Written by Dawn Pillay
Welcome to Thailand, the Land of Smiles the Land of Waterfalls.
We went on a journey to see exactly how many waterfalls there were in Thailand, and were blown away to find at least 44 and still counting!
Trivia: The Thai word ‘Namtok’ (น้ำตก) means waterfall.
From a waterfall that looks like an undiscovered ancient Mayan paradise, complete with a fairy lagoon (Thi Lor Su Waterfall, Tak)…
…to a waterfall with a cold water geyser (Nang Rong Waterfall, Nakhon Nayok)…
…a waterfall jacuzzi (Soi Sawan Waterfall, Ubon Ratchathani)…
…and the hot spring waterfall (Hot Spring Waterfall, Krabi) – this must be Thailand at its most magical.
For lovers of waterfalls and/or adventure, how’s this for more additions to your bucket list?
Adventure your way around Thailand through its magnificent waterfalls, and all 24 places to find them!
PS: Looking for convenient services like airport and city transfers, local SIM cards and private chartered car with driver , from Bangkok to destinations around Thailand? Klook offers them at seriously good prices!
Read more:
19 incredibly magical places you won’t believe are actually in Thailand
13 Out-of-this-world hiking trails and viewpoints in Thailand
Visit Thailand’s version of Maldives: 9 over-water villas with picturesque views
Sponsored by Klook
Adventures Made Simple with DIY Itineraries + Private Car & Driver! – Klook
We’ve personally tried Klook’s DIY itinerary with a private car and driver, and it’s both convenient and value-for-money!
Planning an itinerary from scratch, and researching travel options can be tedious and time-consuming.
Thankfully, Klook’s DIY itineraries complete with a private chartered car and driver makes travelling simple – and they’re available for different destinations throughout Thailand! If you’re looking to adventure your way through Thailand’s hidden gems like these waterfalls in Thailand for example, why not Klook your way there?
With a car and driver picking us up at the hotel, bringing us from place to place, and finally dropping us off at the hotel at the end of the day – it’s a fun and truly fuss-free way to explore destinations.
(Taxis can be very expensive, charging up to 500 Baht per one-way trip or more, and travellers might encounter dishonest taxi drivers. With Klook’s DIY itineraries, you can avoid going to all that trouble!)
1. Loei (6 hours from Khao Yai, Northeastern Thailand)
The vibrant waterfall surrounded by red maple leaves – Khun Pong Waterfall
Located in Phu Kradueng National Park, Kun Pong Waterfall’s unique beauty comes from the red maple tree leaves during the cooler months. It’s also the biggest waterfall in the park, and worth a visit when you’re in the area.
Photo Via 9MotPhotography
Khun Pong Waterfall
2. Khao Lak (2 hours from Phuket, Southern Thailand)
2-a. It’s the rainbow waterfall! – Sai Rung Waterfall
Sai Rung Waterfall, also known as Rainbow Waterfall is a great place to have a picnic and a swim during the day.
If you’ve ever dreamt of a romantic candlelit dinner by a jungle waterfall, check with Sarojin Khao Lak. It’s unbearably romantic and a few lucky couples have had their proposals here!
2-b. Enjoy a free fish spa – Ton Chong Fa Waterfall
Want to go for a fish spa? This 5-tier waterfall is where you’ll find a free fish spa when you wade into the small pool of water at the side of the track leading to the waterfall. Once you arrive at the top of the track, you’ll find the main pool where you can swim, with more pools available around!
Photo Via Shelly_Wisn
2-c. The waterfall with a natural (big) swimming pool near the beach – Lampi Waterfall
Popular with Thai families, this 3-tier waterfall is great for swimming with a main pool that’s wide and deep. It’s also near Thai Mueang Turtle Farm and Thai Mueang Beach which has nice beachfront restaurants!
Photo Via Tia_Nz_
Sai Rung Waterfall
Ton Chong Fa Waterfall
Lampi Waterfall
Ton Chong Fa Waterfall
Lampi Waterfall
3.Tak (3 hours from Chiang Mai, Western Thailand)
3-a. It’s so otherworldly with a secret lagoon – Thi Lor Su Waterfall
Looking very much like an undiscovered ancient waterfall paradise with a secret fairy lagoon, Thi Lor Su has been said to be one of the biggest waterfalls in Thailand due to the combined amount of falling water. It has also been said that it’s the 6th largest waterfall in the world!
