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Mae Ya Waterfall

A big multi-tiered cascade in Doi Inthanon country, with pools to swim in and a bit of a climb.

4.8(2,169)
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Plan your visit

Hours
Daily 08:00–18:00

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Details

Full opening hours
Monday08:00–18:00
Tuesday08:00–18:00
Wednesday08:00–18:00
Thursday08:00–18:00
Friday08:00–18:00
Saturday08:00–18:00
Sunday08:00–18:00

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Why go, and how to do it well

Time your visit to the water and this one pays off. The falls drop in tiers through thick forest off Highway 1009 in Chom Thong, with pools forming at the base and at various levels up the cascade, and they run hardest during and just after the rains from May to October. Come in the dry months and you'll still get the forest and the cool air, but the volume drops off noticeably.

It's a moderately active outing rather than a viewpoint you drive up to. Expect walking and some climbing if you want the upper tiers, and expect wet rock the whole way. Wear shoes with real grip. The shade is the other reason to come, because the canopy keeps the heat off in a way that Chiang Mai city, an hour or so north, does not. Bring swimwear if you plan to get in the pools, and water for the exposed stretches of path.

Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Oct 2026

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Experience hints

Visitor favorite

Highway 1009, Ban Luang, Chom Thong, Chiang Mai 50160, Thailand

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Tips for Visiting Activities & Tours

Do Outdoor Activities in the Morning

Heat and humidity peak from noon to 3 PM. Schedule jungle treks, cycling tours, and outdoor cooking classes for early morning. Water activities are more flexible since you're in and out of the sea.

Mae Ya Waterfall: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mae Ya Waterfall worth visiting?

Mae Ya Waterfall holds a 4.8★ rating from 2,169 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated activities & tours in Chiang Mai.

What are the opening hours of Mae Ya Waterfall?

Mae Ya Waterfall is typically open 08:00–18:00 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.

When is the best time to visit Mae Ya Waterfall?

The best months to visit Chiang Mai are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – January & Songkran (April) — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: Mid-February – April (smoke & heat).

Where is Mae Ya Waterfall located?

Mae Ya Waterfall is at Highway 1009, Ban Luang, Chom Thong, Chiang Mai 50160, Thailand, in Chiang Mai. Getting around Chiang Mai: Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks); Grab (available in city center).

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