Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall Khao Yai is one of the most beautiful rainforest waterfalls in Khao Yai National Park, offering visitors a rewarding combination of nature, hiking, and birdwatching. Located near the Pha Kluai Mai Campground, the waterfall can be reached via a scenic waterfall trail that passes through evergreen forest, bamboo groves, and flowing streams. The trail is approximately 3 km (one way) from the Visitor Center area and is considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for most visitors. If you’re searching for a peaceful hiking route with outstanding opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife photography, and lush jungle scenery, Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall Khao Yai is one of the park’s must-visit attractions.
Why Visit Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall Khao Yai?
While Haew Narok and Haew Suwat attract the largest crowds, Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall Khao Yai offers a quieter and more immersive rainforest experience.
The trail itself is part of the attraction. Along the way, you’ll walk beneath towering trees, cross wooden bridges, hear the songs of tropical birds, and occasionally spot butterflies, squirrels, hornbills, and even gibbons high in the forest canopy.
Unlike viewpoints or roadside waterfalls, this destination rewards visitors who enjoy exploring nature at a slower pace.
Highlights
- Beautiful waterfall trail through tropical rainforest
- One of the best locations for birdwatching in Khao Yai
- Peaceful atmosphere with fewer visitors
- Easy to moderate hike suitable for most travelers
- Excellent rainforest photography opportunities
- Close to Pha Kluai Mai Campground
- Rich biodiversity throughout the year
About Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall
Named after the wild orchid known as “Pha Kluai Mai” (Cliff Orchid), the waterfall is surrounded by lush evergreen forest that bursts into life during the rainy season.
The waterfall features several small cascades flowing over natural rock formations before joining a forest stream below. While it isn’t the tallest waterfall in the park, its peaceful surroundings and scenic trail make it one of the most rewarding destinations for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
The combination of flowing water, dense forest, and abundant wildlife creates a relaxing atmosphere that feels far removed from the busier tourist areas of Khao Yai National Park.
How to Get There
Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall Khao Yai is located inside Khao Yai National Park near the Pha Kluai Mai Campground.
From Bangkok
- Distance: Approximately 180 km
- Driving Time: Around 3 hours
Enter the park through the Pak Chong (Thanarat Road) entrance and continue to the Visitor Center. From there, drive to the Pha Kluai Mai Campground or the designated trailhead.
Parking is available nearby before beginning the hike.
Difficulty & Trail Length
The Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall Trail is suitable for beginners with a reasonable level of fitness.
Trail Information
- Distance: Approximately 3 km (one way)
- Walking Time: 1–1.5 hours
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Trail Type: Forest trail with wooden bridges, natural paths, and gentle slopes
The trail is suitable for:
- Families with older children
- Beginner hikers
- Birdwatchers
- Photographers
- Nature lovers
Wear hiking shoes with good grip, particularly during the rainy season.
Best Time to Visit
The waterfall and surrounding rainforest are beautiful year-round, but each season offers a unique experience.
June – October (Rainy Season)
The best time to visit for dramatic scenery.
Advantages:
- Strong waterfall flow
- Lush green forest
- Active birdlife
- Cooler temperatures
- Misty rainforest atmosphere
November – February (Cool Season)
The most comfortable hiking season.
Benefits include:
- Pleasant weather
- Clear forest trails
- Comfortable temperatures
- Excellent birdwatching
March – May (Hot Season)
Although the waterfall flow may decrease, the shaded forest trail remains enjoyable.
Bring plenty of drinking water during warmer months.
Birdwatching Along the Trail
One of the biggest reasons to visit Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall Khao Yai is its reputation as an excellent birdwatching destination.
Common species include:
- Great Hornbill
- Oriental Pied Hornbill
- Blue-winged Pitta
- Scarlet Minivet
- Asian Fairy Bluebird
- Broadbills
- Drongos
- Kingfishers
- Woodpeckers
- Leafbirds
Early morning is the best time to observe bird activity.
Bringing binoculars will significantly enhance your experience.
Wildlife You May Encounter
Besides birds, the forest surrounding Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall supports a wide variety of wildlife.
Possible sightings include:
- White-handed gibbons
- Long-tailed macaques
- Sambar deer
- Barking deer
- Giant squirrels
- Butterflies
- Monitor lizards
- Tree frogs
Because these animals are wild, every visit offers a unique experience.
Entrance Fee & Park Rules
Access to Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall is included with the standard Khao Yai National Park entrance ticket.
Visitors should follow these guidelines:
- Stay on marked trails.
- Do not feed wildlife.
- Carry out all rubbish.
- Avoid loud noises.
- Do not pick flowers or plants.
- Respect all park regulations.
These simple practices help preserve the forest ecosystem.
What to Bring
Recommended items include:
- Hiking shoes
- Drinking water
- Hat
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Rain jacket during wet season
- Small backpack
Optional:
- Telephoto lens
- Bird identification guide
- Trekking poles
Photography Tips
The combination of rainforest scenery and flowing water makes Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall Khao Yai a fantastic photography location.
For the best results:
- Visit after rainfall for stronger water flow.
- Use a tripod for silky waterfall effects.
- Photograph early in the morning for softer light.
- Capture birds with a telephoto lens.
- Include forest vegetation for natural framing.
The surrounding rainforest provides beautiful opportunities for landscape and macro photography.
Tips from Our Visit
During our visit, the trail to Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall Khao Yai felt just as rewarding as the waterfall itself. We started early in the morning when the forest was cool and filled with birdsong. Along the way, we spotted several hornbills flying overhead and colorful butterflies resting near the streams.
One of the highlights was arriving at the waterfall before other visitors. Sitting quietly beside the cascading water while listening to the sounds of the rainforest made the experience incredibly peaceful.
If you’re interested in birdwatching, plan to begin your hike shortly after sunrise and bring binoculars—you’ll have a much better chance of spotting wildlife before the trail becomes busy.
Nearby Attractions
Combine your visit with these nearby attractions:
- Pha Kluai Mai Campground
- Haew Suwat Waterfall
- Kong Kaeo Waterfall
- Khao Yai Hiking Trails
- Nong Pak Chi Observation Tower
- Khao Yai Visitor Center
- Khao Yai Night Safari
- Pha Trom Jai Khao Yai
Together, these attractions create an unforgettable nature itinerary within Khao Yai National Park.
Conclusion
Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall Khao Yai is more than just a waterfall—it’s a complete rainforest experience. The scenic waterfall trail, abundant opportunities for birdwatching, and peaceful natural surroundings make it one of the park’s hidden gems. Whether you’re a photographer, hiker, bird enthusiast, or simply someone looking to escape into nature, this trail offers one of the most rewarding outdoor experiences in Khao Yai National Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall?
It is located inside Khao Yai National Park near Pha Kluai Mai Campground.
How long is the waterfall trail?
The trail is approximately 3 km one way and takes about 1–1.5 hours to complete.
Is the trail difficult?
No. It is considered easy to moderate and suitable for most visitors with average fitness.
Is Pha Kluai Mai good for birdwatching?
Yes. It is one of the best birdwatching locations in Khao Yai National Park thanks to its rich rainforest habitat.
What is the best season to visit?
The rainy season offers the most impressive waterfall, while the cool season provides the most comfortable hiking weather.
Can beginners hike this trail?
Absolutely. The route is well-maintained and suitable for beginner hikers.
Do I need binoculars?
Binoculars are highly recommended for birdwatching and observing wildlife along the trail.
Is Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall worth visiting?
Definitely. Its combination of rainforest hiking, peaceful scenery, wildlife, and birdwatching makes Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall Khao Yai one of the park’s most rewarding attractions.