In the rainy season, this waterfall roars down 400m long and 200m tall cliffs, and changes into an otherworldly peaceful waterfall with serene pools to swim in.
Photo Via Best.Shooots
3-b. Instagrammable with a natural pool – Pha Charoen Waterfall
This instagrammable limestone waterfall features 97 tiers with a 50m drop into a natural pool great for wading into.
Photo Via Kazuto_Kushida
3-c. The magnificent heart waterfall – Pi Tu Gro Waterfall
This magnificent-looking waterfall is imposingly tall and can be intimidating, but its super cute name more than makes up for it. Pi Tu Gro Waterfall is also known as The Heart Waterfall, since the falls looks like it flows in the shape of a heart from a distance.
Photo Via Crazyredpiggy, Tonson_Ketsarin
Thi Lor Su Waterfall
Pha Charoen Waterfall
Pi Tu Gro Waterfall
Pha Charoen Waterfall
Pi Tu Gro Waterfall
4. Ubon Ratchathani (7 hours from Khao Yai, Northeastern Thailand)
4-a. Fancy a magical bath in the moonlight – Saeng Chan Waterfall
With so many gorgeous waterfalls on the list, it’s difficult to choose the most magical one – but Saeng Chan Waterfall comes close to the top. Instead of flowing off rocks, the water flows through a hole in the rocks. When the sun shines through the flow of water, it looks just like a magical beam of moonlight!
Photo Via Sadoodta
4-b. The waterfall that gives you the best of both worlds – Huay Luang Waterfall
It’s 45m tall and has a sandy beach below. If you’ve ever thought of combining a visit to the beach and a waterfall, Huay Luang Waterfall might be just what you’re looking for.
Photo Via Efz_Ynwa, Zukiberry
4-c. Waterfall jacuzzis just for you – Soi Sawan Waterfall
Soi Sawan Waterfall means ‘Waterfall Paradise’ when directly translated! One thing that’s unique and pretty incredible about it, are the holes in the natural pool below where the water cascades to. These little bathing holes make fun jungle jacuzzis and offer the perfect photo op too!
Photo Via Chelsey_Dunham,-Esspanu,-Aephon
Saeng Chan Waterfall
Huay Luang Waterfall
Soi Sawan Waterfall
Huay Luang Waterfall
Soi Sawan Waterfall
5. Lamphun (30 minutes from Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand)
Take photos with stalactites and stalagmites in the lime caves here – Koh Luang Waterfall
Featuring 7 tiers, Koh Luang Waterfall is a fun spot to visit, with its water originating from lime streams coming from the lime caves nearby. To have more fun, check out the stalactites and stalagmites in the lime caves, and don’t forget to take photos!
Photo Via Alasters
Koh Luang Waterfall
6. Nakhon Si Thammarat (5 hours from Phuket, Southern Thailand)
6-a. The waterfall for Kings and royalty – Karom Waterfall
Featuring 19 levels, Karom Waterfall has a royal history where Thai Kings and other royal members have loved visiting this peaceful and serene spot. There’s even the initials of King Rama V and King Rama VI carved here!
Photo Via SKY Report CH3, Chaleegul, Queensudsai
6-b. It’s so beautiful, it’s on the 1000 Baht note! – Krung Ching Waterfall
Only accessible after trakking 8km through Khao Luang National Park, Krung Ching Waterfall consists of 7 tiers. The 2nd tier is accordingly the most beautiful so much so it’s on the 1000 Baht note, while travellers can walk on the rocks at the 7th tier.
There is a wooden viewing platform on the 7th tier and a pool with fish to swim in. Do note that there will be some dangerous currents, so only go in if you’re a good swimmer.
Photo Via Mxxmmxx,-Vee_Memo
6-c. The secret jungle waterfall – Ai Khiao Waterfall
With over 100 tiers of flowing waters, travellers can only reach up to 9 of these tiers.
Ai Khiao waterfall flows over 100 tiers, but tourists can reach only nine of them. It’s a beautiful waterfall that looks like it belongs in a secret jungle.
