NAKHON RATCHASIMA — 23 April 2026, Thousands of butterflies have returned to Kaeng Wang Won, a popular natural attraction at Lam Chae Dam, delighting visitors during the summer season.
The site, where streams from Thap Lan National Park flow into the reservoir in Khok Krachai subdistrict, Khon Buri district, remains a favourite for tourists seeking to cool off and enjoy relatively pristine surroundings, despite lower water levels.
Large swarms of butterflies have been seen gathering along the stream banks to feed on minerals, creating striking scenes that are typically visible only during the hot season.
The phenomenon has been observed since March and is expected to continue until around June, depending on weather conditions. Hot, dry and windless days tend to bring out the largest numbers, while cooler or overcast conditions reduce sightings.
Khampa Songkrothok, head of the Lam Chae Dam rafting operators’ association, said the area serves as a key headwater source for the Mun River system and remains rich in natural biodiversity, with water flowing in year-round from the national park.
He said the annual butterfly gatherings enhance the area’s appeal, attracting both Thai and foreign visitors. The number and types of butterflies vary depending on weather patterns and natural life cycles, with different species emerging in rotation.
Species commonly seen include swordtail butterflies and several types of leaf-feeding butterflies, while the highlight is the rare Paris peacock butterfly, known for its iridescent emerald-green wings that shimmer in sunlight and its distinctive tail-like extensions.