Na Muang waterfalls 1 and 2

Two jungle waterfalls: one where you can swim within minutes of parking, one that rewards a sweaty climb.

Area

Interior & jungle

Start from

Lamai or Nathon

Distance

about 10 km from Lamai

Time needed

Half a day

Best season

Best soon after the rains, roughly December – March

Difficulty

Moderate

Transport

Scooter or taxi

Tickets & rules

None

Why go

Na Muang is the island's best-known waterfall area. Na Muang 1 is right by the road: a pretty cascade around eighteen metres high, falling over rock with a strange purple tint into a pool deep enough for a refreshing dip.

Na Muang 2, further up the hill, is taller and more impressive. You reach it on a jungle path of roughly half an hour to an hour, depending on your fitness, crossing roots, rocks and small streams.

It's a perfect antidote to beach days: cool water, birdsong and the green, damp smell of the forest.

The story

Locals say the purple colour of the rocks at Na Muang comes from minerals in the stone, and the colour is most visible when the rocks are wet.

Waterfalls were once part of everyday life in Samui's villages: places to bathe, wash clothes, fetch water and cool off after work in the plantations.

You'll notice small spirit shrines near the falls. In Thai belief, places of natural power have guardian spirits, and a few flowers or a drink left at the shrine is a way of asking permission to enjoy them.

Getting there

Both falls are signposted from the ring road in the south of the island. There's parking at Na Muang 1; for Na Muang 2 you can start the walk from the first waterfall or drive closer on a separate road.

A suggested plan

1. MorningStart at Na Muang 1 before the tour groups and swim in the pool.
2. Late morningWalk up to Na Muang 2; go slowly and drink often.
3. AfternoonLunch in Hua Thanon or Lamai, or continue to Wat Khunaram.

Where to stay

Lamai or the quieter south coast.

Good to know

• Bring water, insect repellent and shoes you don't mind getting wet.
• The falls are fullest after the rainy season; by August they can be a trickle.
• Swimwear under your clothes saves time.