Photo Via Risdaris
Karom Waterfall
Krung Ching Waterfall
Ai Khiao Waterfall
Krung Ching Waterfall
Ai Khiao Waterfall
7. Phitsanulok (5 hours from Bangkok, Lower Northern Thailand)
The Niagara Falls of Thailand with a constantly transforming landscape – Kaeng Sopha Waterfall
Some call this the Niagara Falls of Thailand. It’s a humongous waterfall featuring 2-tiers and steep cliffs with a landscape that transforms with the seasons!
Photo Via Gv_Travel,-Mayarmoussa
Kaeng Sopha Waterfall
8. Kanchanaburi (2 hours from Bangkok, Western Thailand)
8-a. The mythical emerald falls – Erawan Waterfall
This waterfall is as mythical as its name, with 7 incredible tiers of flowing water and surreal emerald pools to bask in. Named after the three-headed white elephant deity in Hindu mythology, a trip to Kanchanaburi is not complete without a visit to Erawan Waterfall.
Photo Via Doyoutravel, Livingnomads
8-b. It’s remote with hardly anyone! – Huay Mae Kamin Waterfall (Chatkaew Falls)
Interestingly, Huai Mae Khamin is another seven-tier waterfall similar to Erawan Waterfall – with water flowing down 1.8km of a bamboo and banyan tree hill. It’s more remote and quite hidden, so this is the place to go if you want the waterfall all to yourself!
Photo Via Ninology, Thailandinsider
8-c. Peaceful and soothing with a watery rock floor – Sai Yok Noi Waterfall
Also known as Namtok Khao Pung which means crumbled mountain, this waterfall is known for its peaceful ambience. Water flows from the top of the mountain and falls down 15m creating a soothing mist, then flowing over the rocks where people are able to walk, before descending into a pool.
We’ve heard a fellow traveller say “Thank God I did not waterFALL down”, so do be careful when you’re standing on the watery rocky ledge!
Photo Via Lucieworldcitizen, Aeron_Mag, Algenibmee
Read more:
2 hrs from Bangkok: 21 reasons Kanchanaburi is the most adventurous town you never knew existed
Discover Kanchanaburi: 7 Incredible overwater bungalows that redefine relaxation
Erawan Waterfall
Huay Mae Kamin Waterfall (Chatkaew Falls)
Sai Yok Noi Waterfall
Huay Mae Kamin Waterfall (Chatkaew Falls)
Sai Yok Noi Waterfall
9. Chiang Mai (Northern Thailand)
9-a. This waterfall is unbelievably huge! – Mae Ya Waterfall
One of the most fascinating waterfalls we’ve found in Thailand, Mae Ya Waterfall takes it to a whole new level. It’s huge at approximately 260m tall and up to 100m wide! This means layers and layers of streaming water cascading down a huge mossy mountainside. It looks right out of a movie!
Photo Via Boby_Bo
Read more:
Adventure in Northern Thailand: 24 hidden activities around Chiang Mai you never knew existed
19 extraordinary cafes in Chiang Mai await: including a waterfall cafe, jungle cafe, and garden cafe!
9-b. The hidden waterfall with a bamboo bridge – Pha Dok Siew Waterfall
Located at Doi Inthanon Park, Pha Dok Siew is quite literally known as The Hidden Waterfall. It requires your to trek 2 hours in order to get there! It’s majestic up close, and there’s a bamboo bridge to cross past the waterfall, which is an experience in itself.
Photo Via Bigbig.Galz_Neptune,-Windslow5
9-c. The local waterfall pool to swim in – Mae Sa Waterfall
It’s local with mostly young Thai families visiting the area, Mae Sa Waterfall is a great place to go to for fun photos and a few hours of swimming. There’s a picturesque cascade where you can take photos of yourself under or behind the wall of water, and pools to swim in.
Do be careful as we’ve heard that some of the pools can get a little deep.
Photo Via Fiatzspittaz, Nad.Mse
Mae Ya Waterfall
Pha Dok Siew Waterfall
Mae Sa Waterfall
Pha Dok Siew Waterfall
Mae Sa Waterfall
10. Chaiyaphum (4 hours from Bangkok, Northeastern Thailand)
Swim away in a lovely lagoon – Tat Ton Waterfall
The best waterfall in Tat Ton National Park, this waterfall is breathtaking especially during the rainy season. It’s 7m high and 50m wide and features a stone platform with waters flowing into a natural lagoon for swimming!
