“Experience the grandeur of water cascading from a cliff over 60 meters high, and see the historic royal inscriptions “BPR” and “SK” engraved on a massive rock.”
Pajo Waterfall is the heart of Budo–Su-ngai Padi National Park, covering a total area of 293.75 square kilometers (approximately 183,593 rai). The waterfall originates from the complex and humid Budo mountain range, which provides water throughout the year.
The site holds deep historical significance as a royal visiting destination for several Thai monarchs and members of the royal family. It was first visited by King Prajadhipok (Rama VII), who rested here during his royal tour, leading to the construction of the pavilion known as “Sala Thanthat,” which still stands today.
In 1959, King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great (Rama IX) and Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother visited the waterfall and engraved the royal initials “BPR” and “Sirikit” on a large rock at the first level of the waterfall. These inscriptions symbolize the bond between the monarchy and the people of the southern border provinces.
From a natural perspective, Pajo Waterfall has nine tiers, with the first tier being the most spectacular. A towering granite cliff rises more than 60 meters, with water plunging into a wide, crystal-clear pool below where fish and submerged rocks can be seen.
The surrounding Indo-Malayan rainforest is rich and biodiverse, serving as a habitat for six species of hornbills, as well as rare wildlife such as dusky leaf monkeys and white-handed gibbons.
A unique botanical highlight is the “Golden Leaf” plant (Yan Dao), first discovered here. This climbing plant is covered with fine golden hairs that shimmer beautifully when exposed to sunlight.
Visitors can enjoy nature trails to observe the Golden Leaf plant and rare forest species, watch hornbills during nesting season, or relax and picnic in the peaceful, shaded park area.
How to Get There
- By Car: From Narathiwat town, drive along Highway No. 42 (Narathiwat–Pattani) for about 26 kilometers. At Bacho District, follow the clearly marked sign on the left and continue for another 3 kilometers to reach the park office.
- By Public Transport: Take a Narathiwat–Pattani van or a Narathiwat–Hat Yai bus and get off at the Bacho intersection. From there, take a local motorcycle taxi to the waterfall, just a few minutes away.
Travel Tips
- Please bring your ID card or passport to purchase the national park entrance ticket. Alcoholic beverages and single-use plastics are prohibited inside the park.
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes with good grip to prevent slipping on wet rocks.
- June to July is the best period to see the Golden Leaf plant at its most vibrant, and the waterfall will have abundant water flow.
- You can also visit the 300-Year Mosque (Talo Mano), located in the same district, only 10–15 minutes away.
Entrance Fee:
National Park Entrance Fee
- Thai Visitors: Adults 20 THB, Children 10 THB
- Foreign Visitors: Adults 100 THB, Children 50 THB
Opening Hours:
- Open daily from 08:00 – 16:30 hrs.