10 Scenic Waterfall Hikes in Thailand for Adventurers

Get ready to immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Thailand, where jungle trails lead to breathtaking waterfalls hidden deep within the heart of the country’s most stunning landscapes. Waterfalls are awesome!

These waterfall hikes are micro-adventure into the wild, where every twist in the path reveals new wonders. Feel the thrill of trekking through vibrant rainforests, where the sound of rushing water draws you closer to nature’s masterpiece.

Each hike offers a rewarding journey through diverse terrains, from rugged mountains to serene valleys, with every step bringing you closer to cascading falls that seem straight out of a dream. But this is no dream, this is Thailand!

These scenic waterfall hikes will take you off the beaten path and into the heart of Thailand’s natural beauty, offering unforgettable experiences for those with a thirst for adventure. Let’s hit the trails!

Erawan Waterfall Hike

Erawan Waterfall, located in Erawan National Park, is one of Thailand’s most famous and beautiful waterfalls. The waterfall features seven tiers, each with its own unique cascade and emerald pools.

The hike to the top tier is about 1.5 kilometers long, winding through lush jungle, over streams, and up rocky paths. Each level offers a different experience, from natural water slides to tranquil swimming spots.

Interesting Facts

• Erawan Waterfall is named after the three-headed white elephant in Hindu mythology, as the top tier is said to resemble the elephant’s head.
• The clear emerald pools are home to fish that offer a natural foot spa, nibbling at the dead skin when you dip your feet in the water.

Hiking Tips

• The trail is well-marked but can be slippery, especially near the waterfall tiers, so wear sturdy shoes.
• Arrive early to avoid the crowds and have more time to explore each tier.

HELPFUL INFO

• Erawan National Park: Provides information on hiking trails, park facilities, and entrance fees.

Thi Lo Su Waterfall Hike

Thi Lo Su Waterfall, located in Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary, is Thailand’s largest and one of the most impressive waterfalls. The waterfall plunges over 300 meters in height and stretches 500 meters wide, surrounded by dense forest and rugged cliffs.

The journey to Thi Lo Su is an adventure in itself, requiring a combination of off-road driving and a jungle hike. The 1.5-kilometer trail to the falls offers a challenging yet rewarding experience.

Interesting Facts

• Thi Lo Su means “Black Waterfall” in the Karen language, and it is often considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Southeast Asia.
• The waterfall is most spectacular during the rainy season (June to November) when the water flow is at its peak.

Hiking Tips

• The road to the waterfall is accessible only by 4WD vehicles, and the hike can be slippery during the rainy season, so proceed with caution.
• Camping is available at the park, allowing for an early start to the hike and a chance to enjoy the falls with fewer crowds.

Mae Ya Waterfall Hike

Mae Ya Waterfall, located in Doi Inthanon National Park, is one of the highest and most majestic waterfalls in Thailand. The waterfall cascades down a 260-meter-high rock face in multiple tiers, creating a stunning sight as the water flows over the large, natural steps.

The hike to the waterfall is relatively short, about 600 meters, but it takes you through a dense forest and along a scenic river.

Interesting Facts

• Mae Ya Waterfall is known for its width and tiered formation, often referred to as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Thailand.
• The waterfall is located within Doi Inthanon National Park, which is also home to Thailand’s highest peak, Doi Inthanon.

Hiking Tips

• The best time to visit is during the rainy season (June to October) when the waterfall is at its fullest.
• Combine your hike with a visit to other attractions in Doi Inthanon National Park, such as the King and Queen Pagodas and the park’s highest peak.

Pha Dok Siew Waterfall Trail

Pha Dok Siew Waterfall is another gem within Doi Inthanon National Park, offering an adventurous hike through lush jungle, terraced rice fields, and traditional Karen villages. The trail to the waterfall is about 4 kilometers long and provides a more immersive experience of the park’s natural and cultural beauty.

The waterfall itself features multiple tiers, with water cascading down moss-covered rocks into clear pools.

Interesting Facts

• The trail passes through a Karen hill tribe village, offering a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle and culture of the indigenous people.
• The name “Pha Dok Siew” refers to the white flowers that bloom along the cliffs near the waterfall.

Hiking Tips

• The trail can be steep and muddy in sections, especially during the rainy season, so wear appropriate hiking shoes.
• Consider hiring a local guide for the hike to learn about the area’s flora, fauna, and cultural heritage.

Huay Mae Khamin Waterfall Trail

Huay Mae Khamin Waterfall, situated in Sri Nakarin Dam National Park, is a stunning seven-tiered waterfall that flows through dense jungle into emerald pools. The hiking trail to the waterfall covers approximately 2 kilometers and takes you through serene forest paths, wooden walkways, and over rocky terrain.

