Hua Hin to Pala U Waterfall: Private Jungle Tour & Swim

Summary

Explore Kaeng Krachan’s rainforest trails with a local guide

You’ll hike through Kaeng Krachan National Park’s rainforest with a local guide, visit Wat Huay Mongkol temple, swim at Pala U Waterfall’s cool pools, and enjoy a simple Thai lunch surrounded by nature. Expect real jungle sounds, fresh air, and small moments that stick with you long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it feels like to stand under a waterfall in the middle of Thailand’s biggest national park? I didn’t really know either until we left Hua Hin early that morning — still half-asleep, honestly — and met our guide, Somchai. He had this easy way about him, always smiling and pointing out things I’d never notice on my own. The drive out to Kaeng Krachan National Park took just over an hour, but it felt shorter with his stories about wild elephants crossing the road (we didn’t see any, but he swore they’re around). The air changed as we got closer — thicker somehow, almost sweet with the smell of wet leaves and bamboo.

Before we hit the jungle, Somchai took us to Wat Huay Mongkol. There’s this massive statue of Luang Phor Tuad — apparently the biggest monk statue anywhere. People were lighting incense and bowing quietly; I tried copying them but probably looked awkward. There were little stalls selling amulets for luck. Somchai explained how locals believe these protect you from bad spirits or accidents. It was one of those places where you feel like a guest in someone else’s world.

The real adventure started at Pala U Waterfall itself. The walk through the jungle was… well, sweaty (bring water), but every now and then you’d catch a flash of color — some bird I couldn’t name or maybe a gibbon calling somewhere above us. The path gets steeper after the third level; by the fifth, my legs were jelly but there was this pool where you could actually swim. The water was cold enough to make me gasp when I jumped in — not sure if I shrieked or laughed first. Somchai just grinned and said it’s good for your heart.

I still think about that moment floating under the trees while sunlight flickered through all that green. We ate lunch nearby (rice and spicy chicken wrapped in banana leaf) and just listened to the waterfall for a while before heading back down. If you’re looking for something quiet but kind of wild near Hua Hin, this day trip to Pala U Waterfall is worth it — even if you don’t spot any elephants.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Temple and Waterfall

• Visit Wat Huay Mongkol temple
• Drive through Kaeng Krachan National Park
• Explore and swim at Pala U Waterfall

Top questions

How far is Pala U Waterfall from Hua Hin?

Pala U Waterfall is about an hour’s drive from Hua Hin.

Is swimming allowed at Pala U Waterfall?

Yes, swimming is possible in certain pools at Pala U Waterfall.

What animals can be seen in Kaeng Krachan National Park?

You might spot gibbons, elephants, hedgehogs, and rare birds like trogons or woodpeckers.

How many levels does Pala U Waterfall have?

Pala U Waterfall has 15 cascades or levels; most visitors climb up to the fifth due to steep paths.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

Yes, lunch is included during the tour.

Are entry fees covered in the tour price?

National park entrance fees are included in your booking.

Is hotel pickup provided from Hua Hin?

Yes, hotel pickup from Hua Hin is included in this tour.

What should I bring for the hike?

You should bring comfortable shoes and drinking water; bottled water is also provided.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from Hua Hin, all national park entrance fees covered by your guide, bottled water along the way so you don’t have to worry about packing extra heavy stuff yourself, plus a simple Thai lunch before heading back down from Pala U Waterfall together.