Mae Klang waterfall is a series of cascades at the base of Doi Inthanon National Park, Northern Thailand.
Mae Klang Waterfall is usually the first stop in Doi Inthanon National Park. This waterfall is easy to get to and great for a quick dip or to get some nice photos.
I visited this waterfall as the first stop on the popular Doi Inthanon trip and it was one of my favorite day trips from Chiang Mai! While this waterfall is only good for a quick stop, it offers a solid introduction to what the park has to offer.
Where is Mae Klang Waterfall
Mae Klang Waterfall is located near the entrance of Doi Inthanon National Park, right off Highway 1009 (Chom Thong-Inthanon Road), which is the road leading to the top of Doi Inthanon. There is a small road leading to it near the Check Point 1 Km. 8.
The waterfall is situated about 58 kilometers (approximately 36 miles) Southwest of Chiang Mai City, making it accessible for a day trip or as the first stop on a longer adventure in the national park. It took us roughly 1.5 hours to reach it from Tha Phae Gate.
Location: 18°29'47.3"N 98°40'03.2"E
How to Get to Mae Klang Waterfall
The best way to get to Mae Klang Waterfall is to join the famous Doi Inthanon day trip from Chiang Mai. This is what we chose to do as it offers the most hassle-free transport plus a local guide to explain all the attractions in the park.
Book: Doi Inthanon Day Trip
Independent Travel to Doi Inthanon
Feeling more adventurous? Rent a car or motorbike in Chiang Mai and drive in around 1.5 hours.
Car rentals in Chiang Mai cost roughly 1,000- 1,500 THB a day, and motorbikes are cheaper at around 200-300 THB.
From Chiang Mai, it's a straightforward 58 km (36 miles) drive southwest. Just follow Highway 108 towards Chom Thong, then switch to Highway 1009 (Chom Thong-Inthanon Road) and keep straight until you see the entrance to the waterfall.
It's a scenic ride, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. However, be prepared for a long, winding road to the summit!
My Experience Visiting Mae Klang Waterfall
Departing early from Chiang Mai, we arrived at the waterfall at around 9:00 am, which was great as there were not many other travelers visiting.
There is a large parking lot just beneath the waterfall, and a sealed road and path leading to the falls. It took us roughly 5 minutes to walk to the main cascade from the car park, so don't expect a long hike!
The Main Waterfall
We researched this waterfall before arriving. Strangely, the official Thai Tourism website states that this waterfall is over 100 m tall (around 330 ft). However, after visiting I'd say that the main drop is only around 25 meters (82 ft) high at absolute maximum.
Regardless, it is a beautiful cascade, featuring several streams dropping down large boulders before snaking its way downstream. I also noticed many other nice rapids and flowing sections further down the river.
Unfortunately, there is no deep pool beneath the falls. However, there are some good spots for swimming along the river if conditions are right.
There is a covered bamboo viewing deck just behind the waterfall. However, we decided to walk up and take some photos closer to the falls. While I was tempted to climb up and get some unique perspectives from the top, there was a large sign that read "No Climbing". Besides, the rocks were really slippery, unlike the Chiang Mai Sticky Waterfall.
We visited Mae Klang falls in February, which is the dry season in Northern Thailand. Regardless, the flow was quite impressive. Our tour guide Nick told us that the flow during the Wet Season is enormous and definitely not safe for swimming!
Tip: Just beneath the main waterfall is a small sandy "beach" that looks like it would be a great place to swim when the flow is not too strong.
Related:
FAQ About Mae Klang Waterfall
Is there an entrance fee to Mae Klang Waterfall?
Yes, there's an entrance fee to Doi Inthanon National Park, which includes access to Mae Klang Waterfall. It's around 300 THB for adults and 150 THB for children. This fee helps with the maintenance and conservation of the park.
Can I swim at the waterfall?
Yes, swimming is allowed in designated areas at Mae Klang Waterfall. The water can be cold, so it's refreshing on a hot day. Always remember to be careful since the flow can be very strong, especially in the wet season!
Are there facilities nearby?
Yes, there are basic facilities near the waterfall. You'll find restrooms, parking, and a few local vendors selling snacks and drinks down near the parking lot beneath the waterfalls
Is Mae Klang Waterfall worth visiting?
This waterfall is worth a quick visit since it is so easy to access from the main road leading up to the top of Doi Inthanon. However, I wouldn't recommend spending a whole day here since there is not that much to do.
Where to Stay in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is the capital of the Northern Thailand tourist trail, and also a huge Digital Nomad hub. This is the reason why I'm always drawn back to this city. As you might expect, there are some excellent accommodation picks in and around the city. Below are three of the top places to stay for various budgets.
1. POR Thapae Gate Luxury
With over 700 reviews this is the ultimate luxury hotel located 200m from Tha Pae Gate. The hotel provides an outdoor swimming pool, free bike rental, and an exceptional breakfast.
2. Rimping Village Mid-Range
Just a 10-minute walk from the Night Bazaar this hotel offers a large outdoor swimming pool, an on-site restaurant, and spectacular outdoor seating areas. Away from the crowds, this is a perfect place to unwind and relax.
3. Green Sleep Hostel Budget
Situated in the heart of Chang Mai this hostel boasts a fully equipped kitchen, co-working space, communal area, and comfortable beds. A top pick for backpackers wanting a cheap and comfortable stay.
More Thailand Travel Blogs
I hope this quick travel guide has helped you plan your visit to Mae Klang Waterfall! Are there any updates for this post? Leave a comment below to help me and other travelers out! I reply to everyone.
Otherwise, here are some more great Thailand travel guides you'll love.
- 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
- 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
- Accommodation Guides: Plan where to stay in Krabi, and amazing hotels in Railay and Ao Nang.
