The 9 Best Waterfalls in Chiang Mai
If you’re searching for breathtaking waterfalls and natural beauty, look no further than Chiang Mai. This province in Northern Thailand has some of the most incredible waterfalls that are worth visiting, with cascading waterfalls, deep pools perfect for swimming, and a lush green jungle surrounding them. Let’s explore the best waterfalls in Chiang Mai!
Huay Kaew Waterfall
Location: Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand
Huay Kaew Waterfall in Chiang Mai is the perfect spot for a scenic outdoor retreat, located just a few kilometers away from the city center. Leaving the hustle and bustle of downtown behind, you can reach this idyllic setting by either driving or taking a Grab taxi, with ample parking for cars and bikes as well as nearby food stalls and small shops.
Best of all, admission to this picturesque natural landmark is free.
For those looking to avoid crowds, visiting during the weekdays is recommended, but if you’re in search of an ideal picnic spot, Huay Kaew Waterfall cannot be beaten! Visiting during the rainy season is also highly recommended to experience the full beauty of the Doi Suthep foothills at their best.
Are you looking for an adventure-packed day? GetYourGuide has got you covered! They have carefully curated a list of the best day tours that will take you on an unforgettable journey to waterfalls, like these below:
Can you swim in Huay Kaew waterfall? Yes, there are a few small places below the waterfall where you can swim, but only during the rainy season or shortly after.
Despite its tranquil atmosphere, visitors should remain cautious when exploring Huay Kaew Waterfall. Although the rocks are smooth and inviting for a climb, they are slippery, and one misstep can be very dangerous.
For a more adventurous exploration, the Huai Kaeo Trail offers an insightful stroll through nature that starts right at the waterfall area.
Bua Tong Sticky Waterfall
Location: Mae Ho Phra, Mae Taeng District, Chiang Mai 50150, Thailand
Bua Tong Sticky Waterfall, located an hour’s motorcycle ride from Chiang Mai, is an exciting destination like no other.
Bua Thong Sticky Waterfall is known as one of the most unique waterfalls in Chiang Mai and all of Thailand due to its unusual feature: its surface is coated with a layer of calcium carbonate (limestone) deposits, which makes it “sticky” enough to climb up without slipping off!
Climb the limestone waterfall barefoot in search of a one-of-a-kind experience to remember for a lifetime!
The original water spring related to it by folklore is known as the “seven-colored spring.”
Here, you can play in the water or have a picnic at the grassy park nearby, and even enjoy delicious Thai food and shakes at the restaurant. Facilities such as showers and changing rooms are also provided for your convenience. Admission is free of charge, making it all the more worth checking out, though we recommend arriving before 12 p.m. to avoid crowds.
Mae Sa Waterfall
Location: Soi Namtok Mae Sa 4, Mae Raem, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai 50180, Thailand
Located in the Mae Rim district, Mae Sa Waterfall is an incredible sight to behold and easily accessible from Chiang Mai. This incredible natural site is located around 27 kilometers northwest of Chiang Mai. Coined “Namtok Waterfall” by locals, this oasis comprises a stunning chain of 10 waterfalls spanning 1.5 km, making it a wonderful destination for outdoor explorers.
Visitors can reach the waterfall after only 1.1 kilometers from the bottom car park, making it accessible.
To take in all of its beauty, it will take approximately 30 minutes to explore the entire cascading area. For those looking to witness its natural splendor firsthand, it’s best to arrive early, as the park closes at 17:00. Entrance is 100 baht per person and an additional 30 baht for parking, making Mae Sa Waterfall an outstanding site that’s sure not to disappoint!
Mok Fa Waterfall
Location: Highway 1095 , Sop Poeng , 50150 Mae Taeng , Chiang Mai, Thailand
The Mok Fa Waterfall is one of the most hidden waterfalls in Chiang Mai, surrounded by an incredibly lush forest. Not only do you get to take in some spectacular views of the cascading falls—with shimmering waters that seem to sparkle like jewels in the sunlight—but the Doi Suthep National Park also manages the area and provides some great amenities.
Entry is 100 THB for foreign travelers, or just a little extra if you’re driving your motorcycle, and there are clean restrooms on-site for convenience.
