Khlong Phrao Waterfall

Khlong Phrao Waterfall — known locally as Namtok Thap Chang (น้ำตกทับช้าง) — is a five-tier cascade set within Khlong Phrao National Park in Thung Tako district, about 80 km south of Chumphon town. The tallest drop is the third tier, where water falls roughly 36 metres into a pool below; the other tiers feed a chain of calmer pools as the stream descends through evergreen forest.

Reaching it takes some commitment. Head south on Highway 41 to around the kilometre 57–58 marker near Lang Suan, turn off at the sign for Ban Muang Nai Kud and follow the paved road for about 12 km before the surface turns to concrete track for the final stretch. A concrete stairway, a bamboo bridge over the stream and steep steel ladders lead to the base of the falls — not suitable for very young children.

The surrounding forest supports hornbills and flying squirrels, and low visitor numbers keep the place quiet on weekday mornings. There are no restaurants or accommodation at the falls, so bring food and water; camping is available within the national park.

Entry is generally free, though some recent visitors report a small charge for foreign nationals — check at the gate. Standard national park hours apply, roughly 08:00 to 17:00, and the falls flow year-round, strongest during and after the wet season (about June to November).

Getting there

The waterfall is around 80 km south of Chumphon town off Highway 41; the final approach is a paved then concrete road from Ban Muang Nai Kud. View on Google Maps.