Exploring Thailand’s 15 Breathtaking Waterfalls

With its ancient gilded temples, chanting monks, and wafting incense, Thailand is regarded by many Western travelers as a premier exotic destination.

There is no denying that Thailand is abundant in cultural heritage and history, complemented by its hospitable people, vibrant cities, and exquisite cuisine.

For those who appreciate the outdoors, rural Thailand has gained popularity in recent years, particularly among individuals seeking to depart from mainstream tourism and witness the country’s stunning natural scenery. Below is a collection of 15 remarkable waterfalls in Thailand.

1. Mae Surin Waterfall

Situated within Namtok Mae Surin National Park, the Mae Surin Waterfall attracts both locals and international visitors who are captivated by the natural beauty of this region on Thailand’s northwestern frontier.

As one of the park’s primary attractions, the falls cascade from a height of nearly 300 feet into the picturesque pool below.

Though various trails provide access to different viewpoints, caution is advised as they may become slippery and hazardous, particularly during or following rainfall.

For those preferring a safer viewing experience, designated observation points along the trails offer splendid views of the falls.

The park is also recognized for its abundant highland bird species.

2. Khlong Chak Waterfall

If you find yourself on Thailand’s Andaman coast, consider including a visit to the serene island of Koh Lanta in Krabi Province in your plans.

Positioned on the largest island within the Mu Ko Lanta National Park, the falls are enticingly concealed within the region’s breathtaking forests and geological formations, which feature cave complexes that attract avid spelunkers.

The trek to the falls typically requires about 30 minutes of hiking, after which the cool, clear waters will provide a refreshing sight.

It is advisable to visit from April to October, as the falls may dry up during the dry season.

3. Erawan Waterfall

Approximately a three-hour drive west of Bangkok in Kanchanaburi Province, Erawan Falls consists of several distinct tiers that converge to create the waterfall.

The first tier features pools where the water clarity allows for visibility of the fish inhabiting them, making it worthwhile to bring a snorkel if available.

The third tier, being the largest, plunges nearly 100 feet, and under the right conditions, it may be possible to walk behind the flowing water.

The journey to the falls can be moderately challenging and, depending on weather conditions, might not be entirely suitable for families, even though the trail extends only 1.5 kilometers.

4. Mae Ya Waterfall

Situated in northern Thailand, a short drive from Chiang Mai, is Mae Ya Waterfall.

Located within Doi Inthanon National Park, it serves as an excellent escape from the city’s fast-paced environment, offering an opportunity to reconnect with nature.

The falls stand nearly 800 feet tall and 300 feet wide, and during the rainy season when the flow reaches its peak, their roar can be heard well before the waterfall comes into view.

Traveling to the falls is best accomplished by hiring a car and driver in Chiang Mai, and once in the park, the hike to the falls takes only about 10 minutes.

5. Haew Suwat Waterfall

Size is not the only consideration when it pertains to waterfalls.

With a height of around 70 feet, Haew Suwat Waterfall may not qualify as the largest waterfall, yet it has gained recognition through its appearances in well-known films, rendering it famous in its own right.

Located in Khao Yai National Park in central Thailand, the park and waterfall remain popular among locals and visitors alike, who are attracted by their natural beauty and the refreshing waters.

Just a five-minute walk from the parking area leads to numerous spots for relaxation after a swim.

For the most impressive and complete view of the falls, a designated viewing area provides the best vantage point.

6. Pha Dok Siew Waterfall

Doi Inthanon National Park, abundant in natural splendor and waterfalls, is home to Pha Dok Siew Waterfall, which dramatically bursts from the dense jungle above.

Although accessibility is somewhat limited, the scenery surrounding Pha Dok Siew Waterfall is impressively memorable.

The hike to the waterfall takes approximately 20 minutes, but due to its secluded location, it is common for visitors to join guided tours, many of which include cultural experiences showcasing local lifestyles along the way.

7. Khun Pong Waterfall

If you envision an incredible waterfall enveloped in a lush forest adorned with the brightest red maple leaves, you might think it belongs only to a Canadian escapade; however, it exists in Thailand as well.

Located in Thailand’s rugged northeast, within Phu Kradueng National Park in Loei Province, Khun Pong Waterfall stands as the tallest and most scenic in the area.

To enjoy the vibrant foliage, plan your visit during the fall when the leaves transform into their reddest hues.

8. Thi Lor Su Waterfall

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Thi Lor Su Waterfall is located within the Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary in central Thailand.

