“The park is rich in diverse forests, scenic waterfalls, the prominent Yen Mountain viewpoint, natural gas seeps, and bamboo forest trails. Perfect for hiking, wildlife observation, and immersive nature experiences. ”
Khlong Wang Chao National Park covers approximately 466,875 rai (about 746 km²) along the Thung Thongchai Mountain Range. The terrain is rugged mountains with a “basin” formation, surrounded by multiple forest types. It is a key watershed for the Ping River.
Geography & Ecosystem
Forest Types:
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Mixed deciduous forest
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Hill evergreen forest
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Dry evergreen forest
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Pine forest
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Teak-dipterocarp forest
Key Trees: Teak, Takian, Sela, Ching Chan, Two-Needle Pine, Three-Needle Pine, Teak, and Dipterocarp species.
Climate: Cool year-round at high elevations, especially on Yen Mountain (1,898 m), the park’s most scenic viewpoint.
Major Attractions:
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Khlong Wang Chao Waterfall – Easily accessible, suitable for family trips.
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Tao Dam Waterfall – Emerald green water in some seasons, calm, ideal for light hiking.
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Khlong Pong Waterfall – Multi-tiered waterfall for adventurous visitors exploring deep trails.
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Natural Gas Seeps – Two locations with bubbling gas, rare in Thailand.
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Bamboo Forest – Walking trails through dense bamboo groves.
Wildlife & Biodiversity:
Home to species such as serow, deer, barking deer, wild boar, gibbons, rabbits, squirrels, and diverse birds. Nearby Karen villages preserve traditional lifestyles, adding cultural value to eco-tourism.
Popular Activities:
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Short or long hiking trails
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Sunrise and sunset viewpoints on Yen Mountain
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Waterfall swimming and photography
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Wildlife and nature photography
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Camping in the deep forest
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Learning about local Karen community life
Recommended Seasons:
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Rainy season (Jun–Oct): Best waterfalls, lush green forest
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Cool season (Nov–Feb): Ideal for camping and watching misty landscapes
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Hot season (Mar–May): Hiking and exploring clear waterfalls
Suggested Trip Duration:
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1 day: Khlong Wang Chao Waterfall + short hike
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2 days 1 night: Tao Dam – Khlong Pong Waterfall + camping
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3 days: Summit Yen Mountain for a full wilderness experience
How to Get There
Private Car:
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From Kamphaeng Phet, take Highway A1 (Asian Highway) toward Tak Province.
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Turn left 500 m before Ban Wang Chao Intersection to Ban Loke Kho, pass Ban Nong Daen, and continue to the park headquarters (~30 km).
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Roads are mostly paved, suitable for all vehicle types.
Note: For Tao Dam or Khlong Pong Waterfalls, a 4x4 vehicle is recommended due to some dirt and steep roads.
Public Transport:
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Take a bus to Wang Chao District, then hire a local songthaew or private transport to the park.
Travel Tips
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Book accommodations or tents in advance, especially during the cool season
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Arrive at the park headquarters before 3:00 PM if visiting deep waterfalls
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Pets are prohibited; follow park rules strictly
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Bring hiking shoes, some trails can be slippery
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Check weather during the rainy season
Admission Fee:
| Type | Adult | Child |
|---|---|---|
| Thai | 40 THB | 20 THB |
| Foreigner | 200 THB | 100 THB |
Vehicle fees apply separately
Opening Hours:
- Park access: 24 hours
- Visitor center: 08:30 – 16:30