Ton Chong Fa Waterfall | Khao Lak Hiking Guide
Last Updated on November 20, 2025 by Charlotte
Tucked away in the lush forests of Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park, Ton Chong Fa Waterfall is a perfect escape from Thailand’s busier tourist trails. With five gentle cascades, crystal-clear pools, and some delightful surprises along the way, this easy hike delivers exactly the kind of peaceful adventure you didn’t know you needed. Whether you’re looking to cool off in emerald pools, spot some of Thailand’s incredible butterfly species, or simply enjoy the sounds of the forest, Ton Chong Fa is worth a visit.
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Our Hike to Ton Chong Fa Waterfall in Khao Lak
Our driver dropped us at the park entrance, and we stepped into the shade of the forest, following a soft, well-worn dirt trail beneath the trees. After a fast-paced week of snorkeling with sea turtles and gliding down jungle rivers on bamboo rafts, we were ready for a gentler kind of adventure, something slower, quieter, greener, like a hike.
The Ton Chong Fa Waterfall flows in a series of cascades, threading through the forest like a silver ribbon. The first little pool we reached was a surprising shade of turquoise.
The water seemed calm until I noticed tiny fish. Dozens of them flitted around my ankles as I dipped my feet in, giving me the lightest tickling nibble on my toes. Doctor fish! I hadn’t expected a free pedicure in the jungle, but I wasn’t about to complain.
We lingered at that first pool for a while, then followed the stream uphill to the second and largest waterfall. This is the cascade you’ve probably seen in every photo.
Compared to the first waterfall, this waterfall is tall and wide, and framed by the surrounding jungle. The pool at its base was cool and deep and perfect for a lazy paddle.
When the clouds shifted and the sunlight broke through the canopy, delicate rainbows danced in the mist that broke on the rocks. We stretched out on a flat rock, listening to birdsong and the rush of water through the ravine.
Eventually, other hikers arrived, and we packed up to continue along the trail. Beyond waterfall #2, the path narrowed and grew steeper.
We shimmied around roots and hopped over rocks, but for us, that just added to the fun. The final two waterfalls weren’t quite as dramatic, but I think they were still worth the climb.
On the way back down, butterflies flitted through sunbeams, wisping between shafts of light and leaves. Thailand is home to over 1,100 butterfly species, and for a moment, it felt like we were seeing them all at once.
Electric blue ones. Pale green ones that shimmered opalescent in the sunlight. Wings speckled with delicate polka dots. They swirled around us like living jewels, a kaleidoscope of confetti, and a reminder of just how vibrant life is in this part of the world.
How to Visit Ton Chong Fa Waterfall in Khao Lak
Ton Chong Fa Waterfall is located about 7 kilometers from Khao Lak’s main tourist area. The most convenient way to reach it is by renting a scooter (200-300 THB per day), which takes about 15-20 minutes from central Khao Lak.
Alternatively, you can take a taxi from Bang Niang Market for around 150 THB per two people (one way), with an additional 50 THB for each extra person. We hired a private tuk-tuk for the day, so our driver waited for us at the waterfall parking lot.
Entrance Fees & Timing
Entry to Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park costs:
- 200 THB for adults
- 100 THB for children
- Free for children under 3 years of age
Keep in mind that the Ton Chong Fa area of the Lam Ru park is only open from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, so if you plan to hike, be sure to arrive by 3:30 PM at the latest. Your ticket is valid for 72 hours and also gives you access to other waterfalls in the park, like Lampi and Hin Lad waterfalls, as well as the hike to Small Sandy Beach.
Trail Details, Facilities, and Accessibility
The hike from the parking area to the first waterfall is about 1 kilometer on a dirt road and takes roughly 10-15 minutes. The trail is relatively easy and kid-friendly to reach the first two levels, though it becomes steeper and more challenging to access the upper tiers. Restroom facilities are available at the entrance and near the main waterfall.
Trail Stats
- Distance: 3.9 km (2.4 miles)
- Elevation gain: 186 m (610 ft)
Best Times to Visit
The best time to visit is during the rainy season (June-October) when water flow is at its peak, creating more impressive cascades, or in January through March when there is cooler weather and reliable water levels. April can be quite dry, so the waterfalls may be less impressive. The monsoon season (August-November) means fuller waterfalls but potentially muddy, slippery trails.
What to Bring
- Sturdy walking shoes with good grip (the trail can be muddy and rocky)
- Swimwear if you plan to take a dip
- Water and snacks
- Waterproof phone case for photos near the falls
- Insect repellent!!!
Ready to Plan Your Trip to Khao Lak?
- Looking for the best snorkeling in Thailand? Check out our post on snorkeling the Surin Islands for some of the most incredible marine wildlife and pristine coral reefs in the Andaman Sea.
- Love wildlife and secret beaches? Check out Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park guide to Small Sandy Beach!
- Want to see some adorable sea turtles? Check out our guide on the Khao Lak Sea Turtle Conservation Center!
- Excited to go on a Bamboo Rafting Adventure? Read our firsthand experience, plus details on how to book Bamboo Rafting.
- Planning where to stay? Check out our guide on the best places to stay in Khao Lak, based on your travel style!
