Waterfalls in Thailand

The ethereal and famous Erawan Waterfall is a seven-tiered waterfall tucked deep inside the Erawan National Park in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. The alluring beauty and crystal turquoise waters of the pool have made it a favourite spot for backpackers and are also the main reason people pay a visit to this national park. The burst of greenery with the Erawan Falls in the centre forms a mind-blowing landscape.

Timings : 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Entry Fee :
Adults: THB 400
Children: THB 200

Among the famous waterfalls in Phuket, the picturesque Bang Pae waterfalls are situated in the east of the city in the Khao Phra Thaeo National Park. Tourists enjoy a nice relaxed walk to the waterfall and have a good time in the shallow streams. There are also a couple of great seafood restaurants around for having a bite.

Timings: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: THB 200 (Tourists)

This waterfall is not as large as others, but it is an excellent place to chill where 'less is more'. It's one of the few places where you can swim and relax as not many tourists frequent it. Visiting this place in summers is not recommended because the flow is nearly non-existent. You'll find some small local restaurants at the entrance. The entry fee is very minimal.

Entry Fee: THB 20

Walk through the winding overgrown trails within the Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, discovering different varieties of plants and lichen on your way to the Ton Sai Waterfalls. You might even get to see some pretty spotted deer and gibbon along the way. The small waterfall is a 2km walk within the park and is thus ideal for a bit of nature stroll.

Entry Fee:
Foreign Nationals: THB 200 (Adults)
Children: THB 100
Vehicle Parking: THB 30

Kathu Waterfall is loved by tourists for its many layers of clear, cascading water. The first two layers are relatively easy to climb, while reaching the third and fourth are relatively challenging - but still worth it! It is a perfect picnic spot, surrounding by the sound of gurgling water and green canopy.

Placed discreetly in Cape Panwa, a small faded sign (which is sometimes hard to notice) will indicate a waterfall nearby. However, the path to the waterfall can be misleading as similar ways exist. Along the one leading to Ao Yon Waterfall, you will come across small huts, local villagers, and even a few buffaloes wandering about. Next, walk across a little stream that will lead you to the waterfall. The drop pools are not large but are big enough for swimming. The evergreen trees form a magical lay down the perfect tropical backdrop as well.

Location: Cape Panwa
Timings: Open 24 hours, no entry fee.

Located close to Khao Lak, the area around Lampi Waterfall is now a commercial site, though the waterfall remains untouched. This location is also an ideal picnic spot as there are several food stalls around the waterfall. The waterfall is impressive with its multiple levels of cascades emerging out of the forest.

You could either take a walk on the bridge and get a good look at the falls or swim under the bridge in a large cold pool (though not significant enough for paddling). Though not so deep, the water will be cold, perfect for cooling off in the summer heat.

Location: Thai Mueang, Thai Mueang District, Phang-nga
Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Fee:
Foreigners: THB 100
Locals: THB 20

Phaeng Waterfall is quite possibly the island's the greatest waterfall and is located right in its centre. It is a part of the Thansadej National Park and is made up of two separate falls, the Phaeng Noi Waterfall (small waterfall) and the Phaeng Yai Waterfall (big waterfall). You will come across Phaeng Noi just fifty metres past the entrance to the park. Beyond that, you must embark upon a steep two hundred and fifty-metre trek to arrive at Phaeng Yai, but it is well worth it. The entire area is full of natural beauty, lush green vegetation and plenty of wildlife. There's a large pool at the base of the waterfall where you can cool off after your hike and take in the lovely sights. Once you are done, if you want the best experience you can continue hiking upwards till you reach the lovely Dom Sila viewpoint. Keep going further, and you will end up at the top of Khao Ra, the highest mountain peak on the island. At about six hundred and thirty metres above sea level, it provides spectacular views of the entire island and even the neighbouring island of Koh Tao.

Wang Sai waterfall is towards the north west of the island, near Mae Head beach. It is quite easy to access and is just a fifteen-minute walk from the southern beach, with signposts to guide your way. The waterfall resembles an avalanche of boulders. It is a cascading waterfall, which means that it is not a single drop. Instead, it is a stream of water that makes its way down some levels. Some of these levels contain water basins where you can cool off and go for a swim, the largest one being at the very bottom. What makes Wang Sai stand out from the other falls is the dazzling blue colour of the water at some of the cascades, which occurs thanks to the limestone sedimentation under the clear water. The entire area is devoid of human-made structures or any human development, apart from a couple of blue pipes that are used for providing irrigation nearby. This leads to an outstanding natural beauty that you do not want to miss.

