“Khao Soi Dao Waterfall is a major 16-tiered cascade and is exceptionally rich in biodiversity, renowned as the production site for the "best quality cardamom in the world" and the perfect spot to observe butterflies and the endemic Queen of Khao Soi Dao flower.”
Khao Soi Dao Wildlife Sanctuary covers a massive area of 465,637.5 rai (approximately 745 sq. km) and is located about 70 kilometers from Chanthaburi city center, accessible via Highway 317. The area features high mountains to the north, bordering Sa Kaeo and Chachoengsao provinces. Furthermore, its eastern frontier shares a border with Cambodia, giving it strategic importance both as a natural resource hub and a regional gateway.
The main attraction is the "Khao Soi Dao Waterfall," a massive cascade descending through 16 distinct tiers, each offering a unique sight and characteristic. The area surrounding the waterfall is an exceptionally rich evergreen rainforest filled with many points of interest. Most notably, the forest is a source of "Cardamom (Krāwān) trees," which produce the best quality cardamom in the world. It is also recognized as the best location for birdwatching and butterfly spotting in the entire Eastern forest region.
The trails leading up the waterfall are ideal for bird and butterfly watching, which can be observed along the entire path. Trekkers will pass giant trees and diverse plant life. A special sight during the winter season is the opportunity to witness the "Sok Khao Flower (Queen of Khao Soi Dao)" which blooms profusely throughout the forest, creating a serene, shady, and captivating natural spectacle.
How to Get There
-
Private Car: Travel from Chanthaburi city center using Highway No. 317 towards Soi Dao/Sa Kaeo, then follow the signs to Khao Soi Dao Wildlife Sanctuary, located approximately 70 km from the city.
-
Public Transportation: Take a public bus traveling along Route 317 or to Kaeng Hang Maew district, then hire a local taxi or motorcycle taxi to the sanctuary office.
Travel Tips
- Best Visiting Seasons: The ideal time to visit is from late rainy season to winter (approx. October - February) when the waterfall is full and the weather is cool. The dry season (March - May) is typically the best time for butterfly viewing.
- Equipment: Wear sturdy, appropriate hiking shoes for trekking on wet and potentially slippery paths, especially for climbing the higher tiers. Bring insect/leech repellent, as it is an evergreen rainforest.
- Travel Planning: Contact the sanctuary staff before visiting if you plan to explore the deeper sections of the waterfall or require a presentation from a local specialist.
Admission Fee:
-
Local visitors: Adult 40 THB, Child 20 THB
-
Foreign visitors: Adult 200 THB, Child 100 THB
Opening Hours:
-
General daily hours: 08:00 AM - 04:30 PM