Tat Thong Waterfall
Located along a rural road in Tambon Mae Chan, Tat Thong Waterfall is a off-the-beaten-path natural site that combines a forested waterfall setting with a nearby Buddhist temple (Wat). The surrounding landscape features dense jungle vegetation and large boulders, giving the area a wild, atmospheric feel that appeals to nature lovers and those seeking quiet away from Chiang Rai's more visited attractions. The adjacent Wat is notably serene and receives strong praise from visitors for its peaceful ambience and beauty, making it a meaningful stop even if the waterfall itself proves elusive.
Visitors should be aware that the waterfall experience can be hit or miss. Reviews suggest it runs at reduced flow outside of the rainy season and may require additional walking to locate. The trail area has also been described as overgrown in places, with large spiders visible along the path at eye level — something to keep in mind for those with sensitivities.
Practically speaking, this site is best visited during or shortly after the rainy season (roughly July to October) when water levels are highest. Navigation to the location can be challenging, as signage is limited and the site sits well off main roads. Downloading offline maps or asking locally for directions before setting out is strongly recommended. Sturdy, closed-toe footwear is advisable given the overgrown trail conditions. There is no website or listed opening hours, so visiting during daylight hours is the safest approach.
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Day trips, skip-the-line entry, and guided experiences around Tat Thong Waterfall — book ahead and skip the on-the-ground markup.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Tat Thong Waterfall, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
This review is for the Wat next to the falls (which we have not seen). Far from any main road or town we found this most peaceful and beautiful Wat. If I was a meditating person this would probably be the place I pick out of so many we saw in many countries.
This waterfall has been sort of abandoned. It's overgrown and there are huge spiders hanging at eye level all over the place. The actual waterfall is also very small. That said, it's a great place to enjoy nature. And spiders.
waterfall is not posible to visit.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 24 reviews on Google.
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Wat Huay Pla Kang
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A working tea estate where the terraced views, the cafe and the winding road up all pull their weight.
Tat Thong Waterfall: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tat Thong Waterfall worth visiting?
Tat Thong Waterfall holds a 4.0★ rating from 24 Google reviews — a strong rating for activities & tours in Chiang Rai.
When is the best time to visit Tat Thong 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 Tat Thong Waterfall located?
Tat Thong Waterfall is at Chiang Rai, 3223 Rural Road, Tambon Mae Chan, Amphoe Mae Chan, Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57110, Thailand, in Chiang Rai. Getting around Chiang Rai: Grab (available in city centre); Songthaews.
Location Info
Chiang Rai, 3223 Rural Road, Tambon Mae Chan, Amphoe Mae Chan, Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57110, ThailandVisitor 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 Tat Thong 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

Pa Tueng Hot Springs
A geothermal park in Mae Chan where a natural geyser shoots mineral-rich water 10 metres into the air.
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 Tat Thong 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)
