Khao Lak’s verdant hills and forests are home to a multitude of streams and waterfalls, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. You’d be spoiled for choice while deciding which waterfalls to visit when you’re in Khao Lak. But if you had to pick one, it would have to be Ton Chong Fa Waterfall.

Ton Chong Fa Waterfall, Khao Lak

Ton Chong Fa Waterfall is perhaps the most popular and most visited waterfall in Khao Lak. There are several factors that contribute to its popularity. For starters, the waterfall is made up of several tiers, with crystal clear water cascading down into deep pools below. The surrounding greenery adds to the tranquillity of the area, making it a truly peaceful and serene place to visit and explore.

The first waterfall on the Ton Chong Fa Waterfall Hike – Ton Maliton

In this post, I will provide a comprehensive guide to visiting Ton Chong Fa Waterfall, including everything you need to know before experiencing this natural gem in Khao Lak. From planning your visit to tips for making the most of your experience, we’ve got you covered.

About the Ton Chong Fa Waterfall

The Ton Chong Fa Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located in Khao Lak Lam Ru National Park. The waterfall consists of five tiers (or levels) and is fed by the Bang Niang Canal.

The beautiful Ton Chong Fa Waterfall

Visitors can reach the waterfall by hiking along the marked trail through the forest, which offers stunning views of the surrounding forest. Reaching the first two levels is quite easy and kid-friendly. But to go beyond that, requires you to hike and clamber uphill to access the top levels. But having said that, I would classify this trail as relatively easy.

Ton Song Sahai, the second waterfall

I’ve also tried to answer as many FAQs about the Ton Chong Fa Waterfall below.

Getting to Ton Chong Fa Waterfall – Transportation Options and Tips

The waterfall entrance can be reached via a dirt road that is less than 10 km from the main tourist area. The most convenient way to get here is by scooter, which is the easiest and most affordable mode of transportation in Khao Lak (typically around 200 to 300 THB per day).

If renting a scooter is not an option, you can also take a taxi from your location to Ton Chong Fa Waterfall. For reference, during my visit, a taxi from Bang Niang Market cost 150 Baht for 2 passengers one way.

It’s important to note that there are no taxis available at Ton Chong Fa Waterfall, so be sure to ask your taxi driver to wait for you. While waiting may result in additional costs, it is the only available option if you are arriving by taxi.

What’s the best time to visit?

The park opens at 8:30 a.m. So, the short answer is, the earlier, the better.

Arriving early means that you get to avoid any crowds and also beat the heat. By the time I was returning to the car park at 12:30 am, it had got very hot!

Things to carry

1. Water, at least 1 litre
2. Insect repellent
3. Sun protection
4. A towel and change of clothes, in case you plan to swim in one of the pools

Also, it helps if you wear proper shoes as the trail is very rocky and slippery. Although I saw many visitors hiking in slippers or sandals, it may prove to be challenging.

Are there any toilets at the Park?

Yes, there are two toilets along the trail – one at entrance and one before the first waterfall.

Is there any entrance fee?

Yes, there is an entrance fee to the national park. You must pay THB 100 (rates may change) at the entrance.

Is there any water or food available at the Park?

Yes, I saw a vendor selling chips, water, and a few other beverages at the entrance. I only saw the vendor while exiting, which means that they set up shop after 9:30 am.

The Ton Chong Fa Waterfall Hike

Ton Chong Fa Waterfall, Khao Lak Hike Trail Map

The Ton Chong Fa Waterfall Hike is a 1.3 km trail (one-way) through the Khao Lak Lam Ru National Park. It crosses five tiers that include four waterfalls, each with their unique charm.

