Thailand

Located within the mountainous Khao Luang National Park, the majestic Krung Ching Waterfall is a popular hiking destination. Here’s an overview:

Krung Ching Waterfall, a famous tourist attraction in Nakhon Sri Thammarat

There are no direct buses to the waterfall. To get there, you must descend to the village of Khiri Wong and take picturesque trails lined with ferns and palm trees to reach the first stage of Krung Ching. However, this transportation challenge doesn’t deter climbing and hiking enthusiasts. The fatigue in your legs will soon be forgotten when you witness the stunning scenery at each of the waterfall’s seven stages. You'll be delighted by the diversity and richness of the wildlife and refreshed by the natural pools. Countless flowering plants await your exploration in Khao Luang National Park, alongside oil palms increasingly replacing them for profit. Picnic areas, hiking trails, and camping spots are abundant along the waterfall route.

History of the site

Krung Ching Waterfall gets its name from the Ching palms that thrive on the mountain slopes. A long river flows through the valley and cascades over large rocks, forming the majestic waterfall. In the past, a group of communists sought refuge in this area. The seven stages of the waterfall are now open to tourists.

Today

Krung Ching Waterfall is one of the most spectacular in Nakhon Si Thammarat. The trails leading to it are well-marked. Although steep and rugged at times, they pose no significant difficulty. By carefully following the signs directing you to the waterfall, you will easily find your way.

Hiking to Krung Ching Waterfall

A beautiful adventure begins at the park entrance as you trek through the humid tropical forest. Krung Ching Waterfall awaits at the end of a 3.7-kilometer hike.

1st Stage: Nan Wang Rue Bin

Emerald waters flow at the first level of the waterfall, then swirl into a whirlpool. Fish swim close to the shore.

2nd Stage: Nan Ton To

Majestic trees encircle the stream on both sides, with a 20-meter drop that makes the scenery truly worthwhile!

3rd Stage: Nan Jon

700 meters from the previous stage is Nan Jon, where the waterfall cascades down a 20-meter cliff. Nan Jon got its name because people have to pass through the waterfall to see the rocks below due to the lack of a shore! The rushing water echoes loudly where the rapids meet.

4th Stage: Nan Joan

The scenery is similar to that of Nan Jon. You'll need to detour around a rocky mound to reach the waterfall, as the current is particularly strong in this section. The deep green of the river and the sound of the rushing water are magnificent!

5th Stage: Nan Plew

The sense of verticality increases here as the waterfall drops 40 meters onto granite rocks. To reach Nan Plew, you'll need to descend from the rocky mound. If the trail is slippery, use branches and creeping vines for support.

6th Stage: Nan Fon Saen Ha

Considered the most beautiful and spectacular part of the waterfall, a hundred-meter torrent cascades down the cliff, creating water blades reminiscent of Niagara Falls. This section of the waterfall appears on the back of the 1,000 baht banknote. The slope is extremely steep, so walkers must exercise extra caution.

7th Stage: Nan Mat Phae

This final stage of the waterfall is smaller, measuring only 2 meters, and cascades three times. The shade of the trees, smooth rock shores, and clear waters make Nan Mat Phae an ideal spot for relaxation and picnicking.

Throughout the hike, keep an eye out for various birds cooing in the foliage: the green eurylaimus, the white-crested hornbill of Malaysia, the rare long-tailed broadbill, and more. Signs along the trail provide information about the region's typical trees. Can you recognize the oil palm, Malacca teak, white-backed palm, and Borassodendron machadonis? Enthusiasts may benefit from the insights of a knowledgeable guide, though English-speaking guides are rare.

Things to know before you go

When to visit?

The best time to visit Krung Ching Waterfall is from November to January, when temperatures stabilize around 28°C, making it ideal for a forest walk.

Park entrance fee

At the park entrance, visitors must pay a fee of 200 baht per person, or approximately €6. Children are charged half the price (100 baht or €3). This fee grants access to all attractions in Khao Luang National Park.

The waterfall is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Arrive early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.

How to get there?

Public buses connect Nakhon Si Thammarat to the village of Khiri Wong, where the Khao Luang National Park visitor center is located. Alternatively, you can take a songthaew, a journey that takes about 50 minutes. You'll need to use your legs to reach the waterfall. Remember to bring water bottles.

Nearby attractions…

Apart from Krung Ching Waterfall, other attractions showcase the natural beauty of Khao Luang:

• Karom Waterfall, the easiest to access;
• Tha Phae Waterfall;
• Phrom Lok Waterfall;
• Ai Khiao Waterfall;
• Underground caves.