Photo Via Rj Lobitos
Tat Ton Waterfall
11. Mae Hong Son (5 hours from Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand)
The highest waterfall in Thailand – Mae Surin Waterfall
At 80m high, Mae Surin Waterfall is considered to be the highest waterfall in Thailand. Strongly cascading down the mountain peak, this is truly a sight to see! We’ve also heard that winter is the best time to visit since the water level during summer can be too high for accessibility.
Photo Via Dlucaa, Borjalonso22
Mae Surin Waterfall
12. Koh Samui (Southern Thailand)
12-a. Picturesque and dreamlike with a waterfall temple – Hin Lad Waterfall
Walk 30 minutes down a jungle trail to Hin Lad Waterfall with its freshwater pool and several cascading levels. Swim, chill or enjoy a picnic, the falls’ surroundings are known for its gorgeous flora and fauna. Wat Namtok (Waterfall Temple) is also nearby with its adjacent garden for your to explore.
Photo Via Maxim_Dvl, Surzhikova, Gpautz
12-b. Swim in natural pools bathed in gold – Namuang Waterfall 1 & 2
Get two waterfalls in one visit, Namuang Waterfall 1 & 2 are situated in Namuang Safari Park and are located a short 30 minute walk away from each other.
Namuang Waterfall 1 is 18m high with a natural pool to swim and relax in, while Namuang Waterfall 2 is 80m high with a pool at the bottom and the top of the falls – and both a swimmable. The best time to visit is in the noon when sunlight shines through the canopy and coats everything in ethereal gold.
Photo Via Emmacwall, Felix Navarro Guirado
12-c. A beautiful private spot that’s great for photographers – Wang Sao Thong Waterfall
Best when seen during the rainy season (where there’s enough water flow), Wang Sao Thong is super secluded with 2 levels and a natural pool at the bottom. The lack of crowds and beauty of this private spot makes it one that’s great for photographers!
Photo Via Jussimk, Polinaismagilova
Hin Lad Waterfall
Namuang Waterfall 1 & 2
Wang Sao Thong Waterfall
Namuang Waterfall 1 & 2
Wang Sao Thong Waterfall
13. Khao Yai (3 hours from Bangkok, Central Thailand)
13-a. A lovely waterfall situated in the heart of Khao Yai National Park – Haew Suwat Waterfall
Only 2 hours from Bangkok, this limestone waterfall is fun to explore, and has a pool where travellers can swim in. There’s also a small cave under the waterfall to duck into, to get some fun photos!
Photo Via Bik.Kilouy
13-b. A dramatically high waterfall that will impress you – Haew Narok
Another waterfall located within Khao Yai National Park, Haew Narok features 3 tiers stretching to 150m high! It’s pretty impressive and will wow you up close.
Photo Via Krisrepublik
Read more:
15 reasons to visit magical Khao Yai: A fairytale land 3 hours drive from Bangkok!
15 unique themed restaurants in Khao Yai that will awe the most avid cafe hopper
13 magical resorts with a view in Khao Yai to escape from the city
Haew Suwat Waterfall
Haew Narok
Haew Narok
14. Nakhon Nayok (30 minutes from Khao Yai!)
The only waterfall with a cold water geyser! – Nang Rong Waterfall
This waterfall features 3 cascading levels with lovely drop pools in between. It might be a little crazy, but there’s a little waterfall ‘geyser’ with cool water spouting upwards!
Photo Via Yusuke_Kajitani
Best to visit during the rainy season, the water is cool and great to relax in. Also, there are some restaurants at the bottom of the falls where you’ll be able to dig into authentic Thai food!
Photo Via Liialovve, Sapooky
Nang Rong Waterfall
15. Hat Yai (7 hours from Phuket, Southern Thailand)
One of the most beautiful falls in Southern Thailand – Ton Nga Chang Waterfall
When directly translated, Ton Nga Chang means “Elephant tusks”. This 7-tier waterfall features 2 split streams on the 3rd level which locals have dubbed the elephant tusks. It’s beautiful and a fun adventure for those visiting Hat Yai.
