Erawan National Park Travel Guide 2025: Best Waterfalls & Trails

Nestled in the lush hills of Kanchanaburi Province, just a few hours from Bangkok, Erawan National Park is a sanctuary of emerald waterfalls, limestone caves, and pristine jungle trails. For nature lovers, adventure seekers, and even casual day-trippers, this national park offers a magical escape into Thailand’s wild side.
 

As a local tour guide, I often tell visitors that Erawan is one of Thailand’s best-kept secrets—a place where you can swim in turquoise pools, hike through bamboo forests, and explore mystical caves, all in one unforgettable day.

What Is Erawan National Park?

Established in 1975 as Thailand’s 12th national park, Erawan spans over 550 square kilometers of forested hills and limestone terrain in western Thailand. Its crown jewel is the seven-tiered Erawan Waterfall, named after the three-headed white elephant from Hindu mythology. Locals say the top tier resembles the elephant’s head—hence the name.

Erawan is part of the Tenasserim Hills, a region rich in biodiversity and ecological importance, offering refuge to many species of birds, mammals, and reptiles.

Why Visit Erawan National Park?

💧 Swim in natural turquoise pools at Erawan Waterfall

🥾 Trek through scenic jungle trails

🐒 Spot monkeys, monitor lizards, and exotic birds

🕳 Explore mysterious limestone caves

🌿 Relax in a pristine natural environment, far from city crowds

Whether you’re visiting as a day trip from Bangkok or combining it with other Kanchanaburi highlights like the Bridge over the River Kwai, Erawan National Park offers a complete nature experience.

Main Attractions in Erawan National Park

1. Erawan Waterfall – The Park’s Star Attraction

The seven-tiered Erawan Waterfall is the park’s highlight and one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Southeast Asia. Each level offers a unique charm, from gentle cascades to steep limestone steps forming emerald plunge pools.

Trail Info:

Total length: ~1.5 km (one way)

Time to hike all levels: 1.5–2.5 hours

Difficulty: Easy to moderate, steeper toward higher tiers

Waterfall Tiers Highlights:

Level 1 (Hlai Khuen Rung): Great for families, picnic-friendly

Level 3 (Pha Nam Tok): Popular swimming spot

Level 5 (Buar Mai Long): Surrounded by boulders, great photos

Level 7 (Phu Pha Erawan): Named after the mythical elephant, requires effort to reach

Swimming Tips:

Allowed in most tiers, but check signage

Beware of slippery rocks and nibbling fish (they’re harmless!)

2. Nature Trails and Hiking Routes

Aside from the waterfall trail, there are several jungles paths through the park for hikers and birdwatchers.

Popular Trails:

Erawan Nature Trail (1,060m): Easy loop through forest with info signs

Phra That Cave Trail (optional guide recommended)

You’ll likely see macaques, squirrels, and colorful butterflies along the way. Bird lovers may spot hornbills, drongos, or even the rare Asian fairy-bluebird.

3. Phra That Cave (Tham Phra That)

Located about 12 km from the waterfall area, this limestone cave features huge stalactites and stalagmites and chambers that resemble cathedral halls.

Tips:

Requires short hike uphill (~500 meters)

Bring a flashlight or headlamp

Ask for a guide at the visitor center if you’re unsure

4. Wildlife Spotting and Ecology

The park is home to:

Gibbons and macaques

Monitor lizards and turtles

King cobras and other reptiles

Over 120 bird species, including hornbills and green pigeons

Though shy, wildlife is active in the early morning and late afternoon. Always observe from a distance and avoid feeding animals.

How to Get to Erawan National Park

📍 Location:

Kanchanaburi Province, about 65 km northwest of Kanchanaburi town

Roughly 200 km from Bangkok (~3 hours by car)

🚗 Transportation Options:

By Tour from Bangkok:

Convenient full-day tours with hotel pickup

Often combined with River Kwai or Hellfire Pass

By Private Car or Taxi:

Easiest for flexibility and comfort

Car rental from Bangkok or Kanchanaburi is common

By Bus:

From Kanchanaburi Bus Terminal to Erawan (departures every 1–2 hours)

~1.5–2 hours, last return bus around 4:00 PM

By Scooter (for Adventurous Travelers):

Rentals available in Kanchanaburi

Scenic but requires confident driving skills

Entrance Fees and Opening Hours

🎟 Thai citizens: 100 THB adults / 50 THB children

🎟 Foreigners: 300 THB adults / 200 THB children

🕗 Open daily: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM (last waterfall entry at 3:00 PM)

What to Bring

🩱 Swimsuit and towel (changing rooms available at lower tiers)

👟 Good walking shoes or water sandals

🧴 Sunscreen and insect repellent

🍱 Snacks or picnic (no food allowed past tier 2)

♻️ Reusable water bottle (plastic is banned beyond level 2)

Tips for Visiting Erawan National Park

Go Early: Beat the crowds and midday heat

Respect Nature: No littering or loud music

Stay Hydrated: Trails can be humid, especially in summer

Obey Signs: Some tiers may be closed during rainy season

Avoid Plastic: Food and drink are only allowed up to the second tier

Best Time to Visit Erawan National Park

Verdict: Visit in the cool season (Nov–Feb) for the most comfortable and scenic experience.

Where to Stay Near Erawan National Park

Inside the Park (book via DNP official site):

🏕 Campsites: Tent rentals and public showers available

🏡 Basic bungalows: Ideal for nature immersion

Nearby Hotels in Kanchanaburi:

🏨 The FloatHouse River Kwai: Luxury on the river

🏡 Pung-Waan Resort: Mid-range comfort with garden views

🛏 VN Guesthouse: Budget-friendly, near bus station

Sample Itinerary: Day Trip to Erawan National Park

6:30 AM: Depart Bangkok by car or van
9:30 AM: Arrive and begin hiking Erawan Waterfall
12:00 PM: Picnic lunch or local restaurant
1:00 PM: Optional visit to Phra That Cave
3:30 PM: Depart for Kanchanaburi or return to Bangkok
6:00 PM: Arrive back in Bangkok

Combine with Other Nearby Attractions

Make the most of your time in Kanchanaburi with these nearby highlights:

Bridge over the River Kwai

Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum

Sai Yok National Park

Elephant World Sanctuary

Maeklong Railway Market (en route from Bangkok)

Why Erawan National Park Is a Must-Visit in Thailand

If you're looking for a destination that blends natural beauty, adventure, and tranquility, Erawan National Park is one of Thailand’s top picks. Unlike the tourist-saturated islands or city attractions, Erawan offers a more authentic and soul-refreshing experience.

With its cascading waterfalls, lush forest, and peaceful trails, it’s the kind of place where you can reconnect with nature and recharge your spirit—whether you’re taking a dip in a cool pool or sitting quietly under the jungle canopy.