Erawan Falls: How to make the most of this iconic national park

Erawan National Park is best known for its seven-tiered waterfalls. Busy but easy to access, it's a beautiful nature excursion—provided you plan ahead.

Here I'm tackling a true classic of the region. And it was about time: the last time I really talked about it was... in 2010. Since then, my presentation and writing style has changed radically, and so has the site. I also briefly mentioned Erawan in my article on the must-sees of Kanchanaburi, but this time, I'm offering you a complete guide: how to visit the falls in good conditions, avoid the crowds, and identify the levels not to be missed — especially if you don't have the time (or the desire) to do everything.

Introduction to Erawan National Park

Erawan National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติเขาเอราวัณ) is located in Kanchanaburi Province, about 70 km northwest of Kanchanaburi City and just under 200 km from Bangkok. Thanks to the new highway, the journey from the capital can be completed in just under 3 hours—which is still reasonable, but not insignificant if you plan on making the round trip in a day.

Because even though it's a popular excursion from Bangkok, you still have to understand that it involves spending 6 hours on the road to visit a single attraction (well, two if you count the bridge, which you usually see on the way)... It's especially a shame to come this far without exploring the rest of the region, which has much more to offer than just the falls. Kanchanaburi is not lacking in interest between its history, its lakes, its mountainous landscapes and the natural areas along the River Kwai.

Erawan National Park itself covers an area of over 500 square kilometers, blending forests, limestone mountains, and rivers. Its main attraction, of course, remains the famous seven-tiered waterfalls, whose turquoise pools attract both Thai and foreign visitors. Their name comes from Erawan, the mythological three-headed elephant (also known to Hindus as Airavata, the mount of the god Indra), which the last waterfall is said to evoke.

Also to note : The park is located not far from the Srinagarind Dam, which forms a vast artificial lake and is another attraction of the region. Less known to passing travelers, the area is nevertheless worth a visit, even if it's just for a walk or a night in a floating house.

Hike to the 7 levels of waterfalls

Upon arriving at the parking lot, you'll find something to eat if you want a snack or a drink before setting off on your hike. Before accessing the trail, you'll pass by the counter to pay the national park entrance fee. For those who have difficulty walking, a shuttle system (golf cart type) is available for an additional fee to save you the first section up to Level 1.

For others, the trail crosses the forest. From there, it's about 2 km to reach the 7th and final level, including the 500 m that separates the parking lot from the first waterfall. Allow at least 2 hours for the round trip, especially since it's quite steep from the 3rd level onwards.

This is what awaits you.

In summary, the first levels pose no difficulty of access: wide, concrete paths, perfectly adapted to all audiences. Then, the terrain becomes more irregular, with series of stairs, a rough path that winds between roots and rocks… Nothing insurmountable, but it is better to have good shoes. That said, recent developments have significantly simplified progression: many more technical sections are now equipped with wooden platforms, and even reaching the 7th level remains an easy task (whereas before, you had to earn the climb a little more).

To give a point of comparison (I like before/afters), here are two images placed side by side: on the left, a portion of the climb before the work (image taken from Google Maps); on the right, a recently developed area with a wooden platform, like those found in many places today. It's not exactly the same spot, but it gives a good idea of the evolution - you can see that at the time, there was simply... nothing.

Level 1 and 2

The first two levels, easily accessible and less restrictive, are also the most popular in the park—especially for Thai groups. Wooden tables are set up in the shade of the trees and often serve as picnic areas. Families come here to cool off, especially on weekends and during the hot summer days (between March and mid-May).

Concretely, the 1st level, “ Lai Kung Rang", is so discreet that many hardly notice it. However, there are two small, shallow pools, perfect for splashing around with young children.

The second level, on the other hand, is much more visible. Wang Mat Cha", its little name, is already more photogenic, with a large turquoise natural pool. It's the only one well exposed to the sun, deeper... and full of fish! This is often where families stop to swim.

This is also where you'll find the park's main amenities: showers, restrooms, and a seating and dining area. The advantage is that many visitors are happy with this—and from the third level onward, the walk immediately becomes more peaceful.

From level 3 to level 5

After the Level 2 checkpoint, where your entry tickets will be checked (and if you are in this case, your plastic bottles can be kept in lockers), you will have a first series of steps leading to the next level. The atmosphere immediately becomes wilder but the path remains easy to follow.

A small bridge spans the stream, giving you the opportunity to see an intermediate waterfall – some are not included in the levels, so we have what we could call level 2,5 here. Waterfall 3, " Pha Nam Tok » is only 10 minutes away from the previous one. It deviates slightly from the main path. Don't worry, you don't even have to go 50 meters from the bridge to reach this waterfall.

Personally, I find it one of the most photogenic in the park. The waterfall tumbles down the slope in one go from a great height, creating a beautiful natural shower for anyone who approaches its foot. Generally speaking, it's the entire section between waterfalls #3 and #5 that is visually the most interesting.

To resume the climb, return to the bridge and continue right along the concrete path. Shortly after, you will come across a fairly steep staircase, which requires some effort; it is practically the most difficult section of the entire route.