Photo Via Huafoo_Traveller, Bamang08
Namtok Ton Nga Chang Waterfall
16. Kamphaeng Phet (4.5 hours from Bangkok, Lower Northern Thailand)
A giant waterfall that with small shrines – Khlong Lan Waterfall
This giant waterfall is 100m tall and 40m wide, and features a drop pool that isn’t safe for swimming due to the turbulence of the water. However, it’s an interesting location where trees are wrapped with colourful cloth with small shrines scattered around. Buddhist monks can be seen visiting the falls and its shrines.
Photo Via Benjo.Hilario
Khlong Lan Waterfall
17. Krabi (3 hours from Phuket, Southern Thailand)
17-a. Relax and recuperate here! – Hot Spring Waterfall
Despite the high temperatures of the water, Hot Spring Waterfall is a surprisingly relaxing and serene place to spend an early morning. Arriving in the morning will enable you to beat the crowd, and allow you to enjoy the water during the cooler part of the day. The springs are worth the relaxation and recuperation your body needs!
Photo Via Wzylouisey
17-b. The major waterfall in Krabi, great for the adventurous – Huay Toh Waterfall
Park of Khao Phanom Bencha National Park, this waterfall is most beautiful during the rainy season between August and October. There are approximately 11 tiers with different pools in each level!
You will be able to reach up to the 3rd level, but the other levels are for the more adventurous (or active). Regardless, from any angle and level, you’ll still be able to get those gorgeous photos!
Photo Via Manno.Notermans
Read more: Beyond just a beachside town: 17 Adventures in Krabi that will ignite your wanderlust
Hot Spring Waterfall
Huay Toh Waterfall
Huay Toh Waterfall
18. Chanthaburi (4 hours from Bangkok, Eastern Thailand)
18-a. The 16-tier waterfall that’s great for birdwatching – Khao Soi Dao Waterfall
Travellers who’ve been here recommend that any visitors should make sure to go all the way up to level 9 and 10 of this waterfall.
This is where a natural phenomenon can be witnessed where water collects in a pool then falls all the way down to the lower levels. You’ll feel like you’re standing right on top of the waterfall, instead of seeing it from below. (We’ve also heard that this is a fantastic place to go birdwatching!)
Photo Via Ploycadet
18-b. Swim with the fish and visit a royal memorial – Phliu Waterfall
Phliu Waterfall is a massive waterfall that features 3 levels, and a pool of clear water for swimming with the fish. There are interesting places to explore nearby like a small chedi and a loving memorial pyramid built by King Rama V for his first consort.
Photo Via Apirukboonmee, Jjconnect, Ganchan_Sriracha
Khao Soi Dao Waterfall
Phliu Waterfall
Phliu Waterfall
19. Phuket (Southern Thailand)
19-a. Finding tranquility in bustling Phuket – Bang Pae Waterfall
At the 16m Bang Pae Waterfall, local families usually enjoy picnics and refreshing swims in the waterfall pool. It’s great for families since the journey there isn’t too arduous for kids. Another plus point is that it’s near the Gibbon Rehabilitation Center, which is another fun activity for the family!
Photo Via TripCanvas, Mariachiskela
19-b. Take a relaxing bath – Kathu Waterfall
One of the most famed waterfalls in Phuket, Kathu Waterfalls is best visited in the morning. It’s fantastic for cooling off and communing with nature. Take a dip and enjoy a natural fresh water shower! You’ll enjoy the cold water especially during the unbearable heat of the summer season in Thailand.
Photo Via Muhamed_Waheed
19-c. Enjoy your private waterfall pool in Phuket – Ton Ao Yon Waterfall
It’s secluded and hidden in the jungle, and getting there is not a simple task due to the rocky terrain. However, travellers who choose to come here will enjoy the shallow bathing pools that remain largely private (only known to locals!)
