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The Erawan Falls Travel Guide

Erawan FallsTravel Guide: Things To Do, Getting There & Best Time

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.

The Turquoise Pools
The Upper Falls
Forest Trail
  • Best timeOctober to February
  • Ideal visitHalf a day
  • From KanchanaburiAbout 1.5 hours by road
  • SettingErawan National Park
Welcome To Erawan Falls

Seven Tiers Of Turquoise In The Western Forests

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.

Our Honest Take

Is Erawan Falls Worth Visiting?

What We Love

  • The colour of the water is striking, and swimming in the pools on a hot day is a joy.
  • It is easy to combine with Kanchanaburi, adding nature to a history-focused trip.

Good To Know

  • Weekends and Thai holidays are very busy. Arrive when the park opens on a weekday if you can.
  • The upper trail is steep and slippery in places, and the water is less blue after heavy rain or at the end of the dry season.
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Erawan Falls Tours

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Things To Do

Things To Do In Erawan Falls

The experiences our travellers enjoy most, in order of what we would not miss.

  1. 01

    Swim in the lower pools

    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.

  2. 02

    Hike to the seventh tier

    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.

  3. 03

    Early morning in the forest

    Arrive at opening time to have the lower tiers almost to yourself and to walk in the cooler air, with birdsong all around.

  4. 04

    Combine with Kanchanaburi

    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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Getting There & Around

How To Get To Erawan Falls And Get Around

Arriving in Erawan FallsOrient Charm
KANCHANKanchanaburi
ERAWANErawan Park
DistanceAbout 65 km
By carAbout 1.5 hours
From BangkokAbout 3.5 to 4 hours by road

Most 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.

When To Go

The Best Time To Visit Erawan Falls

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.

  • Best
  • Good
  • Hot, wetter or less ideal
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Erawan Falls

A general guide. Weather varies from year to year, and we plan each route around the season.

Good To Know

Erawan Falls Travel FAQs

Quick answers from our local team. Anything else, just ask your travel specialist.

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Is Erawan Falls worth visiting?

Yes, 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.

How long does it take to climb Erawan Falls?

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.

Can you swim at Erawan Falls?

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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