Each tier of the waterfall offers a unique experience, from cascading sheets of water to tranquil swimming spots.

Interesting Facts

• The waterfall is less crowded than other popular waterfalls in Kanchanaburi, offering a more peaceful and secluded experience.
• The park is home to diverse wildlife, including hornbills, gibbons, and various fish species in the waterfall’s pools.

Hiking Tips

• The trail is well-marked but can be slippery in some areas, so wear sturdy shoes and take caution.
• Visit during the rainy season (June to October) for the best water flow, but be prepared for muddy trails.

Khlong Lan Waterfall Hike

Khlong Lan Waterfall, located in Khlong Lan National Park, is a massive waterfall that plunges over a 100-meter-high cliff into a wide pool below. The hike to the waterfall is a short 500-meter trail through lush rainforest, offering a close-up view of the falls and the surrounding jungle.

The sheer size and power of Khlong Lan Waterfall make it one of the most impressive falls in northern Thailand.

Interesting Facts

• Khlong Lan Waterfall is the highlight of Khlong Lan National Park, known for its biodiversity and pristine natural beauty.
• The waterfall is especially spectacular during the rainy season when the water flow is at its peak.

Hiking Tips

• The trail to the waterfall is easy and suitable for all fitness levels, but the rocks near the base of the falls can be slippery.
• Combine your visit with a hike to other parts of Khlong Lan National Park, including scenic viewpoints and forest trails.

Namtok Phlio Waterfall Hike

Namtok Phlio Waterfall is located in Namtok Phlio National Park in Chanthaburi province. The waterfall features a series of cascades flowing into a large, crystal-clear pool filled with fish. The hike to the waterfall is an easy 1-kilometer trail through a lush tropical forest, with well-maintained paths and scenic spots along the way.

Interesting Facts:

• Namtok Phlio is home to a large population of soro brook carp, a species of fish that can be seen swimming in the pool below the falls.
• The park also features historical monuments, including the Krom Luang Chumphon Khet Udomsak Memorial, adding a cultural element to the visit.

Hiking Tips:

• Wear water shoes if you plan to swim, as the rocks in the pool can be slippery.
• The park has picnic areas, so bring snacks or a packed lunch to enjoy near the waterfall.

Pha Charoen Waterfall Hike

Pha Charoen Waterfall is a multi-tiered waterfall located in the Pha Charoen National Park in Tak province. The waterfall features 97 tiers of cascading water, creating a stunning staircase effect as it flows over the rocks.

The hiking trail to the waterfall is about 500 meters long, taking you through a tranquil forest setting with various flora and fauna.

Interesting Facts

• The waterfall is formed by underground streams that flow year-round, ensuring a constant flow of water across its 97 tiers.
• Pha Charoen National Park is known for its rich biodiversity, including rare orchids and butterflies that can be spotted along the trail.

Hiking Tips

• The trail is relatively short and easy, but the rocks near the waterfall can be slippery, so wear appropriate footwear.
• Visit during the rainy season (June to October) for the most impressive water flow and lush surroundings.

Haew Suwat Waterfall Hike

Haew Suwat Waterfall is one of the most popular waterfalls in Khao Yai National Park, known for its scenic beauty and the iconic scene from the movie The Beach. The waterfall plunges 20 meters into a large pool below, surrounded by dense jungle and rocky cliffs. The hiking trail to the waterfall is short and easy, making it accessible to most visitors.

Interesting Facts

• Khao Yai National Park is Thailand’s first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its rich wildlife, including elephants, gibbons, and hornbills.
• Haew Suwat Waterfall is part of the larger Haew Narok Waterfall system, with several other waterfalls located within the park.

Hiking Tips

• Swimming is not allowed at the base of Haew Suwat Waterfall, but you can enjoy the view from the viewing platform.
• Combine your visit with other hikes and activities in Khao Yai National Park, such as wildlife spotting and exploring nature trails.

Khun Korn Waterfall Hike

Khun Korn Waterfall is the tallest waterfall in Chiang Rai province, with water cascading 70 meters down a sheer cliff into a pool below. The hike to the waterfall is a 1.5-kilometer trail that takes you through bamboo forests, over streams, and up rocky paths. The trail is relatively easy to follow and offers a rewarding experience as you approach the towering waterfall.

Interesting Facts

• Khun Korn Waterfall is located within Khun Korn Forest Park, which is known for its diverse plant life, including various bamboo species and wildflowers.
• The waterfall is at its most impressive during the rainy season when the water flow is at its peak.

Hiking Tips

• The trail is well-marked, but can be muddy in sections, so wear sturdy shoes with good grip.
• Bring a towel and a change of clothes if you plan to take a refreshing dip in the pool at the base of the falls.