Ton Kloi Waterfall Trail and Wang Yao Swimming Spot Khao Sok Trek Guide Khao Sok Lake Houses
Ton Kloi Waterfall Trail and Wang Yao Swimming Spot
Most visitors come to Khao Sok for Cheow Lan Lake, but the rainforest trail along the Sok River is just as memorable. The Ton Kloi Waterfall Trail is the main walking route of the park. It starts near the park headquarters, follows the river through shady jungle, passes several small waterfalls and a natural swimming pool, and continues deeper into the forest for those who have the time and energy.
This guide explains the main stops, what is easy and what is more demanding, and how to fit the trail into a stay on the lake.
The trail at a glance
- Route: the Bang Hua Rat to Ton Kloi nature trail along the Sok River, starting at the park headquarters.
- Length: roughly 7 to 9 km one way to Ton Kloi Waterfall, depending on the source and where you measure from.
- Easy section: the first 3 km or so to Wang Yao is a wide, well-marked path that most visitors can walk on their own.
- Longer section: beyond Wang Yao the trail becomes narrower, signs are fewer and there is no phone signal, so a local guide is strongly recommended.
- Entrance fee: about 300 baht for foreign adults and 40 baht for Thai adults in recent guides. Please check the current fee at the entrance.
Stop by stop
Bang Hua Rat Waterfall The first waterfall on the route, with small rapids. It is known as a spot for bamboo rafting, so you may see rafting groups here. It is only a short walk from the headquarters.
Wing Hin Waterfall A small waterfall just beyond Bang Hua Rat, where water tumbles down to meet the Sok River. It is a good place to stop for photos and a drink of water.
Wang Yao A long, wide natural pool a few steps farther upstream, around the 3 km mark. This is the favorite resting and swimming spot on the trail. There is a rest area with a small shop for drinks and snacks nearby, which makes it a comfortable turning point for a half day walk.
Than Sawan Waterfall About 1 km beyond Tang Nam according to some guides, Than Sawan drops over a rock face into the river. It is a longer walk and best done with a guide.
Tang Nam A narrow gorge where the Sok River flows between two facing cliffs. It is one of the most dramatic spots on the trail.
Ton Kloi Waterfall The end of the main trail. It is a single tier waterfall with a flat rock area beside it where you can rest before turning back. Allow a full day for the return walk.
Swimming at Wang Yao
Wang Yao is calm and clear in the dry season and a good place to cool off after the walk. In the rainy season the water can rise quickly, so only swim when the water is calm and clear, follow the advice of rangers, and keep away from strong currents.
Best time to hike
- December to April is generally the best time. The trails are drier, the water is clearer and the walking is more comfortable.
- Rainy season: the trails can be slippery, leeches are common and some sections are closed. The far sections of the trail, including Tang Nam, Than Sawan and Ton Kloi, are usually closed each year from 1 June to 14 December. Always check with the park office before you go.
What to bring
- Sturdy shoes with good grip
- Swimsuit and a quick dry towel
- Drinking water and snacks
- Insect repellent and a hat
- A waterproof bag for your phone and valuables
- Small change for drinks and refreshments at the rest area
Tips for a good day on the trail
- Start early in the morning, when it is cooler and quieter.
- If you plan to go beyond Wang Yao, ask about a local guide at the visitor center. Guide fees are reported around 500 to 1,000 baht per group, so check current prices.
- Carry your trash back out and avoid feeding monkeys or other wildlife.
- If you are staying on Cheow Lan Lake, plan the trail on a different morning from your lake activities so that neither day feels rushed.
Ask the Khao Sok Lake Houses team how to fit a morning on the trail into your lake stay.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Ton Kloi Waterfall Trail? It is about 7 to 9 km one way depending on the source. A half day walk to Wang Yao and back is about 6 km, and the full walk to Ton Kloi takes most of a day.
Do I need a guide? The first section to Wang Yao is easy and well marked. For the longer section beyond it, rangers and guides recommend hiring a local guide because the signs thin out and there is no phone signal.
Can I swim at Wang Yao? Yes, when the water is calm. Follow ranger advice, especially after rain.
When is the trail closed? The sections past Wang Yao are usually closed from 1 June to 14 December. Check with the park office for the latest status.
How much is the Khao Sok National Park entrance fee? Recent guides list about 300 baht for foreign adults and 40 baht for Thai adults. Please confirm at the entrance.
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Contact Khao Sok Lake Houses
- Address: 718/2 Moo 4, Khao Phang Subdistrict, Ban Ta Khun District, Surat Thani 84230, Thailand
- Phone: +66 989891651, +66 945396166, +66 629695963
- Email: khaosoklakehouse@gmail.com