Best Waterfalls Around Chiang Mai: Hidden Treks & Easy Access Spots
When people think of Chiang Mai, they often imagine glittering temples, bustling night bazaars, and cozy mountain cafes. But just beyond the city streets lies another side of Chiang Mai, its breathtaking waterfalls. Hidden in lush jungles and national parks, these cascades are where locals escape the heat and travelers discover the wild beauty of Northern Thailand. If you are an adventure trekker who loves weaving through forest trails to find secluded falls, or the casual visitors who prefer easy-to-reach spots perfect for a refreshing dip or a picnic with friends. No matter your pace, Chiang Mai’s waterfalls promise a slice of nature that feels worlds away from city life. This guide will help you choose the right waterfall experience for your trip, if you’re searching for an adventurous jungle trek, a family-friendly picnic spot, or a quick escape just outside the city. You’ll find hidden gems known only to locals, popular falls worth the hype, and practical tips on how to reach them. With clear directions and seasonal advice, this guide makes chasing waterfalls in Chiang Mai easier, safer, and far more rewarding. When to Go for a Waterfall Experience Season Months Waterfall Experience Best For Rainy Season June to October Waterfalls are at their fullest, powerful cascades, lush and green surroundings. Photographers, nature lovers, adventure trekkers Cool Season November to February Mild weather, lighter flows, but great for hiking, clear skies, and comfortable exploring. Hikers, families, casual day-trippers Hot Season March to May Smaller flows, but natural pools are perfect for swimming and cooling off. Swimmers, locals escaping the heat, picnics Quick Guide to Visiting Waterfalls in Chiang Mai Distance from the City Most waterfalls are located 30 minutes to 1.5 hours from Chiang Mai’s Old City. Popular ones like Huay Kaew and Sticky Waterfall are closer and easier to reach, while hidden jungle cascades in Doi Inthanon or Mae Wang require longer drives or short treks. How to Get There What to Pack Easy Access Waterfalls in Chiang Mai Not every waterfall around Chiang Mai requires a long trek into the jungle; some are just a quick ride away and perfect for families, picnics, or short half-day trips. Here are the best easy-access options: 1. Huay Kaew Waterfall The closest waterfall to Chiang Mai city, located at the base of Doi Suthep mountain. It’s a popular spot for locals to cool off, and you can combine it with a temple visit to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Great for a quick visit, especially if you’re short on time. Visiting Huay Kaew Waterfall will save you time and give you a top-notch experience of nature. 2. Monthathan Waterfall Set inside Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, this 9-tier waterfall offers shaded jungle paths and scenic picnic spots. Easy to reach by scooter or songthaew, it’s less crowded than Huay Kaew and a refreshing escape just minutes from the city. If you want silence and sometimes to be alone without any rush, then Monthathan Waterfall is waiting for you. 3. Mae Sa Waterfall A 10-tier cascade that’s one of Chiang Mai’s most family-friendly waterfalls. The shaded forest trails make it ideal for walking between levels, and the picnic areas invite you to spend a full afternoon relaxing. Located along the Mae Rim route, it’s easy to combine with nearby attractions like elephant sanctuaries or the Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden. While visiting Mae Sa Waterfall, you can also explore the elephant sanctuaries and other nearby attractions. We promise it won’t be a bad experience; you will fall completely in love with Chiang Mai. 4. Tad Mok Waterfall Hidden inside Sri Lanna National Park, Tad Mok is a lovely single-drop waterfall reached by a short, easy hike. With a natural swimming area at its base, it’s perfect for cooling off on a hot day. Less touristy than Mae Sa, it offers a peaceful vibe and a more local experience. Dive into the local side of Chiang Mai and experience it like never before. Hidden & Adventurous Waterfalls in Chiang Mai If you’re someone who craves a little adventure, Chiang Mai’s jungles hide some of Thailand’s most dramatic and unique waterfalls. These spots often require a drive, a trek, or a willingness to get off the beaten path, but the reward is unforgettable scenery and fewer crowds. 1. Bua Thong (Sticky) Waterfall Unlike any other, this limestone waterfall is famous because you can climb directly up the cascading surface without slipping. The mineral-rich rocks provide your feet with a secure grip, making it both fun and safe for kids and adults. A playful and unique experience about an hour’s drive from the city. It is the perfect destination for you if you’re looking for quality time with your family. 2. Wachirathan Waterfall Located inside Doi Inthanon National Park, Wachirathan is a powerful multi-level cascade that plunges into misty pools. The spray creates rainbows on sunny days, making it a photographer’s favorite. Easy to access from the park road, but still feels wild and dramatic. It perfectly showcases the raw power and beauty of Northern Thailand’s landscapes. If you stop for a quick photo or linger longer to soak in the mist and sound of rushing water, Wachirathan leaves a lasting impression and sets the tone for exploring the other stunning waterfalls within the parkHidden & Adventurous Waterfalls in Chiang Mai. 3. Mae Ya Waterfall One of Thailand’s tallest and most spectacular waterfalls, Mae Ya plunges over 260 meters in a wide curtain of white water. Set deep inside Doi Inthanon, it requires a bit of effort to reach but rewards you with jaw-dropping views and one of the most majestic waterfall experiences in the country. Mae Ya Waterfall will make your heart stop for a moment. 4. Siriphum Waterfall Also in Doi Inthanon National Park, Siriphum is a striking pair of twin falls that tumble side by side down cliffs. Best visited during the rainy season when the water flow is strongest, this waterfall feels serene and less crowded compared to Wachirathan. It is