Additionally, you won’t have to worry about getting lost: It’s not a long hike, and although it can be a bit slippery, there are 3-4 covered seating areas so you can take shelter from the sun, enjoy a nice picnic, or even take a nap!
Sai Yoi Waterfall
Location: RW99+79W Unnamed Road Tambon Chang Phueak, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand
Nestled deep in the jungle of Chiang Mai province, Sai Yoi Waterfall is an incredible natural wonder worth discovering. To reach it, however, requires adventurous travelers to take on a challenging 3.5-hour hike through Doi Suthep forest, with a machete often needed to clear the way past smaller waterfalls and winding rivers.
The trail is around 9 kilometers long there and back. Of course, safety comes first. We recommend trekking with experienced guides or people who are familiar with the route and can provide valuable insights along the way.
Those who make it to the top will be blessed with awe-inspiring natural beauty, as Sai Yoi’s high waters flow down amongst vibrant vegetation, giant trees, and stunning views. So if you’re planning an island escape this summer, don’t forget to save some time for exploring off-the-beaten-track destinations like Sai Yoi Waterfall.
Mae Wang Waterfall
Location: MJ5X+GH4, Mae Win, Mae Wang District, Chiang Mai 50360, Thailand
Taking a day to explore Mae Wang Waterfall in Chiang Mai is an opportunity not to be missed! This incredible waterfall sanctuary is made up of 10 waterfalls, all found within 45 minutes walking distance of each other, making it the perfect adventure for nature lovers.
The path leading to the waterfalls is nicely paved and cemented, with the only downside being that some stairs may be broken in certain places. Trekking through Mae Wang can take about two hours, so make sure you’re wearing comfortable shoes and clothing.
As an extra warning, beware of elephants—the nearby sanctuary allows them to roam free, and you don’t want to come across one unexpectedly!
Chiang Mai’s Mae Wang Waterfall is a great place to get away from the busy city and take in its beauty.
Wachirathan Waterfall
Location: 1009, Ban Luang, Chom Thong District, Chiang Mai 50160, Thailand
Wachirathan Waterfall at the Doi Inthanon National Park in Chiang Mai is a must-see destination. The view of the 70-meter-tall, single-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush jungle will make your jaw drop. What’s more, you don’t need to plan a long excursion just to see it, as it’s located close to the parking area.
Be sure to look out for the rainbows that often form here, perfect for capturing beautiful photos. If you decide to take a dip beneath the misty falls, bring a pair of shoes with good grips, as the steps can become slippery and hazardous!
Even better, it’s free admission, and there are even toilets and a coffee shop available onsite for added convenience.
Plan your visit between 4 am and 12 pm any day of the week for an unforgettable experience!
Mae Pan Waterfall
Location: GFJ5+47Q, Tambon Mae Pan, Mae Chaem District, Chiang Mai 50270, Thailand
Mae Pan Waterfall is the highest waterfall in the province and definitely worth a visit if you want to enjoy a clean swim! To get there, you’ll need to hike through a slippery jungle path for about 500 meters, so make sure to wear some sneakers so you don’t slip.
The walk will take about 20 minutes from the entrance, and at the trailhead parking area, there are bathrooms and other amenities available for use.
If you’d like, camping is also allowed! Don’t miss out on this incredible experience and have an unforgettable time at Mae Pan Waterfall in Chiang Mai!
Mae Kampong Waterfall
Location: สันกำแพง Huai Kaeo, Mae On District, Chiang Mai 50130, Thailand
Mae Kampong Waterfall, located on the border of Chiang Mai province with Lampang province, is one of Thailand’s most tranquil attractions, accessible to all visitors.
Entrance to the waterfall is free, and there is a small parking area for those who choose to take their own transportation. The real fun begins when trekking up the waterfall via a challenging but rewarding stairway, although caution must be taken as it can be slippery in some places.
With plenty of food stalls available nearby, visitors will be able to satisfy their hunger after exploring the numerous layers of this spectacular destination. Best of all, Mae Kampong Waterfall is rarely crowded, knowing that only a few minutes away lies a peaceful village that can also be enjoyed by all.
Final Words
For tourists looking to explore some truly stunning waterfalls in Chiang Mai, these five options are surely not ones they want to miss out on! From Huay Kaew to Mae Kampong, each offers something unique that will make your trip unforgettable, so don’t forget your camera when you go exploring these beautiful places!
