Khlong Yan Rafting (Kaeng Krung National Park)

History & Significance

Khlong Yan is a pristine natural waterway originating from the dense forests of Kaeng Krung National Park in Surat Thani. This river stretches approximately 70 kilometers and serves as a crucial headwater for the Phum Duang River and the Tapi River, which is the largest river in Southern Thailand. Historically, the interconnected waterways of this region, including the Tapi and Phum Duang rivers, served as vital trade routes during the Srivijaya Kingdom, allowing traders to transport goods between the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand.

Highlights & What to See

The rafting experience along Khlong Yan is divided into two main spots, each offering unique natural beauty and challenges:

• Spot 1 (Ban Chiew Maprang): Located in Takuk Tai Subdistrict, this spot is situated just 6 kilometers from the beautiful Vibhavadi Waterfall. Rafting distances and durations here can be customized to suit the preferences and physical fitness of visitors.
• Spot 2 (Ban Bang Tai): Located in Takuk Nuea Subdistrict near the Kaeng Krung National Park headquarters. This spot features two distinct routes:
  • Route 1: From Pak Bang Cham to Hat Pak Chun campsite, covering a distance of 12 kilometers (approximately 4 hours).
  • Route 2: From Hat Pak Chun campsite to the Kaeng Krung National Park pier, covering a distance of 8 kilometers (approximately 2 hours).

The ultimate highlight of Khlong Yan is the Kaeng Krung (or Chiew Krung) rapid, a spectacular 400-meter-long stretch of rock rapids. Along the routes, rafters will also encounter dozens of smaller and larger rapids surrounded by untouched tropical rainforest.

Visitor Information

The rafting activities are managed by Kaeng Krung National Park alongside local private operators. For safety, all rafting trips must be accompanied by park officers or local guides. The national park provides 2-person kayaks, and visitors can choose to paddle themselves or have a park officer assist with paddling.

Admission & Fees: The national park's rafting service costs 450 THB per person for the 8-kilometer route (from Hat Pak Chun to the national park pier). Operating hours are daily from 08:30 to 16:30.

Best Time to Visit: The ideal periods for rafting at Khlong Yan are from December to March and from July to August each year.

Contact Details:

• Spot 1: Phu Yai Songkiat Sriburut (Tel: 08 5816 8996)
• Spot 2: Kaeng Krung National Park (Tel: 09 0878 0774) or Phu Yai Venus Sueksuea (Tel: 08 7274 1528)

How to Get There

Khlong Yan is located in Surat Thani Province. Visitors can access the rafting starting points via local roads leading to Takuk Tai or Takuk Nuea Subdistricts. Spot 1 is located near Vibhavadi Waterfall, while Spot 2 is situated near the headquarters of Kaeng Krung National Park. It is highly recommended to contact the park officers or local coordinators in advance to arrange transportation and guides.