Pha Iang Waterfall

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08.30 – 16.30

 

Pha Iang Waterfall in Chaiyaphum Province is a medium-sized natural waterfall located on the western side of Tat Ton National Park. It lies near Ban Chi Long Nuea in Huai Ton Subdistrict, Mueang Chaiyaphum District. The waterfall is formed by Huai Chi Long, a forest stream that cuts across a slanted rock cliff. This distinctive rock formation causes the water to flow diagonally to one side instead of falling straight down in a single vertical curtain. The result is a waterfall with a unique shape, a calm forest atmosphere, and a short trekking experience of about 800 meters from the access area to the main waterfall.

 

Pha Iang Waterfall is about 3 km from Provincial Highway 2159 on the Chaiyaphum – Nong Bua Daeng route near Ban Chi Long Nuea. Visitors usually travel by private car to the village access area and then continue on foot through a natural trail. This makes the waterfall feel quieter and more exploratory than Tat Ton Waterfall, the main attraction of the national park. Pha Iang is suitable for travelers who prefer a less crowded nature experience, light trekking, forest scenery, and a more local side of Tat Ton National Park.

 

The main identity of Pha Iang Waterfall comes from its geological form. The Thai word “pha” means cliff, while “iang” means leaning or slanted. The name describes the physical character of the place very clearly. Huai Chi Long flows across a sloping rock face, creating a diagonal cascade that follows the angle of the cliff. During the rainy season and the period after steady rainfall, the water spreads across the rock surface and reveals the slanted shape of the waterfall most clearly.

 

The surrounding area is covered by relatively healthy dry evergreen forest. Large trees, shaded stream banks, and the sound of flowing water create a cool and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors walking along the trail gradually move from village access roads into deeper forest surroundings. As the sound of the stream becomes clearer, the air becomes cooler and more humid. This gradual approach is part of the charm of Pha Iang Waterfall because the journey itself prepares visitors for the natural setting of the waterfall.

 

Pha Iang Waterfall belongs to the ecosystem of Tat Ton National Park, which is located on the Phu Laen Kha mountain range. The national park includes hills, plateaus, valleys, forest streams, and several important waterfalls. Huai Chi Long is one of the streams in this western part of the park. The waterfall therefore reflects the close relationship between mountain forest, rainfall, stream systems, and rock formations. When the forest remains healthy, the stream can continue to feed the waterfall and maintain the surrounding ecosystem.

 

The waterfall is part of a small group of waterfalls in the Chi Long area. Pha Nit Waterfall is located before Pha Iang Waterfall, about 500 meters away, while Pha Song Chan Waterfall can be reached by continuing farther on foot. This makes the route interesting for visitors who enjoy light forest walking and want to see more than one natural water feature. Travelers with limited time can focus on Pha Iang as the main destination, while those with more time and suitable trail conditions can explore the connected waterfall route.

 

The best season to visit Pha Iang Waterfall is the rainy season through the early cool season. During this period, the stream has more water, the forest is greener, and the slanted rock face becomes more beautiful. In the dry season, the water level may drop significantly, and some areas may not be suitable for waterfall viewing. Travelers who want to see the waterfall at its best should plan around the months when seasonal rainfall is still present and should check local conditions before traveling after heavy rain.

 

Suitable activities at Pha Iang Waterfall include short trekking, waterfall viewing, nature photography, resting by the stream, and learning about the landscape. The 800-meter walking trail gives the visit a stronger sense of experience than a simple roadside waterfall. Visitors do not arrive directly at the waterfall by car; they walk through a natural setting first. This makes the destination especially attractive for travelers who enjoy quiet forest routes and the feeling of gradually approaching a hidden natural site.

 

Swimming or soaking in the stream may be possible in some suitable areas when water conditions are safe, but caution is essential. Natural waterfalls are very different from controlled swimming pools. Rocks can be slippery, water depth can change, and currents can become strong quickly after rainfall. Visitors should avoid entering the water when it is muddy, fast, or rising. They should never jump from rocks or go close to the edge of the waterfall. Children must be closely supervised at all times.

