Montha Than Waterfall Trailhead
Situated in the forested hills of the Suthep area, this trailhead marks the starting point for one of Chiang Mai's more accessible nature hikes, drawing day-trippers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the city without travelling far. The trail winds through dense northern Thai forest before arriving at Montha Than Waterfall, offering a satisfying combination of light exercise, shade, and natural scenery within easy reach of the city centre.
Hikers can expect a moderate trail experience characterised by lush vegetation, cool forest air, and a quieter atmosphere compared to more heavily visited attractions in the region. The waterfall itself serves as the main reward — a cascading feature set among greenery that makes for a natural rest point and a worthwhile photo stop. The surroundings feel genuinely removed from urban Chiang Mai, which adds to the appeal for those seeking a brief retreat into nature.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Montha Than Waterfall Trailhead, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
Also Popular in Chiang Mai
Doi Suthep Temple
Go at first light, before the tour vans arrive, and the golden chedi and the whole Chiang Mai valley are yours.
Tha Phae Gate
Free, open all hours, and best after dark when the brick gate is lit and the square fills up.
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Get there around 7pm, before the crowds land, and browse the whole stretch before you buy anything.
Wat Phra That Doi Kham
Free hilltop temple where the crowd is mostly Thai worshippers, and the giant white-and-gold Buddha is visible for miles.
Montha Than Waterfall Trailhead: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Montha Than Waterfall Trailhead worth visiting?
Montha Than Waterfall Trailhead holds a 4.5★ rating from 346 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated activities & tours in Chiang Mai.
What are the opening hours of Montha Than Waterfall Trailhead?
Montha Than Waterfall Trailhead is typically open 08:30-16:30 — 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 Montha Than Waterfall Trailhead?
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: March – May (smoke & heat).
Where is Montha Than Waterfall Trailhead located?
Montha Than Waterfall Trailhead is at RW8F+PJ9, Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand, in Chiang Mai. Getting around Chiang Mai: Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks); Grab (available in city centre).
Location Info
RW8F+PJ9, Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, ThailandVisitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – October
Avg. temperature
15°C – 36°C(59°F – 97°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January & Songkran (April)
Getting there
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) has direct flights from Bangkok (1 hr), Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Overnight sleeper trains from Bangkok take ~12 hrs.
Getting around
- •Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks)
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Motorbike rental (฿150–250/day)
- •Tuk-tuks (negotiate price first)
Where to stay near Montha Than Waterfall Trailhead
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Tips for Visiting Activities & Tours
Vet Elephant Sanctuaries
Only visit sanctuaries that prohibit riding, use no chains or bullhooks, and let elephants roam freely. Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai set the standard. If a place offers painting shows or circus tricks, walk away.
Book Popular Activities Online
Booking platforms like GetYourGuide give you instant confirmation and, on many activities, free cancellation — and you can read recent reviews before committing. Compare with local agencies for multi-day trips where negotiation might save more.
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.
Nearby Places
Montha Than Waterfall Visitor Centre
A scenic waterfall park near Chiang Mai with a 1.6km loop trail and a longer 2-hour nature hike.
Doi Suthep-Pui National Park
The temple gets the crowds, but the trails and waterfalls further in are where the mountain gets quiet.
Viewpoint
A roadside viewpoint on Highway 1004 offering scenic views in the hills outside Chiang Mai.
Wang Bua Ban Pha Ngoep
Outdoor activity and tour operator on Huay Kaew Road, well-placed for exploring Chiang Mai's natural surroundings.
Similar Activities & Tours Across Thailand
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket
No rides, no shows, just feeding, mud and washing rescued elephants in the Kathu jungle.
Safari World
A full day out east of the city, and the shows are what people remember most.
Nongnooch Pattaya Garden
Half a day minimum, 500 acres of themed gardens and dinosaurs, and you'll want to be there by 8am.
Lumphini Park
Bangkok's green lung, free to enter, and full of water monitor lizards the size of your leg.
Where to stay near Montha Than Waterfall Trailhead
Find hotels in Chiang Mai on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – October
Avg. temperature
15°C – 36°C(59°F – 97°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January & Songkran (April)
Getting there
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) has direct flights from Bangkok (1 hr), Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Overnight sleeper trains from Bangkok take ~12 hrs.
Getting around
- •Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks)
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Motorbike rental (฿150–250/day)
- •Tuk-tuks (negotiate price first)