A complete waterfall guide to visiting Pam Bok Waterfall in Pai, Thailand. Everything you need to know including how to get here, entry costs and what to expect.
Pam Bok waterfall Pai is a small but worthwhile waterfall located only a short hop away from the peaceful mountain town of Pai in Northern Thailand.
Pam Bok waterfall is a great waterfall for swimming, exploring or just relaxing in the beautiful jungle canyon.
How to get to Pam Bok Waterfall Pai
The best way to get to Pam Bok waterfall is to rent a scooter in Pai and drive 20 minutes to the parking lot in front of the waterfall.
The road is very scenic, passing rice fields, jungle, and traditional farming allotments along the way. If you’d prefer to make it a day trip, then I’d recommend visiting the bamboo bridge after a stop at Pam Bok Waterfall.
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Pam Bok Waterfall Entrance Fee
The Pam Bok waterfall entrance fee costs 40 Baht per person. Prior to 2019, visiting was free. This new fee is perhaps due to the influx of tourism that Pai has received in the past few years.
Once you arrive at the car park, there is a military officer working for the National Parks that will collect your payment and hand you a paper receipt.
Pam Bok Waterfall Pai
Although it’s not the largest or the most picturesque waterfall in Thailand, Pam Bok waterfall is still a worthwhile visit for travelers in Pai. From the car park, you’ll walk for 10 minutes, following a scenic jungle trail before finally descending into a rocky canyon.
You’ll see Pam Bok Waterfall flowing gently into a moderately deep pool within the round canyon. Depending on conditions, it is possible to climb up onto the right side of the canyon for a small, sneaky jump. However, you’ll need to be careful as it’s slippery and always remember to check depths before jumping.
Although it’s not as popular as some of the other waterfalls in Pai, Pam Bok waterfall still gets a fair share of foot traffic from organized tours.
MY FAVORITE WATERFALL IN PAI: MAE YEN WATERFALL
Secret Back Trail
Although there isn’t much information online, I was told to look for a secret trail that leads up and around the back of the waterfall to some more deep pools.
I was able to find it immediately to the right before you walk down the rocks to the base of the canyon before the waterfall. Follow this trail up and around, taking care on the steep bits. Soon, you’ll descend back down to the top of Pam Bok waterfall, where you’ll have some swimming holes and a whole river area to yourself!
BEST ACCOMMODATION IN PAI
Wondering where to stay in Pai, Thailand? Check out the below recommendations to ensure a great visit!
- My Pai Accommodation: Wake Up in Pai – This place was one of the cheapest options for a clean dorm with free breakfast in Pai. Located in the center close to motorbike rentals, cafes and the walking street market.
- Highest Rated Guesthouse: Pai Yard Backpackers – Super cheap accommodation with incredible reviews. Clean rooms, good location, decent price, and good food.
- Famous Pai Hostel: Circus Hostel Pai -This place has been a favorite in Pai for those looking for a great vibe. There’s a big pool with rolling mountain backdrops and bonfires every night. If you want to meet other backpackers to hit Pam Bok waterfall with, then this will probably be the place.
More Adventures in Northern Thailand
Enjoy reading about Pam Bok waterfall and looking for more adventures in Northern Thailand? Check out some of the other travel guides that I’ve written below. If you have any questions, feel free to drop a comment or send me an email!
