Chanthaburi: Namtok Phlio National Park

Chanthaburi is approximately 250 kilometers from Bangkok. Situated in the eastern region of Thailand, Chanthaburi features diverse attractions for several types of travel. It is arguably famous for gemstone industry, wonderful national parks, and delicious tropical fruit. There are also peaceful beaches along its coastline, such as Chao Lao, Kung Wiman, and Ao Krating or Krating Bay. For those who prefer a little adventure on greenery mountain, Namtok Phlio National Park should not be missed.

The former name of the national park was Khao Sa Bab National Park which was established in 1975. Later in 1982 it was renamed as Namtok Phlio National Park for Namtok Phlio (Phlio Waterfall) is the main attraction of the national park. The area of the national park covers 135 square kilometers in four districts. There are many beautiful waterfalls namely Phlio, Khlong Narai, Makok and Trok Nong as well as nature trails. Namtok Phlio is located in Laem Sing district just 14 kilometers from Chanthaburi city. The former kings of Thailand namely King Rama V, King Rama VI, and King Rama VII visited it and left the royal monograms there.

What to see and do?

The mountainous landscape of the national park is home to a number of wildlife including wild boar, common palm civet, lar gibbon, and Sunda pangolin. There are also 90 species of birds including the rare silver pheasant. Walking along nature trails allow visitors to see birds, butterflies, animals, and tropical rain forest plants. The 20-meter high Namtok Phlio is a result of two streams joining together. The clear water of the waterfall amazes visitors with thousands of Soro Brook Carp and other kinds of fish in it. It is also a picnic area for visitors.

The most comfortable period to visit this national park is from November to February as it is neither a drought season nor monsoon season. Accommodations, camping areas, and food shops are provided. Namtok Phlio National Park opens daily from 07:00 to 17:00. Admission fees for foreigners are 200 THB for adults and 100 THB for children. Please try not to bring many plastic bags to the national park.