Khun Korn Waterfall Hike: Chiang Rai’s Hidden 70m Giant

The Khun Korn Waterfall (Namtok Khun Korn) is a must-see if you are exploring Northern Thailand. It’s a short but rewarding 3.2km hike through a lush forest park that leads to a massive 70-meter vertical drop.

Why I love this trail

I spent several days in Chiang Rai, and while the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) is famous, I found that the real magic lies in the surrounding nature. The Khun Korn Forest Park was declared a botanical garden by the Royal Forest Department on January 21, 1982, covering approximately 1,000 rai within the Mae Lao and Mae Kok National Forest Reserves. I rented a scooter for the day to reach this spot, and the drive through the rice fields and local villages was just as beautiful as the hike itself. The power of the waterfall is incredible—you can feel the mist from hundreds of meters away!

Trekking through the Bamboo Forest

The hike starts at the Khun Korn Forest Park entrance. The trail is very well-maintained and easy to follow. What struck me the most was the size of the bamboo trees—they are absolutely giant!

The trail is part of the Khun Korn Waterfall Nature Trail, rated 4.8/5 stars by 93 hikers on AllTrails. The forest park is home to rare orchids, exotic birds, and diverse butterflies—including species found at the nearby Phi Sua Waterfall.

The path follows a small stream, and even though there are some gentle climbs and descents, it’s not technically difficult. I crossed several picturesque bamboo bridges along the way. I highly recommend keeping an eye out for wildlife; I was lucky enough to spot some exotic birds and heard monkeys in the canopy above.

The Reward: A 70m Vertical Drop

After about 30 to 40 minutes of walking, the forest opens up to the Khun Korn Waterfall. It is honestly breathtaking. The water gushes down a steep rock face into a natural pool.

At 70 meters tall, Khun Korn is officially the tallest waterfall in Chiang Rai Province—formerly known as Tak Mork Waterfall. The waterfall is fed by the Mae Korn River, which originates from multiple mountain streams including Mae Korn Creek, Mae Morn Creek, and Ya Dee Creek.

I decided to take a dip in the natural pool to cool off. The water is cold and the spray is very strong, but it’s the best way to recover from the humidity of the jungle!

Practical Tips for this Hike

• Water & Food: There are no shops inside the forest park, so carry at least 1 liter of water. You can find small local stalls near the parking lot before you start.
• Transportation: I rented my scooter at Nice Rental in Chiang Rai. They are reliable and the price was fair. The ride takes about 45 minutes from the city center.
• Timing: Try to arrive before 10:00 AM to avoid the midday heat and the small groups of tourists. The forest is much more peaceful in the early morning.
• Essentials: Bring mosquito repellent! The jungle is very humid, and the mosquitoes are quite active near the stream.

Getting to the Trailhead

The hike starts at the end of the road in the Khun Korn Forest Park. Since it’s located about 30km outside of Chiang Rai, you’ll need a reliable way to get there:

• Rent a Scooter: This is how I did it, and it’s definitely the most scenic way. I rented my bike at Nice Rental in the city center. Expect to pay around 200-300 THB/day. The road is mostly flat and paved, making it a pleasant 45-minute ride through local villages.
• Songthaews (Blue or Yellow Taxis): In Chiang Rai, you can hire a private or shared pickup taxi. You’ll find them near the Night Bazaar or the main bus station. Make sure to negotiate the price for a round trip, as it can be harder to find a taxi waiting at the waterfall for the return journey.

Park Information: Khun Korn Forest Park is located within the Mae Lao Left Bank and Mae Kok Right Bank National Forest Reserves. The park is open daily from 8am to 5pm and has no entrance fee, making it one of the best free attractions in Northern Thailand. For regional travel information, visit the Tourism Authority of Thailand – Chiang Rai.

Heritage & Local Flavors

You cannot leave the Khun Korn area without enjoying a meal by the water. After the humidity of the jungle hike, finding a spot to cool down is essential.

• The “Je” Recommendation: Instead of eating in the city, I drove a few kilometers back from the trailhead and found a small place to eat right at the edge of the river. Eating with the sound of the flowing water was incredibly relaxing and the food was authentic and delicious. You can find the spot here: Riverside Dining Spot.
• Local Flavor: Since you are in Northern Thailand, look for Khao Soi (coconut curry noodle soup). It’s the signature dish of the region and perfect for refueling after a trek.
• Local Drink: A cold fruit shake or a fresh coconut is the best way to rehydrate while sitting by the river.
• Pro Tip: If you have time, stop by the Huai Mak Liam Hot Spring on your way back. It’s part of the local heritage and a great way to soak your feet after the 3km walk!
• If you want to extend your adventure, consider combining this hike with a visit to Singha Park (the Boonrawd Brewery) or the famous White Temple, both located along Route 1208 on the way back to Chiang Rai city.

Conclusion

The hike to Khun Korn Waterfall is a perfect half-day adventure for anyone visiting Chiang Rai. It’s an easy trail that offers a massive reward for very little effort. Between the giant bamboo forests and the mist of the 70m falls, it’s one of those places that reminds you why Northern Thailand is so special.

Don’t forget to visit the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) or the Blue Temple on your way back to the city to complete your day!

This trail is consistently praised by the hiking community, with detailed reviews on WeSeekTravel and The Lost Passport confirming its status as one of the most accessible yet impressive waterfalls in Northern Thailand.

Happy Hiking!