The Thaan Sadet waterfall was first visited by the Thai Royal Family back in 1988. A rock inscription left there by King Rama V remains there till this day. It is rumoured that he visited the same spot over ten times during his reign and it wouldn't be without reason, Thaan Sadet is one of the most scenic waterfalls in all of Thailand. The present King Bhumibol has visited the spot as well. Water collected from here is used in some sacred Royal Ceremonies. The waterfall is made up of huge granite boulders and some freshwater pools where you can take a dip. It is a cascading fall, similar to Wang Sai, and is about three kilometres long. You ought to spend at least half a day at Thaan Sadet, start at the very top and walk down its entire length, picking your favourite spot to swim in. Accessibility has been greatly improved recently and the most hassle-free way of getting there is from the fantastic Haad Thaan Sadet beach.

If you have visited Thailand a couple of times, the name Sramonara will probably sound quite familiar. That's because you would have heard of the legendary parties that are held here. The all night long techno fests have been times perfectly, just before and after the famous full moon party at Haad Rin; they have placed this waterfall firmly on the map. Of course, you can visit Sramonara Falls during the day, but unlike most other waterfalls, you can also visit the falls in the night. The crystal clear water glistening under the moonlight is a truly breathtaking sight and romantic too. The five hundred metre walk from the car park to the falls goes through the jungle and is beautiful on its own. There are two pools, a big one that will fall to your right and a smaller, more secluded one that you can find once you cross the river and climb the hill. This one even has a restaurant if you're hungry and provides great views of the valley. To get to Sramanora, walk north from Baan Tai on the small road opposite Yam's Kitchen.

If someone asked me to describe paradise falls in one word, I would say: 'fun'. Paradise falls, or Nam Tok Phaeng is the place you want to be to get in touch with the child in you. The entrance is through a restaurant and opens straight onto a large pool. This pool happens to have ropes hanging from the overhead tree breaches that turn the area into a real-life jungle-gym. Grab hold of a rope and swing out just like Tarzan before launching yourself as high as you can go and finally landing in the cool water below. When you get bored of monkeying around, embark on the forty minute trek to the main waterfall, which is a sight in itself. There is an impressive cascade as well with a swimming hole attached to it. To get to Paradise Falls, head for Chaloklum village and turn right just after the Kika Splace restaurant.

Some people might call the waterfall and surrounding areas over commercialised but consider visiting if you want to experience a tradition which has been followed for a long time - visiting the waterfall adn eating the papaya salad with sticky rice. The waterfall in itself is a humble sight on display.

A few kilometres south of Nathon Town, Samui, lies the Hin Lad waterfall, a gorgeous sight of natural beauty in the midst of streams and mountains. With beauty oozing out of every corner - Hin Lad waterfall promises an afternoon of happiness. After hiking up the demanding trail leading to the waterfall, don? forget to reward yourself with a peaceful dip in the pool at the bottom.

Just north of the ring road close to the Ban Hua Thanon lies Wang Saotong waterfall. This serene waterfall is quieter and smaller compared to the others, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon drive and swim away from the buzz of the tourists.

Located in one of the most picturesque points in Samui, a short walk through uneven stone steps past the Mae Nam Viewpoint brings you to the gorgeous Tan Rua Waterfall. Nestled amongst hills, tall trees and vines, it will strike you with its awe-inspiring view, filled with surprises through the journey to this serene spot.

This mesmerising waterfall is located in Kong Chiam. It's a steep rocky cliff where the water falls from a height of 20 metres. There are many souvenir shops from the car parking to the main waterfall area. It is about a 15-minute walk from the nearest car-accessible area, and one has to hike through a small forest to reach the central spot. It is recommended to visit this place in the rainy season when the water flow is high. The entry fee is 400 BAHT, which is quite steep.

