Klong Plu Waterfall
- Klong Plu Waterfall: A Hidden Gem in Ko Chang
- Klong Plu Waterfall Hike
- What to Pack
- Safety Tips
- Getting to Klong Plu Waterfall by Songthaew
- Other Nearby Attractions
- Day Trip from Koh Mak
- Day Trip from Koh Wai
- Elephant Trekking
- ATV Riding
- Fishing
- Massage
- Insider Tip: Visit During the Week
Klong Plu Waterfall: A Hidden Gem in Ko Chang
Klong Plu Waterfall is a stunning natural wonder nestled in the heart of Ko Chang, Thailand's second-largest island. This majestic waterfall cascades down three tiers of lush jungle terrain, creating a picture-perfect scene that will leave you breathless. Located in the Klong Plu Waterfall National Park, this hidden gem is easily accessible and offers a refreshing respite from the bustling beaches and tourist crowds. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a chance to connect with nature, Klong Plu Waterfall promises an unforgettable experience. Get ready to explore this enchanting waterfall and discover its many wonders.
Klong Plu Waterfall Hike
The Klong Plu Waterfall hike is a moderate one, suitable for hikers of all levels. The trail is well-maintained, and there are no technical sections. The hike takes about 30 minutes to complete, and it is relatively flat, with only a few minor inclines. The trail is mostly in the shade, so it is a good option for a hot day.
The trail starts at the Klong Plu Waterfall car park. From the car park, follow the signs for the waterfall. The trail winds its way through the lush jungle, and you will cross several small streams along the way. The trail ends at the base of the waterfall, where you can take a dip in the emerald green water or relax on the rocky beach.
Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife. You might see monkeys, squirrels, and birds. If you are lucky, you might even see an elephant or a wild boar.
What to Pack
Essentials:
- Camera: Capture the beauty of the waterfall and the surrounding jungle.
- Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the tropical sun.
- Insect repellent: Keep those pesky mosquitoes away.
- First-aid kit: Be prepared for minor injuries.
- Dry bag: Keep your belongings dry while swimming or hiking.
Comfortable Clothing:
- Bathing suit: Take a dip in the refreshing waterfall pool.
- Shorts or pants: For hiking through the jungle.
- T-shirt or tank top: For staying cool and protected from the sun.
- Hat: Shield your head from the sun's rays.
Hiking Shoes:
- Sturdy hiking shoes: Provide good traction on the slippery rocks.
- Water shoes: A good alternative for crossing streams and rivers.
Water and Snacks:
- Water: Stay hydrated, especially in the hot and humid climate.
- Snacks: Replenish your energy levels with healthy snacks like fruits, nuts, or energy bars.
Safety Tips
The Klong Plu Waterfall is a natural and pristine tourist attraction, but there are certain safety measures that you should take to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit:
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Be Aware of the Currents: The waterfall has strong currents that can easily sweep you away, so it's crucial to be aware of the water's strength and to avoid swimming too close to the waterfall.
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Wear a Life Jacket: If you're planning to swim in the waterfall, it's highly recommended to wear a life jacket. This will provide you with added buoyancy and protection in case you get caught in a current.
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Stay Hydrated: It's easy to get dehydrated when you're hiking and swimming, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout your visit. Bring a reusable water bottle with you and refill it whenever you can.
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Wear Sunscreen: The Thai sun can be intense, so it's important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Apply sunscreen liberally before you start your hike and reapply it every few hours, especially after swimming.
Getting to Klong Plu Waterfall by Songthaew
There are two main ways to get to Klong Plu Waterfall by songthaew.
- From Lonely Beach:
- Catch a songthaew from the main road in Lonely Beach.
- Ask the driver to take you to Klong Plu Waterfall.
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The journey takes about 20 minutes and costs around 200 baht.
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From White Sand Beach:
- Catch a songthaew from the main road in White Sand Beach.
- Ask the driver to take you to Klong Plu Waterfall.
- The journey takes about 30 minutes and costs around 300 baht.
The duration of the journey may vary depending on traffic and road conditions.
Other Nearby Attractions
Klong Plu Waterfall is just one of the many amazing attractions that Ko Chang has to offer. Once you're done exploring the waterfall, be sure to check out some of the other nearby attractions, such as:
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Mu Ko Chang National Park: This national park encompasses the entire island of Ko Chang, as well as 52 other islands in the surrounding area. It's a great place to go hiking, jungle trekking, birdwatching, and exploring the island's many beautiful beaches.