1. Ton Ru (Fish Spa): The trail begins with the Fish Spa, a popular spot where visitors can enjoy a natural foot massage from tiny fish in the shallow pools.
2. 1st Waterfall – Ton Maliton: The first official waterfall on the trail is Ton Maliton, featuring a picturesque cascade and inviting swimming pool.
3. 2nd Waterfall – Ton Song Sahai: As you progress along the trail, you’ll encounter the second waterfall, Ton Song Sahai, which is known for its stunning natural beauty and refreshing pool.
4. 3rd Waterfall – Tong Pha Hin: The third waterfall, Tong Pha Hin, is a hidden gem that requires a short detour from the main trail but rewards hikers with breathtaking cascades.
5. 4th Waterfall – Ton Chong Fa: The grand finale of the hike is the majestic Ton Chong Fa waterfall, one of the largest waterfalls in Khao Lak.

The sign for the five tiers of Ton Chong Fa Waterfall

Most visitors choose to cover the Fish Spa and the first waterfall only. However, in this guide, I’ll walk you through the entire trail, all the way to the highest waterfall – Ton Chong Fa. I hope to give you an idea of what to expect along the trail.

So, once you arrive at the entrance of the Khao Lak Lam Ru National Park and pay the park entrance fee, it’s time to begin the hike.

The first waterfall is a 1 km from the start. The subsequent waterfalls are closer together

To Ton Ru (Fish Spa)

The Fish Spa is a quick 500 m walk from the park entrance.

The start of the Ton Chong Fa Waterfall Hike in Khao Lak Lam Ru National Park

The initial part of the trail is a flat and lush section that runs alongside the Bang Niang Canal. As the trail progresses, it delves deeper into the woods, providing some much-needed shade.

The terrain starts to become slightly rocky and undulating in the shaded area, with a few gentle inclines. Even if you’re wearing slippers, this part of the trail shouldn’t pose much of a challenge.

There’s a short incline section before the Fish Spa

The path continues its undulating course, passing by magnificent tall trees before reaching the Ton Ru (Fish Spa).

Here, you can experience a fish spa by dipping your feet into the shallow pool and letting the fish nibble away the dead skin.

While water does flow into the pool, it doesn’t quite meet the criteria of a waterfall.

The Fish Spa, Ton Chong Fa Waterfall

So, after enjoying your spa treatment, it’s time to continue towards the first waterfall.

To The 1st Waterfall – Ton Maliton

After a refreshing stop at the Fish Spa, retrace your steps to the hiking trail and turn right to proceed towards the first waterfall.

Continuing from the Fish Spa to the first waterfall

This segment of the trail presented a bit of a challenge for me, as it involved a relatively lengthy uphill climb. Walking uphill in the humid conditions of Khao Lak was not something I had anticipated. In addition to the incline, the trail was strewn with loose rocks.

The toughest incline of the hike begins

I observed that visitors wearing slippers and flip-flops had some difficulty navigating the rocky terrain. Fortunately, there was a narrow strip free of rocks that most of us opted to walk upon.

The terrain is steep and very rocky. Luckily there was a narrow section without rocks on the left

Upon reaching the top of the trail, there was a brief level stretch before the path looped around and began its descent. The downhill walk was also rocky but considerably shorter. At the end of this descent, you will find the second and final restroom along the trail.

Beyond the restroom, the trail approaches the stream. Take hold of the rope provided as the rocks may be slippery. It is advisable to wear appropriate footwear to navigate this section safely.

This is where it gets a bit slippery

Following the slippery rocks, the trail crosses the stream on a narrow plank, leading to the first waterfall located approximately 30 metres away.

Ton Maliton marks the first waterfall on the Ton Chong Fa Waterfall Hike. This picturesque cascade flows into a pool below, surrounded by lush, serene surroundings.

It serves as an ideal spot to pause, unwind, and appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

Take a break at the first waterfall to appreciate the surrounding

To The 2nd Waterfall – Ton Song Sahai

Although the second waterfall is a mere 150 m ahead, most visitors choose to end their excursion at the first waterfall. But if you’re feeling up for it, follow the signs and venture onwards to explore the next waterfall on the trail.

