Khun Si waterfall — how to get there on a scooter (2026)

Getting there by scooter

Khun Si is inland, about 5–6 km in a straight line south of Maenam and Bophut. From Chaweng, take the 4169 ring road north-west past the airport side to Bophut. Then turn inland and follow the pin into the hills. It is about 12 km from Chaweng along my route, roughly 20–25 minutes at a relaxed pace before allowing extra time for the hill. From Maenam, it is about 9 km; from Bophut, follow the map into the hills.

Expect steep pitches on the last stretch, and watch for loose sand or gravel on the bends. I ride it in first gear. A 50cc carrying two people will struggle here, see 50cc or 125cc. I can't point you to a proper parking lot. Leave the scooter off the track so plantation pickups can pass, and check on site whether anyone collects a fee.

What you get and how long to stay

Khun Si is a waterfall in the inland hills. Bring your own water; there is also a bar nearby.

• Time: 30–60 minutes is enough to walk to the water, rest in the shade and swim if the pool allows.
• Swimming: the depth changes with the season. Look before you step in, and don't jump.
• Shoes: wear sandals with grip. The rocks by the water are slippery all year.
• The plantations are private land. Stay on the path and don't pick fruit. In durian season, don't stand or park under heavy trees, because ripe fruit falls on its own.

When to go

Go in the morning. An early start helps avoid the heat on the climb. By midday the road up is hot work for you and for the engine.

How much water there is depends on rain. In the wet season, roughly October to December, the fall carries the most water. The same rain also makes the plantation road slick, washes sand onto the bends and turns any unsealed parts to mud. After a heavy downpour I wait half a day before riding up. In the dry months the flow can drop to a trickle. If the water is the point of the trip, go after a few rainy days rather than at the end of a long dry spell.

Be back on the ring road before dark. You don't want to meet a dog or a pickup on a steep bend at night. More on that in riding in rain and at night.

Combine it with

Khun Si is one of the stops on my waterfalls route. It is a 69.3 km day that also covers Na Muang, Hin Lad and Wang Saotong. I allow time here for a walk before riding on.

If you only have half a day in the north, pair it with Jungle 360 viewpoint. It sits about 1.3 km away in a straight line, but its approach is very steep, so allow for another demanding climb. Check the map to see whether the roads connect at the top or whether you need to go down and climb again. In the afternoon, ride down to Maenam or Bophut beach for a swim. Maenam is the quieter one, with Phangan across the water. Bophut is next to Fisherman's Village if you want dinner there.

Questions