Mae Ya Waterfall, Chiang Mai - waterfalls neartrees durng daytime
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Mae Ya Waterfall Chiang Mai

Thailand's second-highest waterfall, Mae Ya boasts breathtaking tiered cascades and a refreshing, misty atmosphere. A must-visit natural wonder near C...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Rainy season mornings

Most powerful flow, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Mae Ya Waterfall, Chiang Mai - waterfalls neartrees durng daytime

Mae Ya Waterfall Chiang Mai

Best Time

Rainy season mornings

Most powerful flow, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Thailand's second-highest waterfall, Mae Ya boasts breathtaking tiered cascades and a refreshing, misty atmosphere. A must-visit natural wonder near Chiang Mai.

4.8
(1k reviews)

"Mae Ya Waterfall truly impressed me! It’s absolutely incredible and so beautiful. A must-visit spot!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Hire a Car or Driver

Easier access to Mae Ya and other Doi Inthanon sights. Check expat groups for recommendations.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

A short 500m walk from parking to falls, but good grip is helpful on wet rocks.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cascading Tiers

Cascading Tiers

Main waterfall area

Witness the breathtaking sight of multiple tiers of water flowing down a rocky cliff, creating a stunning natural spectacle.

Refreshing Mist

Refreshing Mist

Base of the waterfall

Feel the cool, invigorating mist on your face and enjoy the refreshing spray, perfect for a hot day.

Scenic Picnic Spots

Scenic Picnic Spots

Designated areas near the falls

Relax and enjoy a meal amidst the natural beauty, with designated areas offering picturesque views.

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for the Best Views

Visit during the rainy season (June-October) for the most powerful water flow, but be prepared for potential road closures. The dry season offers a more accessible experience, though the falls may be less dramatic. Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere before the day-trippers arrive. TikTok

Getting There: Plan Your Transport

Mae Ya Waterfall is located about 1.5 hours south of Chiang Mai city, within Doi Inthanon National Park but accessed via a separate road. Renting a car or hiring a private driver are popular options, offering flexibility to explore other nearby attractions. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Rainy season mornings
Why
Most powerful flow, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Dry season afternoons
Why
Easier access, pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

สมแล้วที่เป็นน้ำตกที่สวยในลำดับ2ของประเทศไทย #น้ำตกแม่ยะ #เที่ยวคนเดียว #น้ําตกแม่ยะเชียงใหม่ #น้ําตกแม่ยะเชียงใหม่🏔️🏞️🌈 #เชียงใหม่
@nam020842
397.5K likes • 3.7M views

🚗 Hire a Car or Driver

Easier access to Mae Ya and other Doi Inthanon sights. Check expat groups for recommendations. InstagramReddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

A short 500m walk from parking to falls, but good grip is helpful on wet rocks. TikTokReddit

hidden gem in chiang mai 😍 📍: Dantewada Land of Angels Waterfall Park #chiangmai #dantewada #thailand
@omary_nik
101.7K likes • 633.6K views
Mae Ya Waterfall 🏞️
 ❌ Don’t miss this incredible waterfall when visiting Chiang Mai!
 🇹🇭 One of Thailand’s most stunning waterfalls!
 🏍️ Located just 1.5 hours from Chiang Mai’s city center.
 🏞️ Found inside Doi Inthanon National Park, home to multiple breathtaking waterfalls.
 ⚠️ Important: Mae Ya Waterfall is accessed via a separate road-not through the park’s main entrance. Because of this, I ...
nikolajherlingofficial
17.6K likes • 963.9K views

📸 Capture the Majesty

The tiered cascades offer incredible photo opportunities, especially with the mist. TikTokReddit

💧 Embrace the Mist

The refreshing spray is a highlight! Bring a waterproof bag for electronics. TikTok

Visit 3 waterfalls in one day! Including this Wachirathan Waterfall at Doi Inthanon. This waterfall is located in Doi Inthanon, so use the entrance ticket to also vist Waterfall Mae Ya! . #chiangmaitravel #chiangmaitrip #เชียงใหม่ #chiangmai #เดินทาง #น้ำตก #travelthailand
whattodoinchiangmai
6 likes • 240 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Hire a Car or Driver

Easier access to Mae Ya and other Doi Inthanon sights. Check expat groups for recommendations. InstagramReddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

