Erawan National Park, located in Kanchanaburi Province, Thailand, is a natural paradise known for its stunning seven-tiered waterfalls, lush hiking trails, and rich wildlife.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming in the emerald pools of Erawan Waterfall, exploring the park’s caves, and landmarks like the Bridge over the River Kwai.
This guide provides everything you need to know, ticket options, best visiting times, helpful tips, and FAQs for a memorable experience.
Top Tickets
# Erawan Park & Kanchanaburi small-group tour
# Elephant sanctuary & Erawan waterfall private tour
# Erawan Falls, River Kwai, and Kanchanaburi tourIt’s best to book your Erawan Park tickets as soon as your travel dates are confirmed, as they sell out well in advance.
What is Erawan National Park?
Erawan National Park is a protected area located in the Tenasserim Hills of Kanchanaburi Province, western Thailand.
Erawan National Park, founded in 1975, spans approximately 550 sq. km. The waterfall is renowned for its seven tiers, which are said to resemble the shape of the mythical elephant.
According to Wikipedia, the park’s main attraction is the Erawan Waterfall, named after Erawan, the three-headed white elephant from Hindu mythology.
The park also features diverse ecosystems, including mixed forests, caves, and a variety of wildlife such as gibbons, elephants, and king cobras.
Where is it located?
Erawan National Park is situated about 65 km (40 miles) north of Kanchanaburi town in western Thailand. It is located approximately 192 km (119 miles) west of Bangkok.
Address: Moo 4, Tha Kradan Sub-district, Si Sawat District, Kanchanaburi Province, 71250, Thailand.
Travel from Bangkok: Around 3 to 4 hours by car or minivan.
Where and when to book tickets
It’s best to book your Erawan National Park tickets online in advance, as they often sell out during peak seasons. While you can purchase park tickets at the entrance, availability isn’t guaranteed.
Once booked, your e-ticket is sent instantly to your email—show it on your phone at the pier. No printing required!
Park ticket options
Choose from a variety of ticket options for your Erawan Park & Kanchanaburi tour, designed to suit your preferences for convenience and experience.
Whether you prefer a meeting point or hotel pickup, with or without entrance fees, there’s an option for every type of traveler.
Erawan Park & Kanchanaburi small-group tour
- Duration: 14 hours
- Start your Erawan Park walking tour at 7.30 am
- Park ticket options:
- Tour without entrance fees with meeting point
- Tour without entrance fees with hotel pickup
- Tour with entrance fees and meeting point
- Tour with entrance fees and hotel pickup
- Private tour
- Enjoy a small group experience of a maximum of 9 participants
- An expert guide shares fascinating insights about the park in English and Spanish
- Explore the JEATH Museum and learn about the Prisoners of War
- Visit the Bridge Over the River Kwai, a landmark of resilience
- Enjoy a hike and swim at the Erawan Waterfall
- Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and travel in an air-conditioned vehicle for comfort
- Meeting point: National Stadium BTS Station, Exit 2 (2nd floor). Your guide will be holding a TripGuru sign.
- Price: From ฿1,832 (adult), ฿1,636 (below 12 years)
Elephant sanctuary & Erawan waterfall private tour
- Duration: 12 hours
- The tour starts at 5.30 am with an English-speaking driver
- Begin with an early pickup and head to ElephantsWorld, a conservation organization for elephants
- Prepare food for the elephants, give them a mud bath, and rinse them off in the river
- Enjoy a buffet lunch before feeding the elephants the food you prepared
- In Erawan National Park, trek through lush forests and caves to reach the iconic Waterfall, perfect for swimming or relaxing by its emerald pools
- Admire the seven-tiered beauty of the Erawan Waterfall
- Enjoy hotel pickup and drop-off, and travel in an air-conditioned vehicle conveniently
- Go through the information about the pickup areas in your ticket while booking
- Price: ฿8,832 (adult), ฿3,925 (below 12 years)
Erawan Falls, River Kwai, and Kanchanaburi Tour
- Duration: 12 hours approximately
- The tour starts at 7.15 am and is available in English
- Visit the JEATH War Museum and learn the gripping story of the Death Railway
- Marvel at the Bridge over the River Kwai, a historic landmark from World War II
- Explore the 7-tiered Erawan Waterfalls with emerald green ponds
- Enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pools of Erawan National Park
- This tour includes a maximum of 30 people (maximum 10 per group)
- Travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle
- Meeting Point: 459/1 Thanon Chaokhamrop, Khwaeng Pom Prap, Khet Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10100, Thailand. Get Directions
- Price: ฿2,670 (12+ years), ฿2,570 (2 to 11 years), free for ages below 2 years.
Private tour of Erawan Waterfall & Kanchanaburi
- Duration: 12 hours
- Begin with an early hotel pickup in Bangkok for your private tour to Kanchanaburi.
- Visit the Bridge over the River Kwai, an iconic WWII landmark (remember the Hollywood movie by the same name?)
- Take a short walk to the Erawan waterfall or enjoy an optional trek to the 7th tier (1,500 meters).
- Relax in a private air-conditioned car for transportation
- Optional lunch at a local restaurant after visiting the waterfall.
