Ngao Waterfall National Park in Ranong

Photo: Wikipedia – Sucha Kittiwararat

Thailand has more than 100 national parks, which I obviously do not know all, in fact, I only know a few. It even took a violation of the Emergency Decree to introduce me to Ngao Waterfall National Park in southern Ranong province.

Arrest 8 forest rangers

In the Bangkok Post I read an article about the arrest of 8 forest rangers of this park, who had entertained themselves in the house of the “Park Chief” with drinking alcoholic beverages and loud music. Police, tipped off by neighbours, accused the Park Chief, 34-year-old Chalit Sinrotthanakorn, and his band of rangers of violating the Emergency Degree, which currently prohibits such gatherings. Sad for Chalit, who had only been appointed as park chief since the beginning of March, but he confessed to having been wrong. He faces disciplinary action, which may cost him his job.

Ngao Waterfall National Park

Of course I also wanted to know more about this park and started looking on the internet. Tripadvisor, Travelfish and Lonely Planet write about this park, but I found the best information on www.tourismthailand.org/Attraction/namtok-ngao-national-park

The park is not really spectacular, but it does offer what you can expect from a national park in Thailand. There are several waterfalls to see, the highest of which starts at 300 meters. To the top of this waterfall one can make an easy trek. There are hot springs, you can go rafting and simply enjoy nature. There is even a possibility to spend the night.

Finally

The partying forest rangers have definitely put the park on the map with their deed and for this feat alone, a visit to this park is worthwhile. With some luck you can meet Chalit, who hopefully will still be the Park Chief, and tell him that you already know him from Thailandblog.