Nam Rad Watershed Forest is one of the Unseen natural attractions of Surat Thani, hidden in Khiri Rat Nikhom district. It is distinguished by a natural emerald pool that is formed from underground springs. The water is incredibly clear, allowing you to see fish, white sand, and submerged roots clearly. It's like a mirror reflecting the beauty of nature.

This is a lush and beautiful watershed forest with a large freshwater pond that has an average depth of about 1 meter. The bottom of the pond is composed of fine limestone sand, which prevents the water from becoming cloudy and is a key reason why the water remains clear at all times.

The surrounding area is a rich swamp forest. Water from the source flows along small canals, meandering through tropical vegetation and communities, creating a shady, cool atmosphere and an important natural learning resource.

In the past, Nam Rad Watershed Forest was not open to tourists. However, in recent years, the Ban Nam Rad community has opened the area to tourists to experience its beauty and swim. The area is divided into two distinct sections:

• An area for tourists to swim.
• An area where swimming is prohibited, which is a sacred area used as a water source for drinking and for community rituals.

Popular activities include kayaking to enjoy the nature along the clear "Khlong Maloh" canal, where you can see fish and the bottom clearly, as well as swimming in the designated area, where the water is a perfect depth and cool all year round.

This is also a model for community-based ecotourism, with systematic management such as prohibiting food, plastic, or water bottles in the pool area, and checking bags before entering, to maintain the cleanliness and purity of the source.

With its unique beauty, clean water, tranquil atmosphere, and community cooperation, Nam Rad Watershed Forest is an ideal destination for nature lovers, photographers, and those who want to relax in a truly natural setting.

• By Car: From Surat Thani city, take Highway 401 (the route to Phanom District/Cheow Lan Dam). Then, turn into Ban Thamniap Subdistrict following the "Nam Rad Watershed Forest" sign. The road is paved all the way and easily accessible with parking available.

• Visit in the morning (9:00 – 10:00 AM), when the sunlight makes the water the most beautiful emerald blue.

• Food and plastic are prohibited in the water zone. Bags will be checked before entry.

• It's recommended to go on weekdays to avoid large crowds.

• Prepare a change of clothes, towel, and a bag for wet clothes.

• Be careful of slippery surfaces near the water and help keep the area clean.

Fees:

• Adults: 30 baht

• Children: 15 baht

• Kayak rental: Approximately 40–60 baht/hour

Opening hours:

• Open daily: 09:00 – 17:00