Located in the Khao Yai Wildlife Park, this cascade is one of the most popular in Thai tourism. Its height extends to about 20 metres in the peak season and 15 metres in the dry season. The small rocks around the fall allow tourists to sit and enjoy the view. Even though Leonardo DiCaprio jumped from the cliff in "The Beach" movie here, swimming and diving are strictly prohibited here in reality. It is a 30 minute, and 100 steps walk from the main entrance.

Namtok Ton Nga Chang Waterfall is located inside a wildlife Sanctuary named Ton Nga Chang. This place is named so because of the elephant's tusk appearance of the waterfall below the third level. The sanctuary is located about 26 kms from the city but is regarded as one of the most beautiful in the country. One can hire a bus from the city to reach here. It has total seven levels of cliffs which fall amidst the green jungle of Ton Nga Chang park. Most of the visitors stop at the third level, but it is said for adventurous people the view of the levels above that is a pure treat. This place is named so because of the elephant's tusk appearance of the waterfall below the third level. Entry fee is 200 Baht for foreigners.

Located in the Namtok Phlio National Park in Chanthaburi, this waterfall is the source of many rivers. The flow of this waterfall is good all around the year. You will find many fish species and clearer water than other waterfalls here. This attraction extends to about three levels of the waterfall. The falls hold a long history of the Thai Queen and her lover's tragic yet magical story, which is the reason why this fall still attracts more local visitors, for which there is also a memorial near the falls.

Bua Tong Waterfalls in Chiang Mai is one of those places where you will encounter nature at its purest and rawest form. It is Thailand’s most peerless location, one: a traveller must never miss out on. Also known as the Sticky Waterfalls, this location is just about an hour and a half away towards the north from the old city of Chiang Mai. This place located far from the city makes an ideal location for locals to spend a relaxing and calming weekend at. Bua Tong is a scenic waterfall made from deposits of limestone and various other minerals. The waterfall also derives its nickname ‘sticky waterfall’ as the limestone generate plenty of friction to prevent you from slipping over the watery rocks. This makes it an easy task to climb to the top of the waterfall with the support of ropes.

Timings : 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Mae Sa Waterfall is an eight level waterfall set amidst the lush rainforests of Mae Sa. Visitors can picnic near the lower waterfalls, or trek upwards to the higher tiers which are uncrowded and peaceful. There are several vendors around who sell local street food delicacies that tourists can enjoy. The surrounding Mae Sa valleys also offer opportunities for adventure activities.

Timings : 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Entry Fee : 20 Baht for adult, 10 Baht for child, and 200 Baht for a foreigner; 30 Baht for a car parking

Rising 95 metres above its namesake national park, Khlong Lan Waterfall, Kamphaeng Phet cascades in nine levels fed by Ping River. After paying 200 baht per person at entry, hike through virgin rainforests to the waterfall, which is open daily between 9 AM and 5 PM. You can enjoy swimming, quiet picnics, hilly treks and even come across forest-dwelling monks in meditation.

Mae Ya Waterfall in Doi Inthanon National Park tumbles onto a multitude of stepping drops in a massive triangular fan shape. The 100-metre-wide and 40-metre-tall waterfall amidst lush mountains is popular among photographers and families to beat the heat in style and swim downstream.

Timings: 5:30 AM to 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: THB 300

Hidden in Lanta’s jungles, Khlong Chak Waterfall’s red sand, turquoise-blue water and enormous cave are an adventure not to miss. Pay a 300-baht entry fee and follow the trail towards the waterfall beside a stream, mangrove forests, local houses and farms. You can visit daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM and relish Thai seafood at the parking lot cantinas.

Inside Mae Ping National Park, Koh Luang is a 20-metre-high limestone waterfall consisting of seven levels. The waterfall charms locals and tourists with its stunning blue-green water, shady picnic spots and crystalline pool beneath. Fascinating stalactites and stalagmites are found within surrounding lime caves. The park opens daily from 6 AM to 6 PM, and the admission fee is 200 baht.

Flaunting breathtaking 20-metre-high streams freefalling over a ledge into a circular pool, Haew Suwat Waterfall is a famous landmark surrounded by looming tropics in Khao Yai National Park. Featured in Leonardo DiCaprio’s movie “The Beach”, this picturesque waterfall sits beyond a 100-metre bamboo grove trail. Daily visiting hours are between 8 AM and 5 PM with a 400-baht admission fee.