Hin Lad Waterfall
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Hin Lad Waterfall

4.3
·282 reviews·, Thailand

A serene jungle trek leading to a multi-tiered waterfall and a peaceful temple with striking Buddha statues.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Rainy season mornings

Fullest cascades, inviting pools

CrowdLow
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Hin Lad Waterfall

Hin Lad Waterfall

Best Time

Rainy season mornings

Fullest cascades, inviting pools

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene jungle trek leading to a multi-tiered waterfall and a peaceful temple with striking Buddha statues.

4.3
(282 reviews)

"The real highlight here is the Hin Lad Waterfall Temple at the trailhead, which features several striking Buddha statues."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear sturdy shoes

The jungle path is rocky and root-filled. Flip-flops are doable but shoes offer better grip .

💧 Bring water & snacks

The last shop is far from the trailhead. Pack essentials to stay hydrated and fueled .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hin Lad Waterfall Temple

Hin Lad Waterfall Temple

Trailhead

Serene temple with striking Buddha statues nestled in lush jungle, offering a peaceful atmosphere.

Multi-Tiered Waterfall & Pools

Multi-Tiered Waterfall & Pools

End of the jungle trail

Refreshing cascades and natural pools perfect for a cooling dip after your jungle trek.

Jungle Trekking Trail

Jungle Trekking Trail

Path to the waterfall

A scenic 1-2 km hike through vibrant tropical foliage, a refreshing escape from the beaches.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Water Flow

While Hin Lad Waterfall is beautiful year-round, its impressiveness varies with the seasons. For the most spectacular cascades and inviting swimming pools, aim for the rainy season (May-October). During drier months, the waterfall can be significantly less dramatic, as one visitor noted it was 'completely dried up'.TikTok

Trek Smart: Footwear & Supplies

The hike to Hin Lad Waterfall is a moderate 1-2 km trek through a jungle trail, taking about 30 minutes to an hour depending on your pace and companions.InstagramReddit Wear sturdy shoes as the path can be rocky and root-filled.Reddit Bring water and snacks, as the nearest shop is a considerable distance from the trailhead.Reddit

Best Times

When
Rainy season mornings
Why
Fullest cascades, inviting pools
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays, any time
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful vibe
Crowd
Low
When
January
Why
Less water, but temple is serene
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Local recommendations > 📍Hin Lad Waterfall Hike #kohsamui #girlstrip #waterfallhike #hinladwaterfall #hitchhiking
ninaisoutofoffice
38 likes • 2.3K views

👟 Wear sturdy shoes

The jungle path is rocky and root-filled. Flip-flops are doable but shoes offer better grip.Reddit

💧 Bring water & snacks

The last shop is far from the trailhead. Pack essentials to stay hydrated and fueled.Reddit

Sunday #hiking to Hin Lad Waterfall Koh #Samui
sergey.samui
33 likes • 1.6K views
It’s no secret, the jungle hike to the Hin Lad Waterfall is a crowd favorite! 💦🥾 Sweat, climb, and conquer, then reward yourself with a refreshing plunge. It’s pure bliss. 😌 We would love to have you join us in this magical place! ✨ Our retreats run weekly, all year round. 📅 We’re ready when you are! 😎 #hinladwaterfall #kohsamui #kohsamuithailand #fitnessmotivation #hikesamui #holistichealt...
visitnaturaldetoxresort
23 likes • 874 views

🌿 Visit the temple first

The Wat Namtok Hin Lad temple at the start is a highlight with beautiful Buddha statues.Reddit

📸 Capture the statues

The intricate Buddha sculptures and serene temple grounds are very photogenic.Reddit

We hiked to Wat Namtok Hin Lad Waterfall. It’s only 1 km long, but it took us 2 hours to get there. It wasn’t THAT hard; we just had 2 kids in our party 😀. One is an enthusiastic toddler, and the other is a strong and fast 5-year-old bun. After all, it was suuuuper refreshing to stay by the flowing water for a quarter of an hour, and a little cardio is always a good idea for maintaining energy lev...
elen_linv
14 likes • 244 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear sturdy shoes

The jungle path is rocky and root-filled. Flip-flops are doable but shoes offer better grip.Reddit

💧 Bring water & snacks

The last shop is far from the trailhead. Pack essentials to stay hydrated and fueled.Reddit

🌿 Visit the temple first

The Wat Namtok Hin Lad temple at the start is a highlight with beautiful Buddha statues.Reddit

📸 Capture the statues

The intricate Buddha sculptures and serene temple grounds are very photogenic.Reddit

🥽 Consider swimming

The waterfall pools are refreshing, but check water levels and safety before jumping in.TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.3
(282 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Hin Lad Waterfall offers a tranquil jungle escape with a beautiful temple and refreshing cascades, though its impressiveness varies by season. While the hike is manageable, sturdy shoes are recommended. Some visitors find the waterfall itself less spectacular than anticipated, but the serene temple grounds and natural pools are definite highlights.

