Haew Suwat is the most photographed waterfall in Khao Yai National Park. It is a single curtain of water, about 20 metres high, dropping into a round, forest-ringed pool. Fans of the film The Beach will recognise it as the waterfall Leonardo DiCaprio’s character jumps from. It is also one of the easiest waterfalls in the park to reach.
Highlights
- A classic, symmetrical waterfall framed by forest, best seen from the rocks at the base of the pool
- A short walk from the car park, so it suits most visitors
- Film history: a famous scene from The Beach (2000) was shot here
- Forest trails link it to other waterfalls nearby
Getting there
Haew Suwat is inside Khao Yai National Park and is reached by road from the park’s central area. From the northern (Pak Chong) gate, follow the main park road towards the visitor centre, then follow signs for Haew Suwat. If you are using a taxi or driver, the Thai name is น้ำตกเหวสุวัต.
From the car park, a paved path of roughly 200 metres with stairs and handrails leads down to the falls. Allow 10 to 20 minutes each way at an easy pace.
For hikers, a forest trail of about 3 km connects Haew Suwat with Pha Kluai Mai waterfall, roughly two hours one way. Trails in the park are generally one-way, so arrange to be collected or plan to walk back. A ranger guide is recommended.
Best time to visit
The waterfall is at its fullest in the rainy season, roughly June to October. In the dry months from November to May, the flow thins considerably, though the setting is still lovely. Arrive early in the day, especially at weekends, to enjoy the pool before tour groups arrive.
Visitor information
- Park entry: Haew Suwat is covered by the national park entry fee. There is no separate charge. Park gates are open 06:00–18:00.
- Swimming: not allowed. Swimming and cliff jumping are banned year-round, whatever happens in the film. The current is stronger than it looks and has caused injuries.
- Footwear: the rocks near the pool are slippery, so wear shoes with grip.
- Leeches: common after rain on forest trails. Leech socks are sold in the park.
- Facilities: basic facilities and food stalls are available near the parking area.
Combine with
- Haew Narok Waterfall, the park’s largest fall
- Scenic viewpoints on the road to Khao Khiao
- Wildlife-watching at the grasslands. See our wildlife guide
Nearby accommodation
Stays in Mu Si and along Thanarat Road give the shortest drive to the northern gate, which makes an early visit to Haew Suwat easy. See where to stay in Khao Yai and our pool villa resort guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Haew Suwat?
No. Swimming and jumping are prohibited because of strong currents.
Is Haew Suwat suitable for children and older visitors?
The short paved path with handrails is manageable for most people, but there are stairs, and the rocks near the pool are slippery.
Was The Beach filmed at Haew Suwat?
Yes. The waterfall-jump scene in the 2000 film was shot here.
Source: Khao Yai National Park, Wikivoyage.