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Kai Bae Beach: This beach is located just a short walk from Klong Plu Waterfall. It's a great place to relax on the sand, go for a swim, or enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at one of the many restaurants that line the beach.
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Lonely Beach: This beach is located on the west coast of Ko Chang. It's a popular spot for backpackers and budget travelers, thanks to its laid-back atmosphere and affordable accommodations.
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White Sand Beach: This beach is located on the east coast of Ko Chang. It's known for its white sand beaches, clear waters, and variety of water sports activities.
Day Trip from Koh Mak
If you're staying on the neighboring island of Koh Mak, you can easily take a day trip to Klong Plu Waterfall. Speedboats and ferries depart from Koh Mak's main pier and take around 30-45 minutes to reach Ko Chang. The cost of a round-trip ticket is approximately 300-400 baht per person.
Once you arrive at Ko Chang, you can take a songthaew or taxi to Klong Plu Waterfall, which takes about 15-20 minutes. The fare is around 100-150 baht per person.
To make the most of your day trip, consider renting a motorbike on Koh Mak and riding it to the waterfall. This gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace and visit other attractions along the way.
Here are some tips for planning your day trip from Koh Mak to Klong Plu Waterfall:
- Book your boat tickets in advance, especially if you're traveling during the peak season.
- Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen.
- Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes.
- If you're planning to swim, bring a swimsuit and towel.
- Allow enough time to explore the waterfall and hike through the jungle.
- Be sure to return to Koh Mak before sunset.
Day Trip from Koh Wai
Koh Wai is a small and secluded island located just a short boat ride away from Ko Chang. It is a great place to base yourself if you are looking for a more relaxed and off-the-beaten-track experience. There are a number of tour operators on Koh Wai that offer day trips to Klong Plu Waterfall. These trips typically include round-trip transportation, a guided hike to the waterfall, and free time to swim and relax.
Boat Schedule:
- Departure from Koh Wai: 9:00 AM
- Departure from Klong Plu Waterfall: 3:00 PM
Cost:
- Round-trip transportation: 500 THB
- Guided hike: 200 THB
Duration:
- Boat ride: 30 minutes each way
- Hike: 1 hour each way
- Total duration: 5 hours
What to Bring:
- Swimwear: You will want to take a dip in the waterfall's emerald green waters.
- Towel: To dry off after swimming.
- Sun protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Water: To stay hydrated.
- Snacks: To keep your energy levels up.
- Camera: To capture the beauty of the waterfall and the surrounding jungle.
Elephant Trekking
Elephant trekking is a popular and unforgettable tourist activity in Ko Chang. There are several tour operators offering different routes. You can choose a short trek through the jungle or a full-day trip. Prices vary depending on the tour operator and the length of the trek.
You'll be assigned an elephant and a mahout to accompany you. The mahout will give you instructions on how to ride the elephant safely. You'll ride through lush jungle trails, passing by waterfalls and rivers.
Elephant trekking is an amazing way to experience the beauty of Ko Chang's nature. It's also a great way to learn more about these gentle giants.
Here are some safety tips for elephant trekking:
- Make sure the tour operator is reputable.
- Ask about the elephants' welfare.
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
- Listen to the instructions of the mahout.
- Don't ride elephants if they are visibly distressed or injured.
- Don't feed or touch the elephants without permission.
ATV Riding
Discover the Thrills of ATV Riding in Ko Chang
For an adrenaline-pumping adventure, consider embarking on an ATV riding tour in Ko Chang. Several tour operators offer a range of options to suit different preferences and skill levels. These tours typically take you through a variety of terrains, from lush jungles to rugged mountain trails, providing a unique and exhilarating experience.
Different Tours:
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Beginner Tour: Ideal for those new to ATV riding, this tour takes you through relatively easy terrain, allowing you to get comfortable with the vehicle and enjoy the scenery.
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Intermediate Tour: Designed for riders with some experience, this tour ventures into more challenging terrain, offering a mix of flat trails and steep hills.
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Advanced Tour: Geared towards experienced riders, this tour takes you on a thrilling ride through the most challenging terrain Ko Chang has to offer, including steep slopes, muddy tracks, and water crossings.
