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Huai Kang Pla Waterfall Forest Park

An off-the-beaten-track waterfall hike in Mae Chan District, ideal for families and nature lovers.

4.3(113)
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Plan your visit

Hours
Daily 08:00–16:30

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Details

Full opening hours
Monday08:00–16:30
Tuesday08:00–16:30
Wednesday08:00–16:30
Thursday08:00–16:30
Friday08:00–16:30
Saturday08:00–16:30
Sunday08:00–16:30

Why go, and how to do it well

Tucked away in Mae Chan District north of Chiang Rai, this forested park centers on a river walk and waterfall that rewards visitors who prefer natural scenery over tourist infrastructure. The hike involves crossing the river several times, making it a genuinely interactive experience rather than a simple stroll, and the shaded forest canopy keeps temperatures comfortable throughout the walk. The waterfall itself is modest in size, but the journey through the woodland is widely considered the main attraction, with a creek reachable within just a few minutes of entering the park for those who prefer a shorter visit.

The park suits a range of visitors, including families with young children, older travelers looking for a gentle riverside walk, and anyone seeking a quieter alternative to the region's more commercialized attractions. The natural setting lends itself to paddling, photography, and unhurried relaxation beside the water.

Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Sep 2026

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Experience hints

Pair your visit. After Huai Kang Pla Waterfall Forest Park, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.

Reviews from Google

Really nice walk! I did the walk with my husband and three children (8,6,3). You have to cross the river a couple of times. The kids really loved it! We read in another review there is a lot of garbage. Therefore we took a garbage bag with us and picked up the trash along the way. Unfortunately one garbage bag was not enough. Please make your pitstop not the last stop for the animals who will die from your trash.

Relaxing Waterfall. No need to go higher, by 3 min walking you would find already a creek. You can enjoy, dip your body inside if you would like to

The waterfall is closed until September 30th 2025 to all tourist activities. there is a big sign which I did not take a picture of, sorry, and a metal barrier red and white blocking the entrance. The road is rough on the way up with evidence of many water overflows and dirt making travel slow. why the government is not telling people the waterfalls are closed here, I do not know!

A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 113 reviews on Google.

3QRJ+494, Mae Chan, Mae Chan District, Chiang Rai 57110, 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.

Check Operator Safety Records

For adventure activities (zip-lining, bungee jumping, diving), check recent reviews specifically mentioning equipment condition and safety briefings. Thailand's regulation varies — reputable operators will have insurance and certified guides.

Huai Kang Pla Waterfall Forest Park: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Huai Kang Pla Waterfall Forest Park worth visiting?

Huai Kang Pla Waterfall Forest Park holds a 4.3★ rating from 113 Google reviews — a strong rating for activities & tours in Chiang Rai.

What are the opening hours of Huai Kang Pla Waterfall Forest Park?

Huai Kang Pla Waterfall Forest Park is typically open 08:00-16:30 — 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 Huai Kang Pla Waterfall Forest Park?

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 Kang Pla Waterfall Forest Park located?

Huai Kang Pla Waterfall Forest Park is at 3QRJ+494, Mae Chan, Mae Chan District, Chiang Rai 57110, Thailand, in Chiang Rai. Getting around Chiang Rai: Grab (available in city center); Songthaews.

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