Namtok Phliu is the centrepiece of Namtok Phliu National Park in Chanthaburi province, a wide tiered waterfall that once served as a retreat for King Rama V. The falls tumble down mossy granite steps into large pools shaded by ancient trees, and the surrounding park protects one of eastern Thailand's last significant tracts of lowland evergreen forest. The sacred fish — enormous plaa yisok carp — that crowd the lower pools have been protected for over a century and will eat from your hand.
Highlights
- Tiered cascade set in royal-patronage forest with a rich conservation history
- Enormous sacred carp in the lower pools, tame enough to feed by hand
- Shaded jungle trails through lowland evergreen forest
- Historically significant — visited by King Rama V, inscribed stone tablet on site
How to Get There
From Trat, take a songthaew or taxi south to Namtok Phliu National Park (about 14 km). From Koh Chang, take the ferry to Laem Ngop pier and arrange a day-trip taxi. The park is not served by public buses.
Visitor Tips
Buy bread from vendors at the entrance to feed the sacred carp — a genuinely memorable experience.
The park is 65 km from Koh Chang ferry pier; easy to combine with a day trip from the island.
Weekday visits are far quieter; Thai families fill the park on weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Senior Travel Writer · Bangkok · 12+ years in Thailand
James has lived in Bangkok since 2014 and has visited all 77 Thai provinces. He specialises in destination guides, itinerary planning, and transport logistics. Before moving to Thailand, he worked as a travel journalist in Hong Kong and Singapore. He speaks conversational Thai and is a certified PADI divemaster.
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