Huai Kaeo Waterfall
Tucked within Lam Nam Kok National Park in Tambon Doi Hang, this natural attraction draws visitors with its twin waterfall, lush forest setting, and well-worn walking paths connected by small bridges. The hike to reach the falls is short but involves some steep sections, making it manageable for most adults and older children while still feeling like a genuine outdoor adventure rather than a manicured tourist site. Entry is free, and the surrounding greenery and sound of cascading water make it a genuinely peaceful retreat from Chiang Rai's busier attractions.
Visitors can extend the experience by taking the loop trail that passes through a nearby Akha village, adding cultural interest to what is otherwise a nature-focused outing. The drive to the waterfall, particularly by motorbike, is widely praised as a highlight in itself, winding through attractive northern Thai countryside. The site can draw a steady flow of visitors during peak hours, though arriving later in the afternoon offers a quieter experience.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Huai Kaeo Waterfall, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Huai Kaeo Waterfall is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit. The nature around the waterfall is lush and green, and the walking paths and small bridges make it easy to explore. It’s a great spot for a short hike and to enjoy fresh air. Perfect if you want to relax and escape the city for a while.
Nice short hike, doable with older kids (7+). We parked at the (closed) waterfall café, hiked straight up, then did the loop that goes back through the Akha village. No guide, just All Trails. The second tier, you can get into the water.
Nice and short hike up to a twin waterfall. There were some steep parts that might be hard for younger children, but overall a nice hike. But unless you are staying at a place very far from Chiang Rai, the drive is 20+ minutes to get to. If the waterfall was closer it would probably be 5 stars.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 323 reviews on Google.
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Huai Kaeo Waterfall: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Huai Kaeo Waterfall worth visiting?
Huai Kaeo Waterfall holds a 4.5★ rating from 323 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated activities & tours in Chiang Rai.
What are the opening hours of Huai Kaeo Waterfall?
Huai Kaeo Waterfall is open 24 hours a day — 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 Huai Kaeo 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 Kaeo Waterfall located?
Huai Kaeo Waterfall is at 97, 9, Tambon Doi Hang, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Rai, Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand, in Chiang Rai. Getting around Chiang Rai: Grab (available in city centre); Songthaews.
Location Info
97, 9, Tambon Doi Hang, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Rai, Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand086 118 8668www.akhahill.com/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 Kaeo Waterfall
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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
Lam Nam Kok National Park
A free, peaceful national park near Chiang Rai featuring riverside trails, hot springs, and camping along the Kok River.
Huai Mak Liam Hot Spring
A free natural hot spring tucked inside a national park near Chiang Rai, with bubbling pools and riverside shade.
Ruammit Elephant Camp
An elephant camp near Chiang Rai where visitors can interact with elephants, though reviews raise welfare concerns.
Elephant Family Chiang Rai
An ethical elephant sanctuary experience near Chiang Rai offering close encounters with rescued elephants.
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 Kaeo 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)