Huay Kaew Waterfall Chiang Rai is a two-leveled waterfall located near the village of Pha Soet in Doi Hang. In my opinion, this is one of the best waterfalls in Chiang Rai in terms of jungle scenery and swimming.
Whether you’re looking to escape the heat or get out into the jungle landscapes around Chiang Rai, a trip to Huay Kaew waterfall is easily one of the best things to do near the city. Let me show you how to get there and what to expect.
Before you continue, make sure that you’re looking for Huay Kaew Waterfall in Chiang Rai, not the waterfall in Chiang Mai with the same name.
Where is Huay Kaew Waterfall Chiang Rai?
Huay Kaew Waterfall is located approximately 25 km from Chiang Rai following the Kok River to the west. If you're riding a motorbike, expect about 45 minutes to one hour to get here from Chiang Rai.
How to Get to the Trailhead
By far, the best way to explore Chiang Rai and the scenic outskirts is to rent a motorbike and drive around by yourself. The roads around Chiang Rai are very well maintained and much less chaotic than its northern neighbor; Chiang Mai.
You can rent a motorbike in Chiang Rai for 200-300 Thai Baht per day. We stayed at Grace Hostel and the owner arranged one for us quite cheaply.
As I mentioned, it will only take approximately 45 minutes to an hour to reach the parking lot, which is impossible to miss if you follow the pin above. Once you arrive at the carpark, follow the walking path to the right, leading up and into the jungle.
Location: Doi Hang
Huay Kaew Waterfall Entrance Fee
There is no entrance fee for Huay Kawe Waterfall in Chaing Rai. Keeping nature free, just as it should be.
The Jungle Waterfall Hike
This waterfall hike is quite short. In fact, it only takes about 5 minutes to reach the first level and about 10 minutes in total to reach the second level.
Although some sections are a little steep it's a very easy hike. Before you approach the final level, you'll cross a bamboo bridge which looks like it could do with some much-needed and overdue repairs.
Although the trail is not very busy, some trekking trips visit Huay Kaew Waterfall at the end of their Chiang Rai hiking trips.
What to Expect at Huay Kaew Waterfall & Swimming Hole
The first level is a wide, cascading set of waterfalls that is approximately 30 meters in height. Once you approach it, you'll realize that it's more for taking photos than for actual swimming.
However, if you continue on the steep trail that winds left and then cuts back right along the flowing river, you'll soon reach the main waterfall level. This one is a little higher and steeper, at 40 meters.
It's important to remember that this waterfall depends on wet weather. That means that in the dry season, it could be completely dried up.
The best time for visiting this waterfall is between October and April. During this time, the weather isn't overwhelmingly hot and there is enough rain to keep the waterfalls flowing.
Swimming at Huay Kaew Waterfall
At the top level, there is a small swimming hole where you can swim. The depth here is only just over a meter. You can also get a natural waterfall massage and shower on the bottom rocks where the flow is hard.
Where to Stay in Chiang Rai
Looking for a great accommodation pick near Chiang Rai? Here are three options for every budget.
1. The Riverie Luxury
Nestled on the island in the middle of the Kok River, The Riverie by Katathani offers luxurious rooms surrounded by lush gardens and amazing views.
2. SuanTung Guest House Top-Reviews
This is one of the highest-rated budget guest houses in Chiang Rai. It’s super central, only a few minutes walk to the night market and the clocktower and the bus station.
3. Baan Mai Kradan Budget
With a 9.2/10 rating with hundreds of reviews, this might be the top-rated hostel in Thailand. Get Hi is a great social hostel in Chiang Rai for young adult travelers who want to meet people and have fun.
Chiang Rai Waterfall Day Trip
Are you planning your Chiang Rai trip or are you already in the city and looking for things to do? It's also possible to visit Mae Sai waterfall and the Huay Mark Liam hot springs on a one-day trip from Chiang Rai.
Let me know if you find any other waterfall gems on your trip to Chiang Rai! Below are some more useful guides to help plan your trip.
- 13 Best Tours in Thailand - my list of favorite bookable Thai travel experiences
- How to Plan a Trip to Thailand - read this before your first trip to Thailand
- Koh Tao Guide - my ultimate guide to Koh Tao Island after living there for three months
- 20+ Things to do in Chiang Mai - my first-time visitor's guide to Chiang Mai
- Epic Things to Do in Chiang Rai - discover the hidden gem of Northern Thailand
- 3 Day Chiang Mai itinerary - the perfect way to spend a few days in the North
- Things to do at Railay - plan your trip to Thai backpacker mecca
- Things to do in Pai - find fun and free things to do in Pai
Plan Your Thailand Accommodation
Still in the planning stages of your trip? Perhaps you're booking on the fly. The below accommodation guides will help you plan where to stay in Thailand.
