
Sai Yok Yai Waterfall
Experience the majestic Sai Yok Yai Waterfall, a stunning cascade tumbling into the River Kwai, surrounded by lush jungle and WWII history.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Sai Yok Yai Waterfall
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the majestic Sai Yok Yai Waterfall, a stunning cascade tumbling into the River Kwai, surrounded by lush jungle and WWII history.
"The natural atmosphere is vvvvveryyyyy good for visitors, with beautiful waterfall and streams."

Pack Swimwear! 🏊♀️
The waterfall is perfect for a refreshing dip. Don't forget your swimsuit to enjoy the cool waters!
Wear Comfy Shoes 👟
You'll be doing some walking and potentially climbing the falls. Sturdy footwear is a must.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Majestic Sai Yok Yai Waterfall
Main attraction
Witness the impressive cascade tumbling into the river, surrounded by lush tropical forest. A truly breathtaking natural spectacle.

World War II Historical Sites
Sai Yok National Park
Explore hidden historical remnants from WWII, adding a layer of intrigue to your natural exploration.

Riverfront Relaxation
River Kwai adjacent to the waterfall
Enjoy the tranquil river atmosphere, with options for floating accommodations and longtail boat rides.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Swimwear! 🏊♀️
The waterfall is perfect for a refreshing dip. Don't forget your swimsuit to enjoy the cool waters!
Wear Comfy Shoes 👟
You'll be doing some walking and potentially climbing the falls. Sturdy footwear is a must.
Embrace the Rainy Season 🌧️
For the most dramatic waterfall views, visit during the rainy season when the water flow is strongest.
Explore Beyond the Main Fall
Discover smaller, beautiful waterfalls nearby and enjoy the serene forest atmosphere.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Swimwear! 🏊♀️
The waterfall is perfect for a refreshing dip. Don't forget your swimsuit to enjoy the cool waters!
Wear Comfy Shoes 👟
You'll be doing some walking and potentially climbing the falls. Sturdy footwear is a must.
Embrace the Rainy Season 🌧️
For the most dramatic waterfall views, visit during the rainy season when the water flow is strongest.
Explore Beyond the Main Fall
Discover smaller, beautiful waterfalls nearby and enjoy the serene forest atmosphere.
Capture the Vibe 📸
The natural beauty and historical elements make for stunning photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Sai Yok Yai Waterfall for its beautiful natural scenery and refreshing waters, noting the unique mineral content that makes rocks less slippery. The surrounding forest atmosphere and historical WWII sites add to its appeal. However, some find the cave area underdeveloped and signage could be improved.
"We rode the death railway out to its last stop. We then took a baht bus to the waterfall. The waterfal was amazing. It is not huge compared to others. The water has a mineral that does not allow the rocks to be very slippery. They are slippery in some areas but not throughout. It was not very crowded."
Jeff Holcomb
"The staff of national Park is very kind , we can go out for dinner and back in the night in the same day without paying again .
The natural atmosphere is vvvvveryyyyy good for visitors"
Anukul Tharangkunwong
"Although the water is not so much, the waterfall and streams are beautiful. Love the forest atmosphere around the area with plenty of seats to rest. Love the bridge. The one big minus is the cave that is not well prepared not and the passage and direction sign there is not well kept."
Milin Pattabongse
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Bangkok, take a train or bus to Kanchanaburi town. From there, a local bus (baht bus) runs towards Sai Yok Noi and Sai Yok Yai Waterfalls. Alternatively, consider a private taxi or renting a motorbike for more flexibility.
Yes, local buses operate from Kanchanaburi town towards the waterfall area. If you take the Death Railway, you'll need a short baht bus ride from the last stop.
Renting a motorbike in Kanchanaburi is a popular option for exploring the area, including Sai Yok Yai Waterfall, offering freedom and convenience.
Yes, many tour operators offer packages from Bangkok or Kanchanaburi that include transportation to Sai Yok Yai Waterfall and other local attractions.
These waterfalls are relatively close. You can use a local baht bus, taxi, or if you have a motorbike, it's a short ride between them.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Sai Yok Yai Waterfall is typically open daily from early morning until late afternoon. It's advisable to check the official Sai Yok National Park hours before your visit.
There is an entrance fee for Sai Yok National Park, which includes access to Sai Yok Yai Waterfall. Foreigner and Thai national prices may differ.
Yes, park staff are generally kind and allow visitors to leave for dinner and return on the same day without paying again.
Tickets are usually purchased at the park entrance. Advance booking is generally not required for individual visitors.
Information on special passes or discounts is not widely available online, but it's always worth inquiring at the park entrance.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can swim in the waterfall's refreshing waters, explore the surrounding national park, visit WWII historical sites, take a longtail boat ride, and enjoy the natural scenery.
Yes, families can enjoy the natural beauty and swimming opportunities. The park offers a relaxed atmosphere for a family outing.
Yes, there are vendors selling food, including fried vegetables and snacks, near the waterfall. Restaurants and floating accommodations are also available.
Absolutely! The waterfall is a great spot for swimming. The water has minerals that make the rocks less slippery than in some other falls.
The cave is mentioned as being not well-prepared, with poorly maintained passages and signage. It might be less of a highlight compared to the waterfall itself.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the main waterfall cascade, the river, the surrounding lush greenery, and any historical elements like the bridge. The golden hour light can also be magical.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with park authorities before flying a drone to ensure compliance and avoid any issues.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the waterfall and landscape. A waterproof camera or phone case is useful if you plan to swim.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be respectful of the natural environment and other visitors. Avoid intrusive photography.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, reducing harsh shadows and creating a more appealing atmosphere for photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a short longtail boat ride for a fun adventure on the river. The natural surroundings provide ample space for kids to explore (with supervision, of course). While the cave might be less appealing due to its condition, the waterfall and the general park atmosphere are enjoyable for all ages.
💰 Budget Travelers
While there are floating accommodations, budget travelers might prefer to stay in Kanchanaburi town and make it a day trip. Renting a motorbike can also be cost-effective if you plan to visit multiple sites in the region. Enjoying the natural beauty of the waterfall itself is free once you've paid the park entrance fee.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Sai Yok National Park
Within the park, you'll find remnants of World War II, including historical sites that add a poignant layer to the landscape. These historical elements, often hidden within the jungle, offer a glimpse into the past and provide a unique context to your visit. The park's diverse terrain makes it an excellent destination for hiking and exploration, with opportunities to discover hidden gems away from the main tourist paths.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, consider staying overnight in the floating accommodations along the River Kwai. This allows for a more relaxed pace, with opportunities to enjoy the serene river views and the sounds of nature. Longtail boat rides are a popular way to explore the river and get closer to the waterfall's base, offering a different perspective of its grandeur.
The Waterfalls: Sai Yok Yai vs. Sai Yok Noi
Just a short distance away is Sai Yok Noi Waterfall, translating to 'small waterfall.' While smaller, it's still a beautiful spot, often favored by locals for picnics and relaxation. During the rainy season, both waterfalls are at their most impressive, with powerful flows of water creating a truly spectacular display.
When visiting, it's worth experiencing both if time permits. Sai Yok Yai offers the grander spectacle, while Sai Yok Noi provides a more intimate, picnic-friendly atmosphere. Both are easily accessible and offer a refreshing escape into nature.

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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit