18 of the best waterfalls in Thailand

Thailand’s diverse landscapes make it an outstanding choice for nature lovers. While the white-sand beaches of the south may be the first image that springs to mind for first-time visitors, frequent travellers to Thailand know there are natural wonders in every corner of the country. Natural wonders like Thi Lo Su Waterfall, the largest waterfall in the country, and Mae Ya, one of the most picturesque falls in Thailand.

Waterfalls (‘namtok’ in Thai) provide a natural way to cool off and, for Thai people in particular, are popular for family gatherings, especially on weekends and public holidays. Not only a great place to relax, waterfalls also provide ‘blue therapy’, a positive effect of being around water that has been shown to benefit mental wellbeing. To help you get a healthy dose of blue therapy during your travels in Thailand, we’ve compiled a list (shown here in destination alphabetical order) of some of the kingdom’s most popular and impressive waterfalls.

Chanthaburi

1) Phlio Waterfall

Not many foreign tourists venture to Chanthaburi, so if you do visit this waterfall, don’t be surprised if you meet Thai people who want to practice their English or have their photo taken with you. While Phlio Waterfall may not be the most beautiful on our list, it is a ‘sanuk’ experience with a local feel to it.
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Chiang Mai

2) Bua Tong (Sticky Waterfall)

One of the most famous waterfalls in North Thailand, Bua Tong, is better known to tourists as the ‘Sticky Waterfall’. The name comes from the fact that the limestone rocks here make it possible to walk up and down the falls without slipping. Park rangers have installed ropes to make the waterfall safer, but visitors still need to use caution when walking on the rocks.
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3) Mae Klang Waterfall

Located in Doi Inthanon National Park, Mae Klang is a popular spot with locals and overseas visitors on day trips to Doi Inthanon. This scenic spot can be reached via a hiking trail from the village of Mae Klang Luang. Alternatively, if you’re not so fit, the waterfall is also situated conveniently close to Highway 1009 and is only a few minutes’ stroll from the parking area. 
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4) Mae Tia Waterfall

The road to Mae Tia can be tricky to navigate, so you’re best off going with an experienced local driver. However, when you do get there, this is a lovely location to camp for the night and switch off completely from the outside world. Mae Tia has become a popular spot for Thai people in recent years, but remains largely unknown to most foreign travellers. Tents can be booked directly via the National Park HQ.
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5) Mae Ya Waterfall

One of the most picturesque waterfalls in the whole of Thailand, Mae Ya is another of the gorgeous natural attractions located in Doi Inthanon National Park. With a drop of over 250 metres and water cascading down multiple tiers, this is a memorable sight. It’s also one which is easy to access via a gentle 10-minute walk from the parking area.
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6) Pha Dok Siew Waterfall

To truly appreciate this waterfall, you should hike the Pha Dok Siew Trail. You’ll need to be reasonably fit, with the hike taking between two to three hours. En route, you’ll pass through rice terraces, forests, and streams, with the stunning Pha Dok Siew Waterfall waiting for you at the end of the trail. 
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7) Wachiratharan Waterfall

If you book a day trip to Doi Inthanon from Chiang Mai, a stop at Wachirathan Waterfall is often included. With convenient access from the main road and parking area, it’s a scenic location for photographs, with the waterfall providing the impressive backdrop.  
Location

Kanchanaburi

8) Erawan Falls

With a series of turquoise pools, the seven-tiered Erawan Waterfall is regarded as one of the most photogenic waterfalls in Thailand. Located around 40 miles north-west of Kanchanaburi town, the falls are part of Erawan National Park. From Kanchanaburi town, you can take the local bus for the 90-minute journey to Erawan National Park.
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9) Huay Mae Khamin Waterfall 

An hour’s drive further north from Erawan Waterfall brings you to the less touristy Huay Mae Khamin Waterfall. Similar to Erawan, there are seven tiers to the waterfalls here, and while Huay Mae Khamin takes more effort to reach, you are rewarded with a serene experience off the main tourist trail. 
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Khao Lak

