Than Thong Waterfall

Rating: 3.1/5 (10 votes)

Open Days: Generally open daily (recommended to avoid heavy rain and check water/road conditions before traveling)

Opening Hours: Recommended 08:00 – 17:00 (best to visit in daylight and head back before dark)

 

Than Thong Waterfall is a small, tucked-away waterfall in Ban Than Thong, Huai Kaeo Subdistrict, Mae On District, Chiang Mai. Its charm isn’t the dramatic “towering waterfall” vibe, but the way the stream tumbles gently down over naturally stacked small and large rocks, then gathers into a wider pool area where visitors like to sit, rest, and cool off. If you enjoy a village-by-the-stream atmosphere—where you slow down without trying and can hear running water close by—Than Thong makes that feeling come through clearly.

 

What defines Than Thong is that the stream runs “side by side” with the village. So visiting here doesn’t feel like disappearing deep into a faraway forest—it feels more like a natural pause within a landscape where nature and community life sit right next to each other. The most popular spot is the lower pool area, because it’s comfortable to relax around, and during some periods you can get into the water. Still, the rocks can be slippery—especially right after rain—and it’s best not to enter the water if you notice it turning muddy or flowing unusually fast, as mountain-valley areas can experience sudden surges.

 

If you’re wondering which season looks best, Than Thong has a different mood depending on the time of year. In the rainy season, the flow feels powerful and lush, but the rocks get very slick, so extra caution matters. Late rainy season into winter is often the favorite period for many people—cool air, clearer water, and an easy-going riverside sit that doesn’t drain your energy. Summer works well for a quick water break too, though the water level may drop at times. In the end, the “best time” depends on what you want, but the simple rule is: choose a stable-weather day with lighter rain and travel without rushing.

 

Another advantage of Than Thong is how easy it is to connect the visit with nearby stops. The route to the waterfall follows the same way up to Mae Kampong Village, and it’s also close to the Teen Tok Royal Project Development Center—a stop that adds more depth to the trip, whether you’re interested in coffee, highland produce, or the valley atmosphere in the Mae On area. The Teen Tok center has clear contact details and opening information, which makes it a convenient add-on without the stress of getting lost or second-guessing your plan.

 

Getting There From Chiang Mai city, you can drive toward the San Kamphaeng–Mae On area and follow the same route used to reach Mae Kampong Village. Once you enter Ban Than Thong, slow down because it’s a community zone and some sections have curves and narrower road stretches. If you’re heading toward Mae Kampong, you’ll notice junctions and signs along the way; the waterfall is on the left-hand side before you reach Mae Kampong. Driving at a steady, careful speed and leaving good braking distance helps keep the ride safe—and helps you avoid missing the turn.

 

To enjoy the visit while respecting the area, it helps to bring shoes with good grip, quick-dry clothing, and a small bag for your own trash—because places like this stay clean largely thanks to visitor cooperation. And if you’re traveling with young children or older adults, keep close supervision around the pool area at all times. Wet rock surfaces can be more slippery than they look, even on days when the water seems calm.

 

Finally, if you want a relaxed “full-day” rhythm around Than Thong, consider stopping at the waterfall in the morning, resting long enough to really feel the place, then moving on for a meal or riverside café time around Mae Kampong/Than Thong. After that, you can add a gentle stop at the Teen Tok Royal Project center or another nearby attraction. It usually lands nicely: nature, community, and a real sense of downtime—all without forcing the schedule.

 

 

A: In general, the lower pool area is where people most commonly cool off and get into the water. However, avoid entering after heavy rain, when the water turns muddy or runs unusually fast, and always watch out for slippery rocks.

 

A: Late rainy season through winter is often ideal—cooler air, clearer water, and a comfortable riverside atmosphere. The rainy season looks lush but can be slippery and riskier, while summer is good for a quick dip though water levels may drop at times.

 

A: The relaxing areas are close to the village zone and main route, so it generally doesn’t require a long hike. Still, take care on wet rock surfaces.

 

A: Roads near Ban Than Thong and the Mae Kampong route include curves and narrower stretches. Drive slowly through the community area, keep safe braking distance, and avoid traveling at night.

 

A: Yes. Than Thong sits along the same route and is located before you reach Mae Kampong, so it’s commonly planned as a relaxed stop before continuing uphill.