Erawan National Park

This popular Thai national park is named after its seven-tiered waterfall. The uppermost tier is said to resemble the three-headed elephant Erawan in Hindu mythology. Spend a day in the park climbing the falls and exploring the hiking trails and hillside caves.

The hike to the top of the waterfall takes about three hours return. Refresh yourself along the way by taking a swim in one of the shallow, green pools that collect on the limestone terraces. The water is cold, but during the humid summer months, there’s no better way to cool off.

Keep an eye out for jungle wildlife as you hike. Deer, monkeys and even elephants can often be seen along the trail. Dangle your feet in the waterfall pools for a natural foot exfoliation. Some of the pools hold tiny fish that nibble lightly on the layers of dead skin on your feet.

6 miles (10 kilometers) north of Erawan Falls, deeply embedded in a hillside, is Phra That Cave. Take a free guided tour along the illuminated walkways of the cave to see and learn about the stalactites and stalagmites inside.

The park entrance fee covers access to the falls and caves. When entering the park, stop at one of the small restaurants to buy snacks and water. Arrive early in the morning as the park can get hot and crowded by lunchtime. Bring insect repellent.

Erawan National Park is located 43 miles (70 kilometers) to the northwest of Kanchanaburi city. Buses run hourly from Kanchanaburi city to the park. The journey takes between 1.5 and 2 hours. Renting a private taxi or songthaew will cost more, but will get you there faster and the driver will wait to return you to town at the end of the day. The park is open year-round.