Thailand

Cascading over seven tiers in a picturesque forest setting, Mae Kham Pong Waterfall is a natural gem located 50 kilometers northeast of Chiang Mai.

Mae Kham Pong Waterfall: natural beauty in Northeast Chiang Mai

The charming landscapes of Mae Kham Pong are just an hour's drive from Chiang Mai, attracting predominantly Thai and Asian tourists to this mountain village adorned with tea plantations, coffee farms, and rice fields. Beyond its appeal for agritourism, Mae Kham Pong Waterfall stands as a proud landmark of the area. Surrounded by peaceful surroundings, it's a favorite destination for couples and families alike. Lush cliffs, well-maintained trails, and inviting natural pools draw swimmers to the base of the waterfall.

Historical background

Founded over a century ago by migrants from Doi Saket, Mae Kham Pong village is nourished by the Mae River, which is crucial for irrigation and agriculture. The local landscape is dotted with yellow Kham Pong flowers, after which both the village and the waterfall are named.

Hiking at Mae Kham Pong Waterfall

While not the tallest, Mae Kham Pong Waterfall offers a rewarding forest hike. The trail to reach it is steep and requires sturdy footwear, winding through dense forests adorned with moss and ferns.

Shaded benches and parasols along the river offer perfect spots to rest and enjoy the soothing sounds of flowing water and birdsong amidst the foliage.

For avid hikers, stone stairs and ladders lead to viewpoints upstream of the waterfall, offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding tea and coffee plantations.

No visit is complete without a refreshing dip in the natural pools downstream of the stream.

Practical information

Getting there

Mae Kham Pong Waterfall is situated in the rural village of Mae Kham Pong, Mae On District, approximately fifty kilometers from bustling Chiang Mai.

Nearby attractions

If you've enjoyed exploring Mae Kham Pong Waterfall, nearby attractions worth visiting include:

• Flight of the Gibbon
• Botanical Garden
• Kanta Prueksa Sanctuary: A tranquil Buddhist temple set amidst a lake, featuring exquisite teak woodwork in the traditional Lanna style.