located in Sai Yok National Park, the Sai Yok Yai Waterfall is one of two small waterfalls that gush into the Kwan Noi River. It is one of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations and offers a serene environment ideal for relaxation and nature photography. Sai Yok National Park, where the waterfall is located, gives visitors ample options to indulge in a variety of activities amid breathtaking landscapes. The waterfall’s uniqueness is attributed to its beautifully flowing from a 10-metre-high cliff into the stream and the Kwan Noi Brook.
About The Sai Yok National Park
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This park is spread across 958 sq km and harbours various attractions such as the Sai Yok Yai and Sai Yok Nai waterfalls, apart from enchanting caves, green forest trails and quaint raft houses. The main attractions of this park include Khwae Noi River, Sai Yok Lek Waterfalls, remains of the death railway and the beautiful caves that contain stalactites and stalagmites. The area is endowed with an abundance of flora and fauna. While hiking inside the park, you will spot the water monitors and sambar deer.
Venture deep into the forest near the Myanmar border, and you might be lucky to encounter Asian elephants, leopards, macaques, red giant flying squirrels, and Indo-Chinese serows, among other animals. This park is also home to the world’s smallest mammal, the Kitti’s hog-nosed bat (Bumblebee bat), found in the caves along the riverside.
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Things To Do In Sai Yok Yai Waterfall In Kanchanaburi
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Visitors can swim in the pristine pools at the waterfall’s base or try rafting in the river. However, while swimming, you should be cautious of the water current and temperature, as it can get quite cold at times. You can glimpse the shoreline cliffs near the cascades by going on a boat trip with your family in the calm, clear waters of the Kwan Noi River. It is a splendid experience to view this impressive waterfall from the suspension bridge or the overlooks with a green roof located across the river.
Apart from these water activities, you can embark on trails to appreciate nature’s beauty and the lush green landscape surrounding the falls. A popular trail is the Sai Yok Yai East Trail which is an easy-to-accomplish, 3.7km out-and-back trail. You can complete the trail in about 57 min. Embark on this short bird-watching hike and take in the wondrous atmosphere’s fresh air.
Wondrous Caves Within Sai Yok National Park
Among its many treasures lie the wondrous caves that dot the landscape. Each holds its own secrets and surprises for intrepid adventurers, promising an unforgettable expedition into the heart of the earth’s mysteries.
1. Khang Khao Cave
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Located 2km from the Park’s visitor centre, this cave is the primary habitat for the harmless Bumblebee Bat. The caves are near the Death Railway’s foundation. The interiors are adorned with intricate formations of stalactites and stalagmites, some resembling fantastical creatures frozen in stone. Ṁ
How To Reach: Rent a Car or taxi to Phu Pha Man NP, Khang Khao Cave
Cost: 25 baht
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2. Dao Wadung Cave
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Situated on the river’s West shore, this cave can be reached by the Daowadung Bridge or by taking a long-tail boat in the river followed by a hike to the cave. The cave has 8 chambers and is 240m long, and you can observe the abundance of stalactite and stalagmite formations in the cave. The echoes of dripping water and the occasional flutter of bats create a sense of otherworldly tranquillity.
How To Reach: Chiang Mai heads north on the 107 highway from Chang Puak Gate in the city and keeps going for about 75km.
Cost: 200 baht
3. Tham Lawa Cave
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This 500m deep cave is the most popular among the three. It has a small entrance but large inner chambers. This location is a small walk away for visitors residing in nearby raft houses. You can also reach this cave by a longtail boat across the river. Whether you’re an avid adventurer or simply a curious traveller, Tham Lawa Cave is a must-see.
Best Time To Visit: Pai to Tham Lod Cave is by taxi, which takes 51 min
Cost: 300 baht
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Places To Visit Near The Sai Yok Yai Waterfall
If you’re visiting Sai Yok Yai Waterfall in Kanchanaburi, there are several other attractions nearby that you might enjoy exploring. The region is rich in natural beauty, history, and cultural attractions, so there’s plenty to explore!
1. Sai Yok Nai Waterfall
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This is the second waterfall that empties into the Kwan Noi River but is located at a distance of 40km from Sai Yok Yai waterfall. Also known locally as Namtok Khao Pung, the name ‘Khao Pung’, which translates to ‘crumbled mountain’, comes from the waterfall’s natural appearance of eroded limestone cliffs through which the water flows. The water descends from the top of a mountain through small waterways along the length, and the final cascade flows down a 15 m high limestone cliff and ends in a pristine pool at the bottom of the slope. With the trees lining the rocks creating a beautiful barrier for water flow, this breathtaking site will surely be a treat for nature lovers. You can travel by car to reach this location from Sai Yok Yai waterfall.
