Huay Mae Khamin Waterfalls, Kanchanaburi Overview

Huay Mae Khamin Waterfalls is a spectacular natural cascade of water located within the heart of Khuean Srinagarindra National Park. It is situated at Sai Yok, a part of Thong Pha Phum and Si Sawat districts. At a distance of 150 kilometres to the North West of the Kanchanaburi town, the seven-tier waterfall is known for its seclusion and fantastic splendour.

Nature lovers and those looking for some peace favour it over the other heavily commercialised tourist spots in Thailand. The waterfall is fed by the mountain streams located high on the eastern side of the National Park. The surrounding cover of thick bamboo forests and banyan trees make it a magical area quite unlike any other. The water descends 1.8 kilometres through seven distinct levels until it flows into River Kwai Yai. There are rocky shelves encountered along the way with numerous small pools formed in between. Visitors are permitted to swim in the water barring level four where it drops steeply. The Park is open from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily with an entry fee of THB 300 charged for adults with children being admitted for THB 200.

Camping At The Waterfall

The National Park authority permits tourists to pitch their tents in two specific locations within the area and set up their camps in the wilderness. The most popular site is by the side of the waterfall, specifically at level four. Campers can rent the required gear including tents, sleeping bags and other equipment from the Park office as well. The thick foliage provides a cover for the people enabling them to enjoy privacy along with the spectacular view all around.

The Camper's Experience
Most heartening is the fact that the pools are situated right next to the campsite, making it convenient for people to take a dip at will. While the campers are welcome to rustle up their meals over a campfire, there are a couple of Thai restaurants near the camping site that serve local dishes to the visitors. People can hope to have the entire place to themselves on weekdays as not many tourists are aware of the offbeat track that leads to this magnificent waterfall.

Things to Do At Huay Mae Khamin Waterfalls

1. Swimming
This is the primary activity that lures tourists to this beautiful waterfall. The pools formed by the overflowing water are usually the size of hot tubs making it convenient for people to bathe and relax in the cool and crystal clear water.

2. Photography
Greenery abounds in the National Park with the seven-tiered waterfalls forming a majestic drop to the thick forest. Both professionals and amateur photographers take delight in capturing the images while many of the younger group are found taking selfies.

3. Hiking
Trying to reach all the seven levels of the waterfall is a challenge that the tourists are eager to take. The trail begins from the fourth level known as Chat-Kaew and goes up to the 3rd, 2nd and 1st tier consecutively. A few hikers prefer travelling down to the 7th tier through the muddy and unpaved terrain that is relatively even but more difficult to traverse due to the overhanging branches and narrow paths.

Tips

Carrying drinking water is essential while walking up the steep path
It is advisable to visit the park during the daytime or stay at a nearby hotel in order to avoid getting lost in the forest area

How To Reach Huay Mae Khamin Waterfalls

It is customary to take Road 3199 from Kanchanaburi town to the gates of the Khuean Srinagarindra National Park headquarters that goes past the more popular Ewaran Waterfall. However, this waterfall is not on the main route or accessible by private transport, making it necessary to drive down or hire a vehicle.