Bueng Boraphet (Bueng Boraphet Freshwater Lake)

History & Significance

Historically, the area of Bueng Boraphet was a lowland basin surrounded by mixed deciduous forests with small canals and marshes. During the rainy season, floodwaters from the north gathered here, creating a vast freshwater reservoir celebrated for its abundance of fish, freshwater prawns, softshell turtles, and crocodiles. In 1923, Dr. Hugh M. Smith, an American fisheries advisor to the Ministry of Agriculture, conducted a survey and recommended conserving the area as a prime breeding ground for fish. Following royal permission granted in 1926, a dam and water gates were constructed between 1927 and 1928 to regulate water levels throughout the year. Additionally, a royal floating pavilion was constructed in the middle of the lake during the royal visit of King Rama VI.

Highlights & What to See

Bueng Boraphet boasts remarkable ecological diversity and notable natural features:

• Flora and Fauna: Ecological surveys have recorded around 148 animal species and 44 aquatic plant species within the lake ecosystem.
• Rare Species: The lake is historically significant as the site where the rare White-eyed River Martin was first discovered, and it is also known as a habitat for the Siamese tigerfish.
• Birdwatching: Between November and March, large flocks of migratory waterfowl arrive at the lake. Resident bird species include teals, purple swamphens, pheasant-tailed jacanas, and Asian openbills, with breeding seasons extending from July through March.
• Conservation Zones: Portions of the lake are designated as a wildlife non-hunting area and a fisheries breeding station.

Visitor Information

Bueng Boraphet is open daily from 08:00 to 16:00. General access has no entry fee (0.00 THB). On-site visitor facilities include designated parking areas and restrooms.

How to Get There

Bueng Boraphet covers parts of Mueang Nakhon Sawan, Tha Tako, and Chum Saeng districts in Nakhon Sawan Province. The lake is bordered by the Nakhon Sawan - Tha Tako route on the south and the Thap Krit - Tha Tako route to the north, with the railway line between Nakhon Sawan Station and Khlong Pla Kot Station marking the western boundary.