9.11.2008

WATERFALLS ON KOH CHANG

The high peaks and steep mountains of fertile rainforests in the central region of Koh Chang create some of the most spectacular waterfalls, so captivating that many of them now find their places in travel itineraries. The following are those better known ones. Please note that there is an entrance fee of Baht 200 per adult and 100 Baht per child above 3 years old.


THAN MAYOM WATERFALL

This is the most famous waterfall in Koh Chang (Ko Chang). It is located near the Than Mayom Pier with its entrance just behind the Koh Chang Marine National Park office on the east of the island. An approximately 400 metres walk along a paved concrete route, passing through a durian orchard will lead you to the waterfall.
Than Mayom is a four-level medium-sized waterfall set in fertile virgin rainforest that flows all the year round forming a large pool at its front. Visitors usually stay at the first three levels as the fourth level is quite far and not recommended. It is a source of fresh drinking water for the locals.
Their Majesties King Rama V and King Rama VII visited and had their initials inscribed at the waterfall in 1876 and 1927 respectively. Camping is safe as the National Park Office is close by. You may bring your own tents or rent from the National Park Office for Baht 200 to Baht 500 depending on the size. Rest rooms and food stalls are available too. Swimming is allowed and the sunrise can be a real treat.


KLONG PLU WATERFALL

Klong Plu Waterfall is one of the best known and most popular waterfalls due to its close proximity from the favoured beaches of Klong Prao and Kai Bae. Heading 3 kms southward from Klong Prao to Kai Bae along the main road you will reach the Klong Plu Waterfall signboard on your left. Follow the sign for 2 kms until you reach the entrance where you will find some food and souvenir vendors as well as restrooms. The 20 minutes, 400 meters hike along the stream to the waterfall is a fascinating experience. On the way are countless species of vegetation, birds and giant trees.

Klong Plu Waterfall is a large fall of 3 levels. It has been an important water source to the Koh Chang dwellers for a long time. Klong Plu derived its name from the Phu Pha Mek Sawan Mountain where King Chulalongkorn The Great(Rama V) used to rest. Most visitors stay at the first level only as the 10-meter fall here is already a breathtaking sight. Besides, it is too slippery and far to reach the next two levels. To do so, guidance from the Park's office should be requested.Swimming and camping are also allowed here.


KLONG NONSI WATERFALL

Situated on the northernmost of Koh Chang (Ko Chang), Klong Nonsi is a small-sized waterfall with several cascades. It is about 4 kms north of the Koh Chang Marine National Park Office. A one-hour, 3 kms path from Ban Dan Mai near the Koh Chang Sub-district police station leads to Klong Nonsi.


KHIRI PHET WATERFALL

The Khiri Phet Waterfall is 2 kms from the Salak Petch community, south of Koh Chang (Ko Chang). It is a medium-sized waterfall. During the cool and rainy season the fall may look as if it is a two-storey waterfall of about 5 meters high. However, during the dry season you can climb up to the 7th level. Although not very large Khiri Phet Waterfall flows year-round. There is a pool at level one. Swimming is possible but it is advisable to check the water current especially during the rainy season. Hikers should wear studded shoes and avoid climbing up the levels during rainy season as the rock may be slippery. The Salak Petch Forestry Office is not too far off and rangers can lend a helping hand. If you are driving you can park your car in the rubber plantation within the waterfall vicinity and take a 15-minute walk from there.


KLONG NUENG WATERFALL

This is the tallest waterfall in Koh Chang (Ko Chang) with a chest-deep pond in front, good for a cool dip after the long hike of about an hour. It's actually quite a challenge trying to get to Klong Nueng and of course rewarding. A huge boulder stands between you and the waterfall which you need to climb over before you reach it. Once conquered you will exhilarate at the magnificent sight of a tall waterfall gushing waters down the ravine, so fast the water seems white and foamy. Klong Nueng Waterfall is situated in Salak Petch not far from the Khiri Petch Waterfall.


Article Source: http://www.kohchangholiday.com/waterfalls1.html

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