A short 500m walk from parking to falls, but good grip is helpful on wet rocks. TikTokReddit

📸 Capture the Majesty

The tiered cascades offer incredible photo opportunities, especially with the mist. TikTokReddit

💧 Embrace the Mist

The refreshing spray is a highlight! Bring a waterproof bag for electronics. TikTok

💰 Affordable Entry

Entrance fee is around 60 THB, offering great value for the experience. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Mae Ya Waterfall for its stunning beauty and impressive scale, often calling it one of Thailand's most magnificent falls. The tiered cascades and refreshing mist are highlights, offering a truly immersive natural experience. While the journey from Chiang Mai is a bit of a drive, the easy walk to the falls and affordable entry make it a worthwhile destination for nature lovers and photographers alike. TikTokReddit+1

"Mae Ya waterfall truly impressed me! I’ve been to many places in Thailand over the past two years, but this one stood out the most. It’s absolutely incredible and so beautiful. A must-visit spot!"

Мартынов Павел

"Absolutely beautiful waterfall! It’s about a 2-hour drive from Chiang Mai city, and once you arrive, there’s an easy 500-meter walk from the car park to the falls. The path is simple, and the view is totally worth it. We were lucky it wasn’t crowded when we visited—very peaceful and relaxing. Highly recommend!"

John Ben Swainson

"The waterfall is absolutely magnificent! It was our first stop of Doi Inthanon trip, and it definitely set the tone. A great spot for taking photos or just enjoying the refreshing splash on your face and the cool, misty breeze."

hm Loy

What People Like

Magnificent tiered cascades
Refreshing cool mist
Easy access and short walk

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Longer drive from Chiang Mai

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Mae Ya Waterfall is located about 1.5 hours south of Chiang Mai. The most convenient ways to get there are by renting a car and driving yourself or hiring a private car with a driver. InstagramReddit It's important to note that Mae Ya Waterfall is accessed via a separate road and not through the main entrance of Doi Inthanon National Park. Instagram

Yes, Mae Ya Waterfall is often included in tours of Doi Inthanon National Park. However, be aware that it has a separate access road, so ensure your tour itinerary specifically includes it. Instagram+1

Renting a motorbike is an option if you are comfortable with longer rides and navigating Thai roads. It offers flexibility but requires caution. Reddit

The drive from Chiang Mai city center to Mae Ya Waterfall typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, covering a distance of approximately 70-80 kilometers. InstagramReddit

Public transportation directly to Mae Ya Waterfall is limited. Hiring a private car or joining a guided tour are the most practical options for most visitors. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee for Mae Ya Waterfall is approximately 60 Thai Baht per person, offering excellent value for the stunning natural beauty. TikTok

Mae Ya Waterfall is generally open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It's always a good idea to check for any seasonal changes or temporary closures. TikTok

While Mae Ya Waterfall is located within the broader Doi Inthanon area, it has a separate access road. Your entrance ticket to Doi Inthanon National Park may not cover Mae Ya Waterfall directly, so confirm upon arrival or when booking tours. Instagram+1

There is a parking area available, and while specific fees can vary, it's generally an affordable addition to the entrance cost. TikTok

Swimming is generally not advised directly at the main cascades due to strong currents and slippery rocks. However, there are safer areas downstream where you can cool off. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the waterfall's grandeur. The mist can create dramatic effects, so consider bringing a lens cloth. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls. A tripod can help with longer exposures, especially in lower light. Consider a waterproof bag for your gear. TikTok

Yes, there are several viewpoints along the path leading to the waterfall, offering different perspectives of the tiered cascades. TikTokReddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or park rangers before flying a drone to ensure compliance and respect for other visitors. TikTok

Experiment with different angles from the base of the falls to capture the full height and width. Looking up from the bottom emphasizes the scale. TikTok

🎫 🌿 Nature & Environment

The rainy season, from June to October, is when Mae Ya Waterfall is at its most powerful and impressive due to increased water flow. TikTok

The area is surrounded by lush forest, typical of Doi Inthanon National Park, offering a rich biodiversity. You might see various tropical plants and hear diverse bird calls. TikTok

As with many natural, humid environments in Thailand, mosquitoes can be present, especially during dawn and dusk. It's advisable to bring insect repellent. Reddit

Yes, there are designated picnic areas with beautiful views, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. TikTokReddit

