Hey there travelers and welcome to my post where we will check out my top 5 best waterfalls in Phuket for some misty adventures this year. If you’re looking for a natural escape from the hustle and bustle of Phuket’s beaches and city streets, look no further than the island’s stunning waterfalls.
Phuket is home to several breathtaking waterfalls that offer a refreshing break from the heat and a chance to immerse yourself in the island’s lush tropical landscape. And with so many options to choose from, exploring Bali’s waterfalls is a must-do activity for any traveler to the island.
- Bang Pae Waterfall
- Ton Sai Waterfall
- Kathu Waterfall
- Ton Ao Yon Waterfall
- Lampi Waterfall
Map Of Phuket’s Best Waterfalls
Use this map to locate the locations of the Phuket’s best waterfalls listed below:
Best Waterfalls in Phuket
Phuket is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Thailand, each with its own charm and unique features. Here are some of the most popular waterfalls in Phuket that you shouldn’t miss:
1. Bang Pae Waterfall
Bang Pae Waterfall is the largest and most popular waterfall in Phuket. Located in the Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, this 18-meter high waterfall is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
You can swim in the pool at the base of the waterfall or take a refreshing dip in the stream and the surrounding forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys and birds. Here are some detailed aspects of this natural attraction:
- Location: Bang Pae Waterfall is situated in the Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, located north of Phuket towards the east coast.
- Height and Scenery: The waterfall is 33 feet high and emerges from the center of the forest, creating a breathtaking view. The lush green forest backdrop enhances the beauty of the waterfall.
- Swimming Area: The waterfall flows into a small pond where visitors can enjoy a refreshing dip. The stream is not very deep, making it safe for swimming, even for children.
- Path and Surroundings: The path to the waterfall runs parallel to the stream, offering many fascinating spots to stop by and relax.
- Facilities: There are several restaurants near the car park, by the lake and outside the entrance gates, providing convenient dining options for visitors.
Bang Pae Waterfall is a must-visit for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Phuket, offering a serene environment perfect for relaxation and enjoyment.
2. Ton Sai Waterfall
Ton Sai Waterfall is another popular waterfall located in the Khao Phra Thaeo National Park. This waterfall is smaller than Bang Pae, but it’s just as beautiful as it is surrounded by lush greenery and the pool at the base of the waterfall is perfect for swimming.
You can also hike to the top of the waterfall for a stunning view of the surrounding area. Here are some details about Ton Sai Waterfall:
- Location and Scenery: The waterfall is situated inland, away from the beaches of Phuket and the 3-km-long road leading to the waterfall from Thalang Town’s junction offers delightful rural views and farmland, enhancing the experience with its beautiful scenery.
- Accessibility: Compared to the nearby Bang Pae Waterfall, Ton Sai is more accessible, though it is not as large or impressive. It still provides a great spot for a day out, especially to escape the hot Phuket sun.
- National Park: Ton Sai Waterfall is on the western side of Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, a green area covering around 22.28 sq km. The park is a haven for various flora and fauna including rare tropical plants and colorful local birds.
- Trail and Facilities: There is a 2-km well-signed trail around the back of the waterfall. The park also has an information center and cold drinks and snacks are often available at a small restaurant near it.
- Flora and Fauna: The park is home to the rare white-backed palm, known for its big circular leaves. Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting species like the red-billed malkoha, greater racket-tailed drongo and red-backed sea eagle, among others.
- Family-Oriented Spot: Ton Sai Waterfall is very family-friendly, with ample WC facilities, a car park, well-maintained gardens, a small playground, shaded areas and a camping spot.
- Swimming Etiquette: Locals often swim in the small natural pool with their clothes on (T-shirts and shorts). It’s advisable to avoid wearing a bikini at Thai waterfalls to blend in with the local customs.
Ton Sai Waterfall offers a tranquil and picturesque environment, making it an ideal spot for families, nature enthusiasts and anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful day in a natural setting.
Book your trip to Phuket here!
3. Kathu Waterfall
Kathu Waterfall is located in the Kathu district of Phuket and whilst it is smaller than Bang Pae and Ton Sai, it’s still worth a visit. The waterfall is surrounded by a dense forest, and there are several pools where you can swim.
The hike to the waterfall is relatively easy, and there are several viewpoints along the way where you can take in the scenery. Here are some key details about Kathu Waterfall:
- Location: Kathu Waterfall is situated roughly halfway between Patong Beach and Phuket Town, at the end of Soi Namtok Krathu. It is about 4 kilometers away from the Kathu municipal office and 5 kilometers north of Kathu Town.
- Structure: Unlike a typical waterfall, Kathu consists of a series of drop pools. These pools are particularly impressive during the rainy season when the water flow is at its peak.
- Climbing Challenge: Visitors should expect a challenging climb if they wish to reach the very top of the waterfall. The climb offers an adventurous experience for those looking for more than just a scenic view.
- Height: The waterfall has a height of about 130 meters, making it a significant natural structure in the area.
