Thi Lo Su Waterfall

Thi Lor Su, also spelt Tee Lor Su or Thi Lo Su, is Thailand’s most impressive waterfall. The huge waterfall is hidden in the middle of Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary which is one of Thailand’s most remote and untouched areas.

Water cascades off sheer limestone cliffs close to the Myanmar border in Tak province, northern Thailand. The waterfall was only made accessible around 30 years ago, before that it was a secret only known by local hill tribe villagers.

Thi Lor Su waterfall stretches 300 metres across steep, jagged limestone cliffs. The multiple leveled falls and pools total 200 metres in height. During the rainy season, the falls can be heard from 1 km away. Water thunders down the cliffs into the river below. Thi Lor Su flows all year round. During the dry season swimming is a must-do activity in the large refreshing pools.

Thi Lor Su, A Real Adventure

Hiking to the top of Thi Lor Su waterfall is another must-do activity. There is an exciting trail leading to the top providing unique views along the way. To get to the summit you need to cross sections of river and climb up small waterfalls, all whilst getting soaked by the surrounding falls.

The adventure doesn’t stop there as it’s a real adventure getting to and from the falls. Umphang is 28 km away, this is the closest town to Thi Lor Su waterfall. Umphang is connected by a dirt track, the track is impassable during the wet season so the local authority close it completely. The only other way to get there is by trekking through the jungle from Umphang town. You can also get there by a combination of rafting and trekking starting on the Mae Klong river in Umphang.

A 3 day, 3 night tour starting from Umphang town is a great way to see Thi Lor Su waterfall. Tours also combine other exciting activities such as jungle trekking, river rafting and staying the night at a remote Karen Village. See an example of a tour here.

Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary

Thi Lor Su waterfall is located in Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is a UNESCO world heritage site and forms part of the largest area of virgin rainforest in Thailand. Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary is in Tak province in Northern Thailand. Tak, together with the surrounding provinces of Mae Hong Son, Kanchanaburi and Kamphaeng Phet are home to some of Thailand’s most exotic wildlife. Wild Elephants roam freely, Tigers have also been spotted and photographed by park rangers. Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary was created in 1989 and covers an area of 2600 square Kilometres.

There are plenty of other reasons to visit. The section of the Mae Klong running from Umphang town to Thi Lor Su is very beautiful. The river is lined with huge limestone cliffs, some overhang which is especially exciting when rafting beneath them. Several waterfalls cascade directly into the Mae Klong river, most notably Thi Lor Jor and Thi Lor lay waterfalls. Rafting along the Mae Klong river is a fantastic activity for nature lovers. The river flows at a relaxing pace. It takes around 3 hours to reach Pha Lueat ranger station. Thi Lor Su waterfall is a further 3 hour trek through the jungle.

Seasons at Thi Lor Su Waterfall

During the wet season from June to October Thi Lor Su is spectacular. Water thunders down the cliffs, it can be heard over 1 km away at the campsite. The sights and sounds provide a memorable experience for nature lovers. Swimming is restricted to a few safe bathing areas during the wet season but it is still possible to trek to the top of the waterfall. There are considerable dangers during the wet season so it is important to follow local guides.

The dry season from November to May provides a different experience to the wet season. During the dry season, it is possible to swim in the two large pools at the top and bottom of the falls. For the more adventurous there is the chance to jump into the lower pool directly from the waterfall above.

The dry season attracts more visitors. At Christmas time Thi Lor Su is a popular destination for Thai tourists. During the wet season, there is a good chance that you will have the whole place to yourself.

Thi Lor Su Waterfall Facilities

There are a few basic facilities around 1 km from Thi Lor Su waterfall. There are toilets, showers, a camping area and a small, simple shop. The campground is 15 minutes walk from the waterfall, the two are linked by a concrete jungle walkway.

Location

Thi Lor Su waterfall is located in Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary, Umphang District, Tak Province, Northern Thailand. The closest main town is Mae Sot. The distance between Mae Sot and Umphang is 170 km. Nok Air operates daily flights to Mae Sot from Don Muang airport in Bangkok.

Ref: Thi Lo Su Waterfall (umphangadventures)