Mae Lit Waterfall

Rating: 3.5/5 (4 votes)

Open Days: Generally open daily (may be temporarily closed per Mae Tho National Park announcements, especially during the rainy season)

Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00 (starting early is recommended, and return before dark)

 

Mae Lit Waterfall is a natural waterfall in Hot District, Chiang Mai, suited to travelers who want a forest atmosphere that feels “quiet and real” rather than a staged photo spot. The overall vibe is local—this is still a piece of nature that people in the area genuinely use for relaxing. If you come without rushing, Mae Lit’s charm is the shade of the surrounding forest, the steady sound of water that clears your head, and the kind of trip pace that naturally makes you slow down.

 

According to Thailand’s National Parks information, Mae Lit Waterfall is located at Ban Thung Luang, Bo Sali Subdistrict, Hot District. The waterfall is about 6–8 meters wide and about 10–12 meters high, which is a comfortable scale for a relaxed dip on a hot day or for simply sitting and listening to the water when you need a reset. This matters because details can differ across sources, so this article follows official references to help visitors plan accurately and avoid mismatched expectations.

 

The appeal of a waterfall like this isn’t about dramatic height; it’s about the “small details along the way” and the riverside space that lets you choose your own pace. Some people come to soak their feet, some to swim in safe spots, and others to find a quiet corner for snacks and a soft conversation. One key thing to remember is that rocks near the water are often slippery—especially where there is algae or green staining. Non-slip shoes or water shoes make a big difference, and if you visit with children or elderly companions, set a clear safe zone, keep them within sight, and avoid areas with stronger flow.

 

Season changes also shape the experience. In the rainy season, water flow is usually stronger and the forest turns intensely green, which looks great in photos and feels refreshing—but you trade that for slippery trails, sudden surges, and the possibility of temporary closures for safety or restoration. If you plan to visit during the rains, always check the latest park updates before you go. In the cool season, walking is easier, the weather is pleasant, and the atmosphere often feels calmer. In the hot season, it’s great for cooling off, but start early to avoid harsh sun and always leave enough time to get back before dark.

 

One more thing worth taking seriously is responsible travel—so this place can stay beautiful. The basics: don’t leave trash, don’t throw food scraps into the stream, don’t use soap or shampoo in the water, keep noise down, and don’t disturb areas locals still use. Local waterfalls remain worth visiting because visitors help protect these small standards together.

 

Getting There Based on official guidance, take Highway 108 (Hot – Mae Sariang). At around kilometer marker 63, turn left onto the road toward Ban Thung Luang for about 12 kilometers. Once you reach Ban Thung Luang, walk approximately 500 meters from the village to the waterfall. Drive at a sensible speed, especially in rainy conditions when the road may be slippery or uneven, and start your trip in the morning so you can explore without rushing and return before dark.

 

If you want a good-value trip without overexertion, plan for a half-day to one-day visit, then head back into Hot town for a meal. If you prefer to stay overnight, choose accommodation in Hot District or nearby areas with easy access—it reduces the risk of driving on unfamiliar roads at night and makes the next day feel unhurried.

 

 

A: The rainy season is lush and has stronger flow, but trails can be slippery and temporary closures may happen, so check park updates. The cool season is comfortable for walking and often feels quieter.

 

A: Based on official information, after reaching Ban Thung Luang, it is about a 500-meter walk from the village to the waterfall. The walk is not very long, but non-slip footwear is recommended because the ground can be damp and slippery.

 

A: Generally, yes, you can follow the main route and turn into the village road. However, after heavy rain the road may be slippery or uneven, so drive slowly, assess conditions on site, and avoid pushing further if the road is not safe.

 

A: Yes. Use 19.241893, 98.684543. It’s also a good idea to save offline maps in advance because mobile signal can be unstable in some sections.

 

A: Contact Mae Tho National Park at 0 5381 8348, especially if you plan to visit during the rainy season.