Kaeng Krachan Reservoir

Kaeng Krachan Reservoir is a large artificial lake formed by the Kaeng Krachan Dam on the Phetchaburi River in Kaeng Krachan District, Phetchaburi Province, western Thailand. Located at the edge of Kaeng Krachan National Park, it is the largest reservoir in the province and a scenic water body surrounded by forested mountains. It is notable for its vast open water, island-dotted landscape, and role in irrigation, water supply and hydroelectric power.

Visitors can expect a vast open reservoir surrounded by forested hills at the edge of Kaeng Krachan National Park. The main visitor area is around the Kaeng Krachan Dam crest and viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the water, scattered islands and distant mountains. There is a dam viewpoint, boat pier and lakeside road. Activities focus on sightseeing, photography and boat trips on the reservoir to view scenery and birds. The setting is quiet and natural with limited development.

The reservoir was created by the construction of Kaeng Krachan Dam across the Phetchaburi River between 1961 and 1966. The dam is an earthen dam, the largest of its type in Thailand, built for irrigation, water supply, flood control and hydroelectric power generation. The reservoir inundated a large valley area and remains the principal water source for Phetchaburi Province.

The reservoir is an important water resource supporting agriculture, fisheries and local communities in Phetchaburi Province. It is a well-known recreational and scenic area for residents and visitors and forms the eastern gateway to Kaeng Krachan National Park.