convenient.

 

No fee is collected for this natural stream area. Please keep it clean and avoid damaging resources.

 

The sheet-like rock plates with flowing water create beautiful patterns. Use a slow shutter for silky water; morning or late-afternoon backlight gives warm tones.

 

Anti-slip water shoes, a picnic mat, drinking water, trash bags, light personal items, and a small waterproof case for your phone when stepping across rocks.