Chaloem Rattanakosin National Park
Tucked into the Si Sawat District of Kanchanaburi Province, this national park draws visitors with an unusually compact yet varied natural circuit that combines jungle trails, a dramatic cave filled with bats, towering old-growth trees, and a waterfall — all accessible within roughly an hour of walking. The cave is a particular highlight, described by visitors as beautiful inside despite requiring passage through a bat colony, and the surrounding forest features impressively large trees that give the park a sense of genuine wilderness. Helpful, welcoming staff add to the experience, and the park rewards those who make the detour even when it wasn't originally part of their itinerary. The atmosphere is unhurried and nature-focused, suited to travellers who enjoy active outdoor exploration without the crowds of more commercialised attractions. The trail involves a decent climb to reach the upper highlights, making it appropriate for reasonably fit visitors rather than a casual stroll. Good to know: Weekday visits are recommended, as the park can get busy on weekends. The dry season — roughly November to February — offers the most comfortable conditions for hiking. Wear sturdy footwear suitable for uneven terrain, bring water, and consider a mask for passing through the bat cave. Opening hours and entry fees are not consistently listed online, so arriving early and checking with local tourism offices in Kanchanaburi beforehand is advisable. No website is currently available for advance planning.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Chaloem Rattanakosin National Park, round out your day in Kanchanaburi with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
This is one of my most impressive places in Kanchanaburi provice, Thailand. You need to pass a small cave that has plenty of bats but inside the cave is very beautiful. (You can wear mask to prevent the bat poop smell) Then, you will meet a forest that is very well preserved. There are many types of mushroom and small animals. After walking about 1.3 Km., you will see a 1st level waterfall, Tri trueng, that is very nice too. After that, walking up to the 2nd and 3rd level waterfall. The way to go up is a bit difficult with high steep but the path is good and stable. And during the way to the scenaric viewpoint is quite difficult and a bit dangerous but it's not hard for those who have hiking experience. I do not recommend people who have heart atttack or mussle pain to continue walking because the path's quite steep and not that stable. Also, the viewpoint is nice. And then, continue walking to 300 meters to the last cave. The park closed at 4 pm. And the tourists are not allowed to enter the park after 3 pm. That means you can stay in the forest until 3 pm., then you have to walk back and leave the park before 4 pm. For hiking here, I recommend wearing hiking shoes and pants. The bug spary is also useful.
Very pretty national park with really huge trees and a beautiful cave. It is just a little out of the way and some might consider it hard to get to. I would say it's best to visit during weekdays as the trail itself is quite small and can get very crowded quickly.
Easy walk. Nice view. Cave, jungle, and waterfall in about an hour with a decent climb to the last highlight. A healthy guy can easily do it.
Tips for Visiting Activities & Tours
Vet Elephant Sanctuaries
Only visit sanctuaries that prohibit riding, use no chains or bullhooks, and let elephants roam freely. Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai set the standard. If a place offers painting shows or circus tricks, walk away.
Book Through Klook or GetYourGuide
These platforms offer instant confirmation, free cancellation on most activities, and prices that are often lower than walk-up rates. Compare with local agencies for multi-day trips where negotiation might save more.
Do Outdoor Activities in the Morning
Heat and humidity peak from noon to 3 PM. Schedule jungle treks, cycling tours, and outdoor cooking classes for early morning. Water activities are more flexible since you're in and out of the sea.
Also Popular in Kanchanaburi
The Village Farm To Café
A scenic farm-to-table café on Highway 323 in Kanchanaburi, serving fresh, locally-sourced food in a spacious, village-style setting.
Wat Tham Suea
An 18-meter-tall Buddha built in 1973 is the focus of this well-known temple on a hilltop.

Keeree Mantra Restaurant
Expansive open-air eatery with lake & mountain views serving traditional cuisine.
Keereetara Riverside
Riverside Thai restaurant on the Kwai with fresh local cuisine, views of the famous bridge, and occasional live music.
Similar Activities & Tours Across Thailand
JK Thai Inter Language School (ED visa)
Pattaya language school offering Thai courses and ED visa support, open daily 9am–8pm in Pratumnak.
Safari World
Zoo & entertainment park featuring safari rides, marine attractions, live feedings & stunt shows.

Lumphini Park
Central urban park featuring manicured lawns, playgrounds & an artificial lake with boat rentals.

SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World
Spacious aquarium offers hundreds of marine species on display, 4-D films & underwater experiences.
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: April – May (extreme heat)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
20°C – 38°C(68°F – 100°F)
Crowds
Peak: November – February
Getting there
Train from Bangkok Thonburi station (~3 hrs, scenic). Minibuses from Mo Chit take ~2.5 hrs. Car hire recommended for exploring beyond town.
Getting around
- •Bicycle rental (town is flat)
- •Motorbike rental
- •Songthaews along the river
- •Long-tail boat tours on the river