- Explore the Krasae Buddha Cave and enjoy a 30-minute train ride along the Death Railway.
- End your trip with a comfortable return to your hotel in Bangkok.
- Pickup is available only if you’re staying in the pickup area mentioned on your ticket.
- Price: ฿12,000 (adult), ฿3,250 (6 to 12 years), ฿3,150 (2 to 5 years), free under 2 years
Experience a 2-day private tour from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi—exploring the Erawan Waterfalls, Bridge over the River Kwai, and the floating market. Enjoy hiking, a unique stay in a “floatel”, and all meals included with private transport.
Erawan National Park opening hours
The park is open daily from 8 am to 4.30 pm.
Rangers begin cleaning the trails from the top tier around 3 pm and gradually move down, asking visitors to leave as they go.
Therefore, it’s recommended to start your visit early to fully enjoy the park’s attractions.
Best time to go to the Erawan National Park
The best time to visit Erawan National Park is from November to February, during the cool and dry season. The weather is comfortable for hiking and swimming.
From March to May, the weather can get very hot, especially in the afternoon, making outdoor activities less enjoyable.
The rainy season, from June to October, brings occasional rain, but the park is still accessible. The lush greenery during this time enhances the beauty of the waterfalls.
For the best experience, visit in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler and the light is perfect for photography.
What a gem! I loved the trail, the gorgeous views, and the comforting waters of this national park. Definitely a must for visitors. It truly felt sacred.
– Luis M, Tripadvisor
How to get to Erawan National Park from Bangkok
There are several convenient transportation options to reach Erawan National Park from Bangkok, including minivans, trains, private cars, and guided tours.
These offer a comfortable and scenic journey to this beautiful natural destination.
Minivan or bus via Kanchanaburi
- Departure: Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai)
- To: Kanchanaburi
- Transfer: From Kanchanaburi bus station, take a local bus (Route 8170) or minivan to Erawan National Park
- Minivans and buses depart regularly from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi.
- Total travel time is approximately 5 hours.
- Costs range from ฿50 to ฿60, depending on the service and class.
Train to Kanchanaburi + local transport
- Departure: Thon Buri Railway Station, Bangkok
- To: Nam Tok Railway Station (terminus of the Death Railway)
- Transfer: From Nam Tok, take a taxi or local transport to Erawan National Park
- Trains to Nam Tok depart twice daily.
- The train journey takes about 4.5 hours.
- From Nam Tok, a taxi ride to the park is approximately 30 to 40 minutes.
- Train fares range from ฿80 to ฿1,000, depending on class and booking time.
Private car or taxi
- Departure: Your accommodation in Bangkok
- To: Erawan National Park
- Driving distance is approximately 192 km (119 miles), taking about 3 hours.
- The cost for a private car or taxi is around ฿1,400 to ฿1,700 one-way.
- This option offers flexibility and comfort.
Direct minivan service
- Departure: Bangkok
- To: Erawan National Park
- Direct minivan services are available, reducing the need for transfers.
- The journey takes approximately 4 hours.
- Tickets can be booked online through platforms like Bookaway.
Guided tours
- Tour operators offer day trips from Bangkok to Erawan National Park.
- Tours include transportation, park entry fees, and a guide.
- Tour duration is around 12 to 14 hours.
Discover Bangkok’s famous landmarks on an intimate small-group walking tour! Explore the Grand Palace, Emerald Buddha Temple, and Wat Pho, guided by an expert. A truly memorable cultural adventure!
Erawan National Park Map
The Erawan National Park map is a helpful guide for visitors to navigate the park’s trails, waterfalls, roads, facilities, and key information.
Maps are available at the park’s entrance and can also be downloaded here. (191 kb, JPG)
Erawan Waterfall
The Erawan Waterfall is the park’s main attraction, located on the left side of the map. It has seven tiers, accessible via a nature trail starting near the visitor center.
Trails and roads
The park has multiple trail types:
- The main road is marked with a solid brown line (vehicles allowed).
- The walkways are shown as dashed black lines (pedestrian use).
- The nature trails, including the Bamboo Forest Trail (1 km long), are shown in green dotted lines.
- Non-asphalt roads are indicated with dotted brown lines (rugged).
- A river runs through the park and is shown in blue.
Facilities at the Park
Erawan National Park offers several useful facilities. There is a visitor center, a ticket booth, multiple parking areas, restaurants, and toilets for visitor convenience.
Nature trails and bicycle paths help explore the area. There’s also a bus stop, a first aid station, and several caves open for exploration.
Park zones
The park is divided into different zones, each with numbered accommodations and facilities:
- Zones 100–106 are near the park entrance, including bungalows and service areas.
- Zones 200–203 are closer to the trail leading to the waterfall.
Nearby attractions
To the top right of the map, you’ll find signs for nearby attractions:
- Phra Tat Cave is located about 12 km from the main area.
- Namtok Sai Yok National Park is 42 km away.
- The park can be accessed via Highway 3199, which connects it to surrounding regions.
