Mork Fa Waterfall Chiang Mai has to be one of the best hidden gems in Chiang Mai. Located only a short 50-minute scooter ride away, Mork Fa is a must if you’re looking for a real jungle waterfall away from the crowds of Doi Suthep.
We visited Mork Fa waterfall on a day trip from Chiang Mai, right after stopping at Bua Tong Waterfall (Sticky Waterfall). If you’re up for a full waterfall-chasing day trip, then it’s definitely worth checking out both of these waterfalls on your trip north of Chiang Mai (more on that later).
Where is Mork Fa Waterfall?
Mork Fa Waterfall is located deep in the jungle of the Doi Suthep – Pui National Park. However, it's a little bit further than the other waterfalls around Doi Suthep. In fact, it takes around 50 minutes to get here from the Old City in Chiang Mai.
That being said, you can drive nearly all the way to the waterfall down the mountain road, with only a short 10-minute walk from the entrance car park to the waterfall. The best way to find it is to follow the map pin or to use Google Maps. If you get lost, follow the directions below.
How to get to the Waterfall
The best way to get to Mork Fa waterfall is to rent a moped in Chiang Mai and ride here yourself. Since this waterfall is way off the regular tourist beat, you'll be hard-pressed to find a tour company that runs tours here.
However, if you're confident on a motorbike and willing to explore a waterfall well-off the beaten track, then visiting Mork Fa waterfall from Chiang Mai is well worth it.
Directions:
- Take the 1001 or the 107 leading from Chiang Mai Old City Northbound
- Turn left on the 1095 leading West
- Follow this road until you see signs for Mork Fa Waterfall on your left
- Continue down the winding forest road until you reach the parking lot for Mork Fa Waterfall
Tip: The regular motorbike rental price in Chiang Mai is 150-200 baht per day. I'd suggest going with at least a 100CC bike like a Honda Click since a large part of this journey is via the freeway.
Mork Fa Waterfall Entrance Fee
Currently, the entrance fee for this waterfall is 200 Baht per person.
This is more expensive than other waterfalls in the area, but we thought it was well worth it since you can spend a fair bit of time here swimming and exploring.
Going to Pai? - Don't Miss: TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN PAI
What to Expect at Mork Fa Waterfall Chiang Mai
Waterfall Height: 60 meters
Pool Depth: ~ 1 metre
After paying the entrance fee, walk right, following the wooden signposts that lead to the waterfall after roughly 10 minutes.
Mork Fa Waterfall Chiang Mai is a tall, plunging waterfall located at the end of the river. Upon arriving, you'll see a huge semi-circular cut-out in the rock face, which forms a large amphitheater in the middle of the jungle.
There is thick jungle vegetation growing up on all cliffsides, which creates a pretty magic scene. At the bank of the waterfall pool, you'll find soft, white sand, just like the beach! This makes it a great place to chill out, swim and relax.
The pool is easily deep enough to swim in. You can even swim behind the base of the waterfall and climb up the small rock which rests behind it.
You won't find many foreign tourists visiting this hidden waterfall. When we were here in peak season, we only saw one other group of Thai tourists.
Don't Miss Tham Mok Fa (Bat Cave)
Think you're ready to leave? Don't miss the Mok Fa Cave (Mork Fa Cave). On the way out, you'll see a wooden signpost pointing left and leading you up the cliffside to a large cave. Follow this new path around the bend until you reach the entrance.
At the cave entrance, you'll have a great view of the waterfall from above. If you struggled to fit the entire 60-meter waterfall in a single frame from below, this might be your chance to redeem yourself.
The Mok Fa cave itself isn't huge, but it's worth checking out. There are two large caverns with epic light rays shining in if you visit in the early morning. The cave is also home to hundreds of resident bats, so make sure you watch out for any sneaky ones ready to drop a surprise on your head.
Related:
3 Must-See Waterfalls Near Chiang Rai
DIY Waterfall Day Trip from Chiang Mai
As mentioned at the beginning of this waterfall guide, it's possible to visit both Bua Tong (Sticky Waterfall) and Mork Fa Waterfall Chiang Mai on a one-day trip from Chiang Mai. I'd suggest visiting Bua Tong first, and then heading west from here to Mork Fa.
This way, you'll beat the crowds to the busier Sticky Waterfall, while also cutting the travel time down back to Chiang Mai at the end of the day.
Where to Stay in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is the capital of the Northern Thailand tourist trail, and also a huge Digital Nomad hub. As you might expect, there are some excellent accommodation picks in and around the city. Below are three of the top places to stay in 2023 for various budgets.
- POR Thapae Gate - With over 700 reviews this is the ultimate luxury hotel located 200m from Tha Pae Gate. The hotel provides an outdoor swimming pool, free bike rental, and an exceptional breakfast.
- Rimping Village- Just a 10-minute walk from the Night Bazaar this hotel offers a large outdoor swimming pool, an on-site restaurant, and spectacular outdoor seating areas. Away from the crowds, this is a perfect place to unwind and relax.
- Green Sleep Hostel - Situated in the heart of Chang Mai this hostel boasts a fully equipped kitchen, co-working space, communal area, and comfortable beds. A top pick for backpackers wanting a cheap and comfortable stay.
More Northern Thailand Adventures
Did you find this Mork Fa Waterfall Chiang Mai Guide useful? If you have any more questions, feel free to drop a comment!
