PALA U WATERFALLS

Pa La-U Waterfall sits in Kaeng Krachan National Park within an hour drive from nearby Hua Hin (65km), away from the main park area. Unlike the rest of the park, it stays open during the wet season when it flows at its fullest, making it especially popular with day trippers from Hua Hin.

The name “Pa Lau Waterfall” is derived from the word “La-U” in Karen language, which means “bamboo” because the park is filled with bamboo. You can view the various levels along a walking trail, which, although not difficult, includes some rough spots. Butterflies can be seen if you visit the waterfalls and national park from April to July.

The waterfall has 16 tiers or levels, to which the hike only possible through the first 5 in Thai side, the rest lie on the Myanmar (Burma) side. To hike up the Pa La U, you’ll need at least 2 hours, remember to take enough water since it gets hot and humid. The climb can be quite challenging at some points, and you will need to cross a rapid by stepping on stones, so sturdy shoes are essential.

Besides, the trekking through the jungles at Kaeng Kracha National park features a key role in creating the stunning landscapes for the Pa La-U Waterfall. These jungles have existed for over 1,000 years, so they boast enormous diversity in biology of the area.

Top Things to do in Pala-U Waterfall

Breathe in the middle of nature, explore dense beauty and relax at the cool waterfall, these are the few main reasons to take a day trip from Hoa Hin to trek through the national park to visit Pa La-U Waterfall. In addition to some rest things to do, there is a jaw-dropping view plus seeing sheer number of butterflies and a big community of carb fishes in the river leading to the waterfall.

Great sights & a good hike

Top things do in Pala-U Waterfall and nearby attractions – Walking down the road to the waterfall is very slippery due to moss which is extends for about 300 meters, but beyond that, you have to climb over rocks to go further. Accessing level 5 is very challenging, but possible if you have proper hiking shoes and or a bit of hiking experience. There are locals selling food to feed the fishes, which is really cool.

Being in the middle of nature within an hour ride from the sea-side town of Hua Hin – Being among the highest waterfalls in Thailand, Pa La-U Waterfall featuring 16 levels. When you reach the top of the waterfall enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the park and surrounding jungles.

Many only reach the first 5th level, as hiking up it become more challenging from the 6th level onward. For a more adventurous experience, climb further to the top and be rewarded with stunning scenery. Each level of Pa La-U Waterfall offers beautiful scenery for you to enjoy and photograph. Be prepared for a lot of climbing, and watch out for slippery rocks along the path.

Stunning waterfalls for swimming

The Pala-U waterfall has 16 levels to hike up to the peak, the third stage itself has a large, deep pool that most visitors will hike their way to swim here & enjoy the swimming in cold freshwater surrounded by jungles. The water is always cool and refreshing and there are plenty of large fish swimming, catching fishes is illegal by the National Park authorities.

The falls can be visited at any time of the year, but will be in their prime right after the rainy season, sometimes between July to November. The hike up to the third level is quite safe, however, climbing to the higher levels required special attention due to the slippery nature of the rocks covered by moss.

Nature trail & explore the amazing jungle

Pa La-U waterfall nature trail follows a 2km hike through the jungle and toward the fall itself that provides a chance to explore many fascinating spots of nature. As you hike through the jungle, you might encounter unusual plants or see animals you’ve never seen before. You’ll find an abundance of butterflies, birds, and monkeys, making it a great opportunity to explore their habitat. However, be cautious not to disturb or scare them. Enjoy the sights and consider taking some pictures.

The entire trek has different difficulty level trails and go from level 1 (lowest) to level 22 (highest point of the waterfall).

Here is the nature trail map to follow:

Pala U Waterfall tourist guide & useful information

There are few things to consider in order to protect the national park and to have great day trip.

Pala U waterfall’s daily opening hours for tourists from 08:00 to 16:00

The waterfall is open for hiking all year round, even during the rainy season

Entrance ticket to visit Pala U Waterfall (Through the Kaeng Kracha national park) – 300 bath ~10 USD for adults & 200 bath ~ 7USD for Childs

Foods are not allowed to take inside the national park

There is a stall selling fish foods case oy int to fee them.

Best time of the year to visit Pala U Waterfall

Th areas covering Huai Sat Yai surrounding Pa La-U Waterfall is best to visit between the months of November to April.

Note: The Kaeng Kracha National Park including other nearby attractions are all close to visitors during the rainy season, however, the Pala U waterfall stays open year-round to visit. In-fact, the fall become more impressive when the surrounding areas are wetter due to the rainy season.

What to take for visiting Pala-U Waterfall?

Remember, its just a day trip our of Hua Hin, soviet doesn’t required much preparation and you don’t have to carry a loads of stuff.

Following comes handy in terms of what to bring when visiting Pala U waterfall:

Hiking boots / walking shoes

Swimwear to swim

Sun hat & Suncream

Admission fee: 300 baht in cash

A small backpack to carry water and small items

Again, our now allowed to take any foods once you passed the entrance gate, however, there is a small shop selling foods and pick eats with a place to eat and get yourself some snacks and noodle.

I recommend to take some fish foods to feed the big hungry carp fishes in the waterfall.

How to get to Pala-U Waterfall?

Pala-U Waterfall isn’t that far if you’re planning for a visit from Hua Hin city, located at the southern edge of the Kaeng Krachan National Park ad some 65km from Hua Hn.

The waterfall including the national park is a very popular day trip options for both Thi and tourists as it gives you all the nature feeling mixed with a great hiking through the lush jungle.

There are 3 best ways to get yourself to he Pala U waterfall. The ride from Hua Hin takes around 1 hour only.

Option 1 and the most popular way is to join a group tour running daily from Hua Hin.

A motorbike ride for a full freedom and easy ride from Hua Hin – A full day motorbike rent is around 300THB and you can get one through your hotel.

Rent a private car or get a taxi, this option would probably cost you more, but its more comfy, flexible and the driver will be waiting for you to drive you back.

The best option to get to the Papa U waterfall probably would be either a motorbike ride on your own, and or join a mini-vans tour departing few times a day from Hua Hin.

Pala U Waterfalls on the Map

Pala U Waterfalls & Kaeng Krachan National Park

Pa La-U Waterfall is part of Kaeng Krachan National Park, which has been opened as a tourist site for about 60 years.

The park was first recognized as a natural biosphere reserve in 1964 and after about 17 years it was finally recognized as a national park back in 1981 by the Thailand national ministry of tourism. Kaeng Krachan National Park is also listed as an ASEAN Heritage Park, highlighting its stunning beauty and diverse ecological system.

In addition, Pa La-U Waterfall, located within the park, offers breathtaking scenery and a rich ecological system that attracts thousands of tourists each year. People often visit to enjoy relaxing moments and fun experiences with family and friends.

Recommended Activity: Pala U Waterfall in Kaeng Krachan Jungle