Buntharik-Khao Yot Mon

Buntharik-Yot Mon Wildlife Sanctuary protects dry dipterocarp and dry evergreen forest in southeastern Ubon Ratchathani Province along the Lao and Cambodian borders, and is part of the Phanom Dong Rak protected-area complex. It covers about 1,283 km² and was established in 1992.

The sanctuary is described as habitat for many wildlife species, and visitor rules are aimed at avoiding disturbance to those habitats^[1]. Visitors are told not to feed animals^[2].

The Kaeng I Khiao area is surrounded by intact forest with a wide variety of plant life^[1]. Dry dipterocarp and dry evergreen forest dominate the sanctuary.

Huai Sai Yai (Kaeng I Khiao) is a rock-terrace waterfall rather than a single tall drop: water spreads across broad stone surfaces in small cascades, pools and rock channels, and the surfaces are smoothed and grooved by flowing water and sediment^[2].

September to December is the recommended time at Huai Sai Yai, when the late rainy season brings stronger flow and green forest; in drier months the water drops and the rock layers are easier to see^[2].

Tham Wua Daeng, a rock shelter with red rock paintings, lies at Ban Nong Saeng in Phon Ngam Subdistrict, about 22 km from the waterfall^[2].

The sanctuary was established in 1992 and is managed by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation. Kaeng I Khiao in Kho Laen subdistrict was formally opened as an ecotourism site on 18 September 2026 by Protected Areas Regional Office 9^[1].

Kaeng I Khiao, a broad rock terrace with water running across it all year, is the main visitor site, and Huai Sai Yai Waterfall is the same place under another name^[1].

From Buntharik town, drive about 26 km north on Route 2369 to kilometre marker 29, then turn right for about 6 km. Public transport does not reach the site, and there are no overnight stays at the waterfall. It is listed as open on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 08:30 to 15:30^[2]. A visitor service point and first-aid post have been set up^[1].

Visitors must take all rubbish with them and follow rules meant to protect wildlife habitats, and officials assessed the site's carrying capacity before opening it^[1]. Visitors must stay on permitted routes and not collect plants or natural materials^[2].