Than Sawan Waterfall

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08.00 – 16.30

 

Than Sawan Waterfall is one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Doi Phu Nang National Park, located in Moo 6, Ban Bo Bia, Ban Mang Subdistrict, Chiang Muan District, Phayao Province. This medium-sized waterfall is known for its clear emerald-green water, shady forest surroundings, and easy access from the national park headquarters, making it an excellent destination for travelers who want to enjoy nature without a long or difficult trek.

 

Than Sawan Waterfall is also known locally as Bo Bia Waterfall. It is formed by several water sources, including Huai Song Sop, Huai Pong, Huai Oon, and the natural spring at Bo Bia. These streams flow together to become Nam Mae Pang before cascading down through natural rock layers to form Than Sawan Waterfall. The water flows throughout the year, and its greenish-blue clarity is one of the reasons why the waterfall is often described as an emerald waterfall of Phayao.

 

The waterfall has a total height of about 20 meters and a width of about 30 meters. Local information describes it as a multi-level waterfall with several small drops arranged beautifully in the same area. The overall height is not extremely steep, but the layered flow, wide curtain of water, and natural pools create a scenic landscape that is suitable for sightseeing, photography, and peaceful relaxation.

 

The surrounding area is rich with forest vegetation, large trees, ferns, and streamside plants. The shade from the trees keeps the waterfall area cool even during the daytime. The sound of flowing water, wind moving through the leaves, and birds in the forest creates a calm atmosphere for visitors who want to escape the noise of the city and spend time with nature.

 

One of the best features of Than Sawan Waterfall is its accessibility. The waterfall is located only about 300 meters from the headquarters of Doi Phu Nang National Park. Visitors can walk to the waterfall within a few minutes, and the route is not complicated. This makes it suitable for families, casual travelers, photographers, and visitors who want to enjoy a natural waterfall without a long hike.

 

Than Sawan Waterfall is ideal for slow and relaxing travel. Visitors can sit by the stream, enjoy the forest atmosphere, take photographs, or play in the water at safe spots. The clear water allows visitors to see the natural colors of the rocks and pools beneath the surface. When the sunlight reaches the water, the emerald tone becomes especially beautiful against the green forest background.

 

The best time to visit Than Sawan Waterfall is during the late rainy season and the cool season. During this period, the surrounding forest remains green, the weather is pleasant, and the waterfall has a beautiful flow. In the rainy season, the waterfall can be especially fresh and lively, but visitors should be careful of slippery rocks, stronger currents, and changing water levels after heavy rain. In the dry season, the water level may naturally decrease, but the area remains pleasant for forest walks and quiet relaxation.

 

For photographers, Than Sawan Waterfall offers many natural compositions: a broad curtain of water, layered rocks, emerald pools, large trees, and a lush forest backdrop. Morning and late afternoon are ideal for photography because the light is softer. Visitors who want to photograph the water flow should bring a tripod and move carefully on wet rocks.

 

Than Sawan Waterfall is also a good place for eco-tourism because it is located inside Doi Phu Nang National Park. Visitors should follow park regulations, avoid littering, avoid using soap or shampoo in the stream, and respect wildlife and plants. Responsible travel helps preserve the cleanliness and natural beauty of the waterfall for future visitors.

 

Doi Phu Nang National Park offers more than just Than Sawan Waterfall. Nearby attractions include areas where Thai peafowl may be seen, the large Sompong tree, natural trails, Pha Tang Cave, Kaeng Luang Dinosaur Forest Park, and Wat Tha Fa Tai. Travelers can easily combine the waterfall with other nature and cultural attractions in Chiang Muan District for a half-day or full-day trip.

 

Getting There from Phayao city is possible by private car. Drive toward Chiang Muan District, which takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes depending on road and traffic conditions. Once you arrive at Doi Phu Nang National Park headquarters, continue on foot for about 300 meters to reach the waterfall. The route is suitable for families and travelers who prefer easy access to nature.

 

If starting from Chiang Muan town, the trip is shorter and more convenient. Travelers may stop for food in Chiang Muan before entering the national park or bring drinking water and essential items. Since the waterfall is a natural area rather than a large commercial attraction, preparing basic supplies will make the visit more comfortable.

 

Families traveling with children should supervise them closely near pools, wet rocks, and flowing water. Although Than Sawan Waterfall is accessible and not extremely steep, it is still a natural waterfall area with slippery surfaces and uneven water depths. Visitors should choose only safe areas for water play and avoid climbing on waterfall rocks.

 

Recommended items for a visit include shoes with good grip, outdoor clothing, drinking water, spare clothes, a waterproof bag for phones or cameras, and a bag for taking trash back out of the park. During the rainy season, a light raincoat and updated weather check are also useful.

 

Than Sawan Waterfall is best suited for travelers who enjoy quiet nature rather than busy tourist sites. Most visitors spend around 1–2 hours walking, taking photos, relaxing, or playing in the water. Those who want to enjoy the atmosphere slowly can spend longer by the stream while listening to the sound of the waterfall and forest.

 

For Phayao travel planning, Than Sawan Waterfall adds another layer to the province beyond Phayao Lake and city temples. Chiang Muan District offers forests, mountains, Tai Lue culture, dinosaur fossil sites, and peaceful natural attractions. This makes the waterfall a valuable stop for travelers who want to discover a quieter and more diverse side of Phayao.

 

A well-rounded Chiang Muan itinerary can begin with nature at Doi Phu Nang National Park, continue to Kaeng Luang Dinosaur Forest Park, visit Wat Tha Fa Tai to learn about local Tai Lue culture, and end with a meal in Chiang Muan town. This route combines nature, geology, culture, and local community life in a single trip.

 

The most important part of visiting Than Sawan Waterfall is respecting the natural environment and the park staff who care for it. Keeping the area clean, staying on appropriate paths, avoiding loud noise, and following safety guidance help maintain the waterfall’s beauty and ensure that the site remains enjoyable for future visitors.

 

Than Sawan Waterfall is a highly worthwhile natural destination for anyone exploring Phayao Province. With emerald water, easy access, a peaceful forest setting, and a location inside Doi Phu Nang National Park, it is an excellent stop for families, nature lovers, photographers, and travelers looking for a calm escape in northern Thailand.

 

 

A: Than Sawan Waterfall is located in Doi Phu Nang National Park, Moo 6, Ban Bo Bia, Ban Mang Subdistrict, Chiang Muan District, Phayao Province.

 

A: It is known for its clear emerald-green water, year-round flow, easy access, and peaceful forest setting inside Doi Phu Nang National Park.

 

A: The waterfall is about 300 meters from Doi Phu Nang National Park headquarters and can be reached by a short walk.

 

A: Yes. The waterfall is easy to access and suitable for families, but children should be supervised closely near pools and slippery rocks.

 

A: The late rainy season and cool season are ideal because the forest is green, the weather is pleasant, and the waterfall has a beautiful flow.

 

A: Visitors can play in the water only at safe spots with gentle currents. Avoid deep areas, slippery rocks, and strong water flow after heavy rain.

 

A: Bring shoes with good grip, drinking water, spare clothes, a waterproof bag for phones or cameras, and a bag for taking trash back out of the park.