Namtok Chat Trakan National Park: A Comprehensive Guide
Namtok Chat Trakan National Park, a pristine natural haven located 145 kilometers from Phitsanulok City in thailand, encompasses approximately 134,178 acres of diverse landscapes. This national park, officially designated on November 2, 1987, spans parts of the Chat Trakan and Nakhon Thai Districts. Renowned for its mountainous terrain and scenic mountain ranges, the park offers a unique climate and diverse ecosystems that attract nature enthusiasts from around the world.
Key Takeaways
Overview of Namtok Chat Trakan National Park
Geographic Location and Climate
Namtok Chat Trakan National Park is situated in a region characterized by its rugged mountainous topography. The park’s climate is predominantly cool, with an average temperature ranging from 25-29 degrees Celsius during the summer months of March to May. The rainy season, extending from June to October, and the cold season, from November to February, bring about cooler temperatures, especially at night. This unique climate supports a variety of ecosystems, making the park a biodiverse hotspot.
Flora of the Park
The park’s flora is predominantly composed of deciduous dipterocarp and hill evergreen forests. The deciduous dipterocarp forests thrive in areas with lateritic soils, which are less fertile. Key plant species in these areas include Shorea obtusa, Shorea siamensis, hairy Keruing, ironwood, padauk, and Shorea roxburghii trees. In contrast, the hill evergreen forests are found near streams and areas with high humidity and fertile soil. These areas are home to species such as Dipterocarpus alatus, mesawa, oak, Mangifera pentandra, Afzelia xylocarpa (Kurz) Craib, and Thai crape myrtle trees. Additionally, the park features an understory rich with palms, rattan palms, and bamboo.
Fauna of the Park
The fauna of Namtok Chat Trakan National Park is predominantly concentrated in the adjacent Phu Miang-Phu Thong Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary hosts a variety of small animals, including barking deer, wild boars, red junglefowls, chevrotains, squirrels, treeshrews, and a myriad of bird species. This diverse array of wildlife adds to the park’s ecological significance and appeal to visitors.
Access and Transportation
Directions to the Park
Visitors can reach Namtok Chat Trakan National Park via the Phitsanulok-Lom Sak Road. At the Ban Yaeng intersection, located at the 68th milestone, travelers should turn left onto Highway 2013 and continue for approximately 29 kilometers to Nakhon Thai. From there, a left turn onto Highway 1143 leads to Chat Trakan, with a 38-kilometer drive along the route. Before reaching Chat Trakan Town, a left turn onto Highway 1237 and a 10-kilometer drive will bring visitors to the park’s office. For those utilizing public transportation, buses from Phitsanulok City to the park are available, with the Phitsanulok-Chat Trakan bus departing from the Phitsanulok bus terminal, followed by a Chat Trakan-Ban Na Don songthaew to the final destination.
Attractions within Namtok Chat Trakan National Park
Chat Trakan Waterfall
One of the park’s major attractions is the Chat Trakan Waterfall, also known as Pakrong Waterfall. This stunning natural feature boasts seven distinct levels, each offering unique scenic vistas. The waterfall’s cliff is adorned with colorful rock layers, providing a picturesque setting for visitors. Between January and June, the area becomes a temporary home for bees that migrate to build their hives, adding to the park’s dynamic environment.
Pha Lek Cave
Another notable attraction within the park is Pha Lek Cave, which houses prehistoric artworks, including rock inscriptions that depict animals and other figures. This historical site offers a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage and provides visitors with an opportunity to explore ancient art in a natural setting.
Visitor Information
Admission Fees and Accommodations
The park charges an admission fee of 300 baht for adults and 100 baht for children. For those wishing to extend their stay, the park provides accommodations. Visitors can make reservations by contacting the Royal Forestry Department at 0-2579-0529 or 0-2579-4842.
Conclusion
Namtok Chat Trakan National Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty and ecological diversity. Its unique climate, diverse flora and fauna, and stunning attractions make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Whether exploring the majestic waterfalls or delving into the ancient art of Pha Lek Cave, visitors are sure to find an unforgettable experience in this serene and breathtaking national park.
Address And Location:
Chattrakan Waterfall National Park Mu 3 Chat Trakan Subdistrict Chat Trakan District Phitsanulok Province Chat Trakan Chat Trakan Phitsanulok 65170