How to get to Bang Pae Waterfall
The waterfall is located 20 kilometers from Phuket Town and 15 kilometers from Phuket International Airport, making it easy to visit. If you rent a car or motorcycle, the drive to the waterfall will take about 30 minutes. The path passes through scenic forested areas and rubber plantations, making the drive to the waterfall just as interesting as the visit itself.
There is a fee to enter the national park: an adult ticket costs 200 baht and a child ticket costs 100 baht. Tickets can be purchased on the spot, at a special ticket office at the entrance to the park. We recommend coming here in the morning or late evening, when there are fewer tourists and the temperature is more comfortable for walking. The park is open daily from early morning until evening.
Nature and Features of Bang Pae Waterfall
Bang Pae Waterfall is about 15 meters high, making it the highest waterfall in Phuket. During the rainy season, which runs from May to October, the flow of water increases significantly, creating a spectacular sight. During this time, the waterfall is filled with powerful torrents of water that tumble downward with a rumble, crashing over large rocks at the base. In the dry season the waterfall looks more modest and its filling depends on the amount of rainfall, so it is worth considering the current weather conditions before traveling. At the height of the tourist season from November to March, there may be very little water in Bang Pae Falls, and on some days the falls may be almost dry.
Surrounding the waterfall is a dense rainforest with a variety of flora and fauna. Tall trees, including palms and rubber trees, grow around the waterfall, creating cool shade. On the way to the waterfall, you can see many exotic plants and encounter a variety of birds, making the walk particularly enjoyable for nature lovers.
For those who want to take a dip in the cool water, the pond at the foot of the waterfall provides such an opportunity. This is a great place to relax after a hike, where you can refresh yourself and enjoy nature. However, you should be careful: the rocks underwater can be slippery, especially after rain.
Gibbon Rehabilitation Center
One of the unique features of the Bang Pae Falls area is the Gibbon Rehabilitation Center located near the falls. This center rescues and rehabilitates gibbons that have been harmed by poachers or illegally removed from the wild. The center returns these rare primates to their natural habitat when they have recovered sufficiently.
A visit to the center is a unique opportunity to see gibbons up close and learn about the important conservation work of this species. The center’s staff gives tours, talking about the lives of these amazing animals and how you can help in their conservation. This place is especially interesting for families with children, as it combines the educational aspect with the opportunity to see the animals in a natural environment.
Tips for visiting Bang Pae Waterfall
When visiting Bang Pae Waterfall, it is important to keep a few guidelines in mind to ensure your visit is comfortable and safe:
- The best time to visit is in the morning or late evening. At this time there are fewer tourists and the temperature is more comfortable for walking.
- Weather conditions: if you are planning a visit during the dry season, take into account that the waterfall may not be as full. In the rainy season, the falls are most impressive, but the trails can be slippery, so you should wear comfortable shoes with good traction.
- Clothing and equipment: light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes are best for the walk to the waterfall. It is also recommended to bring water and a light snack, as there are no cafes or stores in the park.
- Safety: although the trails to the falls are not difficult, use caution when crossing streams and bridges, especially in rainy weather.
Conclusion
Bang Pae Waterfall is not just the largest waterfall in Phuket, but also one of the most scenic and secluded spots on the island. A visit to this waterfall will give you an unforgettable Phuket nature experience, a chance to refresh yourself in the cool water and learn more about Thailand’s wildlife at the Gibbon Rehabilitation Center. This place is ideal for those who are looking for peace and want to enjoy the beauty of the rainforest away from the noise of tourist areas. Regardless of the time of year, Bang Pae Waterfall will be remembered as one of the most beautiful places you will visit in Phuket.
