🔄 Updated 21 Jun 2026
Kaeng Hin Phoeng sits in Na Di district, Prachinburi province. It's a large rocky rapid on the clear Sai Yai stream, managed by Khao Yai National Park Ranger Station 9 (Sai Yai). What sets it apart from ordinary rafting is that it opens only during the rainy season when the water is high. Once the water peaks, the current turns strong and fast, with rapids reaching class 3-5 on the international scale. This is for people who want real adrenaline, not a relaxed scenic float.
Rafting season — which month to go
Kaeng Hin Phoeng opens for rafting only during the rainy season, roughly July to October. Outside this window there's too little water to raft. The strongest and most fun period is August to September, the peak of the high water. Early season (July) and late season (October) have gentler water, which suits beginners or families who want to try it without too much of a thrill.
- July — season opens, water starts rising, rapids aren't at full strength yet. Good for first-timers to test the waters.
- August–September — peak season, water at full strength, the most exciting, and the most crowded. Book ahead.
- October — late season, water starts dropping. Still raftable but tamer, and the season is about to close.
Check before you go
Water levels depend on the rain each week. If it rains hard for several days straight, staff may close the run temporarily for safety. Always call your resort or the ranger station to check before you set out.
Want more out of Prachinburi? Book tours & activities
Booking online ahead on Klook or GetYourGuide is usually cheaper than the gate and skips the queue. Pick only the experiences you actually want — prices and availability are shown live on each site.
What the rafting is like — route and rapids
Before you reach the put-in point, you have to hike in about 2-2.5 km, which takes around 45-50 minutes depending on the trail. The path runs through shady forest until you reach the head of the rapid named "Kaeng Hin Phoeng," the first and strongest one. From there you raft downstream through a series of smaller rapids. The run is roughly 2-4.5 km and takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the water level and the package you choose.
One raft holds about 6-8 people, with a guide aboard who calls the paddling rhythm and steers you through the rapids. One thing people consistently say is that the first rapid is the most thrilling — water crashes straight into the raft and you'll get soaked head to toe. Toward the end the water calms down, giving you a chance to catch your breath and take in the forest on both banks.
Prices and packages
Prices depend on whether you book a day trip or an overnight stay, and which resort you go through. The figures below are based on resorts around Kaeng Hin Phoeng that actually take bookings (such as Saksupha Resort). Prices may shift with the season and group size, so confirm with the package operator again before you book.
Day-trip rafting (One-Day)
Half-day rafting including the rafting service, a snack, and a guide. Good for people staying in town or up in Khao Yai who want to drive over for a single day on the water.
Private raft charter
Hire a whole raft for your group of friends or family, seating up to about 6-8 people, with no strangers aboard so you can have more fun together.
2-day, 1-night package
Overnight in an air-conditioned resort room, including several meals, drinks, rafting, and transfers. Good if you want a full day out without rushing the drive home.
Trek + rafting package, 2 days 1 night
For the all-in adventure crowd. Camp in tents, with trekking, abseiling, and rafting, plus several meals. Around 30% deposit in advance.
About the prices
These are rough figures from resorts around the rapid and may change year to year. The per-person price is usually lower with a bigger group, since you split the raft and transfer costs. Always confirm the price and what's included in the package with the operator before transferring a deposit.
Booking — how to book and who to contact
The easiest way is to book directly through a resort or rafting operator near Kaeng Hin Phoeng, since they handle everything: the raft, guide, safety gear, transfers from your accommodation to the put-in, showers, and food. Most take bookings by phone or Line. During peak season (August–September) spots fill up, so book at least 1-2 weeks ahead and be ready to transfer a deposit.
- Book through resorts around the rapid — such as Saksupha Resort or Phueng Luang Campground, which run full packages with transfers.
- General info — TAT Nakhon Nayok office covers the Nakhon Nayok, Prachinburi, and Sa Kaeo areas.
- Sai Yai Ranger Station (Khao Yai Station 9) — ask about water conditions and whether the run is open; call between 06:00–18:00.
Getting there
Kaeng Hin Phoeng is in Na Di district, Prachinburi, about 2.5 hours from Bangkok by car. The main route in is via Highway 304 (Kabin Buri–Khao Yai) or Highway 2041 heading toward Khao Yai Ranger Station 9 (Sai Yai). It's best to drive yourself or rent a car, since public transport doesn't reach this spot easily. If you book a package with a resort, many of them offer transfers from your accommodation to the put-in point.
From Bangkok
Take the motorway/Highway 304 through Kabin Buri into Na Di district, about 2.5 hours. Good for a long-weekend trip.
From Prachinburi town
Drive up toward Na Di, about 1 hour. Good if you're staying in town and coming for a day-trip raft.
From the Pak Chong side of Khao Yai
You have to loop around to the Prachinburi side, which takes a while. Allow extra time and check the route first.
What to bring and safety
Rafting Kaeng Hin Phoeng is great fun, but don't get complacent. Class 3-5 means the water really is strong and you can be thrown from the raft. The most important things are to wear the life jacket and helmet the guide provides at all times, and to follow the guide's instructions strictly.
- Life jacket + helmet — worn the whole run; the operator provides them. Never take them off mid-rapid.
- Closed-heel shoes — flip-flops come off easily. Wear shoes that hold your feet well, or water shoes.
- Waterproof bag — for your phone, camera, and cash. You'll be soaked head to toe, so don't carry anything that isn't waterproof.
- Change of clothes + towel — you'll be drenched after the run, so have a dry set ready to change into.
- Knowing how to swim helps — even with a life jacket, if you fall out, being able to swim helps you keep your composure.
Straight talk
This isn't an activity for everyone. If you're very afraid of water, can't swim at all, or have back or heart problems, think it over carefully or consult the operator first. At peak flow (Aug–Sep) it's more challenging than you'd expect; young children and older travelers should pick the early or late season when the water is gentler.
Plan a rafting trip plus the rest of Prachinburi to make the whole trip worth it
See the rafting trip plan →