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Phuket Waterfalls
Phuket Attractions Guide
It's rare to see a Thai family spend a day out on a west coast beach if the sun is shining, so where do they go? The answer is to Phuket's shadier east coast beaches, the parks and the waterfalls. This is where to really cool off and socialize, Thai-style.
The three best-known waterfalls in Phuket are Bang Pae, Ton Sai and Kathu Waterfall. A lesser-known one is just by Ao Yon Noi Beach, near Cape Panwa.
Bang Pae and Ton Sai waterfalls are located in the Khao Phra Thaeo National Park
in the east of Phuket. The park itself is the last vestige of virgin tropical forest on the island and is home to many exotic animals such as barking deer and various types of monkeys as well as many tropical birds.
Most Popular Waterfalls in Phuket
Other Waterfalls in Phuket
Ton Sai Waterfall
Ton Sai ('Banyan Tree') Waterfall is on the western side of the National Park. In fact you can walk through the park from waterfall to Bang Pae with a hired guide who can point out the fauna and flora. At Ton Sai there are restaurants galore: One by the lake, another near the information centre and another two by the gates. You certainly won't go hungry!
There are several places to sit in the shade along with ample WC facilities as well as a small children's playground. The gardens are attractively maintained and all in all it's a good spot for an outing as it's family-orientated. The waterfall itself is easier accessed than that at Bang Pae but not as big or impressive. Still, it's a great cool spot for a day out of the sun. There is also an information centre where you can ask about a guide for hire but all posters and announcements are in Thai script. There is also a two-kilometre, well-signed trek around the back of the waterfall.
Location: Take the road east at Thalang’s main traffic lights and follow the signs
Kathu Waterfall
Kathu waterfall is 'helped along' a little as halfway up it you will notice two artificial drop pools. Again, in high season from December to May there is not a lot of water but there is always shade and food stalls. The waterfall has stairs and several levels leading up to the cascade along with tables and chairs.
Right at the top of the waterfall are pools in which you can take a dip. But be warned, the climb is steep and seemingly never ending. An iced-drinks vendor at the top would do a roaring trade as this climb really does take it out of you. The surrounding hilltop jungle is quite impressive.
Location: Turn left at the traffic lights by the Caltex Gas Station onto Route 4020 (if coming from Patong) and continue for one kilometre until you see a black marble sign for the waterfall. Turn left again onto 'Thanon Namtokkathu' Kathu Waterfall, Street.
Ao Yon Waterfall
The way up to the top of this waterfall is quite difficult because of sharp rocks and you will need to wear good shoes as well as good eyesight to follow it. There are several drop pools – all quite small but big enough to bathe in. The jungle closes in after a while but it's a cool and even romantic spot to visit if you are in that area.
Location: Behind the beach right next to Ao Yon, near Cape Panwa (Ao Yon Noi). To find the waterfall, take the small road at the western end of the beach by the prawn farm and follow it to its end. 100 metres to the right of the parking there is a small path leading up the hill.







