Pu Muen Waterfall

Rating: 4.1/5 (8 votes)

Open Days: Generally open daily (it is recommended to check announcements from Doi Pha Hom Pok National Park and weather conditions before traveling, especially during periods of heavy rain)

Opening Hours: Recommended 08:00 – 17:00 (it is best to start your visit early and return before dark)

 

Pu Muen Waterfall is located in Mae Sao Subdistrict, Mae Ai District, Chiang Mai Province. It is a waterfall that nature lovers who prefer “easy access without strenuous hiking” often fall in love with. Access is relatively convenient, with concrete roads for most of the route, parking areas, and restrooms available. From the parking area, visitors walk approximately 300 meters to reach the waterfall itself. The highlight here is not the sheer size of the cascading water, but a naturally formed feature of the flowing stream that locals fondly call the “elephant trunk” waterfall.

 

The route to Pu Muen Waterfall follows the same access road leading to “Ban Lek Nai Pa Yai, Doi Pha Hom Pok.” Along the way, you will pass long stretches of orange orchards and lychee gardens. If you visit around May, you may see ripe lychees turning bright red on the trees, adding a seasonal charm to the journey. This makes the trip not only about forest scenery, but also about experiencing the agricultural way of life in the foothill communities of Mae Ai, where local livelihoods remain closely connected to the land.

 

Once you begin walking from the parking area, the short trail quickly leads into a shaded and lush forest. The continuous sound of cicadas fills the background, with wildflowers appearing intermittently along the path and large bamboo clumps rising beside the trail. The overall atmosphere is pleasantly humid without feeling oppressive, creating a strong sense that this is a living forest ecosystem functioning throughout the year.

 

Pu Muen Waterfall is fed by streams originating from Doi Pha Luang (Doi Pha Hom Pok), flowing through Huai Mae Hang and passing Ban Pu Muen within Mae Sao Subdistrict. One notable characteristic is that the waterfall has flowing water year-round, though its character changes with the seasons. During the rainy season, water flow is strong and the forest appears lush and vibrant, but trails can become slippery and there is a risk of sudden flash floods after heavy rainfall on the mountain ridges. In the cool season, the weather is comfortable and the trail is easy to walk, making it ideal for leisurely forest walks, photography, and calmly observing the “elephant trunk” feature. In the dry season, water levels may decrease, but this allows clearer views of rock formations, pools, and water flow patterns, appealing to visitors who enjoy landscape details rather than swimming.

 

The feature that truly distinguishes Pu Muen Waterfall from others is the natural phenomenon where water shoots upward in a curved spray resembling an “elephant trunk.” This occurs when the flowing water strikes a rock hollow near the middle of the waterfall tiers. The effect is most visible on days when the water flow is strong but not overwhelming. It can be best observed from an angled side view while keeping a safe distance from the impact point. There is no need to climb closer, as rocks near the splash zone are often slippery due to moisture and moss.

 

Getting There From Chiang Mai city, take Highway No. 107 (Chiang Mai–Fang) toward Mae Ai District. Then turn onto the same access road leading to “Ban Lek Nai Pa Yai, Doi Pha Hom Pok.” Drive approximately 10 kilometers from the highway to reach the parking area for Pu Muen Waterfall. From there, walk about 300 meters to the waterfall. The route is generally easy to drive, but caution is advised as it passes through local communities and includes some curves.

 

To ensure responsible and respectful travel, visitors are encouraged to bring personal trash bags, avoid leaving food waste in streams, refrain from using soap or shampoo in natural water sources, and keep noise levels low. Shoes with good traction are recommended during the rainy season or on damp days, as rocks near the waterfall can be unexpectedly slippery. If traveling with children or elderly visitors, it is best to choose dry weather conditions and walk at a relaxed pace.

 

 

A: From the parking area, it is about a 300-meter walk, making it suitable for visitors who prefer easy access without long hikes.

 

A: The elephant trunk effect is best seen from an angled side view at a safe distance from where the water strikes the rock. Climbing closer is not recommended due to slippery surfaces.

 

A: November to February generally offers the most pleasant weather and easy walking conditions. From May to October, water flow is strong and scenic, but visitors should be cautious of heavy rain and slippery trails.

 

A: Yes, as long as they are in good general health and able to walk comfortably. It is best to visit on dry days and walk at a relaxed pace.

 

A: Shoes with good traction, drinking water, and a personal trash bag are recommended. During the rainy season, rain gear and waterproof bags for valuables are also advisable.

 

A: You can contact Doi Pha Hom Pok National Park at Tel. 0 5208 0801, 084 483 4689, or the Mae Sao Subdistrict Administrative Organization at Tel. 053-054100.