Haew Narok is Khao Yai National Park’s largest and most dramatic waterfall. It falls in tiers down a cliff about 150 metres high, with its biggest drop thundering into a gorge in the rainy season. The name roughly means “abyss of hell”, which hints at the scale of the drop.
Highlights
- The tallest waterfall in the park, falling in three tiers
- Two observation platforms facing the second and largest tier
- A walk through forest to reach the falls, with a sense of arrival
- Peak power in the rainy season
Getting there
Haew Narok is in the southern part of the park, on the road towards the Prachin Buri (Noen Hom) side. It is a substantial drive from the northern gate, so combine it with other sights in the south of the park. From the car park, a sealed trail of about 1 km leads to the falls. It crosses a wooden footbridge over a river and finishes with a steep network of stairways down to the viewing platforms. The climb back up is the hardest part, so take it slowly.
Along the path, look for an old protective fence with elephant sculptures on its pillars, where many Thai visitors stop to pray for safe passage.
Best time to visit
Haew Narok is at its most impressive in the rainy season, roughly June to October, and especially from June to August. In the dry months, the flow drops sharply. Morning visits are usually quieter.
Visitor information
- Entry: included in the national park entry fee. Gates are open 06:00–18:00.
- Fitness: the stairs are steep. Allow around an hour for the round trip, including time at the viewpoints.
- Swimming: not allowed. The current is extremely dangerous.
- Viewing: the platforms face the second tier. The upper tier is partly visible, and the third tier is out of sight.
- What to bring: water, shoes with grip, a rain layer in the wet season, and leech socks after rain.
Combine with
- Haew Suwat Waterfall, for a waterfall day
- Viewpoints along the main park road
- Our complete Khao Yai National Park guide
Nearby accommodation
Most visitors stay outside the park in Mu Si or along Thanarat Road and drive in for the day. After the stairs at Haew Narok, a private pool back at your villa is very welcome. See our luxury pool villas guide.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the walk to Haew Narok?
About 1 km each way, including steep stairs near the falls.
Can you see the whole waterfall?
Not all of it. The platforms give a full view of the largest tier and a partial view of the top tier.
Sources: Travelfish, Wikivoyage.