Khao Laem National Park - Image 1
1 / 3

Khao Laem National Park

4.4
·2k reviews·Tambon Prang Phe, Thailand

A vast national park in Kanchanaburi, offering stunning reservoir views, challenging treks, and serene camping.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

November - January

Pleasant weather for outdoor activities

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Khao Laem National Park - Image 1

Khao Laem National Park

Best Time

November - January

Pleasant weather for outdoor activities

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vast national park in Kanchanaburi, offering stunning reservoir views, challenging treks, and serene camping.

4.4
(2k reviews)

"The calm water and gentle breeze have won us over. The energy we got was unmatched."

Vertical photo
TIP

Rent Camping Gear

No need to bring your own tent! The park offers gear rentals for a hassle-free camping experience. :tent:

Embrace the Trek

Hike to San Nok Wua for stunning views. Consider a local guide for remote trails. :hiking_boot:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Khao Laem Reservoir

Khao Laem Reservoir

Khao Laem National Park

Vast, serene reservoir offering breathtaking sunset views and water activities.

San Nok Wua Peak

San Nok Wua Peak

Khao Laem National Park

Highest peak in the park, offering challenging treks and panoramic vistas.

Kratengjeng Waterfall

Kratengjeng Waterfall

Khao Laem National Park

A beautiful waterfall within the park, perfect for a refreshing stop during your exploration.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Outdoors: Camping & Trekking

Khao Laem National Park is a haven for campers and trekkers. Many visitors opt to camp overnight to fully immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere and enjoy the stunning reservoir views. Renting gear is an option, making it accessible for those without their own equipment. Be prepared for varying weather conditions and pack accordingly for your adventures.

Park Entry & Fees

Entry fees apply to Khao Laem National Park, with a distinction often made for Thai nationals and foreigners. While some find the foreigner fee higher, many reviews suggest the experience and amenities offered make it a worthwhile investment for exploring the park's diverse attractions, including waterfalls and scenic viewpoints.

Best Times

When
November - January
Why
Pleasant weather for outdoor activities
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene experience
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Pecah rekor di thailand !! Strike 6 ekor toman bertubi tubi #adunmancing #premiumshockleader #snakeheadfish #monsterriver #fishinginthailand #khaolaemdam #toman #fypシ゚
@adunmancing
11.6K likes • 423.4K views

Rent Camping Gear

No need to bring your own tent! The park offers gear rentals for a hassle-free camping experience. :tent:

Embrace the Trek

Hike to San Nok Wua for stunning views. Consider a local guide for remote trails. :hiking_boot:

We ARE their biggest fans but that isn’t why we’re taking photos of tigers in Thailands forests. Here’s why: Not long ago, Khao Laem National Park (KLNP) was overlooked as tiger habitat due to its large reservoir, and its potential to support tigers was largely unrecognised. That changed in 2016 when camera traps revealed a resident population of Indochinese tigers 🐅, proving the park’s critical...
conservewildcats
56 likes • 1.7K views
Fun filled trek with good friends and great adventures ⛰️ . . 📍Khao Laem National Park, Kanchanaburi 🇹🇭 . . #trekking #hiking #hikingadventures #treking #trekdiaries #nationalpark #thailandonly #unseenthailand #amazingthailand #thaiadventure #hikingthailand #trek #hike #khaolaem #kanchanaburi #thailand
chiranjeevi_chalamalasetty
34 likes • 461 views

Sunset Views

The Khao Laem Reservoir offers spectacular sunset vistas. Don't miss it! :city_sunset:

Family-Friendly River

The river near the campsite is shallow and safe for kids to play in. :child:

ป้อมปี่ อุทยานแห่งชาติเขาแหลม - Khao Laem National Park กาญจนบุรี 💚🧡🌿
big_thebigtrip
8 likes • 165 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Rent Camping Gear

No need to bring your own tent! The park offers gear rentals for a hassle-free camping experience. :tent:

Embrace the Trek

Hike to San Nok Wua for stunning views. Consider a local guide for remote trails. :hiking_boot:

Sunset Views

The Khao Laem Reservoir offers spectacular sunset vistas. Don't miss it! :city_sunset:

Family-Friendly River

The river near the campsite is shallow and safe for kids to play in. :child:

Authentic Thai Food

Enjoy delicious and spicy authentic Thai cuisine at the park's restaurant. :curry:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Khao Laem National Park is praised for its serene atmosphere, beautiful reservoir views, and excellent camping facilities. Visitors appreciate the cleanliness of the park and the convenience of gear rentals and on-site dining. While some note higher fees for foreigners, the overall experience is considered well worth the cost for its natural beauty and tranquility.

