Pha Lat Waterfall

Rating: 3.4/5 (10 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00

 

Pha Lat Waterfall is a natural waterfall in Phrao District, Chiang Mai, well suited for travelers looking for a quiet, local-style nature trip away from crowded tourist spots. The waterfall originates from Huai Mae Saruam Stream and consists of two tiers, each approximately 10 meters high. During the rainy season, the water volume increases significantly, creating a lively flow and a lush, refreshing atmosphere throughout the area.

 

What makes Pha Lat Waterfall especially appealing is that the experience goes beyond simply standing in front of the main cascade. The stream forms natural pools and gentle flowing sections along its course, allowing visitors to choose their own spots for wading, soaking their feet, or enjoying a relaxed picnic beside the water. Each tier offers a slightly different mood—some areas are calm and ideal for resting, while others feature flowing water and rocks that produce a soothing natural soundscape.

 

Choosing the right season can make the visit even more enjoyable. In the rainy season, the waterfall is at its most powerful and the surrounding forest turns deep green, though extra caution is required due to slippery rocks and the possibility of sudden water rise. The cool season offers comfortable temperatures and a calmer atmosphere, making it ideal for slow walks and longer stays. In the hot season, the waterfall is perfect for cooling off, but visiting in the morning or late afternoon is recommended to avoid strong midday heat and to ensure enough daylight for the return journey.

 

Safety should always come first when enjoying natural waterfalls. Avoid climbing on algae-covered rocks, choose shallow areas with gentle water flow, and stay clear of fast currents. When traveling with children or elderly companions, define a safe play area and keep everyone within sight. To make the trip comfortable, it helps to bring non-slip footwear or water shoes, a towel, a change of clothes, insect repellent, drinking water, a waterproof bag for valuables, and a trash bag to carry everything back out.

 

Responsible travel is essential here. Please do not leave trash, do not throw food scraps into the stream, and do not use soap or shampoo in the water. Huai Mae Saruam is not only a recreational stream but also part of the local ecosystem and community water system. With mindful behavior, this local waterfall can remain beautiful and enjoyable for years to come.

 

Getting There From the Phrao District Office, take Highway 1150 (Phrao – Wiang Pa Pao) to the Ban Ton Kok intersection. Turn left and continue through Ban Ton Rung, Ban Thung Ku, and Ban Cooperative Plot 5. This section is a concrete road for approximately 4 km. Then follow the dirt road toward Ban Pang Fan for about 7 km to reach Pha Lat Waterfall. Drive carefully, especially during or after rainfall, as the dirt road may be slippery or uneven.

 

To make the most of the trip, many visitors plan a simple “waterfall-hopping” route along the Ban Pang Fan line. Pha Lat Waterfall can be easily combined with nearby waterfalls such as Pha Tang Waterfall and Wang Chomphu Waterfall in a single day. Starting early allows plenty of time to enjoy each stop and return safely before dark, with the option to finish the day at a local restaurant or café in Phrao town.

 

 

A: The rainy season offers strong flow and lush greenery, but caution is needed due to slippery rocks and sudden water rise. The cool season is more comfortable and usually quieter.

 

A: The waterfall has two tiers, each approximately 10 meters high.

 

A: In many cases, yes. However, the final section is a dirt road, so drive slowly and assess conditions carefully, especially after rain.

 

A: Choose shallow pools with gentle flow and avoid algae-covered rocks, which can be very slippery. If traveling with children or elderly companions, define a clear safe zone.

 

A: Non-slip shoes, a towel, a change of clothes, insect repellent, drinking water, a waterproof bag for valuables, and a trash bag to carry everything back out.

 

A: Yes. Along the Ban Pang Fan route, you can easily combine Pha Lat Waterfall with Pha Tang Waterfall and Wang Chomphu Waterfall, then return to Phrao town for food or cafés.