 

Pha Iang Waterfall is suitable for travelers who want to avoid the busiest parts of Tat Ton National Park. Although weekends can bring more visitors, the overall atmosphere is still quieter than the main Tat Ton Waterfall area. The appeal lies in the forest, the walking trail, the slanted cliff, and the natural character of the site. Visitors should respect the quiet atmosphere by avoiding loud noise, staying on the trail, and carrying all rubbish out of the forest.

 

For photographers, Pha Iang Waterfall offers several strong visual elements: diagonal water flow, dark rock layers, the Chi Long stream, dry evergreen forest, large trees, and filtered sunlight through the canopy. Morning and late afternoon usually give softer light. Wide shots can show the slanted cliff and the water flow, while closer details of rocks, leaves, and stream edges can help create a more complete nature story. A tripod is useful for slow-shutter waterfall photos, but mobile phone users can still capture good images by choosing shaded angles and stable footing.

 

The 800-meter walk to the waterfall is an important part of the trip. Visitors should wear proper shoes with good grip because the trail may include soil, roots, rocks, mud, and short slopes. Sandals that slip easily are not recommended, especially during or after rain. Bring drinking water, insect repellent, and a small waterproof bag for valuables. Do not carry too much because heavy items make walking more difficult and increase the risk of slipping.

 

Pha Iang Waterfall is also a useful place for learning about landforms and stream erosion. The waterfall shows how flowing water interacts with a slanted rock face over time. The stream gradually shapes rock surfaces, water channels, and small pools. This helps visitors understand that waterfalls are not created by water alone; they are formed through the relationship between rock structure, slope, stream flow, forest cover, and time.

 

Conservation is important because the waterfall is inside a national park. Visitors should not damage plants, write on rocks, remove natural objects, feed wildlife, or leave food waste in the forest. Rubbish can affect both scenery and wildlife behavior. The best approach is simple: bring in only what is necessary, carry out everything you bring in, and follow park instructions. This helps keep the waterfall clean and safe for future visitors.

 

Pha Iang Waterfall is suitable for families with older children and groups of friends who enjoy short nature walks. It is less suitable for very young children or visitors with limited mobility unless properly prepared. Families should have adults walk in front and behind the group, keep children away from slippery rocks and stream edges, and avoid rushing along the trail. A careful walking pace makes the experience safer and more enjoyable.

 

Getting There from Chaiyaphum town is by Highway 2159 on the Chaiyaphum – Nong Bua Daeng route toward Ban Chi Long Nuea. The waterfall access area is about 27 – 32 km from Chaiyaphum town. From the main road, continue along local access roads for about 3 km, then walk about 800 meters to the waterfall. Private car or rental car is the most convenient option, and first-time visitors should ask park staff or local residents for updated route conditions.

 

The route to Pha Iang Waterfall is different from the route to the main Tat Ton Waterfall area. Pha Iang is located on the western side of the national park, near Ban Chi Long Nuea. Because it is not directly beside the main visitor center, navigation and local directions are useful. During the rainy season, visitors should check conditions before entering because local roads and forest trails may be affected by rain, slippery ground, or strong stream flow.

 

Before starting the walk, visitors should prepare essential items: drinking water, a charged phone, a waterproof pouch, a towel, insect repellent, and a rubbish bag. Those who plan to get wet should leave spare clothes in the car instead of carrying too much into the forest. Walk in a group and avoid leaving the marked route. This helps reduce the risk of getting lost and makes the visit more comfortable.

 

The main zones of the Pha Iang Waterfall route include the Ban Chi Long Nuea access zone, the park ranger unit area, the 800-meter nature trail, the Huai Chi Long stream zone, Pha Nit Waterfall before Pha Iang, the slanted cliff and main waterfall zone, and the continuation route toward Pha Song Chan Waterfall. Understanding these zones helps visitors plan time, movement, and safety more effectively.

 

The best time of day to visit is in the morning or early afternoon. Morning offers cooler air and softer light, while early afternoon may still provide enough time to walk in and return before evening. Visitors should not start walking late in the day because the forest trail has no lighting and can become difficult to navigate after dark. Plan enough time to return to the vehicle before evening.

