Kathu Waterfall Phuket
A serene jungle oasis featuring a refreshing waterfall and a short, scenic trek, offering a peaceful natural escape in Phuket.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Kathu Waterfall Phuket
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene jungle oasis featuring a refreshing waterfall and a short, scenic trek, offering a peaceful natural escape in Phuket.
"A refreshing jungle oasis with a pleasant hike, perfect for a cool dip and a break from the heat."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The jungle path can be slippery. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for the hike!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated during your trek and while enjoying the waterfall. There are limited facilities on the trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kathu Waterfall
Main cascade
A refreshing jungle oasis with cascading water, perfect for a cool dip and a break from the heat.

Jungle Trekking Path
Trail leading to the waterfall
An invigorating short hike through vibrant rainforest, offering a glimpse of local flora and fauna.
Raga Cafe
Adjacent to the waterfall
A charming cafe offering delicious brunch and a tranquil garden setting with a mini waterfall.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Jungle Trek
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The jungle path can be slippery. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for the hike!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated during your trek and while enjoying the waterfall. There are limited facilities on the trail.
📸 Capture the Greenery
The lush jungle surroundings offer beautiful photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera!
☕ Relax at Raga Cafe
After your waterfall visit, unwind at the nearby Raga Cafe for brunch and a peaceful atmosphere.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The jungle path can be slippery. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for the hike!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated during your trek and while enjoying the waterfall. There are limited facilities on the trail.
📸 Capture the Greenery
The lush jungle surroundings offer beautiful photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera!
☕ Relax at Raga Cafe
After your waterfall visit, unwind at the nearby Raga Cafe for brunch and a peaceful atmosphere.
⚠️ Monsoon Caution
Be extra careful during the monsoon season; water levels can rise quickly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Kathu Waterfall for its refreshing jungle setting and the enjoyable short hike. It's seen as a peaceful alternative to Phuket's busy beaches, with the nearby Raga Cafe adding to the charm. Some note that it's not a massive waterfall but offers a tranquil natural escape.
"The atmosphere is nice. If you go upstairs, the waterfall has beautiful patterns. I can't take pictures because there are a lot of people. I recommend that people who want to take pictures should come on weekdays💚"
Nan Mue Sue
"An interesting place with a very beautiful picture.
At the very bottom level there is a small pool for very small children. The main waterfall is located a little higher, after going up the steps.
There is very beautiful flora and rich fauna here. Trees with huge trunk diameters and powerful roots, vines and various plants and flowers create a special, indescribable atmosphere in this place. There are spiders, snakes and lizards - they can mainly be found early in the morning and late in the evening.
Access to the waterfall is easy, so this place can be visited with children to let them splash in the water and take photos for memory!
*
When visiting this attraction, you need to stock up on water, repellents and have comfortable shoes
best time to visit: June - October
entrance: free
Full information with video and easy navigation - in the app 👉 PHUKETON"
Igor Dvorov (PhuketON)
"Don't miss out on stopping at the little coffee and bakery shop just over the bridge and beforethe stairs. Steal a moment for yourself and look for the small brook and waterfall to put your feet in the water listen to the falls and enjoy your coffee. A must experience."
Pj Ferstler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Kathu Waterfall by taxi, Grab (ride-sharing app), or by renting a scooter. It's located in the Kathu district, a short drive from Phuket Town. Look for signs directing you to the waterfall.
Yes, the waterfall is generally well-signposted once you are in the Kathu area. Following GPS or asking locals can also help.
Renting a scooter offers the most flexibility for exploring Kathu and its surroundings. Taxis and Grab are also readily available.
Direct public bus routes to the immediate vicinity of Kathu Waterfall might be limited. Taxis or ride-sharing services are more convenient.
Kathu Waterfall is approximately a 20-30 minute drive from Patong Beach, depending on traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Currently, there is no entrance fee mentioned for Kathu Waterfall, making it a free natural attraction.
Kathu Waterfall is a natural attraction and is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no official opening or closing times posted.
No, booking tickets in advance is not necessary as there is no admission fee. You can visit spontaneously.
While generally open, it's advisable to be cautious during heavy monsoon rains due to potential flash floods.
Yes, visitors can swim in the pools at the base of the waterfall. The water is refreshing, especially on a hot day.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Kathu Waterfall is relatively short, typically taking about 10-15 minutes from the parking area.
Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots as the trail can be uneven and slippery. Light, breathable clothing is recommended.
Basic facilities might be limited. It's best to come prepared and use restrooms before you arrive.
The hike is short and manageable, but the terrain can be uneven. Parents should supervise young children closely, especially near the water.
You might encounter various tropical birds and insects in the lush jungle environment surrounding the waterfall.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
While there aren't food stalls directly at the waterfall, the popular Raga Cafe is located nearby, offering brunch and drinks.
Raga Cafe is known for its all-day brunch menu and offers a pleasant dining experience in a garden setting.
It's generally acceptable to bring your own snacks and water, but it's important to pack out all your trash to keep the area clean.
Raga Cafe has a relaxed atmosphere, so casual attire is perfectly fine.
Besides Raga Cafe, you can find local eateries and restaurants in the wider Kathu town area.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, ideal for capturing the waterfall and jungle scenery without harsh shadows.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and be mindful of other visitors before flying a drone.
You can capture the cascading water, the lush green jungle, and the tranquil atmosphere. Wide-angle lenses are great for the scenery.
Always be aware of your surroundings and the slippery terrain when taking photos near the water.
Yes, Raga Cafe's beautiful garden setting and mini waterfall make it a very photogenic spot.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pairing your visit with a stop at Raga Cafe can make for a perfect family day out. The cafe's relaxed atmosphere and delicious brunch options provide a comfortable spot to rest and enjoy a meal after your waterfall exploration. It’s a good idea to visit on a weekday morning to avoid larger crowds and ensure a more peaceful experience for your family.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Remember to wear sturdy hiking shoes and carry plenty of water, as the humidity and terrain can be demanding. While the main waterfall is the highlight, exploring the less-developed paths can lead to discovering hidden nooks and appreciating the biodiversity of the region.
📸 Photographers
Don't miss the chance to photograph the adjacent Raga Cafe, which boasts a charming garden and its own mini waterfall, making it a highly photogenic spot. Be mindful of the slippery surfaces when composing your shots near the water, and always prioritize safety.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Kathu Waterfall Experience
The waterfall itself is a charming cascade, not massive but incredibly picturesque, creating a serene pool at its base. It's an ideal spot for a cool dip to escape the tropical heat. While the main cascade is the focal point, the surrounding greenery and the tranquil atmosphere make it a peaceful retreat. Many visitors find it a welcome change of pace from the bustling tourist hubs.
Adjacent to the waterfall, Raga Cafe provides a delightful extension to your visit. This popular spot is praised for its all-day brunch and its beautiful garden setting, complete with its own mini waterfall. It’s the perfect place to relax, refuel, and soak in the tranquil ambiance after exploring the natural beauty of Kathu Waterfall.
Hiking and Nature Exploration
The surrounding jungle is rich with tropical flora and fauna, offering a chance to observe local wildlife, including various bird species and insects. The experience is enhanced by the sounds of the rainforest, creating a truly immersive natural encounter. It's recommended to wear appropriate footwear and carry water, as the trails can be humid and sometimes challenging.
While Kathu Waterfall itself is a primary attraction, the area around it offers opportunities for further exploration for the more adventurous. Some Reddit users have mentioned hiking between waterfalls or exploring less-trodden paths, suggesting that Kathu can be a starting point for a more in-depth nature exploration of Phuket.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit