Rating: 4.4/5 (5 votes)

Open Days: Generally open daily (subject to announcements by Pha Daeng National Park and weather conditions, especially during the rainy season)

Opening Hours: Generally 08:00 – 16:30

 

Sri Sangwan Waterfall is located within the Pha Daeng National Park headquarters area at Ban Na Wai, Mueang Na Subdistrict, Chiang Dao District, Chiang Mai Province. This natural waterfall holds both historical significance and ecological value within the fringe zone of the Doi Luang Chiang Dao mountain range. Surrounded by relatively intact forest, the area offers a quiet and serene atmosphere that clearly contrasts with the more popular tourist attractions in central Chiang Dao, making it ideal for visitors seeking a deeper connection with nature and local history.

 

The importance of Sri Sangwan Waterfall is closely tied to a historical event that continues to be remembered by the local community. In 1867, Her Royal Highness Princess Srinagarindra graciously visited the Border Patrol Police Unit 503 at Ban Na Wai, Mueang Na Subdistrict, Chiang Dao District, Chiang Mai Province. During this visit, she proceeded to have lunch at the Ban Na Wai waterfall area and later bestowed the name “Sri Sangwan Waterfall” upon it. This name is more than a place name; it represents a living trace of the relationship between border communities, forest landscapes, and Thailand’s modern history.

 

In terms of natural characteristics, Sri Sangwan Waterfall is a limestone waterfall approximately 10–12 meters wide and about 20 meters high. Its defining feature is the way the water cascades gently down in tiers, forming four distinct levels: Level 1 “Khanung Ha,” Level 2 “Chong Thara,” Level 3 “Ngam Nathi,” and Level 4 “Sri Sangwan,” which is the uppermost tier. The limestone structure provides a naturally rough surface that is not slippery, allowing visitors to walk up along the waterfall more easily compared to waterfalls formed from granite or shale.

 

Another distinctive aspect of Sri Sangwan Waterfall is its surrounding natural environment, which remains largely forested and well preserved. The area is home to large trees and a wide variety of forest plants such as forest magnolia, black bat flower, Dioscorea species, and many types of ferns. These plants provide shade, retain moisture, and help maintain a cooler microclimate around the waterfall, resulting in a refreshing and comfortable atmosphere that is well suited for slow-paced relaxation.

 

From a visitor experience perspective, Sri Sangwan Waterfall is considered one of the more accessible waterfalls in the Chiang Dao area. Its location near the Pha Daeng National Park headquarters allows visitors of all ages to reach it easily. The walking path from the parking area to the waterfall is a short nature trail with gentle slopes, making it possible to enjoy a relaxed round trip within a single day. Visitors can spend time strolling, resting, listening to the sound of flowing water, and absorbing the calm atmosphere of the headwater forest without the physical demands of long-distance hiking.

 

Getting There From Chiang Dao town, visitors can travel by car to Mueang Na Subdistrict and continue toward the Pha Daeng National Park headquarters. Upon arrival, clear signage and a designated nature trail lead directly to the waterfall. This route is well suited for travelers who wish to combine nature-based tourism with an understanding of local borderland communities and landscapes within a single journey.

 

 

A: It combines historical significance with a limestone structure that is easy to walk on, making it suitable for visitors of all ages.

 

A: Yes. The limestone surface provides good traction and the slope is relatively gentle.

 

A: Yes. The access route is short and easy, and the surrounding environment is shaded and comfortable.

 

A: Around 1–2 hours is sufficient for walking, relaxing, and enjoying the surroundings.