Kathu Waterfall, Phuket - waterfalls neartrees durng daytime
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Kathu Waterfall Phuket

3.8
·3k reviews·Kathu, Thailand

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
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Kathu Waterfall, Phuket - waterfalls neartrees durng daytime

Kathu Waterfall Phuket

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

3.8
(3k reviews)

"A refreshing jungle oasis with a pleasant hike, perfect for a cool dip and a break from the heat."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kathu Waterfall

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

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

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

Prepare for a short, scenic hike through lush jungle to reach Kathu Waterfall. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the path can be uneven. It's a refreshing escape from the typical beach scene.

Timing is Key for Tranquility

While beautiful, Kathu Waterfall can get busy. Consider visiting on a weekday or early in the morning to experience its serene jungle ambiance with fewer crowds.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene
Crowd
Low
When
After monsoon season
Why
Fuller cascades, lush greenery
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Raga Cafe is a hidden gem in Phuket which offers all day brunch with stunning garden setting with a mini waterfall #ragacafe #phuket #phuketcafe #phuketthailand #phukettrip #phuket2025 #thailandfood
@aktravelss
8.8K likes • 294.9K views

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The jungle path can be slippery. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for the hike! Instagram

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

Stay hydrated during your trek and while enjoying the waterfall. There are limited facilities on the trail. Reddit

น้ำตกกะทู้ ตอนนี้น่าไปมั้ย?? Q : น้ำตกร้างจริงมั้ย? A : จริงค่ะ ควรได้รับการปรับปรุง รก รู้สึกไม่ปลอดภัยเท่าไหร่ Q : ช่วงไหนน้ำเยอะ? A : ไม่รู้เลยค่ะ พึ่งไปครั้...
@no3ymn
7.8K likes • 162.3K views
Kathu waterfall is one of the most unique things you can do when traveling to Phuket Thailand #thailandtravelguide #travelthailand #bangkoktravelguide #travelphuket
williamtravels1998
47 likes • 2.7K views

📸 Capture the Greenery

The lush jungle surroundings offer beautiful photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera! Instagram

☕ Relax at Raga Cafe

After your waterfall visit, unwind at the nearby Raga Cafe for brunch and a peaceful atmosphere. TikTokInstagram

Don’t skip this cafe if you’re coming to Phuket! Situated in the heart of Kathu, next to Kathu waterfall is this beautiful cafe. It’s a must visit from us!
itsjuliannevin
68 likes • 5.3K views

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! Instagram

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

Stay hydrated during your trek and while enjoying the waterfall. There are limited facilities on the trail. Reddit

📸 Capture the Greenery

The lush jungle surroundings offer beautiful photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera! Instagram

☕ Relax at Raga Cafe

After your waterfall visit, unwind at the nearby Raga Cafe for brunch and a peaceful atmosphere. TikTokInstagram

⚠️ Monsoon Caution

Be extra careful during the monsoon season; water levels can rise quickly. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.8
(3k reviews)

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

Refreshing jungle atmosphere
Pleasant short hike
Tranquil escape

What People Dislike

Not a large waterfall

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. TikTok

Yes, the waterfall is generally well-signposted once you are in the Kathu area. Following GPS or asking locals can also help. TikTok

Renting a scooter offers the most flexibility for exploring Kathu and its surroundings. Taxis and Grab are also readily available. Instagram

Direct public bus routes to the immediate vicinity of Kathu Waterfall might be limited. Taxis or ride-sharing services are more convenient. Reddit

Kathu Waterfall is approximately a 20-30 minute drive from Patong Beach, depending on traffic conditions. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Currently, there is no entrance fee mentioned for Kathu Waterfall, making it a free natural attraction. TikTok

Kathu Waterfall is a natural attraction and is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no official opening or closing times posted. TikTok

No, booking tickets in advance is not necessary as there is no admission fee. You can visit spontaneously. TikTok

While generally open, it's advisable to be cautious during heavy monsoon rains due to potential flash floods. Reddit

Yes, visitors can swim in the pools at the base of the waterfall. The water is refreshing, especially on a hot day. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The hike to Kathu Waterfall is relatively short, typically taking about 10-15 minutes from the parking area. Instagram

Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots as the trail can be uneven and slippery. Light, breathable clothing is recommended. Instagram

Basic facilities might be limited. It's best to come prepared and use restrooms before you arrive. Reddit

The hike is short and manageable, but the terrain can be uneven. Parents should supervise young children closely, especially near the water. TikTok

You might encounter various tropical birds and insects in the lush jungle environment surrounding the waterfall. Instagram

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

While there aren't food stalls directly at the waterfall, the popular Raga Cafe is located nearby, offering brunch and drinks. TikTokInstagram

Raga Cafe is known for its all-day brunch menu and offers a pleasant dining experience in a garden setting. TikTok

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. Reddit

Raga Cafe has a relaxed atmosphere, so casual attire is perfectly fine. TikTok

Besides Raga Cafe, you can find local eateries and restaurants in the wider Kathu town area. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, ideal for capturing the waterfall and jungle scenery without harsh shadows. Instagram

Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and be mindful of other visitors before flying a drone. Instagram

You can capture the cascading water, the lush green jungle, and the tranquil atmosphere. Wide-angle lenses are great for the scenery. Instagram

Always be aware of your surroundings and the slippery terrain when taking photos near the water. Reddit

Yes, Raga Cafe's beautiful garden setting and mini waterfall make it a very photogenic spot. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kathu Waterfall is a great option for families looking for a nature-focused outing. The short trek to the waterfall is manageable for most children, offering an exciting adventure through the jungle. Supervise children closely near the water, as the rocks can be slippery. TikTok The opportunity to splash in the cool water at the base of the falls is usually a big hit with younger visitors. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. Reddit

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. Instagram 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

For those seeking a more active experience, Kathu Waterfall offers a pleasant introduction to Phuket's jungle trails. The hike itself is a short but rewarding journey through lush vegetation. Instagram Experienced hikers might find opportunities for longer treks in the surrounding areas, though detailed trail information can be scarce. Reddit Embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself in the tropical rainforest environment and listen to the sounds of nature. Instagram

Remember to wear sturdy hiking shoes and carry plenty of water, as the humidity and terrain can be demanding. Instagram 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. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Kathu Waterfall and its surroundings offer excellent opportunities for nature photography. The cascading water, lush green foliage, and the tranquil jungle setting provide a picturesque scene. Instagram Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best natural light, which will help capture the vibrant colors and textures without harsh shadows. Instagram

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. TikTokInstagram Be mindful of the slippery surfaces when composing your shots near the water, and always prioritize safety. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Kathu Waterfall Experience

Kathu Waterfall offers a refreshing escape into Phuket's natural beauty, distinct from its famous beaches. The journey begins with a short, invigorating trek through a vibrant jungle, immersing you in the sights and sounds of the rainforest. The path, though not strenuous, requires comfortable footwear due to its potentially uneven and slippery nature, especially after rain. Instagram As you venture deeper, the air grows cooler, and the sounds of the jungle intensify, building anticipation for the waterfall itself.

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. TikTok

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. TikTokInstagram

Hiking and Nature Exploration

For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, Kathu Waterfall serves as a gateway to exploring Phuket's natural trails. The hike to the waterfall is a pleasant introduction to the island's jungle terrain. Some travelers have noted that there are longer hiking routes in the vicinity, connecting different natural spots, though specific trail details can be scarce. Reddit

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. Instagram It's recommended to wear appropriate footwear and carry water, as the trails can be humid and sometimes challenging. Instagram

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. Reddit

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