Huai Chomphu Waterfall
Huai Chomphu Waterfall is a secluded natural attraction in Tambon Huai Chomphu, on the outskirts of Chiang Rai, offering an impressive waterfall experience well away from the usual tourist trail. The site sees very few visitors, giving it a quiet, unspoiled atmosphere that rewards those willing to make the effort to reach it.
Getting there is part of the challenge. The access road is rough and unpaved, and regular cars cannot complete the journey — visitors without a capable off-road vehicle should plan to hire a local four-wheel-drive to reach the trailhead. From there, motorbikes can continue for a short distance before the path becomes too steep to ride, leaving a walk of roughly 600 metres to the falls. That final stretch is notably steep and can be slippery, so the total hike of around two to two-and-a-half kilometres should not be underestimated.
Book tours & tickets in Chiang Rai
Day trips, skip-the-line entry, and guided experiences around Huai Chomphu Waterfall — book ahead and skip the on-the-ground markup.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Huai Chomphu Waterfall, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Led here by some friendly local motorcyclists you can ride to within 600m of the waterfalls but that last 600m is a very steep walk
I recently had the chance to visit Huai Chomphu Waterfall (น้ำตกห้วยชมภู), and it was truly a refreshing and memorable experience. I would honestly give it 4 stars out of 5, because while there’s always room for small improvements, the natural beauty and atmosphere here make it a place worth visiting at least once if you are in Chiang Rai or nearby. The first thing that stood out to me was the peaceful and clean environment. Unlike some touristy spots, Huai Chomphu has a calm, almost hidden charm. The sound of water flowing down the rocks immediately gives you a sense of relaxation, and the surrounding greenery adds to the feeling that you’ve stepped into a natural sanctuary. It’s an excellent place for anyone who wants to disconnect from the busyness of city life and just breathe fresh air. The waterfall itself is not extremely large, but that’s part of its beauty. Its gentle flow makes it safe and family-friendly, and you can easily sit near the water or dip your feet in without worry. The water is cool, clean, and refreshing, especially on a hot day. There are plenty of shady spots where you can sit down, have a snack, and just listen to nature. What I really appreciated was how accessible it is. The path to the waterfall is manageable and not too exhausting, so even if you are not used to trekking, you can still enjoy the trip. Along the way, you get to see the surrounding forest, which makes the walk itself part of the adventure. I think Huai Chomphu Waterfall is ideal for people who love photography, relaxation, or just spending quiet moments in nature. The place is not overcrowded, which gives it a very authentic feeling. With a little more signage and maintenance, it could easily be a perfect 5-star spot. Still, I absolutely recommend it and would be happy to return again.
The access road is very poor and not yet developed. It’s impossible to drive a regular car all the way in; we had to turn back halfway. You need to hire a local four-wheel-drive vehicle to get there.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 47 reviews on Google.
Also Popular in Chiang Rai
Rong Suea Ten Temple
Free to enter, electric blue from floor to ceiling, and quieter first thing in the morning.
Wat Rong Khun
All white plaster and mirror glass, dazzling in the sun, and packed with people from the moment it opens.
Wat Huay Pla Kang
A 79-metre Guan Yin you can climb inside, plus a nine-storey pagoda and hilltop views, all free to enter.
Choui Fong Tea Plantation
A working tea estate where the terraced views, the cafe and the winding road up all pull their weight.
Huai Chomphu Waterfall: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Huai Chomphu Waterfall worth visiting?
Huai Chomphu Waterfall holds a 4.6★ rating from 47 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated activities & tours in Chiang Rai.
When is the best time to visit Huai Chomphu Waterfall?
The best months to visit Chiang Rai are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – February — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: March – May (smoke & heat).
Where is Huai Chomphu Waterfall located?
Huai Chomphu Waterfall is at RH6R+355 บ้านห้วยส้าน Tambon Huai Chomphu, เมือง Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand, in Chiang Rai. Getting around Chiang Rai: Grab (available in city centre); Songthaews.
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – September
Avg. temperature
14°C – 35°C(57°F – 95°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Mae Fah Luang Airport (CEI) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). The bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. There's also a scenic Golden Triangle road trip from Chiang Mai.
Getting around
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Songthaews
- •Motorbike rental (฿200/day)
- •Car hire (for Golden Triangle & hill tribes)
Where to stay near Huai Chomphu Waterfall
Find hotels in Chiang Rai 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.
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.
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 Huai Chomphu Waterfall
Find hotels in Chiang Rai 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 – September
Avg. temperature
14°C – 35°C(57°F – 95°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Mae Fah Luang Airport (CEI) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). The bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. There's also a scenic Golden Triangle road trip from Chiang Mai.
Getting around
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Songthaews
- •Motorbike rental (฿200/day)
- •Car hire (for Golden Triangle & hill tribes)