Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall is located deep within Khao Yai National Park. It is a natural tourist attraction with high biological integrity. This medium-sized waterfall originates from the stream of Huai Lam Takhong, a major stream flowing through the park's rainforest and the source of the Lam Takhong River.

Physical Characteristics of the Waterfall

• Height and Tiers: The waterfall is approximately 10 meters high and is not a single-tiered waterfall. Instead, it consists of several small, cascading rock formations, creating a gentle and evocative flow.

• Bottom Basin: The lower part of the waterfall contains a wide basin, ideal for relaxing or cooling off during periods when the water is not too fast. Visitors are advised to assess safety and check the water level before entering.

• Forest Coverage: The area surrounding the waterfall is covered with rainforest, interspersed with bamboo forests, and dense moss clings to the rocks, creating a shady, cool, and humid atmosphere year-round.

Flora and Fauna Highlights

• Origin of the Name: Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall comes from the red orchid, a plant that grows on the cliff face. The bright red flowers bloom during the dry season (approximately February to April), creating a unique and beautiful scenery.

• Bird and Butterfly Watching: Thanks to its rich ecosystem, Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall is home to a variety of birds and is a popular spot for butterfly sightings, especially during the summer.

Connecting Nature Trails

• Trail Start: Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall is the starting point of the popular nature trail, the Pha Kluai Mai–Haew Suwat Waterfall Trail.

• Trail Details: This approximately 3-kilometer trail follows the Lam Takhong stream. Throughout the trail, travelers experience nature up close. Crossing streams and climbing over minor rocks takes approximately two hours. A local ranger or guide is required to lead the way, in accordance with park regulations, to ensure safety and prevent getting lost.

Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall is a perfect blend of waterfall beauty, the lush rainforest, and the trekking experience.

• By car: Drive along Thanarat Road to the park toll booth and continue to Pha Kluai Mai Campsite, approximately 7 kilometers from the visitor center.

• On foot: Park at the Pha Kluai Mai Campsite parking lot and continue on foot along the nature trail along Huai Lam Takhong.

• Wear non-slip shoes, as the path can be slippery during rainy season.

• Bring drinking water and a personal trash bag, as there are no shops near the waterfall.

• Visit in the morning or afternoon to avoid the sun.

• Observe park rules. Rock climbing and scribbling/destroying areas with orchids are prohibited.

Admission Fees:

Khao Yai National Park Entrance Fee (Admission Fee): This fee is collected at the checkpoint before entering the park. Tickets purchased are valid for same-day entry only.

• Adults: 40 baht, 400 baht

• Children/Students: 20 baht, 200 baht

• Senior Citizens (60 years and older) and Persons with Disabilities: Free, 400 baht (included in the adult rate)

Vehicle Fee:

• Motorcycles: 20 baht

• 4-wheel vehicles: 30 baht

• 6-wheel vehicles: 100 baht

• Vehicles with more than 6 wheels but less than 10 wheels: 200 baht

Admission fee information is subject to change according to the announcement of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation. For the most accurate information on the date of travel, please contact the Khao Yai National Park Visitor Center directly.

Opening Hours:

• Park checkpoint opening hours: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM (tourists may enter and exit the park during this time).

Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall is a tourist attraction within the park. Visitors can generally visit during the park's permitted entry hours. However, some hiking trails and activities may have stricter time restrictions, such as leaving the trail by 4:00 PM. Please check with the visitor center on the day of your visit.