Details
Features
About this place
This is the true gem among the top of Thailand's waterfalls. It's typically underrated and lesser known by tourists. Just 5 hours from Bangkok to Karnchanaburi, a province little north western, this could be perfect for a one or two day trip. Despite the year-round accessibility, the perfect timing for the Jok Ka Din waterfall is August to October -- the verge of rainy season to see the waterfall at its most powerful.
Even though the trail itself is not difficult to hike, the route before reaching the trailhead is a daunting task. On a sunny day, there could be only a narrow-edge road, so be cautious! But, on the raining day, there could be a whole different ball game. Even though the road is mostly paved, there are some sections that are unpaved and ready to form a slippery, muddy surface, which could lead to road hazards when the rain is present. So, it requires extreme caution. If anyone could manage to make it, it's totally worth it.
The trailhead starts at the entrance station where every visitor is required to pay an entry fee. 40 Baht per Thai adult 200 Baht per foreign visitor (1 buck equals 33 Baht roughly). Restrooms are available at the trailhead. The elevation at the trailhead is 2267 ft.
The trail contains only one section; it starts and ends relatively flat. The elevation change is just only 30 ft. The trail is very well-maintained. No need for hiking shoes to end the section. The trail is open at 8 am and closed at 5 pm. Expect around 10-15 minutes one way trip.
On a long holiday weekend, there is definitely a crowd. If you want to have the waterfall all to yourself, then the early arrival is recommended.
A campground is also available at the waterfall in winter. During the rainy season, the park requires all campers to camp only at the visitor center (3 miles away from the trailhead)