"My visit to Hin Lad Waterfall was an okay experience, but it’s not a must-see unless you’ve run out of other places to visit in Koh Samui. The real highlight here is the Hin Lad Waterfall Temple (Wat Namtok Hin Lad) at the trailhead, which features several striking Buddha statues that steal the show. The statues, including one set in a natural niche in a boulder, are beautifully surrounded by lush jungle and create a peaceful, photogenic vibe. The temple’s garden, walking paths, and meditation area added to the serene atmosphere, making it a nice spot for a quiet stroll or to snap some photos of the intricate sculptures and wise sayings posted along the paths.
The waterfall itself, however, was just okay. After a 2-km hike through the jungle (about 30 minutes), the multi-tiered cascade and pool were refreshing but not particularly impressive, even in the rainy season. The water didn’t feel as inviting for swimming as I’d hoped, and the trail was a bit slippery, so sturdy shoes are a must. I was also disappointed to see signs promoting elephant rides nearby, which felt out of place given the temple’s spiritual focus. I’ve attached photos of the Buddha statues and the waterfall to give a sense of the place. If you’re near Nathon and enjoy temples, it’s worth a stop for the statues, but don’t expect a spectacular waterfall. Visit if you have time to spare."

Shahzad Saeed

"Ladies and Gentlemen, this is one place to spend couple of hours trekking up hill on a very beautiful tropical trail and then washing away the tiredness by swimming in those beautiful fresh water pools on the island.
We went there last week, 4th April to be exact.
Trekked up, a bit of tricky but easy to do and there was this gorgeous waterfall. By the fall, there are 3-4 pools at different level. You may swim in any of those. Very peaceful location. Very few tourists.

Just carry water bottles / snacks with you since the last shop is almost 1.5 kms below the trail. And remember to bring back the waste."

abhishek bhartiya

"I can see locals spending their Sunday’s here, family, friends, just frolicking in the water and having a good time time. You can still enjoy the water at the entrance instead of trekking up for an hr. Makes this spot a quick in and out location."

Steven Leong

What People Like

Peaceful temple grounds
Beautiful Buddha statues
Refreshing waterfall pools

What People Dislike

Waterfall can be dry
Trail can be slippery

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Chaweng, you can hire a taxi or scooter to reach Hin Lad Waterfall. It's located near Nathon on the west coast of Koh Samui. Many visitors use ride-sharing apps or local songthaews. The journey typically takes around 30-45 minutes by scooter.TikTok

Yes, Hin Lad Waterfall is generally well-signposted, especially once you get closer to Nathon. Look for signs directing you towards Wat Namtok Hin Lad, as the temple is at the trailhead.Instagram

While direct public transport to the waterfall is limited, you can take a songthaew (shared taxi) towards Nathon and then arrange for a local taxi or scooter to take you the rest of the way. Hitchhiking is also an option for adventurous travelers.TikTok

Renting a scooter is a popular and flexible way to explore Koh Samui's attractions, including Hin Lad Waterfall. Alternatively, taxis and songthaews are readily available, though they can be more expensive for multiple stops.Instagram

The trail to Hin Lad Waterfall involves uneven terrain, rocks, and roots, making it challenging for wheelchairs. The temple area might be more accessible, but the hike itself is not suitable for wheelchair users.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no entrance fee required to visit Hin Lad Waterfall or the adjacent temple. It's a free natural attraction for visitors to enjoy.Reddit

Hin Lad Waterfall and its temple are generally open from morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the surroundings.Instagram

No booking is necessary. Hin Lad Waterfall is a natural attraction, and you can visit anytime during daylight hours without needing to purchase tickets in advance.