Attractions at the Erawan National Park
Erawan National Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders, offering a mix of lush landscapes, stunning waterfalls, and historical sites. Below are the park’s main attractions:
Erawan Waterfall
The Erawan Waterfall is the main attraction of the park, famous for its seven tiers of cascading water and emerald green pools. Visitors can hike to each level, swim in the pools, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding jungle.
Erawan Cave
Erawan Cave is the largest of the three caves in the park, known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. It holds historical significance and offers visitors a unique geological experience.
Buddha Cave
The Buddha Cave is a smaller but spiritual site, home to a Buddha statue. The cave is known for its tranquil atmosphere and striking rock formations, a peaceful spot for visitors seeking reflection.
Krasae Cave
Krasae Cave is a more secluded cave, less visited by tourists, an ideal location for solitude. It offers a peaceful environment to enjoy the natural surroundings.
Forest trails and hiking
Erawan National Park offers several scenic hiking trails that lead to different tiers of the Erawan Waterfall and through lush forests. The trails offer an immersive way to explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna.
Wildlife watching
The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including macaques, gibbons, and a range of bird species. It is also known for reptiles such as king cobras and monitor lizards.
Cultural Heritage: JEATH War Museum and River Kwai
The JEATH War Museum and Bridge over the River Kwai offer a poignant reminder of Thailand’s role in World War II. The museum showcases the history of the Death Railway, while the bridge stands as a symbol of resilience.
Erawan Park camping
Erawan National Park offers campsites near the waterfall, a peaceful setting for an overnight stay. Facilities include basic amenities like restrooms and designated tent areas. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Picnic and leisure areas
The park provides several picnic areas where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal amidst the serene natural surroundings. These spots are perfect for a break after a hike or swim at the waterfall.
Things to know before going to the Park
- Arrive early: To make the most of your visit, arrive early to avoid the crowds and fully enjoy the park’s attractions.
- Wear proper footwear: The trails can be slippery, so sturdy shoes are recommended for hiking to the waterfall.
- Bring essentials: Pack water, sunscreen, and insect repellent for a comfortable visit. If you plan to swim, don’t forget your swimwear, a change of clothes, and a towel.
- Respect the park: Follow all park rules, including no littering, and be mindful of wildlife and the environment.
- Stay hydrated: With the tropical climate, it’s important to stay hydrated, so bring a water bottle. Glass water bottles are provided in the tours.
- Plan for the hike: If you plan to trek to the top tier of the waterfall, be prepared for a moderate hike of about 1,500 meters (4921 ft).
- Be ready: If pickup is from your hotel/accommodation in Bangkok, please be in the lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.
- Sustainable experience: These are GSTC-certified tours that prioritize responsible travel.
- Carbon footprint reduction: These tours cut your carbon footprint and reduce emissions.
Park rules
In the Park map, the park lists several important regulations:
- Do not remove plants, animals, or any other natural items from the park.
- Do not light fires. Always extinguish cigarettes carefully.
- Pets are not allowed inside the park.
- Do not use polystyrene foam products.
- Alcoholic beverages are not allowed within the park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions tourists ask before going to the Erawan National Park.
Can I swim in the waterfalls?
Yes, swimming is allowed at Erawan Waterfall, particularly in the lower-tier pools. Life jackets are mandatory for safety, and the pools offer a unique experience with fish that nibble on your skin.
Is Erawan Waterfall worth visiting?
Yes, Erawan Waterfall is worth visiting for its stunning seven-tiered cascade and crystal-clear emerald pools. It’s a perfect spot for hiking, swimming, and enjoying the natural beauty of Erawan National Park. The serene setting and picturesque views make it a must-see destination.
How much time do you need at Erawan Falls?
You’ll need around 3 to 4 hours to fully enjoy Erawan Falls, depending on your pace and whether you plan to hike to the top tier. If you wish to swim and explore the lower tiers, a visit could take around 2 to 3 hours.
Are there hotels near Erawan Park?
Yes, there are several hotels near Erawan National Park, including options like The Hilltop Erawan (6.6 km away), Tiger House River Kwai (4.8 km), and unique stays like The FloatHouse River Kwai. These accommodations offer a mix of budget and more luxurious options.
Is the park suitable for children and elderly visitors?
Yes, Erawan National Park is suitable for both children and elderly visitors, particularly at the lower tiers of the Erawan Waterfall. The first two tiers are easily accessible via a paved path, making them ideal for families and seniors.
Are there any restrictions?
Food is not allowed beyond the second tier, and littering is strictly banned. Alcohol consumption is prohibited, and visitors are expected to respect the natural environment.
In Summary
- Erawan National Park is a stunning natural park in Kanchanaburi Province, known for its seven-tiered Erawan Waterfall, diverse wildlife, and hiking trails.
- Visitors can swim in the emerald pools, explore Erawan caves, and discover WWII history at the JEATH War Museum.
- Best visiting times are from November to February (cool and dry season).
- Tickets can be booked online in advance, with various tour options available (group tours, private tours, with or without entrance fees).
- Facilities include visitor centers, restaurants, and picnic areas for relaxation.
- Important tips: Wear sturdy shoes, stay hydrated, and respect the park’s rules to ensure a safe visit.