At the top, you will be rewarded with a view of the mountain facing the national park, all covered in bamboo. Here again, I put two comparison photos for you to see the difference in colors and rendering depending on the season:

Shortly after, we reach the 4th level, " Ok Nang Phee Sue". The waterfall spreads over two blocks of limestone rock, in the middle of the forest. Here again, a small pool awaits you for swimming, although the latter is of a more modest size and a little more risky to reach from the path.

The advantage is that there are generally slightly fewer people stopping at this last one. In the past, this level was appreciated for its natural slide. Observing the fall, you can see a smooth part in the middle of each rock, which was used to jump into the water. Since then, this activity is no longer possible and you will have to be content with a simple splash in the pool.

Level 4.

Continuing the climb, we pass another small series of intermediate waterfalls, which I would call "level 4.5", at the height of a small intermediate bridge. After a few steps and a small descent, the trail follows the stream as closely as possible. It is in this area that we are most likely to come across monkeys: macaques who sometimes come to drink or bask in the area.

A little further on, we cross the stream again via another recently rebuilt bridge. We pass some beautiful tree trunks, and the soft light makes the place particularly photogenic. What follows is even better: after an easy passage along a wooden platform, we arrive, after about twenty minutes, at waterfall No. 5—one of the most beautiful in the park.

The 5th level, " Buar Mai Long", is a bit of a departure. It's not a distinct waterfall like the previous ones, but rather a collection of small natural pools and a larger one, connected by mini-cascades. The whole thing winds through rocks and tree roots, in a calm atmosphere (on a good day). The place is more spread out, with several areas suitable for swimming in clear water, and a setting that deserves to be lingered over a little.

Aside on “local fauna”

Between two waterfalls, you'll sometimes come across some of the park's more discreet inhabitants. Monkeys can appear between the 4th and 5th falls, especially at the beginning or end of the day. You'll also often come across lizards of all sizes, including the famous monitor lizard, common throughout Thailand. If you take the time to observe, there are always a few colorful birds or butterflies in the quieter areas.

Levels 6 and 7

We're nearing the end. Previously, it was a bit of a scramble from here on out. There were a few wooden ladders, the remains of which are still visible, but you had to make your own way up, even if it meant getting your feet a little wet due to the lack of a suitable platform.

But that was then. Now, the route is marked and raised wooden walkways have been installed on the most chaotic sections. That said, not everything is perfectly smooth either: some sections remain quite steep, with roots and rocks to climb over, hence the importance of having good footwear.

Once you reach the next level, you have to deviate slightly from the main route, but access has been greatly facilitated (I weigh my words carefully, it's so incomparable with before). In the past, without a sign to indicate it, many people would miss it. And for good reason: you had to get your feet wet to cross the pools, just to catch a glimpse of the waterfall—or rather, the series of falls that make up "Dong Pruk Sa."

Level 6 is arguably the most confusing of all. It's not a clean or spectacular drop like some of the previous ones, but rather a series of small drops, pools, and streams of water that wind between rocks and roots. It flows everywhere, without you really knowing where the waterfall begins and ends.

The place isn't unpleasant, though: there's a bit of a wild, untidy side to it, with a few pools of clear water and fallen tree trunks here and there. But clearly, this isn't where you'll be taking out your camera for the "big picture."

During this passage, the clearly visible traces left by a major storm the previous year were obvious. Several trees had been uprooted, opening up a wide view of the area, which was once much more surrounded by vegetation. The contrast is striking when you've been to the area before.

Before/after, it looks like this:

As for the small wooden bridge that we cross here to reach the viewpoint over this waterfall, it is part of the infrastructure added recently, as elsewhere on the route.

Another 10 minutes of effort and a short passage over the stream—without a bridge this time, be careful not to slip—and you're at the 7th and final level. Upon arrival, a symbolic sign welcomes you: "You are the conqueror."

This final waterfall, called " Phu Pha Erawan » (which gives the park its name), is nestled at the foot of a limestone cliff. It is the highest of all in terms of vertical drop, with water flowing in several streams over the rock covered with grass and moss in places.

Two separate pools are visible, but one is too shallow for swimming. As a result, everyone crowds into the other, which quickly limits the space. And paradoxically, while it's the furthest level, it's also one of the busiest (along with the second), probably because it represents a kind of "reward" for those who make it to the end—and also (especially) because access has become easier.

On the side, a small waterfall flows when the flow allows it, and allows you to have an overview of the level. Be careful when going there: the rock can be very slippery in places (I almost fell over there and scratched myself badly, not holding on to the tree that was fortunately there...)

Please note: If the national park closes around 17 p.m., access to this last level is cut off from 15:30 p.m. A ranger on site then begins to bring visitors back down.