- Trail: There is a 2.7-mile out-and-back trail near Kathu, Phuket. This trail is generally considered challenging and takes an average of 2 hours and 20 minutes to complete.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Kathu Waterfall is during the rainy season when the water levels are higher, and the pools are more pronounced.
Kathu Waterfall offers a unique experience in Phuket, combining natural beauty with a physical challenge. It’s an ideal spot for those who enjoy hiking and nature, providing a refreshing break from the island’s beaches.
Check out these: Best Hiking Trails in Phuket
4. Ton Ao Yon Waterfall
Ton Ao Yon Waterfall is located in the southern part of Phuket, near Cape Panwa. This waterfall is not as well-known as the others on this list, but it’s still worth a visit.
The waterfall is surrounded by a dense forest with a pool at the base that is perfect for swimming. The hike to the waterfall is also relatively easy and there are several viewpoints along the way where you can take in the scenery. Here are some more details:
- Location: Ton Ao Yon Waterfall is located around 3.6 km east of the Kao Khad View Point in Wichit, Muang, Phuket.
- Characteristics: This waterfall is a hidden swimming hole, featuring several drop pools that are large enough for bathing. Its relatively hidden nature means it’s less crowded, offering a more secluded and peaceful experience.
- Accessibility: Reaching the top of Ton Ao Yon Waterfall is not considered difficult however there are some sharp rocks and somewhat confusing pathways. It’s advisable to wear good shoes for protection and safety.
- Experience: Since many people tend to skip this spot in favor of Phuket’s more popular waterfalls, visitors to Ton Ao Yon often find they have the entire area to themselves, making it an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility and a more intimate connection with nature.
Ton Ao Yon Waterfall, with its drop pools and hidden location, offers a unique experience in Phuket for those looking to explore off-the-beaten-path natural sites. It’s perfect for adventurers and those who appreciate the quieter side of the island’s natural beauty.
5. Lampi Waterfall
Situated in the northern part of Phuket, Lampi Waterfall is known for its serene setting making it a great spot for picnics. it is also surrounded by lush greenery, offering a refreshing escape from the more crowded tourist spots.
Here are some details about Lampi Waterfall:
- Duration of Visit: Visitors typically spend 1-2 hours at the waterfall.
- Accessibility: The waterfall is relatively easy to access, with plenty of car parking available. The path to the waterfall is not difficult, making it accessible for most visitors.
- Best Time to Visit: Lampi Waterfall is particularly worth visiting during the rainy season when the water levels are higher.
- Entrance Fee: There is an entrance fee to the National Park where the waterfall is located. The fee is 20 THB for Thai nationals and 100 THB for foreigners, with an additional 30 THB charge for cars.
- Experience: The waterfall offers a tranquil and refreshing experience, with the opportunity to swim in the pool at the bottom of the fall alongside a selection of fish. It’s a great place for a picnic, swimming, hiking and enjoying nature.
- Facilities: Near the car park, there is a small hut serving drinks and food and you can also buy fish food. However, there are no extensive food options within the national park itself.
Lampi Waterfall is a great place to spend some time swimming, hiking, and playing with the fish, offering a beautiful and relaxing environment. It’s an excellent spot for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful day in a natural setting.
Book your trip to Phuket here!
Visiting Waterfalls in Phuket
If you are planning to visit Phuket, you should not miss the opportunity to explore some of the best waterfalls in the region. Here is what you need to know before you plan your visit.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the waterfalls in Phuket is during the rainy season, which starts from May and lasts until October. During this time, the waterfalls are at their fullest and most beautiful. However, you should be aware that the trails can be slippery and dangerous, so you should take extra caution when walking.
If you prefer to visit during the dry season, which is from November to April, you will find the trails to be more manageable, but the waterfalls may not be as impressive.
Entry and Access
Most of the waterfalls in Phuket are located inside national parks and you will need to pay an entrance fee to access them. The fees are usually around 200-400 baht per person and they may vary depending on the park.
You can either drive to the parks or take a taxi and once you arrive, you will generally need to walk to reach the waterfalls. The paths are usually well-maintained, but you should wear comfortable shoes and bring a bottle of water.
Facilities and Amenities
Most of the national parks that have waterfalls in Phuket offer basic facilities such as restrooms, changing rooms and picnic areas. However, you should not expect luxury amenities and you should bring your own food and drinks as there are limited options available inside the parks.
You should also bring your own towels and sunscreen as the sun can be intense during the day.
Overall, visiting the waterfalls in Phuket is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the region. Just make sure to plan your visit during the right season, pay the entrance fee, and bring the necessary supplies.
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit Phuket’s waterfalls?
The best time to visit Phuket’s waterfalls is during the rainy season, which is from May to October. During this time, the waterfalls are at their fullest and most beautiful.
Conclusion
There you have it, my 5 best waterfalls in Phuket. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual, let me know of your experiences here.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
