น้ำตกเอราวัณWestern Thailand
Seven tiers of turquoise pools tumbling through the forest in Erawan National Park, near Kanchanaburi. Here is how to visit, how far to climb and when the water looks its best.
Erawan Falls lies in Erawan National Park, in the forested hills north-west of Kanchanaburi. The stream drops over a series of limestone ledges into seven tiers of milky turquoise pools, each with its own small cascade. The falls are named after Erawan, the three-headed white elephant of Hindu mythology, said to be suggested by the shape of the top tier.
A trail climbs alongside the falls through the forest, gentle at first and steeper and rougher towards the top. Most people swim in the lower pools, where small fish nibble at your feet, and fitter walkers continue up to the seventh tier. It makes a refreshing half-day trip from Kanchanaburi and pairs well with the town's wartime history.
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The experiences our travellers enjoy most, in order of what we would not miss.
The second and third tiers have the most inviting pools for a swim, with small fish that nibble at your toes. Swimwear should be modest, and a T-shirt over it is fine.
The trail climbs roughly 1.5 to 2 km to the top, crossing rocks and small bridges. Allow an hour or more up, wear proper shoes and bring water.
Arrive at opening time to have the lower tiers almost to yourself and to walk in the cooler air, with birdsong all around.
Add the Bridge on the River Kwai, the war cemetery or Hellfire Pass for a full day, or stay on a raft house on the river.
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Customise My TripMost travellers visit from Kanchanaburi by car, often in the morning. It is possible to visit from Bangkok in one long day, but it is much more enjoyable as part of a night or two in Kanchanaburi.
Places that pair well with Erawan Falls, with approximate travel times.
October to February is the best time, when the falls are full after the rains and the weather is cooler. In the hot season the water can be lower but still lovely, while in the height of the rainy season the pools can turn cloudy and parts of the trail may close for safety.
A general guide. Weather varies from year to year, and we plan each route around the season.
Quick answers from our local team. Anything else, just ask your travel specialist.
Ask us on WhatsAppYes, especially if you are staying in Kanchanaburi. The turquoise pools are beautiful and great for a swim. If you only have a day trip from Bangkok, though, it is a long journey to combine with the River Kwai.
Allow about an hour to walk up to the seventh tier at a steady pace, and longer with swimming stops. The lower tiers are easy, but the upper trail is steep and slippery, so wear shoes with good grip.
Yes, swimming is allowed in most of the pools. Wear modest swimwear or a T-shirt, follow the rangers' instructions and take care on slippery rocks. Rangers restrict food and plastic bottles beyond the lower tiers to keep the falls clean.
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