“Huay Kaew Waterfall is the closest waterfall to Chiang Mai city, making it very convenient to visit. Surrounded by lush forest and beautiful scenery, it is ideal for relaxing by the water. It is also linked to the local legend of Wang Bua Ban, telling a story of love and heartbreak.”

Huay Kaew Waterfall is a small waterfall about 10 meters high, located in an easily accessible area at the foot of Doi Suthep. It is part of Doi Suthep-Pui National Park and flows year-round, making it a popular relaxation spot for locals and visitors seeking nature close to the city.

Wang Bua Ban: A Legend of Love and Tragedy

  • Wang Bua Ban is the name of a pool located above Huay Kaew Waterfall. Originally, this water area was called "Wang Kula" or "Wang Kula" (according to stories, a foreigner once fell there and died).
  • The Bua Ban Legend: The name Wang Bua Ban was adopted around the period of World War II (circa 1944) based on the story of Khru Bua Ban, a well-known young woman from Chiang Mai. She had a relationship with a soldier from Bangkok who was stationed there, but when he returned without fulfilling his promise to marry her, she was heartbroken and jumped from the cliff above the pool, dying instantly. The pool became known as "Wang Bua Ban" as a memorial of this tragic love. Although some sources suggest her death may have been accidental, the story continues to be well-known and retold to this day.

Pha Ngib: Scenic Viewpoint and Nature Trail

  • Pha Ngib is located further up from Wang Bua Ban and is a high rocky outcrop that juts outward (in Northern Thai, "Ngib" means jutting out).
  • Nature Trail: Huay Kaew Waterfall serves as the starting point of a short nature trail that runs along the waterfall to Wang Bua Ban and Pha Ngib. The round trip takes approximately 1–2 hours and is suitable for visitors seeking a forest walk not far from the city.

How to Get There

By car/red:

  • Drive along the route up Doi Suthep (Highway 1004). The waterfall is located just past Chiang Mai Zoo, before reaching the park office. Red trucks (shared taxis) can be hired from the city, or you can drive your own vehicle.

Travel Tips
  • Best viewpoint: The wide terrace offers a 360-degree scenic view of the city and mountains.

  • Jasmine offerings: If your wish comes true, it is a tradition to return and fulfill the vow with fresh jasmine garlands only.


Admission Fee:

  • Free of charge

Opening Hours:

  • Daily from 06:00 – 18:00

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