Adventure in Khlong Lam Ngoo

Snake Canal, oh, Snake Canal, oh, yes, that's right.

This is a joke, but seriously, this is a real switch-up! It was so much fun! If you're ever hiking and feeling bored, try something like this. It has everything: hiking, climbing, waterfalls, cave exploring, swimming against the current, rope climbing, rock climbing, and more. Plus, there's cliff jumping and swimming in a pool. It's so much fun!

Get in good physical shape, because it's going to be quite strenuous. You also need to take good care of the camera you bring. We'll start by telling you about the beginning of the journey.

We embarked on a self-organized trip with a group of 12 friends, splitting the costs equally. We departed from Bangkok at 9 pm and arrived at Lam Khlong Ngu National Park a little after 3 am. The journey took slightly longer than anticipated due to encountering newly paved roads along the way.

Upon arriving at the national park (hereinafter referred to as NP), we sought a campsite to pitch our tent and rest. After leaving our belongings at the NP, we changed our clothes and prepared for our trek to Lam Khlong Ngu. The park rangers assigned two tourists per group, with two to three assistants. One ranger was responsible for two tourists. We boarded a pickup truck and traveled to the entrance of Lam Khlong Ngu. From the pickup's stopping point, we embarked on a 4-5 kilometer hike, traversing a path that alternated between uphill and downhill sections through a bamboo forest interspersed with deciduous trees. Donning life jackets, we continued our trek, which took approximately two hours.

Following the sound of the waterfall, we continued our trek. "Are we there yet?" we wondered impatiently. "Not yet," came the reply. "Oh, when will we finally arrive?" we exclaimed. And then, finally, we reached our destination: the waterfall that required us to navigate a cave to reach the snake-shaped rock formation.

To access the cave, we must follow the waterfall around to the back.

Before entering the Lam Klong Ngu cave, we must walk out the same way and jump into the water. This is considered the highlight of the Lam Klong Ngu.

Before reaching the Snake Pillar point in the cave, we did not take any pictures because it was constantly wet and very dark. However, the entrance involved wading through water, swimming in, climbing ropes, and clinging to rocks against the current in the dark. It was a lot of fun, but there was a strong smell and a lot of bat droppings. Anyone who visits this place without trying the water mixed with bat droppings hasn't truly arrived, haha.

We have finally found it! The magnificent serpent-shaped stone pillar that we have been searching for after venturing through the dense jungle. We are shining our lights to illuminate the pillar as much as possible. The stalactites and stalagmites have converged, creating a truly awe-inspiring sight. The pillar is incredibly tall and majestic.

Exhausted from taking photos, we dragged ourselves back down the steep, muddy path. The heat and humidity were oppressive, but the experience was exhilarating.

After returning to the camp and enjoying a delicious meal, we woke up early the next morning to prepare for our visit to the stunning Naka Cave. We sipped coffee with our fellow travelers and set off on our adventure.

The Naka Cave is closer to the National Park than Khlong Lam Ngoo and requires less walking.

The path leading up the mountain was teeming with flocks of birds, and we were also greeted by stunning mountain views.

Before entering the narrow passage leading to the cave, there are massive boulders and ancient, towering trees.

If we are ready, we must cross the mountain and we will find magnificence.

This is just the mouth of the cave, and it's already amazing. There's so much more to see!

Looking up, one is struck by the sheer grandeur of the cave.

We continued walking, encountering several jumping-off points and many people floating in the water. This cave is truly remarkable.

Truly enjoyable! Haha!

From this point, there is a high rock area where everyone likes to take pictures. We didn't miss it, so we went to collect some.

The next cave, not far from the previous one, is another spectacular one: the Alien Cave. Its main attraction is, of course, the aliens.

At this point, we jumped into the highest point of the Lam Ngoo Canal. We were pushed in because we were standing there scared for a long time. Haha.

For this trip, the lovely care from the staff deserves a big thank you to everyone. They were so kind and attentive, providing medication and first aid throughout the journey.

10 Things to Know Before Visiting Lam Khlong Ngu

1. Prepare for a long journey. The journey to Lam Khlong Ngu is long and arduous, so be sure to pack plenty of food, water, and supplies.

2. Be aware of the weather. The weather in Lam Khlong Ngu can be unpredictable, so be sure to check the forecast before you go.

3. Respect the local culture. Lam Khlong Ngu is a remote area with a unique culture. Be sure to respect the local customs and traditions.

4. Be prepared for the unexpected. Anything can happen in the jungle, so be prepared for the unexpected.

5. Be aware of the dangers. There are a number of dangers in the jungle, including wild animals, poisonous plants, and insects. Be sure to take precautions to avoid these dangers.

6. Be prepared to rough it. There are no amenities in Lam Khlong Ngu, so be prepared to rough it.

7. Be respectful of the environment. Lam Khlong Ngu is a beautiful and fragile environment. Be sure to respect the environment and leave no trace.

8. Be prepared for the heat. The weather in Lam Khlong Ngu can be very hot, so be sure to stay hydrated and wear light clothing.

9. Be prepared for the rain. The rainy season in Lam Khlong Ngu can be very wet, so be sure to pack a raincoat and waterproof gear.

10. Be prepared for the mosquitoes. There are a lot of mosquitoes in Lam Khlong Ngu, so be sure to pack insect repellent.

1. The bees are very numerous (so many that their stings hurt, they constantly buzz around your sweat, and they even get into your ears). The solution is to wear a cloth mask over your mouth.

2. A headlamp is essential, as the cave is very dark inside.

3. Choose your shoes carefully, don't be cheap. Because when you go down the water, think about finding shoes that won't hurt your feet when you step on rocks. Climb a lot of rocks and choose a type that is careful not to slip because it is wet all the time.

4. It is advisable to wear quick-drying, long-sleeved clothing, as it can get hot while hiking, and long sleeves will help prevent bees from being attracted to sweat.

5. Waterproof bag, is it waterproof? Can it really be used for underwater photography?

To be honest, there have been cases where people's cameras have been damaged by water even with a waterproof bag. This is because people jump into the water with the bag, causing it to sink completely. The terrain is also quite challenging, and if you fall or stumble, there is a high chance of your camera breaking. Therefore, it is recommended to use an additional layer of protection inside the bag and to walk carefully. If you find it difficult to carry the bag, ask the staff for assistance.

6. We did not sleep at the cave. We slept at the National Park and then took a pickup truck to the cave entrance. We then walked to the cave.

7. The Snake Stone Pillar is already magnificent, but the Nanganen Cave and the Alien Cave are ten times more amazing.

9. After walking for a while, I admired the beautiful bamboo forest, which looked like something out of a Korean drama. As I walked, bamboo leaves fell along the path.

10. Engage actively with the officers. We believe that we have learned many valuable things from them.

No matter how much I describe it, it will never be enough. You have to experience it yourself to truly appreciate its magnificence. Many of the most incredible aspects cannot be captured in photographs. I highly recommend visiting while you still have the chance. It rivals the beauty of world-renowned caves.

Snake Canal