The path from the parking lot to the waterfall is relatively short (about 500 meters) and generally easy to navigate, though it can be slippery when wet. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mae Ya Waterfall is a fantastic destination for families looking for natural beauty and a bit of adventure. The short, easy walk from the parking lot to the falls means little legs won't get too tired. Reddit While swimming directly at the main cascades isn't recommended due to strong currents, there are often safer, shallower areas downstream where children can safely splash and cool off under supervision. TikTok The sheer scale and beauty of the waterfall are captivating for all ages, and the designated picnic areas provide a perfect spot for a family lunch amidst nature. Remember to bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be present in the humid environment. Reddit

📸 Photographers' Paradise

For photography enthusiasts, Mae Ya Waterfall is a dream location. Its multi-tiered cascades offer endless compositional possibilities, especially with a wide-angle lens. TikTok The mist generated by the powerful water flow can add a dramatic and ethereal quality to your shots, though it also means keeping your lens clean. TikTok Visiting early in the morning will provide softer light and fewer people, allowing you to capture the waterfall's grandeur without obstruction. Consider bringing a tripod for longer exposures to smooth out the water's movement and a waterproof bag to protect your gear from the spray. TikTok

🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts

Mae Ya Waterfall is an excellent stop for those exploring Chiang Mai by car or motorbike. Located about 1.5 hours south of the city, it's a scenic drive that can be combined with visits to other attractions in Doi Inthanon National Park. InstagramReddit Renting a car or hiring a driver offers the most flexibility to create your own itinerary, perhaps including a stop at Wachirathan Waterfall or exploring the national park's summit. InstagramReddit The relatively easy access and short walk make it a rewarding destination without requiring a strenuous hike. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Majesty of Mae Ya Waterfall

Mae Ya Waterfall is renowned as one of Thailand's most magnificent waterfalls, often cited as the second-highest in the country. Its impressive scale and unique tiered structure, cascading down a broad, rocky cliff face, create a truly awe-inspiring sight. The sheer volume of water, especially during the rainy season, generates a powerful roar and a refreshing, cool mist that envelops the surrounding area. TikTok+1 Visitors often describe the experience as breathtaking and a must-see when in Chiang Mai. Reddit

The waterfall is situated within the Doi Inthanon National Park region, though it requires a separate drive from the park's main entrance. This means that while it's part of the larger natural park system, it's often visited as a distinct destination. The journey itself offers scenic views of the northern Thai landscape. Instagram The accessibility is relatively good, with a short, easy walk from the parking lot to the main viewing areas, making it enjoyable for a wide range of visitors. Reddit

Beyond the visual spectacle, Mae Ya Waterfall offers a sensory experience. The sound of the water is powerful and soothing, and the cool mist provides a welcome respite from the tropical heat. Designated picnic spots allow visitors to linger and soak in the natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for a day trip focused on nature and relaxation. TikTokReddit

Planning Your Visit: Transport and Logistics

Reaching Mae Ya Waterfall involves a journey of about 1.5 to 2 hours south of Chiang Mai city. While it's located within the Doi Inthanon National Park area, it's crucial to know that it has its own access road, separate from the park's main entrance. Instagram This distinction is important for planning your route and ensuring you don't miss it. Many visitors opt to hire a car and driver for the day, which provides the flexibility to visit other attractions in Doi Inthanon, such as Wachirathan Waterfall, in addition to Mae Ya. InstagramReddit Alternatively, renting a car and driving yourself is also a viable option if you're comfortable navigating. Reddit

When considering transport, think about the time of day you wish to visit. Arriving early in the morning is highly recommended to avoid the peak crowds that can gather later in the day. TikTok This allows for a more peaceful experience and better opportunities for photography. The walk from the parking area to the waterfall itself is a relatively short 500 meters, making it accessible for most. Reddit However, wearing comfortable, non-slip shoes is advisable, as the path can become wet and slippery, especially during and after the rainy season. TikTok

The entrance fee is quite affordable, typically around 60 Thai Baht, making it a budget-friendly addition to your Chiang Mai itinerary. TikTok While the waterfall is stunning year-round, its power is most dramatic during the rainy season (June to October). However, during this time, road conditions might be more challenging, and some areas could be temporarily closed. The dry season offers easier access and consistently pleasant weather for exploration. TikTok

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