This waterfall ranks among Thailand’s largest and most beautifully balanced, featuring multiple tiers, some reaching close to 1,000 feet in height.

To access the falls, a 45-minute hike along a well-maintained trail is necessary.

Due to their size, splendor, and relatively easy access, the falls can be quite crowded during peak visiting times. Take caution, particularly during the rainy season when the water flow may be extremely forceful.

9. Ton Chong Fa Waterfall

Located on the west coast of Thailand’s narrow peninsula, in Khao Lak – Lam Ru National Park, Ton Chong Fa Waterfall is notable for its multiple tiers, reminiscent of an extravagant wedding cake, as well as its pools filled with tiny fish that will gently nibble away at your dry skin.

Rest assured, the sensation is merely a tickle.

The trail leads to various areas where visitors can swim and relax in nature, though proper footwear, hydration, and a raincoat are advisable due to the area’s rugged terrain.

10. Pha Charoen Waterfall

When a waterfall consists of close to 100 individual tiers, it signifies something exceptional, and such is the case with Pha Charoen Waterfall in Tak Province, located in northwest Thailand.

Nestled among the lush, overgrown forests of the Thanon Thong Chai Mountains, its height approaches 200 feet, establishing it as one of Thailand’s most remarkable waterfalls.

The tiers facilitate a visually appealing descent for the water, transforming the entire area into a scene reminiscent of a long-lost edition of National Geographic.

The primary viewing area is easily accessible from the parking lot; however, for those feeling adventurous, there are additional more challenging trails that lead to elevated perspectives beside the falls.

11. Gibbon Rehabilitation Project / Bang Pae Waterfalls

One cannot overlook the delightful combination of monkeys and waterfalls, a pairing reminiscent of ham and cheese.

If you concur, a visit to the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project and the adjacent Bang Pae Waterfalls in Phuket should be on your agenda.

The falls and river serve as a beloved location for locals who enjoy relaxation, dining, and swimming in the cool waters; while they may lack dramatic features, they are encircled by dense jungle, evoking a sense of seclusion from civilization.

Entry to the waterfall area incurs a fee, but the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project is open without charge, though donations are appreciated to support their noble initiatives.

12. Koh Luang Waterfall

Another of Thailand’s awe-inspiring multi-tiered waterfalls is Koh Luang Waterfall, located in Mae Ping National Park.

The park is set against picturesque mountains spanning three different provinces in northern Thailand, including Chiang Mai.

This area boasts stunning geology, largely undisturbed highland forests, and a notable wat, or temple, by the same name.

Although it requires a three to four-hour journey from Chiang Mai, the waterfall makes the trip worthwhile, providing opportunities for swimming, hiking, and appreciating the surrounding natural splendor.

The park is also a favorite among rock climbers and cave explorers unafraid of navigating dark, musty underground caverns inhabited by bats, giant millipedes, and a host of other intriguing creatures.

13. Khlong Lan Waterfall

Khlong Lan Waterfall, alongside its corresponding Khlong Lan National Park, is another one of Thailand’s breathtaking and UNESCO-designated sites.

Located in Kamphaeng Phet Province in west-central Thailand, the falls originate from numerous smaller streams that merge to create a powerful flow cascading over 300 feet.

The waterfall is also segmented into notable terraces that disrupt the water’s descent mid-flight, producing a striking, misty view, particularly during the rainy season when the flow is at its most vigorous.

14. Man Daeng Waterfall

Situated within Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park near Thailand’s northern border with Laos, Man Daeng Waterfall and its surrounding area possess an intriguing history.

The region served as a communist stronghold during the tumultuous ’70s, was designated as a national park in the ’80s, and is distinguished by its highland forests and mountainous terrain.

To reach the falls, visitors must endure a sporadic drive followed by a relatively arduous 4-kilometer hike from the park headquarters, necessitating the hiring of a guide, available at the park office.

Your reward for the effort will be the sight of a multi-faceted waterfall reminiscent of the Jurassic era.

15. Pi Tu Gro Waterfall

There is a delightful aspect when a natural feature bears resemblance to something beyond its true form.

Visitors approaching Pi Tu Gro Waterfall in remote Tak Province often note its heart shape formed by two converging streams of water.

This unique formation has led to its alternative name, ‘The Heart Waterfall.’

Due to its secluded nature, the waterfall is typically experienced as part of a guided tour that also encompasses various historical and geological sites in the vicinity.