If you’d like to continue to the second waterfall, follow these signs next to the first waterfall

Starting from the base of Ton Maliton, the trail begins its ascent towards the second waterfall.

Get ready to hike up

The initial section of the climb is marked by rocky and slippery terrain, but there is a railing along the side to provide support and balance.

Hope you’re wearing comfortable shoes to hike at Ton Chong Fa Waterfall

Once you’ve conquered the steep incline, the trail levels out. However, the presence of rocks and roots along the path can still pose a challenge for some.

Watch your step as you hike to the second waterfall

After covering approximately 100 meters, you will encounter a fork in the trail. To reach the second waterfall, veer left and follow the stream until you reach a sizable pool and the waterfall that feeds into it.

This is Ton Song Sahai and is considered one of the best locations along the Ton Chonga Fa Waterfall Hike for a refreshing swim.

To The 3rd Waterfall – Tong Pha Hin

To reach the third waterfall, return to the main trail and follow the signs directing you to Tong Pha Hin.

Return to the trail and continue hiking uphill

Although the Tong Pha Hin waterfall is only 100 meters away, the trail leading to it is primarily uphill. It is advisable to use the railing for support as there may be some slippery sections along the way.

Fewer to no people on the trail past the second waterfall

Around this point in the hike, I noticed the crowd thinning out. By the time I arrived at the third waterfall, I practically had it all to myself, aside from a few birds and lizards.

You’ve now reached the 3rd Waterfall – Tong Pha Hin

Unlike the first two waterfalls, Tong Pha Hin does not offer a pool for swimming or cooling off. Instead, it features a multi-level cascade where water flows down the hillside.

The beautifully enchanting surroundings of Tong Pha Hin

After enjoying the beauty of the cascades, it’s time to continue your hike to the fourth and final waterfall.

To The 4th Waterfall – Ton Chong Fa

Upon leaving Tong Pha Hin, resume your hike by returning to the trail and continuing uphill.

From Tong Pha Hin, return to the trail and keep climbing up

After a short walk, I encountered what appeared to be a small waterfall. Initially confused, I doubted that this could be the final waterfall, and fortunately, I was correct, as it would have been underwhelming.

Thankfully, Ton Chong Fa is located a short distance beyond this misleading sight. However, reaching it involves scaling a large boulder and scrambling up its surface.

To reach the final waterfall, climb onto this rock

Upon successfully climbing the boulder, you will be greeted by the breathtaking grand finale – Ton Chong Fa!

This 20-metre waterfall cascades down the rocky hillside and into a stream below.

There are a few spots to sit on either side of the stream and waterfall

Various spots alongside the stream offer ideal seating on rocks to take in the majestic view, along with a shallow pool to dip your feet into.

A little pool to dip your feet in at Ton Chong Fa Waterfall

I observed a few individuals enjoying a small picnic by the stream. While some ventured to climb the rocky cliff to the top of the waterfall, it appeared perilous and unsafe to me.

In any case, the final waterfall serves as a splendid conclusion to this five-tiered hike exploring the magnificent Ton Chong Fa Waterfall!

The culmination of all that climbing – Ton Chong Fa Waterfall

And finally, to conclude the Ton Chong Fa Waterfall Hike, simply retrace your steps back to the starting point where you left your taxi or scooter.

An Amazing Waterfall Hike in Khao Lak

We hope that you found our guide to the Ton Chong Fa Waterfall Hike resourceful and were able to experience and explore the wilderness of Khao Lak.

Water flowing into the Fish Spa’s pool

As previously mentioned, Khao Lak boasts numerous waterfalls waiting to be explored. For those seeking a waterfall experience closer to the city without the need for hiking, I strongly recommend Sai Rung Waterfall. Situated approximately 3 km inland between Pak Weep Beach and White Sand Beach, it offers a delightful excursion.

Be sure to read our guide to exploring Khao Lak’s top sights and attractions.

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