10) Ton Chong Fa Waterfall

Although this may not be the most spectacular waterfall on the list, it is handy for anyone staying in Khao Lak. Part of a national park, keep an eye out for wildlife, including lizards and snakes, as you trek along the nature trail to the falls.
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Khao Yai

11) Haew Narok Waterfall

Khao Yai National Park is home to several waterfalls, with the tallest being Haew Narok. The falls can be visited all year round, but are at their most impressive during the rainy season (June to October). 
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12) Haew Suwat Waterfall

Fans of the classic movie, The Beach may recall the dramatic moment when Richard (Leonardo DiCaprio), Françoise, and Étienne leap from a waterfall. That iconic scene was filmed at Haew Suwat Waterfall in Khao Yai National Park. Although the Phi Phi Islands and Maya Bay was the location of ‘the beach’, Haew Suwat was selected for this scene. 

If you’re inspired to visit Haew Suwat and relive the moment, forget it; swimming and jumping are strictly prohibited for safety reasons. However, there are scenic viewpoints where you can take in the waterfall’s natural beauty and imagine the scene unfolding. During the dry season, when conditions are safer, visitors can also explore a small cave nearby for a different perspective on this famous site.
Location

Ko Kood

13) Khlong Chao Waterfall

This attractive waterfall can be found on the island of Ko Kood on Thailand’s East Coast. While it may not be the biggest on this list, it’s a pleasant walk through the island’s interior and provides an opportunity for a cooling dip in the water when you arrive at Khlong Chao. 
Location

Loei

14) Man Daeng Waterfall

This scenic waterfall is located in the south of Loei province, close to the border with neighbouring Phitsanulok. The falls are within the boundaries of Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park, with the main access to the park in Phitsanulok. This area is famous for the maple forest and the pink dragon tongue flowers that bloom near the waterfall (around August).
Location

Phitsanulok

15) Kaeng Sopha Waterfall

Kaeng Sopha Waterfall is sometimes called the ‘Niagara of Thailand’. That description is a bit of a stretch, but it is still an impressive sight when in full flow with water cascading down two tiers. Located in Thung Salaeng Luang National Park, this is the largest waterfall in Phitsanulok province.
Location

Tak

16) Khan Ban Dai Waterfall

Located within Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary, Khan Ban Dai is a popular location for Thai tourists. The waterfall is characterised by a series of cascading steps, resembling a staircase.
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17) Pha Charoen Waterfall 

This multi-tiered waterfall is in Namtok Pha Charoen National Park in Tak province and relatively easy to reach via local transport from the town of Mae Sot (around 45 minutes away).
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18) Thi Lo Su Waterfall 

Thailand’s largest waterfall (by volume), Thi Lo Su, is another of the scenic falls to be found in Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary. Its remote location makes it difficult to access, but travelling with a local guide and a reputable tour company like Go Beyond makes for an unforgettable experience.
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Good to know

When visiting any of these locations, please travel responsibly. Take nothing but photos, leave nothing but footprints. Always dispose of rubbish carefully.

Even at those locations with safety measures in place, paths and rocks can be slippery. Several of the waterfalls listed here are not ideal for children or anyone less mobile. If you’re travelling solo, let somebody know your plans.

Many of these waterfalls are part of a National Park, and an entrance fee is payable at the park entrance.

For most of Thailand, the rainy season (aka ‘Green Season’) is from May/June to October. This can be a great time to see waterfalls in full flow, but for safety reasons, some National Parks may temporarily close access to trails and waterfalls at the height of the rainy season. Ask locally at your hotel or with a tour office to see whether the waterfall you plan to visit is open.

Whatever time of year you visit, pack a day bag with essentials like drinking water, sunscreen, and bug spray. Many of the waterfalls here will have parking areas where you will find food and drink vendors.

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