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Khao Laem National Park

Sangkhlaburi and Thong Pha Phumi Districts, Kanchanaburi

A Vast Wilderness of Craggy Peaks, Pristine Streams, and Epic Treks Covering an expansive area of approximately 1,497 square kilometers (over 935,000 rai), Khao Laem National Park is a majestic natural sanctuary stretching across both Thong Pha Phumi and Sangkhlaburi districts. Established as one of the five major national parks dedicated to honor the late King Rama IX’s 60th birthday cycle in 1987, this protected reserve features rugged limestone and sandstone mountain ranges cloaked in dense, fertile rainforests.

Elevations here range from 100 up to 1,700 meters above sea level, with Khao Yai standing as the park’s highest peak at 1,767 meters. This labyrinth of sub-mountain ranges serves as a crucial watershed, giving birth to numerous pristine rivers and streams—including the Songgaria, Ranti, and Bikhli—which feed directly into the famous Kwai Noi River and the sprawling Vajiralongkorn Dam reservoir.

🧭 Key Natural Attractions Inside the Park

• Pom Pee Viewpoint (จุดชมวิวป้อมปี่): Famous for its peaceful lakeside campgrounds, offering breathtaking views of the reservoir and stunning sunsets.
• San Nok Wua Peak (สันหนอกวัว): Kanchanaburi’s ultimate mountain trekking destination.
• Kroeng Krawia Waterfall (น้ำตกเกริงกระเวีย): The incredibly accessible roadside limestone waterfall.
• Dai Chong Thong Waterfall (น้ำตกไดช่องถ่อง): A hidden gem surrounded by lush jungle greenery.
• Pha Taek Waterfall (น้ำตกผาแตก): A multi-tiered forest cascade perfect for backcountry exploring.
• Krateng Jeng Waterfall (น้ำตกกระเต็งเจ็ง): A multi-level waterfall featuring an adventurous jungle trail.
• Bo Ong Pagoda (เจดีย์โบอ่อง): A historic floating pagoda located in a remote lakeside village.

🧗 High-Altitude Trekking: San Nok Wua Long-Distance Nature Trail

Meaning “The Cow’s Hump” due to its distinct, dual-peaked summit that resembles a bull’s shoulder, San Nok Wua is the highest and most famous mountain peak within the park. Towering at 1,767 meters above sea level, the summit experiences cool to chilly weather year-round.

• The Summit Experience: Trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Khao Laem’s dense jungle canopy, the winding inlets of the Vajiralongkorn Dam, and a spectacular morning sea of mist. Depending on the season, the peak blooms with rare flora, including wild Rhododendrons (thousand-year roses) from February to March, En-A flowers, and rare orchids. It is also an excellent spot for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
• The Journey: The peak can only be reached via a guided foot trek. The trail spans 9 kilometers one-way and takes about 6 hours to ascend. The initial phase leads smoothly through shaded, gentle bamboo forests before transforming into a challenging, steep mountain scramble over exposed ridges. Sturdy hiking footwear and good physical fitness are highly recommended.

🛶 Top Park Activities

• Trekking & Hiking: From casual nature walks to overnight wilderness expeditions.
• Waterfall Swimming: Cooling off in safe, natural limestone pools.
• Camping & Lakeside Views: Setting up tents by the peaceful reservoir banks.
• Wildlife & Bird Watching: Spotting rare tropical birds, butterflies, and forest mammals.
• Scenic Boat Rides: Cruising the vast waterways of the reservoir to remote villages.