Tucked behind Klong Chao Bay on the western coast of Koh Kood, Klong Chao Waterfall (also spelled Khlong Chao) is one of Trat province's most photographed natural landmarks, and one of the reasons this once-quiet island has become one of Thailand's most talked-about destinations for 2026. Unlike the crowded falls closer to the mainland, this three-tiered cascade drops around 10 metres into a wide, clear pool that stays swimmable throughout the year.
Long before it became a social-media favourite, Klong Chao Waterfall sheltered a very different kind of visitor. During the early Rattanakosin era, the Vietnamese lord Nguyen Anh, known locally as "Ong Chiang Sue," is said to have taken refuge here while fleeing conflict in Annam, giving the falls their name: Klong Chao, or "the lord's stream." Generations later, King Rama VI visited the island and renamed the site "Nam Tok Anam Kok" in tribute to that history; a large boulder at the base of the falls still bears his royal cipher, "VPR." Locals, however, never stopped calling it Klong Chao Waterfall, and the name stuck.
Three-tier cascade, about 10 metres in total height
A broad, clear pool at the base, ideal for swimming and cooling off
A short, shaded 400 to 500 metre walk from the car park through the forest
Reachable on foot, or by kayak up the tranquil canal from Klong Chao Beach through mangrove forest
Klong Chao Waterfall sits about 15.7 km, roughly a 25-minute drive, from Ao Salat Pier, the island's main ferry pier. From Bangkok, the fastest route is a roughly one-hour flight to Trat Airport, followed by a van to Laem Sok Pier and a 1 to 1.5 hour ferry crossing, about 3 to 4 hours door to door. Budget travellers can also book a combined bus-and-ferry ticket from Bangkok to the mainland pier in Trat, a journey of around 6 hours.
Opening hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
Entrance: free, donations toward upkeep are welcomed
Best time to visit: May to October for the fullest flow and lushest scenery; November to January for the driest, most comfortable weather island-wide
Getting around Koh Kood: scooter rental is the most flexible way to reach the falls and other sights
Tambon Ko Kut, Amphoe Ko Kut, Trat 23000, Thailand
Directions
Nakhon Sawan Rd, Dusit, Bangkok 10300
24 Prachatipok Road, Wat Kanlaya Subdistrict, Thon Buri District, Bangkok 10600, Thailand
Soi Charan Sanitwong 3, Bangkok 10600
