Tham Pla Cave-Pha Suea Waterfall National Park ‘Explore the cave and the waterfall, all in one place.’

How nice will it be, if you happen to have a chance of exploring a cave and a waterfall, all in one place? Surely that will be nice.

Well, there is a place where you can do that. Tham Pla Cave-Pha Suea Waterfall National Park

Nestled in the tranquil embrace of Mae Hong Son Province, Tham Pla – Namtok Pha Suea National Park offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Spanning approximately 630 square kilometers, this park is a sanctuary for those seeking to immerse themselves in Thailand’s unspoiled wilderness and rich traditions.

Geography and Climate

The park’s landscape is dominated by the majestic Daen Lao Range, with Doi Lan standing tall at 1,918 meters above sea level. This mountainous terrain, characterized by steep slopes and verdant valleys, forms the backdrop for numerous rivers and streams that nourish the region’s diverse ecosystems.

Seasonal Rhythms

Influenced by a tropical monsoon climate, the park experiences:

• Rainy Season (May to October): Lush greenery flourishes under frequent showers.
• Cool Season (November to January): Crisp air and clear skies make it ideal for exploration.
• Hot Season (February to April): Warm temperatures prevail, with nature in full bloom.

Flora and Fauna

Verdant Ecosystems

The park boasts a variety of forest types:

• Mixed Deciduous Forests: Home to species like teak and bamboo.
• Pine Forests: Dominated by Pinus kesiya and Pinus merkusii.
• Evergreen Forests: Lush areas providing habitat for diverse wildlife.

Wildlife Encounters

Visitors may encounter:

• Mammals: Such as goral, gaur, and barking deer.
• Birds: Including vibrant species like hornbills and kingfishers.
• Aquatic Life: Notably, the revered Soro Brook Carp inhabiting the park’s clear waters.

Tourist Attractions at Tham Pla – Namtok Pha Suea National Park

1. Tham Pla (Fish Cave)

• A mystical cave filled with crystal-clear water where hundreds of Soro Brook Carp live.
• The fish are considered sacred and protected by local beliefs.
• Surrounded by limestone cliffs and lush greenery, creating a peaceful atmosphere.

2. Pha Suea Waterfall

• A breathtaking six-tiered waterfall with water cascading over 15-meter-wide rocky formations.
• Best visited during the rainy season when the waterfall flows at its strongest.
• Perfect for photography, nature walks, and relaxing by the water.

3. Pang Ung: The Switzerland of Thailand

• Known for its misty pine forest and serene lake, creating an Alpine-like landscape.
• Offers camping, bamboo rafting, and birdwatching, making it an ideal place for relaxation.
• The lake is surrounded by rolling hills, with stunning reflections of the sky and trees in the water.
• Early mornings are the most magical time to visit, with golden sunrise views over the lake.

4. Huay Pong-on Waterfall

• A hidden waterfall standing 7 meters high, flowing year-round.
• Has a natural rock pool, perfect for swimming and cooling off.

5. Mae Sa-nga Klang Waterfall

• A secluded waterfall, 15 meters high, near the Mae Sa-nga Dam.
• Can be reached via boat or trekking trails.

Facilities at the Park

• Visitor Center – Offers maps, park information, and guided services.
• Parking Areas – Available near all major attractions.
• Restrooms & Changing Rooms – Located at popular tourist spots.
• Camping Grounds – Set up your tent near Pang Ung and enjoy the cool mountain air.
• Picnic Spots – Shaded seating for family and group outings.
• Food Stalls & Shops – Selling local snacks, drinks, and souvenirs.

How to get there

Distance: 17 km from Mae Hong Son town.
🚗 By Car/Motorbike: Take Highway 1095, a scenic drive through winding mountain roads.
🚐 By Tour Package: Many Mae Hong Son Tour Packages include this park.

For those doing the Mae Hong Son Loop Tour, this park is a must-stop location.