"We made a stop at Khao Laem National Park to check out Kratengjeng Waterfall. Due to the rain, we didn't venture far and only saw the immediate area.
​The campsite near the stream is available, but it's not as scenic or well-equipped as the one at Pom pi site."

Rachel Yap

"I love the serene atmosphere that this area provides. The calm water and gentle breeze have won us over. It was a bit of a drive to get here but the energy we got was unmatched. The area is looked after well. The camping ground is clean and not crowded at all."

Tom Kitbumrung

"We stopped to camp over night and were very happy. Very clean compared to other national parks. Right on the road so there was no travel time to get anywhere. Camped right on the river which was fun for playing in the cold water. It's only 5m wide and thigh deep at most where we were there so great for kids. Food and drinks available during daylight hours and really cheap for everything. Tickets get you into both parts of the park with the lake sunset view or the river part. 4 person family was 6USD for the night to camp with our tents. Rangers on site all night and very safe feeling here with lovely views"

Thai Traveller

What People Like

Serene atmosphere
Beautiful reservoir views
Clean campsites

What People Dislike

Higher foreigner fees

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Khao Laem National Park is accessible via Highway 323, approximately 190 km from Kanchanaburi. Driving is the most common method, and the journey offers scenic views of the Thai countryside. Reddit

Once inside the park, it's best to have your own vehicle or arrange transport for exploring different areas, especially if you plan to visit multiple attractions like waterfalls or trailheads. Instagram

Public transport directly to the park can be limited. It's often recommended to rent a car or hire a private driver from Kanchanaburi for a more convenient and flexible trip. Reddit

For camping, driving is ideal as you can bring all your necessary gear. If you're relying on rentals, coordinate with your accommodation or the park in advance. Reddit

Yes, motorbikes are a popular way to explore the park and surrounding areas, offering a sense of freedom and allowing access to various viewpoints and trails. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are entrance fees for Khao Laem National Park. While the exact prices can vary, some visitors note a difference between fees for Thai nationals and foreigners, with the latter being higher. Reddit

Yes, your park ticket typically grants access to different sections of Khao Laem National Park, including areas with lake sunset views and river access. Reddit

The park is generally open year-round, but specific facilities like visitor centers or restaurants may have limited hours, especially during off-peak seasons. It's advisable to check locally. Reddit

Advance booking for park entry is usually not required, but for camping spots, especially during peak season or weekends, it's a good idea to inquire about reservations. Reddit

Information on specific discounts for children or seniors is not widely available, but family rates might be considered. It's best to inquire at the park entrance. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The park offers several camping grounds, with many visitors praising the cleanliness and scenic locations right on the river or overlooking the reservoir. The Pom Pi site is often mentioned as a good option. Reddit

While San Nok Wua is a challenging trek, there are likely shorter, less strenuous trails within the park suitable for beginners, offering a taste of the forest environment. Instagram

The park is home to diverse wildlife, including Asiatic black bears, elephants, deer, and even tigers. Birdwatchers will also find numerous endemic species. Instagram

Yes, Kratengjeng Waterfall is a notable attraction within the park, offering a refreshing natural beauty spot to visit during your exploration. Reddit

The river near some campsites is shallow and safe for children. For the reservoir, water activities like rafting and kayaking are available, but swimming safety should be assessed based on local conditions. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a restaurant within the park that serves authentic Thai food. Visitors often describe the food as very hot and spicy. Reddit

Food and drinks are available during daylight hours near the campsites and are generally considered cheap. Reddit

The restaurant offers traditional Thai dishes. Be prepared for spicy flavors, which are characteristic of many Thai cuisines. Reddit

While the restaurant focuses on authentic Thai cuisine, it's always a good idea to ask about vegetarian or vegan options, as many Thai dishes can be adapted. Reddit

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and cook at the campsites. This is a popular option for campers who prefer to prepare their own meals. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Khao Laem Reservoir at sunset is a prime location for stunning photography. The panoramic views from San Nok Wua peak also offer incredible photo opportunities. InstagramReddit

The park's diverse wildlife, including potential sightings of tigers and various bird species, offers unique subjects for wildlife photographers. The natural landscapes, waterfalls, and reservoir are also highly photogenic. Instagram

Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photographing the Khao Laem Reservoir. Reddit

