Namtok Mae Surin National Park – Mae Hong Son’s Wild Wonderland
Discover Namtok Mae Surin National Park – where waterfalls, caves, peaks, and trails weave nature’s greatest story!
The first sight of Namtok Mae Surin National Park is unforgettable. Mist drifts slowly through the valleys, mountain ridges rise in layers, and deep within this wilderness, rivers give birth to waterfalls of breathtaking scale. The most famous, Mae Surin Waterfall, is a single-tier giant plunging from cliffs almost 200 meters high — a masterpiece of nature carved into the heart of Mae Hong Son.
The Story of the Waterfall
Standing at the viewpoint, the waterfall appears like a silver ribbon cutting through emerald cliffs. From below, it roars with raw energy, sending cool spray across the forest floor. Around the trails, orchids bloom in hidden corners — Dendrobium, Rhynchostylis, and the rare Paphiopedilum lady slipper orchid — reminding travelers of the park’s rich biodiversity.
Echoes of the Forest
Walking deeper into the park, the stories continue. You’ll pass pine forests, grassy meadows, and valleys where gibbons swing and birds sing in chorus. The emerald cuckoo’s call echoes through the trees, while giant ferns unfurl like living fossils. Every step reveals new life — a reminder that the forest is not silent, but alive with whispers.
Highlights & Atmosphere
- Mae Surin Waterfall: The park’s crown jewel, plunging 180–200 meters from towering cliffs. Spectacular in both rainy and cool seasons.
- Doi Pui Luang: The highest peak at 1,722 meters with meadows, rhododendrons, and Pha Phiang Fa Cliff, where sunrise over seas of fog is unforgettable. A WWII Japanese aircraft wreckage adds historical depth.
- Doi San Fa Viewpoint: At nearly 950 meters, this viewpoint overlooks Mae Hong Son town and endless mountain ridges. Best visited in winter when fog blankets the valley.
- Nam Hu Breathing Cave: A geological wonder where water spurts from cave walls every 25 minutes with a “breathing” sound — a rare and mystical phenomenon.
- Pha Bong Waterfall (Nam Khum Khon): A smaller, gentle cascade about 40 meters high, surrounded by deciduous forest with a pool suitable for swimming.
- Huai Mae Sakut Waterfalls: Two medium-sized but beautiful cascades — Mae Sakut and Kuet Luang — hidden along the Huai Mae Sakut nature trail.
- Scenic Grasslands & Pine Forests: Especially near Doi Pui, where the atmosphere feels alpine, with crisp air and wide horizons.
Must-Do Activities
1. Huai Mae Sakut Nature Trail
A 1.8 km eco-trail beginning at Ranger Station 3. The path winds along the Huai Mae Sakut stream, passing through lush forest and 17 interpretive stops. Educational signs explain plants, ecosystems, and local wildlife.
- Highlights: Giant ferns, rare orchids, ancient oaks, and finally, two hidden waterfalls — Mae Sakut and Kuet Luang.
- Best Season: Rainy and cool seasons when water is abundant and bird activity is high.
- Experience: A journey of learning, relaxation, and nature photography all in one walk.
2. Trek from Huai Hi Village to Doi Pui Luang
An adventurous 3 km climb from Huai Hi village to the park’s highest summit. Along the way, hikers pass through pine groves, montane flowers, and open meadows.
- On the summit: The plateau offers alpine-like scenery, Pha Phiang Fa cliff for breathtaking views, and the fascinating WWII aircraft wreckage.
- Atmosphere: Crisp cold air, sweeping panoramas, and the sense of standing on top of Mae Hong Son.
The Atmosphere of the Park
Every corner of this park carries a mood of its own. At dawn, mist floats like silk over the valleys. Midday brings golden sunlight filtering through pines. Evenings are painted with glowing sunsets, and nights reveal star-filled skies free from city lights. Whether you’re standing before Mae Surin Waterfall or gazing from Doi San Fa, the park feels timeless — a sanctuary where nature and silence rule.
Facilities & Best Time to Visit
- Entrance Fees: Thai adults 40 THB, children 20 THB; Foreign adults 200 THB, children 100 THB.
- Accommodation: Park lodges (800–2,000 THB) and campsites available.
- Visitor Services: A small shop near headquarters offers drinks and snacks (open 08:00–16:30).
- Best Season: November–February for cool weather and mist; July–October for the most powerful waterfalls.
Getting There
From Mae Hong Son town, drive south on Highway 108 toward Khun Yuam, then turn onto Highway 1263 for 40 km to reach the park. Travel time is about 2–3 hours. From Chiang Mai, the scenic Mae Hong Son Loop Tour takes 5–6 hours, passing through charming mountain towns.
A Karen village offering authentic cultural immersion. Learn traditional weaving, taste local dishes, and stay in rustic homestays with views of rice terraces and forested mountains.
A wellness retreat famous for its natural mineral mud spa. Visitors can enjoy mud therapy, hot spring baths, and soothing spa treatments — the perfect way to relax after trekking.