Seven pools climbing a forest hillside
Erawan Falls is a waterfall in seven steps, each one spilling into a pool of blue-green water before dropping to the next. It lies inside Erawan National Park in Kanchanaburi province, and takes its name from Erawan, the three-headed elephant of Thai and Hindu mythology that the top tier is said to resemble. A walking trail leads up through the forest from the lowest pool. The first levels are easy for most families; the higher ones get steeper, rockier and more slippery, so how far you go is up to your legs and your shoes.
Swimming is the reason many people come, and the small fish that nibble at your feet in the pools are part of the experience. National park entry fees apply and are paid at the park, so bring cash.
A very long day, or two easier ones
We want to be honest about the distance. Plan on about five hours each way, with rest stops. A same-day trip is possible, but it means leaving Pattaya before dawn and getting back well into the evening, with only a few hours at the falls in between. Many groups prefer to stay a night in Kanchanaburi town, which also gives time for the Bridge over the River Kwai and the town’s war cemeteries before heading home.
- Leave as early as you can — mornings at the falls are cooler and quieter
- Wear shoes with grip; the upper trail is wet rock and roots
- Pack swimwear, a towel and a dry bag for phones
- Bring cash for national park entry fees and food stalls
- Need a break on the road? Ask the driver to stop at any time
Building the trip around your group
Tell us how many people are coming, whether you want to return the same day or stay over, and anything else you would like to see along the way. A van Pattaya to Erawan Falls for a day trip and a two-day trip with a night in Kanchanaburi are very different journeys, and we price each one in chat before you go. The fixed price is for the whole vehicle, with tolls and fuel included, no deposit, and payment in cash to the driver at the end.
The Toyota Commuter van seats nine, with room for eight bags and a cool box, and on a drive this long the extra legroom makes a real difference. Smaller groups can ask for a sedan or SUV. If you want to plan several stops over one or two days, our trip planner lets you lay out the route before you message us. However you set it up, a Van Pattaya to Erawan Falls trip means one driver, one car and no changes from your hotel door to the park gate.