19 Best Waterfalls To See In Thailand
Author : Lonely Traveler | Published On : 27 May 2026
Thailand is famous for tropical beaches, island nightlife, street food, and ancient temples, but the country is also home to some of Southeast Asia’s most spectacular waterfalls. From jungle waterfalls hidden inside national parks to giant limestone cascades flowing into turquoise pools, Thailand offers incredible waterfall adventures for nature lovers and photographers.
Many of the best waterfalls in Thailand are located near mountain regions in northern Thailand, tropical forests in central Thailand, and hidden islands in the south. Some waterfalls are easy day trips from major tourist cities, while others require jungle trekking and off-road travel.
For travelers planning travel in Thailand, exploring waterfalls is one of the best ways to experience the country beyond crowded beaches and city tourism. Renting a scooter, car, or motorcycle allows visitors to access remote waterfalls, scenic mountain roads, and hidden villages that most tourists never see.
1. Erawan Waterfall – Kanchanaburi
Erawan Waterfall is one of the most famous waterfalls in Thailand. Located inside Erawan National Park, this seven-tier waterfall features turquoise pools, jungle scenery, and natural swimming areas.
The best place to stay is Kanchanaburi, which offers easy access to waterfalls, historical attractions, and river resorts.
Recommended hotels include The FloatHouse River Kwai and U Inchantree Kanchanaburi.
Travelers can reach Erawan by bus, rental scooter, or private vehicle from Bangkok. Renting a car is ideal for combining waterfalls with nearby national parks and caves.
2. Thi Lo Su Waterfall – Tak Province
Thi Lo Su Waterfall is considered one of Thailand’s largest and most powerful waterfalls. Surrounded by untouched rainforest, this giant cascade is located inside the Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary.
The nearest town is Umphang, where travelers usually stay before visiting the waterfall.
Recommended accommodations include Umphang Buri Resort.
The road to Umphang is famous for its mountain curves and scenic jungle views, making it a favorite route for motorcycle travelers.
3. Huay Mae Khamin Waterfall – Kanchanaburi
Huay Mae Khamin Waterfall is another beautiful multi-level waterfall inside a national park. Compared to Erawan, this waterfall is much less crowded and offers a quieter experience.
The waterfall is accessible from Kanchanaburi by rental vehicle or guided tour.
4. Mae Ya Waterfall – Chiang Mai
Mae Ya Waterfall is one of northern Thailand’s most impressive waterfalls. Located inside Doi Inthanon National Park, the waterfall flows down a wide granite cliff surrounded by rainforest.
The best base city is Chiang Mai.
Recommended hotels include Shangri-La Chiang Mai and U Nimman Chiang Mai.
Many travelers rent scooters or motorcycles in Chiang Mai to explore waterfalls and mountain roads independently.
5. Wachirathan Waterfall – Chiang Mai
Wachirathan Waterfall is another spectacular waterfall in Doi Inthanon National Park. The waterfall produces powerful mist and frequent rainbows during sunny weather.
The roads around Doi Inthanon are excellent for scenic road trips and mountain riding.
6. Bua Tong Sticky Waterfall – Chiang Mai
Bua Tong Sticky Waterfall is unique because visitors can climb directly on the limestone rocks without slipping. This hidden waterfall is popular among adventure travelers.
Scooter rental from Chiang Mai is the easiest way to visit.
7. Khlong Lan Waterfall – Kamphaeng Phet
Khlong Lan Waterfall is one of Thailand’s widest waterfalls and is surrounded by rainforest inside Khlong Lan National Park.
The nearest city is Kamphaeng Phet.
8. Pha Charoen Waterfall – Tak Province
Pha Charoen Waterfall features over 90 limestone steps flowing through tropical jungle.
This waterfall is often combined with Thi Lo Su during northern Thailand road trips.
9. Sai Yok Noi Waterfall – Kanchanaburi
Sai Yok Noi Waterfall is easily accessible and located near the famous Death Railway route.
The waterfall is ideal for travelers exploring western Thailand by train or rental vehicle.
10. Ton Chong Fa Waterfall – Khao Lak
Ton Chong Fa Waterfall is hidden inside dense jungle near Khao Lak.
The waterfall can be reached through a short jungle trek and is perfect for swimming.
11. Bang Pae Waterfall – Phuket
Bang Pae Waterfall is one of Phuket’s best natural attractions away from crowded beaches.
Travelers staying in Phuket can easily reach the waterfall by scooter or rental car.
12. Kathu Waterfall – Phuket
Kathu Waterfall becomes especially beautiful during the rainy season when water flow is strongest.
Morning visits help avoid crowds.
13. Pa La-U Waterfall – Hua Hin
Pa La-U Waterfall is located inside Kaeng Krachan National Park and surrounded by dense rainforest.
The waterfall is ideal for combining with wildlife and birdwatching trips.
14. Khao Chamao Waterfall – Rayong
Khao Chamao Waterfall features emerald pools and jungle hiking trails.
The nearest base city is Rayong.
15. Ton Sai Waterfall – Phuket
Ton Sai Waterfall is quieter than many Phuket attractions and surrounded by tropical forest.
It is ideal for travelers wanting a peaceful nature escape.
16. Namtok Phlio Waterfall – Chanthaburi
Namtok Phlio Waterfall is famous for crystal-clear water and fish-filled pools.
This hidden gem is less visited by international tourists.
17. Raman Waterfall – Yala
Raman Waterfall is located in southern Thailand and surrounded by rainforest landscapes.
This waterfall remains relatively unknown among foreign travelers.
18. Than Mayom Waterfall – Koh Chang
Than Mayom Waterfall is one of the best waterfalls on Thailand’s island of Koh Chang.
Travelers can rent scooters to explore waterfalls and beaches around the island.
19. Klong Plu Waterfall – Koh Chang
Klong Plu Waterfall is one of Koh Chang’s most scenic waterfalls and includes a natural swimming pool surrounded by jungle.
The best place to stay is near White Sand Beach or Klong Prao Beach.
Recommended accommodations include KC Grande Resort and Santhiya Tree Koh Chang Resort.
Best Time To Visit Waterfalls In Thailand
The best season to visit waterfalls in Thailand is during and shortly after the rainy season from June to November. During this period, waterfalls become more powerful and surrounding forests turn lush green.
For travelers wanting both good weather and active waterfalls, October to January is often the best balance.
During the dry season, some smaller waterfalls may have reduced flow.
Renting a Vehicle in Thailand as a Foreign Tourist
Renting a scooter, motorcycle, or car is one of the best ways to explore waterfalls in Thailand because many are located far from public transportation routes.
Foreign tourists should carry:
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Passport
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Valid driving license
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Vehicle rental documents
Thailand drives on the left-hand side of the road. Mountain roads in northern Thailand are especially popular for motorcycle touring due to scenic curves and panoramic viewpoints.
Major rental companies include Avis, Hertz, and local scooter rental shops available in most tourist cities.
Final Thoughts on Thailand’s Best Waterfalls
Thailand offers far more than beaches and nightlife. The country’s waterfalls provide unforgettable jungle adventures, scenic road trips, mountain landscapes, and peaceful natural escapes.
For travelers planning travel in Thailand, combining waterfalls with national parks, local villages, mountain roads, and island exploration creates one of the best nature experiences in Southeast Asia.
