Erawan Falls hike (Erawan National Park)
Erawan Falls is a spectacular seven-tiered waterfall in Erawan National Park, Kanchanaburi Province. The hike takes you through a shaded limestone forest to a series of emerald pools and cascades — perfect for swimming, photography and picnics. Trails are well-marked but can be steep, rocky and slippery in places. Bring swimming gear and arrive early to avoid crowds.
Location
Erawan Falls, Erawan National Park, Kanchanaburi, Thailand
Duration
3–6 hours (depending on pace and time spent swimming/photography). A quick visit covering the lower tiers can take 1.5–2 hours.
Best Time to Visit
November to February (cool, dry season) is ideal. Visit early morning (opening time) to avoid crowds and mid-day heat. Avoid heavy rain months (July–October) when trails are slippery and river levels rise.
Pricing
Approximate fees (subject to change):
- Foreign adult park entrance: ~300 THB
- Thai adult: ~100 THB
- Children/discounts: reduced rates
- Parking: small fee for cars/motorbikes; food/drink stalls accept cash only Note: Prices vary by season and nationality; check the park office or official website before visiting.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Seven-tiered waterfall with emerald-blue pools
Swimming and natural pools at several tiers (swim at your own risk)
Scenic forest trail with limestone formations and small caves
Great photography spots at multiple tiers
Picnic areas and local food stalls near the park entrance
Itinerary
Arrive at Erawan National Park entrance, pay park fees, register and get a map if available.
There are food stalls, toilets and parking. Arriving early helps avoid crowds and the midday heat.
Hike to the lower tiers (1–3). Enjoy short swims and photography stops.
Trail is mostly shaded but can be rocky; water shoes recommended for slippery rocks.
Continue up to the middle tiers (4–5) and relax in the larger pools.
Some sections have steps and steeper paths. Lifeguards may not be present; supervise children.
Optional: proceed to the upper tiers (6–7) for quieter pools and panoramic views, then return downhill.
Upper tiers are less crowded but require more effort to reach. Plan time for return and refreshments.
Return to the park entrance, change, and have lunch or buy snacks from stalls.
Check opening hours before arrival—park may close earlier in bad weather.
Safety Requirements
Wear sturdy, closed or water shoes with good grip; flip-flops are not recommended on slippery rocks.
Supervise children near water; there may be no lifeguards at some pools.
Do not climb on closed or fenced-off sections — signs are there for safety.
Check weather conditions — heavy rain upstream can cause sudden rises in water flow (flash floods).
Bring a basic first-aid kit, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Carry drinking water and avoid leaving trash — Erawan is a protected area.
Tips
Arrive early (park opens early) to avoid crowds and secure parking.
Bring swimwear, a quick-dry towel, and water shoes or sandals with grip.
Carry cash for park fees, parking and stalls — ATM access is limited near the park.
Use biodegradable sunscreen and avoid soaps in the pools to protect the ecosystem.
Pack a light dry bag for valuables and a change of clothes.
Plan for 3–6 hours depending on whether you reach the top tiers.
Combine with nearby attractions in Kanchanaburi (e.g., Hellfire Pass, Bridge on the River Kwai) if you have a full day.
Respect wildlife and stay on marked trails. Do not feed animals.
If you prefer fewer people, visit on weekdays rather than weekends or Thai public holidays.
