Haew Narok WaterfallHaew Narok sits within Khao Yai National Park, one of Thailand's oldest and most-visited national parks, and is notable for its series of cascades plunging through evergreen forest. The name Haew Narok can be translated as 'Hell's waterfall', a reference to the steep cliffs and roaring torrents.
Access to the main viewpoints involves a maintained trail and a set of steps, with several lookout platforms offering different perspectives of the falls and surrounding valley. The area around the fall is typical of Khao Yai's evergreen and mixed deciduous forest, home to birds, macaques and other wildlife often seen from the paths.
What to See at Haew Narok Waterfall#
- Upper viewpoint - the highest and most dramatic outlook over the main drop.
- Middle platforms - viewpoints with closer angles and photographic opportunities.
- Forest trail - the path from the visitor area through mature rainforest with interpretive signage.
- River gorge below the falls - views of the steep-walled gorge carved by the waterfall.
- Local wildlife - keep an eye out for birds, macaques and other park inhabitants along the trail.
Best Time to Visit Haew Narok Waterfall#
The best time to visit is during or just after the rainy season, when the waterfall is at its fullest, and in the cooler early morning hours to avoid crowds and higher daytime temperatures.
Weather & Climate near Haew Narok Waterfall#
Haew Narok Waterfall's climate is classified as Tropical Savanna - Tropical Savanna climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 16°C to 32°C. Abundant rainfall (1247 mm/year), wettest in September with a pronounced dry season.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Ideal | 16° - 29° | 23° | 8 mm | mostly sunny | 69% | 1.0 m/s | 1.6 very high | 11.3h |
| February | Ideal | 18° - 30° | 24° | 17 mm | some cloud | 66% | 1.1 m/s | 1.8 very high | 11.6h |
| March | Excellent | 20° - 32° | 26° | 54 mm | partly cloudy | 66% | 1.5 m/s | 2.0 very high | 11.9h |
| April | Very Good | 22° - 32° | 29° | 93 mm | partly cloudy | 70% | 1.2 m/s | 2.2 extreme | 12.3h |
| May | Acceptable | 22° - 32° | 27° | 160 mm | overcast | 79% | 1.4 m/s | 2.1 extreme | 12.7h |
| June | Good | 22° - 31° | 27° | 124 mm | overcast | 84% | 1.4 m/s | 2.1 extreme | 12.8h |
| July | Good | 22° - 30° | 26° | 133 mm | overcast | 85% | 1.2 m/s | 2.1 extreme | 12.8h |
| August | Good | 22° - 30° | 26° | 192 mm | overcast | 87% | 1.3 m/s | 2.0 very high | 12.5h |
| September | Good | 22° - 30° | 26° | 254 mm | overcast | 89% | 0.8 m/s | 1.9 very high | 12.1h |
| October | Good | 21° - 29° | 25° | 173 mm | overcast | 87% | 0.8 m/s | 1.7 very high | 11.7h |
| November | Excellent | 19° - 28° | 24° | 36 mm | partly cloudy | 82% | 1.3 m/s | 1.7 very high | 11.3h |
| December | Ideal | 17° - 28° | 22° | 3 mm | some cloud | 75% | 1.3 m/s | 1.6 very high | 11.2h |
How to Get to Haew Narok Waterfall#
Haew Narok is inside Khao Yai National Park; most visitors reach the park by car or organised tour from Bangkok or nearby towns. Drive to the park entrance, register at the park office and follow signs to the Haew Narok parking and trailhead.
From the park headquarters there is a marked trail and steps down to the viewpoints; the walk is on maintained paths but can be steep in places, so allow time for the return climb.
Tips for Visiting Haew Narok Waterfall#
- Visit early morning to avoid the largest crowds and to have better chances of seeing wildlife.
- Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes and be prepared for wet, muddy sections on the trail during the rainy season.
- Bring water, insect repellent and sun protection; there are limited facilities at the falls.
- Observe park rules: do not feed wildlife, take litter out, and follow any closed-path warnings.
- Check park opening times and any entrance fees at the park office before your visit.