Muak Lek — The Little Town with a Big Heart
Just a short drive from Bangkok lies Muak Lek, a charming district in Saraburi Province, where Central Thailand meets the Northeast. Nestled between Lopburi and Nakhon Ratchasima, this small town welcomes travelers heading along Highway No. 2, the Mittraphap Road, with a mix of pastoral charm and natural beauty.
Downtown Muak Lek, a small, peaceful town with a slow, friendly rhythm of life.
The new high-speed rail line passing through Muak Lek marks the town’s next chapter of growth.
Known for decades as “The Land of Milk and Curry Puffs,” Muak Lek is home to Thailand’s first dairy farm, the Thai–Danish Dairy Farm, which put local milk on the map, and the town’s beloved crispy curry puffs that visitors can’t resist taking home.
Na Don Resort, one of many cozy riverside stays along the Muak Lek stream, is a perfect base for your nature retreat.
Yet, beyond its local flavors, Muak Lek is a sanctuary for nature lovers. Two waterfalls, born from the same stream flowing down from Khao Yai National Park, shape its identity: Muak Lek Waterfall and Chet Sao Noi (Seven Little Ladies) Waterfall.
Muak Lek Waterfall
Set within a lush forest park shaded by teak trees, Muak Lek Waterfall is both a conservation area and a botanical learning center. Small cascades flow all year round, making it a peaceful retreat for picnics and short walks. Interestingly, the stream that feeds this waterfall also marks the boundary between Central Thailand and Isan (Northeastern Thailand).
Muak Lek Waterfall, Muak Lek District, Saraburi, is a tranquil cascade surrounded by lush forest.
Shaded woodland around Muak Lek Waterfall, where the sound of flowing water blends with birdsong.
The “Bridge Between Regions” crossing from Muak Lek, Saraburi, into Klang Dong, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima.
Curcuma flowers (Siam tulips) blooming in the arboretum zone of Muak Lek Forest Park, near the tree nursery learning center.
Krai Nam shrubs growing along the Muak Lek stream, bursting into full bloom during the rainy season.
Chet Sao Noi Waterfall National Park
Just a few kilometers away, this waterfall features seven scenic tiers surrounded by tropical greenery. The trail along the stream is easy and ideal for families, beginners, or anyone looking for a gentle encounter with nature. Visitors can swim in designated areas, rent life vests, or simply enjoy the sound of flowing water beneath the trees.
The first tier of Chet Sao Noi Waterfall, calm, clear, and perfect for a refreshing break.
The fourth tier of Chet Sao Noi Waterfall (known as “Yang Na”), shaded by towering dipterocarp trees.
A favorite photo spot, the wooden bridge crossing between tiers 4 and 5 of Chet Sao Noi Waterfall.
Cooling off in the natural pools of Chet Sao Noi Waterfall, pure joy on a sunny day.
Hidden corners of Chet Sao Noi, ideal spots to relax and enjoy nature at your own pace.
During the rainy season, the water turns slightly cloudy; by early winter, it returns crystal clear again.
Both waterfalls are beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is October to November, when the water runs clear and full. Restaurants and cafés line the nearby roads, offering everything from spicy som tam and sticky rice to casual Thai dishes and local coffee. Don’t miss the famous Muak Lek curry puffs, a must-try before heading home.
Getting There by Train
For a slow-travel experience, take the train from Bangkok Apiwat Station:
- Train No. 135 departs at 07:10 AM, arriving in Muak Lek at 10:13 AM (THB 60, fan-cooled local service with friendly vendors onboard).
- From the station, take a songthaew (shared pickup truck) to Chet Sao Noi Waterfall, about THB 50 round trip.
- For the return trip, Train No. 136 leaves Muak Lek at 2:40 PM, reaching Bangkok around 5:55 PM.
Muak Lek Railway Station, the gateway for slow-travel explorers from Bangkok.
Before reaching Muak Lek, trains pass through the Pha Sadet Tunnel is a 5-kilometer double-track tunnel carved through the mountain.
Train No. 136 arriving at Muak Lek Station is a fan-cooled local service bound for Bangkok Apiwat Station.
By Car
Driving takes about 2.5 hours from Bangkok, and you’ll have the freedom to explore more, from the Thai–Danish Dairy Farm and Muak Lek Reservoir, to scenic grape vineyards, tree tunnels, and cozy riverside resorts perfect for a weekend escape.
Why Visit Muak Lek
Muak Lek is evolving, soon to be one of the gateways to Thailand’s High-Speed Rail network, yet it has preserved its tranquil charm and natural rhythm of life. Whether you’re looking for a one-day getaway or a relaxing weekend surrounded by forests, streams, and friendly locals, Muak Lek invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and discover how simple joys make travel meaningful.
Editor in Chief : Nampetch Siramanon
Editor: Pacific Leisure (Thailand)
Content Creator : Mr. Saroj Na Ayutthaya
