Thispopular Thai national park is named after its seven-tiered waterfall. Theuppermost tier is said to resemble the three-headed elephant Erawan in Hindumythology. Spend a day in the park climbing the falls and exploring the hikingtrails and hillside caves.
Thehike to the top of the waterfall takes about three hours return. Refreshyourself along the way by taking a swim in one of the shallow, green pools thatcollect on the limestone terraces. The water is cold, but during the humidsummer months, there’s no better way to cool off.
Keepan eye out for jungle wildlife as you hike. Deer, monkeys and even elephantscan often be seen along the trail. Dangle your feet in the waterfall pools fora natural foot exfoliation. Some of the pools hold tiny fish that nibblelightly on the layers of dead skin on your feet.
6miles (10 kilometers) north of Erawan Falls, deeply embedded in a hillside, isPhra That Cave. Take a free guided tour along the illuminated walkways of thecave to see and learn about the stalactites and stalagmites inside.
Thepark entrance fee covers access to the falls and caves. When entering the park,stop at one of the small restaurants to buy snacks and water. Arrive early inthe morning as the park can get hot and crowded by lunchtime. Bring insect repellent.
ErawanNational Park is located 43 miles (70 kilometers) to the northwest ofKanchanaburi city. Buses run hourly from Kanchanaburi city to the park. Thejourney takes between 1.5 and 2 hours. Renting a private taxi or songthaew willcost more, but will get you there faster and the driver will wait to return youto town at the end of the day. The park is open year-round.
