Day 2 – We Visited Temple, Waterfall & Dam in Nakhon Nayok : Thailand (Jul’23)
In July 2023, I embarked on a memorable journey through Nakhon Nayok Dam, Thailand, exploring its rich cultural and natural attractions.
Day 2 – After breakfast, we were ready to explore Nakhon Nayok on a motorbike. Today our first destination was Khun Dan Prakarn Chon Dam. We reached there around 11:30 am. It was approx. 8 KM from our hotel, so just took us around 15 minutes. This day there was a lot of traffic and crowd.
Early Morning At Wangyao Riverside Resort
Road Towards Nakhon Nayok Dam
View Around Khun Dan Prakarn Chon Dam
Our adventure began with a visit to the Khun Dan Prakan Chon Dam, a significant landmark in Nakhon Nayok. This impressive structure, standing 93 meters high and stretching 2,720 meters in length, is the largest and longest roller-compacted concrete dam in Thailand. It plays a crucial role in water management for the region.
Upon arrival, we were greeted by a bustling scene, with many visitors eager to experience the dam’s grandeur. The panoramic views from the top were breathtaking, offering a unique perspective of the surrounding landscapes.
Our Next Destination – Ganesha Park
Our next stop was Ganesha Park, renowned for housing two large statues of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity revered in Hinduism. The park exudes a serene atmosphere, attracting devotees and tourists alike who come to pay their respects and admire the intricate craftsmanship of the statues.
Lunch At – ชมนก (Chomnok) Cafe & Restaurant
For lunch, we chose Chomnok Cafe & Restaurant, aptly named as “Chom nok” translates to “see the birds” in Thai. Situated approximately 20 minutes from the dam, this establishment provided a delightful dining experience amidst natural surroundings. We enjoyed feeding the birds and fish, adding a touch of nature to our meal.
Feeding the Birds and Fishes
Our Next Destination – Wang Takhrai
In the afternoon, we explored Wang Takhrai Park, a splendid location known for its natural beauty, including waterfalls and lush greenery. The park offers a multitude of breathtaking sights, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts.
Dinner At Baannai O (ร้านบ้านนายโอ)
As the day concluded, we dined at Baannai O, a charming restaurant featuring live music and a diverse menu, including steaks. The friendly atmosphere and delicious food provided a perfect end to our day of exploration.
After Dinner Some Sweet Roti in Night Market
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What is Khun Dan Prakan Chon Dam?
It is the longest rolled compacted concrete dam in Thailand—measuring around 2.6–2.7 km in length, 93 m in height, with a capacity of 224 million m³. Built to manage irrigation, floods, and water supply, it’s a royal initiative symbol of benevolence. -
Why was the dam constructed?
Initiated under His Majesty the King’s royal development project, the dam mitigates flooding, improves irrigation, and boosts water resources to benefit communities in and around Nakhon Nayok. -
What activities can visitors do at the dam?
You can ride boats or cruises across the reservoir, hike to nearby waterfalls, walk along the dam’s crest with panoramic views, and explore nature trails and museum exhibits. -
Which waterfalls are accessible from the dam?
Visitors can hike to waterfalls including Khlong Khram, Chong Lom, and Saen Ngon, all near the reservoir and often combined with boat ride experiences. -
How long did it take to build the dam, and when was it completed?
Construction started decades ago and completed in 2009. The dam spans approximately 2.6–2.7 km and is celebrated as an engineering marvel. -
How can visitors explore the dam?
You can explore on foot—walking up to the dam crest for sweeping views—or opt for boating, hiking up to waterfalls, or countryside trekking nearby. -
What are the dam’s opening hours?
The dam area generally opens from 6 AM to 6 PM daily, allowing for early visits and afternoon outings. -
What else can you do in Nakhon Nayok besides visiting the dam?
Additional attractions include lush waterfalls like Sarika and Nang Rong, outdoor adventures like rafting and ATV riding, scenic parks, temples, bamboo groves, and nature trails—many just a short drive from the dam. -
How do I get to Nakhon Nayok and the dam from Bangkok?
It’s an easy 1.5–2 hour drive from Bangkok via Route 305 (Rangsit–Nakhon Nayok Road), making it a great weekend escape. -
When is the best time to visit?
The cool, dry season (November–February) offers pleasant temperatures, lush greenery, and better trail conditions—perfect for outdoor adventures and sightseeing.