Yes, the nearby town of Sangkhlaburi offers opportunities to photograph cultural sites like the Mon Bridge and Wat Wang Wiwekaram, showcasing the area's rich heritage. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes of the reservoir and mountains. For wildlife, a telephoto lens would be beneficial. A sturdy tripod is recommended for sunset shots. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Khao Laem National Park offers a wonderful natural escape for families. The riverside campsites are particularly appealing, as the shallow, calm waters are safe for children to play in. Reddit Renting camping gear makes it easy to set up a comfortable base without bringing extensive equipment. The park's restaurant and nearby vendors provide convenient food options, and the overall safe environment with rangers on duty offers peace of mind. Reddit

Consider shorter, easier trekking trails that allow kids to experience the forest without overexertion. The Kratengjeng Waterfall is also a fun destination for families to explore. Visiting during weekdays can help avoid larger crowds, ensuring a more relaxed experience for everyone. Reddit

🎣 Anglers and Fishermen

For fishing enthusiasts, Khao Laem National Park, particularly the reservoir, is known for its snakehead fish (Toman). TikTok videos showcase impressive catches, highlighting the park as a prime spot for serious anglers. TikTok The vastness of the reservoir provides ample opportunities for a rewarding fishing expedition. TikTok

While the focus is often on sport fishing, remember to be aware of park regulations regarding fishing permits and catch-and-release policies. The serene environment of the park makes it an ideal location to combine your passion for fishing with a relaxing nature getaway. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers and Backpackers

Solo travelers will find Khao Laem National Park a welcoming destination for its serene atmosphere and opportunities for adventure. The availability of gear rentals and on-site food options makes it easy to manage without extensive planning. Reddit Camping is a popular and affordable choice, allowing for immersion in nature. Reddit

Consider joining guided treks to San Nok Wua for a shared experience and to explore safely. The park's accessibility via Highway 323 and the availability of local transport options in nearby towns can facilitate your journey. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Trekking Adventures in Khao Laem

Khao Laem National Park is a trekker's paradise, offering a variety of trails through its lush forests and mountainous terrain. The most renowned trek is to San Nok Wua, the park's highest peak. This challenging hike rewards adventurers with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the vast Khao Laem Reservoir. The journey to the summit typically takes several hours and requires good physical condition. Instagram+1

For those seeking less strenuous options, the park offers other trails that wind through mixed deciduous and evergreen forests, leading to hidden waterfalls and caves. It's highly recommended to hire a local guide for treks, especially to more remote areas. Guides not only ensure your safety but also enrich the experience by sharing their knowledge of the local flora, fauna, and the park's natural history. Reddit

When planning your trek, remember to pack appropriate gear, including sturdy hiking boots, water, snacks, and rain protection, as weather conditions can change. The cooler months, from November to January, are generally considered the best time for trekking due to more pleasant temperatures. Reddit

Camping by the Reservoir and Rivers

Camping is a quintessential Khao Laem National Park experience, with several well-maintained campsites offering serene settings. Many visitors choose to camp near the Khao Laem Reservoir to witness spectacular sunsets, while others prefer the tranquility of riverside campsites. The park provides facilities for campers, and importantly, offers gear rentals, including tents, making it accessible even for those who don't own camping equipment. Reddit

The campsites are noted for their cleanliness and safety, with rangers often present throughout the night. Some riverside spots feature shallow, calm waters perfect for children to play in, making it a great option for families. Reddit Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, the gentle breeze, and the natural beauty surrounding them. The park also has a restaurant serving authentic Thai food, and nearby vendors offer food and drinks during daylight hours, adding convenience to your stay. Reddit

While the park is beautiful year-round, camping during the cooler months (November to January) offers the most comfortable weather. Weekdays tend to be less crowded, providing a more tranquil camping experience. Reddit

Wildlife and Conservation Efforts

Khao Laem National Park is a vital part of the Western Forest Complex, a significant conservation area in Thailand. This biodiversity hotspot is home to a remarkable array of wildlife, including elusive species like tigers, Asiatic black bears, elephants, and various deer species. The park's diverse habitats, from dense forests to the expansive reservoir, support this rich ecosystem. Instagram

Conservation efforts are ongoing, with camera traps playing a crucial role in monitoring wildlife populations. The park's potential to support tigers was once underestimated but has since been recognized, highlighting the importance of protecting these vast natural areas. Birdwatchers will also find the park rewarding, with numerous endemic species to observe. Instagram

Visitors can contribute to conservation by respecting park rules, staying on designated trails, and avoiding any actions that could disturb wildlife. Responsible tourism helps ensure that these natural treasures are preserved for future generations. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2