Haew Suwat Waterfall, Thailand

There are many waterfalls in Khao Yai National Park but Haew Suwat or Nam tok Haew Suwat and Haew Narok waterfall are said to be one of the best ones. The waterfalls come to full life during the rainy season. We visited only one as the heat was too much for us to undertake journey to another popular and mostly visited Hawe Narok waterfall.

This waterfall became popular after Leonardo Dicapro's scene from "The Beach" where he jumps over the cliff into the pool below.During the dry season, when we went, the fall had water but it was turbid. This was also a plus point for us as we were spared by the wrath of leeches who become rampant during the rainy season :(

upper level pool

The water collects in a pool on the upper level from where it falls down 25 meters below

Oh no, we did not see elephants, but got a chance to see their dung, confirming that this pool is visited by them.

notice at entrance

view of both levels of waterfall from above

polypore or bracket or shelf fungi on a tree log

bracket fungi attack wood of living trees

We saw two caves below the waterfall, I am not that adventurous so dared not go over the boulders, step into water and explore inside the caves.

The pool water is though tempting for a swim but it is prohibited to swim at any time of the year. During the rainy season which is from May to october, the amount of water in fall increases manyfold and it may become dangerous for those who do not want to adhere to rules.

Huge boulders around make good and safe seating spots. You might be visited by butterflies, bugs so if you are sensitive to them, apply insect repellants.

A good weekend get away from Bangkok.