Practical tips for visiting Erawan

• • Hours: 8h à 16h30 (accès au 7e niveau fermé à partir de 15h30)
  • Price: 300 ฿ pour les étrangers, 150 ฿ pour les enfants
  • Car park : 20 ฿ (moto), 30 ฿ (voiture)
  • Provide : swimsuit + towel (if you plan to swim), waterproof bag, non-slip shoes, mosquito repellent
  • Rules : No plastic after the 2nd level. Life jackets are required if you plan to swim.
  • Ideal period: de novembre à février (éviter les week-ends et grandes vacances d’été entre fin mars et début mai)

➤ And to see the difference in water levels depending on the season, here is a little comparison between November and March:

How to get to Erawan Falls

Erawan National Park can be reached by local transport, organized tours, or on your own. Depending on your time and budget, here are the main options for getting there:

By local bus from Kanchanaburi

C’est l’option la plus économique. Des bus bleus partent environ toutes les heures depuis la gare routière de Kanchanaburi. Le trajet dure 1h30 et coûte 50 ฿ par personne. Le terminus se trouve directement à l’entrée du parc.

➡️ Convenient but not very flexible: it's best to leave early. Also note that these are old buses without air conditioning, so fortunately the journey is quite short...

The local bus Kanchanaburi – Erawan.

By scooter or by rental car

This remains a popular mode of transportation in Thailand, ideal if you want to manage your timing or avoid peak hours. The road is easy and in good condition. Allow 1 to 1 hour 15 minutes from the city center.

• Location scooter : ~200 à 300 ฿/jour
• Location voiture : ~1000 ฿/jour (hors essence)

⚠️ I can only remind you of the rules of caution: wearing a helmet is mandatory, international driving licence is strongly recommended, and avoid this type of outing without a minimum of experience on two wheels. I refer you to my article about driving in Thailand.

From Bangkok

Il faut compter environ 3h de route depuis Bangkok. Des minibus partent du terminal sud (Southern Bus Terminal / Sai Tai Mai), ou depuis Mo Chit. Tarif indicatif : 150 à 200 ฿ pour Bangkok → Kanchanaburi en minivan.

Day trips also exist, but they are very condensed—often combined with other tourist stops like the Bridge on the River Kwai.

➡️ The ideal is to sleep in Kanchanaburi the night before to enjoy the falls without rushing.

Can we sleep in the park?

Yes, it's possible—and quite convenient if you want to fully enjoy the falls as soon as the park opens.

• Camping / Camper : vous pouvez venir avec votre propre équipement moyennant 30 ฿ par nuit. Si vous préférez le confort d’un matelas, ou pas vous encombrer en équipement, vous pouvez louer un kit (tente, matelas, sac de couchage et oreiller) pour environ 150 ฿ par nuit.
• Park Bungalows (via DNP) : they cost between 800 et 5 000 ฿, depending on the size and option chosen. A reduction of 20% is applied from Monday to Thursday.
  The ideal is to book directly on the website DNP, from Thailand. The site does not allow bookings from abroad, and in any case, you cannot book more than 60 days in advance.
  The process is explained here, but everything is in English… and it’s frankly not the smoothest process.

Otherwise, sleeping in Kanchanaburi remains the easiest option. There is a wide choice of accommodation at all prices:

- in the city, around the night market and the train station,
- on the banks of the River Kwai, whether in the center or in a more natural setting, along the road leading to the park, for those who want to be close to the entrance without being too far from the city.

Example of a floating hotel along the River Kwai, near Erawan National Park.

Other ideas for visits around Erawan

If you have some time on your hands, here are some suggestions for places to combine with a visit to Erawan Falls—either on the way there or in the immediate vicinity:

• The Bridge on the River Kwai (Kanchanaburi)
  A must-see if you haven't yet visited this symbol of the city. It can be used as a stopover on the return journey.
• The Hellfire Pass Museum
  A place steeped in history, on the old railway line built during the Second World War. A powerful visit, which can easily be combined if you have a vehicle.
  ➡️ I detail these two visits (the bridge and the museum) in This article is dedicated to the Death Railway.
• Boat trip
  Whether from the bridge or on Lake Srinagarind, the region offers several boat rides in a peaceful setting. A nice option to extend your nature getaway, in addition to floating accommodations.
• Prasat Muang Sing
  A historic site including a small Khmer temple that many people are unaware of.
• Wat Tham Suea
  An impressive temple, a veritable complex perched on top of a hill, a few kilometers from the city.
  ➡️ For more information and other suggestions: my full article here.
• Wat Tham Phu Wa and its caves
  An original temple with an underground sanctuary carved into the rock, often overlooked by traditional tours.

And if you need a quick overview to help you make your choices, I refer you to my more general article: 6 places to visit in Kanchanaburi between history and nature.

Bottom line: is it worth it?

Yes, as long as you avoid peak times. Even though it's touristy, it's still a pleasant, well-maintained natural site, perfect for an easy day out. The turquoise water, the fish, the walk in the forest... it's a lovely break. And if you arrive early, take your time, and target your skill levels, it's even better.

Travelers seeking a more tranquil, but equally impressive, setting can also turn to the waterfalls of Huai Mae Khamin (article to come), 43 km to the northeast, in the Sri Nakharin Dam Park. On weekdays, you barely see a handful of visitors.