While there are no strict restrictions, it's advisable to be respectful of the temple grounds and the natural environment. Avoid leaving trash and be mindful of the local culture.Reddit

It is not recommended to visit Hin Lad Waterfall at night due to safety concerns on the jungle trail and the lack of lighting. Stick to daylight hours for a better and safer experience.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The hike is approximately 1 to 2 kilometers long and typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace and whether you have children with you.InstagramReddit

The hike is considered moderately easy, but the path can be rocky and have roots, so sturdy footwear is recommended. It's manageable even with children, though it might take longer.Instagram

Yes, you can swim in the refreshing pools at the base of the waterfall. However, the water levels can vary, and it might be less inviting during dry seasons.TikTokReddit

Wear comfortable clothing suitable for hiking and bring swimwear if you plan to swim. Sturdy walking shoes or hiking sandals are highly recommended due to the trail conditions.Reddit

Generally, Hin Lad Waterfall is less crowded than some other popular spots on Koh Samui, especially on weekdays. You might find it to be a peaceful retreat with very few tourists.InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The most photogenic spots include the striking Buddha statues at the temple, the multi-tiered cascades of the waterfall, and the lush jungle scenery. The serene atmosphere also lends itself to beautiful, tranquil shots.Reddit

If you enjoy nature photography or capturing cultural sites, a camera is definitely worthwhile. The temple's unique statues and the natural beauty of the waterfall offer great photographic potential.Instagram

Morning light can be beautiful for the jungle and waterfall, while late afternoon might offer softer light for the temple. However, the shaded jungle trail can be good for photos at any time.

Look for the Buddha statue nestled in a natural boulder niche at the temple. The various levels of the waterfall and the surrounding greenery also provide excellent backdrops.Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local guidelines before flying a drone, especially near the temple and natural reserves.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hin Lad Waterfall can be a fun outing for families, though the hike requires some consideration. The 1-2 km jungle trail is manageable for most children, but the rocky and root-filled path means sturdy shoes are a must for little ones.InstagramReddit The waterfall pools offer a refreshing reward, but supervise children closely near the water. The temple area at the trailhead is also a calmer space for younger children to explore, with interesting statues to look at.Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Backpackers

Solo travelers often find Hin Lad Waterfall to be a peaceful escape. The less crowded nature of the site compared to other Koh Samui attractions makes it ideal for a quiet hike and a refreshing swim.InstagramReddit It's a great spot to connect with nature and enjoy some solitude. Consider renting a scooter for easy access, and always let someone know your plans when venturing into natural areas.TikTok

🌿 Nature Enthusiasts

For those seeking a natural escape, Hin Lad Waterfall offers a beautiful jungle environment and a chance to experience a different side of Koh Samui beyond the beaches.Instagram The lush vegetation and the sound of the cascading water create a serene atmosphere. The temple's integration with nature is also a unique aspect, blending spirituality with the natural landscape.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Spiritual Side: Wat Namtok Hin Lad

Before you even reach the waterfall, you'll encounter the Wat Namtok Hin Lad temple. This spiritual site is a significant draw, featuring numerous striking Buddha statues artfully placed within the lush jungle surroundings.Reddit One particularly memorable statue is nestled in a natural niche within a large boulder, creating a serene and photogenic scene. The temple grounds are well-maintained, with walking paths, meditation areas, and wise sayings posted along the way, contributing to a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere.Reddit Many visitors find the temple itself to be a highlight, offering a tranquil escape and a chance for quiet reflection before or after visiting the waterfall.

The Waterfall Experience: Cascades and Pools

The hike culminates at the Hin Lad Waterfall, a multi-tiered cascade that flows into several natural pools. While the waterfall is a refreshing reward after the trek, its impressiveness can vary significantly with the seasons. During the rainy season (May-October), the cascades are more powerful and the pools are more inviting for swimming.Reddit In drier months, the water flow may be reduced, making it less spectacular.TikTok Visitors can enjoy a dip in the cool waters, but it's important to be mindful of the rocky terrain around the pools and to check water levels and safety before entering.TikTok

Navigating the Jungle Trail

The journey to the waterfall is a pleasant 1-2 kilometer jungle trek, typically taking between 30 minutes to an hour.InstagramReddit The path is well-defined but can be uneven, featuring rocks and exposed roots, making sturdy footwear essential.Reddit While not overly strenuous, it's a good idea to wear comfortable clothing and bring water and snacks, as amenities are scarce along the trail.Reddit The lush greenery and natural sounds of the jungle make the hike an enjoyable part of the overall experience, offering a refreshing contrast to the island's beaches.Instagram

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