Vajiralongkorn Dam (Khao Laem Dam), Kanchanaburi

Highlights

Vajiralongkorn Dam, originally known as Khao Laem Dam, is a significant rock-fill dam in Thailand, notable for its reinforced concrete face. Standing 92 meters high, with a crest 10 meters wide and 1,019 meters long, it spans the Kwae Noi River in Thong Pha Phum District, Kanchanaburi. Constructed primarily for hydroelectric power generation, it boasts a formidable capacity of 300 MW from three 100 MW generators, producing an average of 777 million kilowatt-hours annually. The dam's reservoir is immense, covering 388 square kilometers, extending across Thong Pha Phum and Sangkhla Buri districts. This area is also a vital freshwater fish breeding ground, supporting local fishing. The dam plays a crucial role in flood control during the rainy season and helps maintain water quality in the Mae Klong River by releasing water during dry periods.

In 2026, the Sranjit Health Park was officially opened within the dam complex. Named by His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn, this 72-rai park features three UCI-standard cycling tracks (BMX, Pump Track, and balance bike), along with walking and running paths, outdoor exercise areas, and a Rung Phueng flower garden. [th.wikipedia.org](https://th.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%B9%80%E0%B8%82%E0%B8%B7%E0%B9%88%E0%B8%AD%E0%B8%99%E0%B8%A7%E0%B8%8A%E0%B8%B4%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%A5%E0%B8%87%E0%B8%81%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%93)

History

Construction of the dam began in 1979 and was completed in 1984. On January 9, 1986, His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great officially inaugurated the Khao Laem Dam. In 2001, His Majesty graciously bestowed the new name "Vajiralongkorn Dam" in honor of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua, who was then the Crown Prince. [th.wikipedia.org](https://th.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%B9%80%E0%B8%82%E0%B8%B7%E0%B9%88%E0%B8%AD%E0%B8%99%E0%B8%A7%E0%B8%8A%E0%B8%B4%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%A5%E0%B8%87%E0%B8%81%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%93)

Visitor Tips & Best Time to Visit

• Enjoy boat trips across the reservoir to admire the scenic landscapes.
• Visit coconut plantations on the islands within the reservoir (approximately a one-hour boat ride from the dam).
• Fishing is permitted in the reservoir during certain seasons.
• For group travelers, several raft accommodations are available on the reservoir.
• The Sranjit Health Park offers cycling tracks and recreational areas for visitors.
• For inquiries, contact the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) at 0 3459 9077 ext. 2510-11 or 0 3459 9880. [egat.co.th](https://www.egat.co.th/home/vajiralongkorn-dm/)