Chaloem Phrakiat Thai Prachan National Park

Chaloem Phrakiat Thai Prachan National Park covers about 329 square kilometres of mountainous, thickly forested country in western Ratchaburi, spanning parts of Pak Tho, Suan Phueng and Ban Kha districts. The terrain is the Huai Prachan watershed, and the park headquarters sits at Ban Thai Prachan in Yang Hak subdistrict, Pak Tho district.

The park holds several natural attractions, including the Mae Prachan waterfall, the Mae Prachan (Ban Bueng) hot spring, and a reservoir ringed by forest. It is a quiet, low-key place for recreation, with walking among the trees and a few simple natural sights rather than big-name draws. Two houses are available for visitors and there is a large area for camping.

The forest setting is peaceful, with birdsong and the sound of water, and it sees few foreign visitors. After rain, leeches can be common, so wear long socks and closed shoes, and stay on the marked trails.

The park is open daily, roughly 08:00–18:00, and entry is free of charge. To get there from Ratchaburi, take Phet Kasem Road for about 20 km, turn onto Highway 3206 (around km 38) for roughly 45 km, then turn off to Ban Thai Prachan and continue about 5 km to the park. For more information call 08 7165 3278, or Protected Areas Regional Office 3 (Ban Pong) on 0 3221 1025.

Tips for Visitors

• Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and insect repellent.

• Stay on marked trails and follow park regulations.

• Leeches can be common after rain — wear long socks and closed shoes.

• Camping gear can often be rented at the park headquarters.