Photo Via Toay_Et, Meud_Pa
Read more:
18 things to do that will show you Phuket is more than just a beach destination
18 Instagram-worthy unique cafes in Phuket to dine in
11 Affordable luxury hotels under $49 in central Phuket near Patong Beach!
Bang Pae Waterfall
Kathu Waterfall
Ton Ao Yon Waterfall
Kathu Waterfall
Ton Ao Yon Waterfall
20. Koh Lanta (2 hours from Krabi, Southern Thailand)
Explore a colourful waterfall and its cave – Khlong Chak Waterfall
Take a short jungle trek and find yourself at the colourful Khlong Chak Waterfall. Featuring red sand at the bottom of the waterfall pool featuring clear waters, it’s a great bathing spot amidst the jungle.
Walk along the trail leading from the waterfall, and you’ll reach Khlong Chak Cave, also known as Bat Cave that’s fun to check out too.
Photo Via Mallevanska, Dom_Mjjllr
Khlong Chak Waterfall
21. Rayong (1 hour from Pattaya, Eastern Thailand)
Swim in crystal clear water with varieties of fish – Khao Chamao Waterfall (or Khlong Nam Sai Waterfall)
Fancy a swim in a crystal clear waterfall with 7 tiers stretching up to 3km, leading into a pond called Wang Matcha where you’ll find brook carp and other fish varieties? Namtok Khao Chamao or Namtok Khlong Nam Sai features water so clear that many varieties of fish can be seen from the sides of the pool!
Photo Via View_Kanjanat, Pueng28skr
Read more: There’s more to Pattaya than you ever knew: 23 hidden attractions around the Chonburi region!
Khao Chamao Waterfall
22. Ranong (5 hours from Phuket, Southern Thailand)
The secret waterfall with a deep rock pool – Punyaban Waterfall
It’s a secret waterfall hidden in a forest surrounded by mountain views, Punyaban Waterfall features 3 tiers with 20m high falls! There’s a deep pool to lounge in, but do be careful not to slip in the slippery rocks on the bottom. In the area, there even is a tea and souvenir shop, along with a pavilion for travellers to rest at.
Photo Via Januaryitoon
Punyaban Waterfall
23. Sri Phang Nga (3 hours from Phuket, Southern Thailand)
Swim with large fish in the forest – Tam Nang Waterfall
Surrounded by lush forests, Tam Nang Waterfall features a roaring torrent of water flowing into lower pools with large fish. Swim with the fish and enjoy your day in the forest!
Photo Via Petiine, Pang_Pkru, Matrixtion
Tam Nang Waterfall
24. Koh Chang (6 hours from Pattaya, Eastern Thailand)
Follow the winding forest road to the cascades! – Klong Plu Waterfall
Go down a winding forest road and follow the path by the river. It’s a 15 minute walk to Klong Plu Waterfall, where you’ll find cascading falls and a big pool to have a swim in! If you’re lucky, you may even get to swim with elephants, when the locals bring them down for a bath.
Photo Via Clonio, Vans_Crezzy, Sapphyglam
Editor’s Note: Elephant trekking/rides are available in the vicinity, but we strongly advocate against elephant rides.
Riding elephants can cause serious long term harm as their spines are not made to support the weight of humans. Do try to avoid taking a ride as it is actually harmful to these magnificent animals.
Klong Plu Waterfall
Phew, this was almost mission impossible, but we made it! 24 places around Thailand to find great waterfalls – no matter where you travel in Thailand!
Do let us know if you’ve visited any of these waterfalls in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you.
Loving the great deals on Klook?
You’ll love these benefits too! From skipping the usual queues to convenient e-tickets (no printing required!), Klook knows exactly what travellers need.
1) Instant Confirmation
Most activities have instant confirmation where e-tickets will be sent straight to your mobile phone once the booking has been made. This means you can make a booking outside the attraction and receive your tickets on the spot!
2) Skip-the-queues
Some Klook activities have special line entry that lets you join a separate and often much shorter queue compared to the long lines at some attractions.
3) Mobile e-tickets
Almost all Klook activities accept mobile vouchers, which means users do not have to print out a physical ticket. Apart from being super convenient, it’s also environmentally-friendly!
4) Klook APP
Check out the dedicated mobile app on iOS, and Google Play that allows you to book activities and attractions on-the-go.
PS: They have more than 40,000 activities & experiences across 200 destinations in Asia and over 3 million verified user reviews of Klook activities with 99% positive ratings!
Brought to you by Klook
Travel Writer
简体中文 (Chinese)
Bahasa Indonesia