Erawan National Park, located in Si Sawat District, Kanchanaburi Province, is the 12th national park in Thailand. Established in 1975, it covers an area of ​​over 340 square kilometers. The park comprises mixed deciduous forest, dry dipterocarp forest, and dry evergreen forest, all of which remain highly abundant. It is the source of numerous streams and a vital ecosystem in the western region of Thailand. The park is nationally and internationally renowned for its "Erawan Waterfall," a large limestone waterfall with crystal-clear, turquoise-green water resembling emeralds. This unique color is caused by the natural accumulation of calcium carbonate in the water stream, giving the water a distinctive appearance unlike other waterfalls in Thailand.

Erawan Waterfall is approximately 1,500 meters long and divided into seven tiers, each with its own unique landscape and beauty. The first tier, "Lai Khuen Rang," is the most accessible, with a wide and shady stream, ideal for families. The second tier, "Wang Matcha," is home to a large population of mahseer, where tourists can clearly see schools of fish swimming in the clear water. The third tier, "Pha Namtok," and the fourth tier "Butterfly's Breast" tier begins with large limestone rock formations and beautifully cascading streams, while the fifth tier, "Never-Ending Love," is a popular spot for swimming due to its large emerald green pool surrounded by dense forest.

From the fifth tier upwards, the walking path becomes steeper and requires more caution, especially during the rainy season when the ground can be slippery. Tourists will experience a more pristine natural forest environment, featuring large trees, vines, ferns, and various tropical plants. Along the way, you can also spot small wild animals such as squirrels, wild birds, lizards, and numerous butterflies. The sixth tier, "Forest Grove," offers a tranquil atmosphere surrounded by dense vegetation. The seventh tier, "Erawan Mountain," the highest tier, features a stream flowing over a limestone formation resembling the head of a three-headed elephant, which gave Erawan Waterfall its name based on Hindu beliefs. It is a major goal for many tourists who aspire to reach it.

Beyond the beauty of the waterfall, Erawan National Park is also an important area for studying nature and forest ecosystems. Within the national park are several caves, such as Tham Phra That, Tham Wang Badan, and Tham Ruea, which feature stunning natural stalactites and stalagmites. Some caves require hiking or a guide to access, making the area both a tourist attraction and a geological learning center. Furthermore, the park is part of the Western Forest Complex, one of Thailand's most important conservation areas and home to many rare wildlife species.

Erawan National Park is popular year-round, but the most beautiful time is from the late rainy season to the early winter, between September and January, when the water volume is ideal, the water is a vibrant emerald green, and the surrounding forest is at its lushest. During holidays and peak seasons, a large number of tourists, both Thai and international, visit. Therefore, the park has implemented strict environmental protection measures, such as limiting the amount of food and plastic bottles brought to the upper levels and counting water bottles before and after entry, to maintain cleanliness and the long-term integrity of the natural environment. Erawan Waterfall is not only one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Thailand but also a vital example of sustainable natural resource conservation and ecotourism.

• By Private Car: From Kanchanaburi city center, take Highway 3199 (Kanchanaburi-Si Sawat). Follow the signs past Srinagarind Dam to the park entrance (approx. 65 km).

• By Public Transport: A local bus runs from the Kanchanaburi Bus Station to Erawan National Park daily, dropping passengers right at the park's parking area.

• Arrive before 9:00 AM to avoid large crowds.

• Wear non-slip shoes for hiking to tiers 5–7.

• Bring extra clothes if you plan to swim.

• Avoid hiking upper tiers during heavy rain.

Admission Fees:

• Thai Citizens: Adults 60 THB, Children 30 THB

• Foreigners: Adults 300 THB, Children 150 THB

• (Vehicle fee: 30 THB for cars)

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 08:00 AM – 04:30 PM.