Namtok Chet Sao Noi National Park

Like a fantasy novel

Namtok Chet Sao Noi National Park

What we say: 4 stars

Little known on the foreign traveller circuit, Chet Sao Noi takes some effort to reach, but its uniquely haunting waterfalls and tranquil setting make it worth the trip.

The main attraction is Chet Sao Waterfall, a picturesque series of seven waterfalls that form steps leading down the narrow river. Although only a metre or two high, the waterfalls stretch a length of some 20-30 metres across the entire river, with a few refreshing emerald water pools for swimming. The many banyan trees perched reverently in the middle of some of the pools add to what is a generally mesmerising atmosphere.

Swimming is allowed, but ask a park official before diving in as some of the pools are known to have dangerous under currents, especially during rainy season. In fact, a local legend tells of how Chet Sao Noi, which translates to "seven young girls", took its name from seven sisters who tragically drowned in one of the pools centuries ago.

Continue over the bridge across the river and a series of trails lead to pristine jungle and some good vantage points. Camping tents may be rented from the small visitor centre and a handful of local restaurants hawk som tam and noodles during day light hours.

More details
Muu 9, Baan Kaeng Lu, Muak Lek
Opening Hours: Daily 07:00-17:00
How to get there: Orange local buses run all day from Saraburi bus station to Muak Lek town and onwards directly to the national park. If coming from Pak Chong or Nakhon Ratchasima, take a Bangkok bound bus and ask to be let off at Muak Lek, then catch the orange local bus from the bus stop in the centre of town. If coming by train, get off at Muak Lek station and the bus stop is right around the corner. If you have your own wheels, turn right off Mittraphap Road (you'll first need to perform a U turn) if heading away from Pak Chong on to Route 2224, which runs through the village of Muak Lek. The national park is a good 15 kilometres north along this road.

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