 

Pha Iang Waterfall can be combined with other attractions in Tat Ton National Park and Phu Laen Kha. A half-day trip can focus on Pha Iang and nearby local food. A full-day trip can add Tat Ton Waterfall, Pha Koeng or Wat Chaiyaphum Phithak, Phu Laen Kha National Park, or Mo Hin Khao. A 2-day itinerary can include Phra That Chaiyaphum, Tat Fa Waterfall, and accommodation near Chaiyaphum town or the Phu Laen Kha route.

 

Nearby attractions include Pha Koeng, Wat Chaiyaphum Phithak, Phu Laen Kha National Park, Pha Hua Nak, Mo Hin Khao, Khlong Chang Rock Group, Tat Ton Waterfall, and Wat Tha Hin Ngom. These places give the route more variety: waterfalls, viewpoints, temples, rock formations, and highland scenery can all be combined depending on available time and road conditions.

 

Food options are mainly located along the Tat Ton – Phu Laen Kha route or in Chaiyaphum town rather than directly at the waterfall. Farm Promma, Mahot Cafe Phumet, Chuan Chom Cafe, and Suan Ahan Pornthip are practical options depending on the route. Visitors should plan meals before or after entering the waterfall area because food services at the waterfall itself are limited compared with major park zones.

 

Accommodation options include national park accommodation at Tat Ton National Park, local farmstay-style stays near the nature route, and hotels in Chaiyaphum town. Farm Promma is close to the Tat Ton route. The Peak Resort Chaiyaphum, Ban Rai Ruean Khwan, Siam River Resort, Lertnimitra Hotel, and Dee Prom Hotel are options for travelers who prefer to stay in or near town and visit Pha Iang as a day trip.

 

The admission fee follows Tat Ton National Park rates because Pha Iang Waterfall is inside the national park. Thai adults pay 40 baht and Thai children 20 baht. Foreign adults pay 200 baht and foreign children 100 baht. Additional vehicle or service fees may apply according to park regulations. Visitors should carry some cash because smaller access points or ranger areas may not always support electronic payment.

 

The most important safety issue is fast-changing water during the rainy season. Heavy rain in upstream areas can raise the stream even if rain is not falling at the waterfall. Visitors should leave the water immediately if it becomes muddy, louder than usual, or visibly stronger. Do not climb wet rocks, do not stand near the waterfall edge, and follow instructions from park staff. Natural waterfalls are beautiful but must be treated with caution.

 

Overall, Pha Iang Waterfall is a worthwhile natural destination for travelers who want to experience a quieter side of Chaiyaphum. Its strengths are the slanted rock cliff, the Chi Long stream, the shaded forest, the 800-meter walking trail, and the peaceful western section of Tat Ton National Park. With proper preparation, good timing, and respect for national park rules, Pha Iang Waterfall offers a refreshing and memorable short forest-waterfall experience in Chaiyaphum Province.

 

 

A: Pha Iang Waterfall is located near Ban Chi Long Nuea, Huai Ton Subdistrict, Mueang Chaiyaphum District, Chaiyaphum Province, on the western side of Tat Ton National Park.

 

A: Its main feature is a slanted rock cliff that cuts across Huai Chi Long, causing the waterfall to flow diagonally to one side and creating a distinctive natural appearance.

 

A: Visitors need to walk about 800 meters from the access area or parking point near Ban Chi Long Nuea to reach the waterfall.

 

A: The rainy season to early cool season is the best period because the waterfall has more water and the forest is greener and fresher.

 

A: Yes. Since the waterfall is inside Tat Ton National Park, the park fee applies: Thai adults 40 baht, Thai children 20 baht, foreign adults 200 baht, and foreign children 100 baht.

 

A: Swimming or soaking is possible only in suitable areas when conditions are safe. Visitors should be careful of slippery rocks, deep water, and strong current, especially after rain.

 

A: From Chaiyaphum town, take Highway 2159 toward Nong Bua Daeng and Ban Chi Long Nuea. From the main road, continue about 3 km on a local access road, then walk about 800 meters to the waterfall.

 

A: Nearby attractions include Pha Koeng, Wat Chaiyaphum Phithak, Phu Laen Kha National Park, Pha Hua Nak, Mo Hin Khao, Khlong Chang Rock Group, Tat Ton Waterfall, and Wat Tha Hin Ngom.