Cost:
Prices for ATV riding tours vary depending on the operator and the duration of the tour. Generally, expect to pay around 1,000-2,000 THB for a two-hour tour and 2,000-3,000 THB for a four-hour tour.
Duration:
Tour durations range from two to four hours. Choose the duration that best suits your time and budget.
Safety:
ATV riding can be an exhilarating but potentially dangerous activity. Make sure to wear a helmet and follow the safety instructions provided by your tour operator. If you are a beginner, consider taking a beginner tour to familiarize yourself with the vehicle and the terrain before attempting more challenging rides.
Fishing
Ko Chang is a great place to go fishing, whether you're a beginner or an experienced angler. There are a variety of different types of fishing available, including:
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Deep sea fishing: This is a great way to catch big fish like tuna, marlin, and wahoo. You can book a deep sea fishing charter from one of the many tour operators on the island.
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Reef fishing: This is a good option for catching smaller fish like snapper, grouper, and barracuda. You can go reef fishing from a boat or from the shore.
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Shore fishing: This is a great way to relax and enjoy the scenery while you fish. You can fish from the shore at any of the island's many beaches or piers.
The cost of fishing varies depending on the type of fishing you choose and the length of your trip. A deep sea fishing charter can cost anywhere from 1,000 to 5,000 baht per day, while a reef fishing trip can cost anywhere from 500 to 1,000 baht per day. Shore fishing is free, but you will need to bring your own gear.
If you're new to fishing, there are a number of tour operators that offer guided fishing trips. These trips are a great way to learn the basics of fishing and to get some help finding the best spots to fish.
What to Bring
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Fishing gear: If you're bringing your own fishing gear, be sure to bring a rod, reel, line, and hooks. You may also want to bring a tackle box with a variety of lures and baits.
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Sunscreen: The sun can be intense in Thailand, so be sure to wear sunscreen to protect your skin.
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Hat: A hat will help to keep the sun out of your eyes and protect your head from the heat.
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Sunglasses: Sunglasses will help to protect your eyes from the sun's glare.
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Water: It's important to stay hydrated, especially when you're fishing in the heat. Be sure to bring plenty of water with you.
Massage
A trip to Thailand is not complete without experiencing a traditional Thai massage. Klong Plu Waterfall has several massage parlors where you can indulge in a relaxing and rejuvenating treatment.
Different Types
There are various types of massages to choose from, including:
- Thai massage: This is the most common type of massage in Thailand and involves stretching and pulling techniques to relieve muscle tension.
- Oil massage: This massage uses essential oils to promote relaxation and improve circulation.
- Foot massage: This massage focuses on the feet and is great for relieving tired and achy feet.
- Head massage: This massage focuses on the head and scalp to relieve stress and tension.
Cost
The cost of a massage in Klong Plu Waterfall typically ranges from 300 to 500 baht for a one-hour session.
Duration
A typical massage session lasts for one hour, but you can also get shorter or longer massages if you prefer.
Where to Get Massages
There are several massage parlors located near Klong Plu Waterfall. Some of the most popular places include:
- Klong Plu Waterfall Massage: This massage parlor is located right next to the waterfall and offers a variety of massage services.
- The Oasis Massage: This massage parlor is located a short walk from the waterfall and offers a more luxurious experience, with private massage rooms and a variety of amenities.
- The Green Mango Massage: This massage parlor is located in the nearby village of Laem Ngop and offers a variety of massage services, including Thai massage, oil massage, and foot massage.
Insider Tip: Visit During the Week
If you want to avoid the crowds and have a more peaceful experience at Klong Plu Waterfall, visit during the week. The waterfall is much less crowded on weekdays, so you'll be able to enjoy the scenery and take photos without having to worry about other people getting in your way. You'll also be able to relax on the rocky beach and swim in the emerald green water without having to share the space with too many other people.
Visiting during the week is also a great way to get a more authentic experience of Thailand. When the waterfall is less crowded, you'll be able to interact with the locals and learn more about their culture. You'll also be able to enjoy the natural beauty of the waterfall without the distractions of crowds and noise.
Tip: If you're visiting Klong Plu Waterfall during the week, be sure to bring your own food and drinks, as there are no restaurants or shops near the waterfall.