Best Time To Visit: July and September
Cost: 300 Baht
2. Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum
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You can take your car to reach the Hellfire Pass Interpretive Center within 23 min, which is located at a distance of 20.2 km from the Sai Yok Yai National Park. Also known as the Museum of Chong Khao Kad, this place is a part of the Death Railway, which the prisoners of war were made to build during World War II. These prisoners carved the 500 m-long pass through the mountain so the train could pass through the clearing. The area has been converted into a museum to honour the prisoners who sacrificed their lives to complete the pass. The museum exhibits various tools used by the prisoners and multiple photographs of the historical events as a message for people to understand the importance of world peace.
Best Time To Visit: All year round (9 AM To 12 PM)
Cost: THB 200
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Sai Yok Yai Waterfall Entrance Fee And Opening Hours
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Sai Yok Yai Waterfall opening hours start from 8:30 am and extend up to 4:30 pm. This area is open all days of the week, including holidays and weekends, during the specified times. However, some caves near the waterfall may be closed during the rainy season.
There is no separate Sai Yok Yai Waterfall entrance fee. But you need to pay an entrance fee at the Sai Yok Yai National Park. The entry fee is 300 Baht (Rs. 690) for adults and 150 Baht (Rs. 340) for children in the age group of 3-14 years old. The fees for Thai citizens are 60 Bahts for adults and 30 Baht for children. If you rent a bike to tour this region, the rental charges are 20 Baht, while cars can be rented for 30 Baht.
How To Reach Sai Yok Yai Waterfall
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There are different modes of transport to reach this waterfall. It is wise to select your preferred mode based on your location and convenience.
- It is best to book a train from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi station, which takes around 3 hours. From Kanchanaburi, you can take the onward train to Nam Tok station (1hr 35min). This beautiful ride through a wooden viaduct overlooks the River Kwai (Kwan Noi). You can take a taxi from Nam Tok station to the waterfall parking area and hike for 200 m to reach the waterfall.
- Bus services are also available from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi, and you can then take a taxi to the National Park.
- You can also plan your travel from Ayutthaya to Kanchanaburi by bus (1.5 hrs). From Kanchanaburi, you can take a taxi to reach the visitor’s area of Sai Yok National Park (1hr 17min) followed by a short hike to the waterfall.
- For hassle-free travel, you can book a direct taxi from Bangkok to Sai Yok Yai National Park (3.5 hrs), but be prepared to spend a substantial amount for the taxi fare.
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Whether you are looking for adventure or leisurely activities with your friends and families, Sai Yok Yai waterfall in Kanchanaburi provides a unique escape amid lush green surroundings. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, embark on the journey to discover pristine waters, majestic caves, and an abundance of flora and fauna on your way. Book a trip to Thailand, to indulge in the scenic splendour of the cascades and the plethora of places near the falls.
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Cover Image credit : By Ananda for Wikimedia Commons.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sai Yok Yai Waterfall
How should I prepare for my visit to Sai Yok Yai Waterfall in Kanchanaburi?
It is recommended that you wear comfortable shoes, preferably waterproof, and carry an extra set of clothes along with swimwear. It is also advisable to carry insect repellent and sunscreen.
What facilities are available near the waterfall?
Basic facilities such as restrooms and food stalls are available near the cascades. Small restaurants are available near the park parking area, where you can grab a quick bite before hiking to the falls.
Is camping allowed in Sai Yok National Park?
Camping is allowed in areas designated for camps within the park. However, using the campsite is a 30 Baht/day fee. You bring your gear to set up your camp or rent a tent at 225 Baht/day and sleeping items for 60 Baht/day.
Which is the best time to visit the waterfalls?
The fall water flow is best during the rainy season from June/July onwards. You will be disappointed by the sparse water flow if you visit during the summer months of April-May. However during peak monsoon, some caves may remain closed.
How are the floating hotels in Sai Yok National Park?
Being one of the main attractions of the National Park, these floating hotels are quite expensive. If you want to plan a stay in the pristine environment of forests with the crystal clear lake as the view, then you must book your stay at these hotels.
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