Wang Chomphu Waterfall

Rating: 2.9/5 (13 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00

 

Wang Chomphu Waterfall is a natural waterfall in Phrao District, Chiang Mai, well-suited for travelers who want to trade the crowds of famous spots for a quieter place that still feels genuinely local. The waterfall is fed by Huai Mae Saruam Stream and cascades down in 3 tiers. Each tier is roughly about 10 meters high, and there are several places where visitors can wade or swim—both at the base of the falls and along the stream itself—so you can shape the day your way, whether that means a proper dip, a slow foot-soak, or a simple picnic in the shade.

 

The charm here is in how “simple” it looks at first, and how much detail you notice once you stay a while. Each tier has a slightly different feel: some sections form shallow pools that are perfect for resting, while others run over rocks with a steady, calming sound that cools the whole atmosphere down. On less busy days, it genuinely feels like you are in the forest rather than at a photo stop. Because you can enjoy the water along a longer stretch of the stream, choosing a safe spot matters: avoid areas with fast current, slippery rock surfaces, or whirlpool-like flow, and do not climb on rocks with algae, because they are far more slippery than they look.

 

The best time to visit depends on what kind of experience you want. In the rainy season, the water volume is usually stronger and the forest turns intensely green, but you need to be extra cautious about sudden water rise and slick paths. In the cool season, the weather is comfortable and the water is often clearer, making it ideal for an unhurried walk and longer breaks by the stream. In the hot season, it is great for cooling off, but it is best to go in the morning through late afternoon to avoid harsh midday heat and to leave enough daylight for the return drive on the later dirt-road section.

 

For an easy, comfortable trip, bring enough drinking water, non-slip footwear (or water-walking shoes), a towel, a change of clothes, insect repellent, and a dry bag for your phone and car keys. The one item that matters more than it sounds is a trash bag, because places like this stay beautiful only when visitors carry everything back out. If you are traveling with children or older family members, keep the play area clear and controlled: choose shallow pools with gentle flow, and keep everyone within sight at all times.

 

Getting There From the Phrao District Office, take Highway 1150 (Phrao – Wiang Pa Pao) to the Ban Ton Kok intersection. Turn left and continue via Ban Ton Rung, Ban Thung Ku, and Ban Cooperative Plot 5. This section is concrete road for about 4 km. After that, follow the dirt road toward Ban Pang Fan for about 8.5 km before reaching the waterfall area. Because this route has multiple water-play spots in the same area, drive at a moderate speed and watch for potholes—especially during or after rain.

 

One way to make the day more satisfying is to plan it as a simple “waterfall-hopping route.” Along the Ban Pang Fan line, there is more than one waterfall, such as Pha Lat Waterfall and Pha Tang Waterfall, which makes it possible to visit multiple spots in a single day (though starting early is still smart so you do not end up driving back in the dark). If you want to extend the trip in a lighter way, it is also easy to stop by cafes or local restaurants around Phrao town.

 

A final note that keeps places like this worth visiting: travel responsibly. Do not leave trash, do not throw food scraps into the stream, do not use soap or shampoo in the water, and avoid loud music. If everyone does those small things consistently, a truly local waterfall like this can remain enjoyable for years—and it can still be a comfortable resting place for the surrounding community as well.

 

 

A: If you want stronger flow and lush greenery, the rainy season is beautiful, but be careful about flash rises and slippery surfaces. The cool season is comfortable for walking and relaxing, and it often feels quieter.

 

A: Often yes, but because the final section includes a dirt road, drive slowly and assess the road condition carefully—especially after rain. If rainfall is heavy, it is safer to avoid entering.

 

A: It has 3 tiers, and you can wade or swim at the falls and along the stream. Choose calmer, shallower areas and avoid algae-covered rocks.

 

A: Follow Highway 1150 to the Ban Ton Kok intersection, turn left, pass Ban Ton Rung, Ban Thung Ku, and Ban Cooperative Plot 5, then continue on the dirt road toward Ban Pang Fan according to the stated distances.

 

A: Yes. Along the same route, you can also stop at Pha Lat Waterfall and Pha Tang Waterfall. Back in Phrao town, there are additional nature spots and local temples that can fit a day-trip or an overnight plan.

 

A: Bring non-slip shoes, a towel, a change of clothes, insect repellent, drinking water, and a trash bag so you can carry everything back out.