Namtok Kong Kaeo

Namtok Kong Kaeo is a short, easy stop right behind the main visitor centre in Khao Yai National Park — about 100 metres away across a bridge over the stream. It’s a low waterfall, not a dramatic multi-tier drop, formed where Huai Lamtakhong crosses the boundary between Nakhon Nayok and Nakhon Ratchasima provinces.

There’s no separate entry fee: once you’ve paid to get into Khao Yai National Park itself — 400 THB for foreign adults, 200 THB for foreign children, 40 THB for Thai adults, 20 THB for Thai children, plus a vehicle fee — Kong Kaeo and the short nature trail around it are included. That makes it one of the most accessible waterfalls in a park where most of the better-known falls (Heo Suwat, Haew Narok) require a proper drive to a separate trailhead.

The setting is what carries the visit rather than the waterfall’s height. A short nature trail loops from the visitor centre through forest edge before reaching the stream, with the low falls and a scattering of flat rocks good for a break. Locals and rangers sometimes swim in the calmer sections when the water’s low enough, though rules on swimming can shift with conditions — check signage or ask at the visitor centre rather than assuming it’s always allowed.

Flow peaks during and just after the rainy season, roughly June to October; by the dry months the stream can thin out considerably. Because it sits right at the visitor centre, it also works as a first stop when you arrive at the park, or a quick leg-stretch before or after the longer hikes to Heo Suwat or Haew Narok.

Watch out: This is a low-key stop, not the park’s showpiece waterfall — arrive expecting a short, pleasant walk rather than the dramatic scenery of Heo Suwat or Haew Narok.

Pair it with Heo Suwat Waterfall for the postcard view, or Haew Narok Waterfall for the park’s tallest, most powerful drop — both need more driving and walking than Kong Kaeo, but reward the extra effort. For where to stay and what else is nearby, browse Khao Yai.