Monthathan Waterfall, also written Mon Tha Than, is a forest waterfall in Doi Suthep-Pui National Park on the mountain west of Chiang Mai. Its lower visitor area offers a relatively short approach to falling water, shaded stream scenery and the forest surroundings of the national park.
The falls are described as a nine-tier system, but that does not mean all nine levels form a public walking route. Plan around the lower visitor-accessible falls and any trail currently permitted by park staff, rather than setting out to explore the whole stream independently.
The Lower Falls and Forest Setting
The lower cascade is the natural focus of a short visit. Water descends over rock into the shaded stream area, with its volume and appearance changing between wetter and drier periods. Take time to look at the surrounding trees and rock formations as well as the falling water.
The established visitor area is different from the upper waterfall system. Access to higher levels can involve more demanding terrain and may be restricted. Follow signs and barriers even if an online trail line appears to continue beyond them.
Walking Routes and Access Conditions
A short walk from the parking and visitor area reaches the lower falls. Check the available route when you enter, then choose a turnaround suited to your fitness and the conditions. A longer forest walk takes more planning than a brief waterfall stop, particularly after rain.
Wear shoes with grip for uneven paths, roots and wet ground. Bring drinking water and a light rain layer, and leave a margin before the visitor area closes. The national park can restrict routes when heavy rain or strong water makes them unsuitable. Take rubbish back to the appropriate bins and do not rely on refreshments along the path.
Use only water-access areas expressly permitted by staff. Swimming should not be assumed from photographs of people in a pool, and climbing onto wet rocks for pictures creates unnecessary difficulty. Enjoy the cascade from the designated viewing and walking spaces when water access is restricted.
The Monks Trail to Wat Pha Lat is a separate route elsewhere on the mountain. It is not a simple signed extension to Monthathan Waterfall. If you want a longer guided hike linking mountain attractions, establish the actual route and permissions with an operator rather than following an improvised roadside shortcut.
Hours, Park Admission and Facilities
The usual visitor window is 8:30am to 4:30pm. Confirm current waterfall and trail access before travelling, especially during wet weather. Normal hours do not override a temporary park restriction or a closed path.
Published national park admission is 100 THB for foreign adults and 50 THB for foreign children aged 3 to 14. Thai adult and child rates are 20 and 10 THB. Vehicle charges may apply separately; confirm the categories and amount at the entrance and keep your ticket available.
Allow roughly 45 to 90 minutes for a short visit to the lower falls, with extra time for any permitted forest route. Parking, visitor facilities and a camping area are associated with the waterfall site. Camping or overnight accommodation requires separate arrangements rather than being included in a day-entry ticket.
Getting to Monthathan Waterfall
From Chiang Mai, follow Huay Kaew Road past the zoo towards the Doi Suthep mountain road, Route 1004. The signed side road to Monthathan branches from the lower mountain approach and leads to a park checkpoint and waterfall visitor area. Use the specific waterfall pin rather than navigating to Doi Suthep temple.
A private driver, taxi or vehicle is the simplest option for a short visit. Agree the stop, waiting time and return before setting off. Shared songthaews heading to the hilltop temple do not necessarily turn into the waterfall access road or wait while you visit.
The mountain approach and final side road involve gradients and bends. Cycling here requires suitable fitness, equipment and road judgement for the climb. For a straightforward waterfall outing, choose transport that gets you to the visitor entrance with time and energy for the walk.
Monthathan Waterfall FAQs
Can you visit all nine tiers?
Do not assume all levels are open to visitors. Plan around the lower falls and the routes currently permitted by park staff, following signs and barriers.
How much is admission?
Published park rates are 100 THB for foreign adults and 50 THB for children aged 3 to 14, or 20 and 10 THB for Thai adults and children. Confirm any separate vehicle charge at the entrance.
What are the usual visiting hours?
The usual visitor window is 8:30am to 4:30pm. Check current access before travelling, as weather restrictions can override normal hours.
Can you swim at the waterfall?
Use water-access areas only when staff explicitly permit it. Pool photographs do not establish permission or suitable conditions; follow the directions in place on the day.
Is it connected to the Monks Trail?
The Monks Trail is a separate route to Wat Pha Lat. Any longer hike linking attractions needs a verified route and appropriate permissions rather than an improvised extension.
How long should you spend there?
Allow roughly 45 to 90 minutes for the lower visitor area. Add time only for a route that is currently permitted and suited to your fitness and the weather.
Can a shared Doi Suthep songthaew take you there?
A hilltop-temple service may not turn into the waterfall side road. Arrange the exact drop-off and return, or use a private driver for a more straightforward visit.
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