From Hua Hin: Pala U Waterfall and Huay Mongkol Temple Tour

Join a guided hike through a 1,000-year-old forest at Pala U Waterfall with a chance to see diverse wildlife and rare birds. Explore the Pala U Waterfall, part of Thailand's largest national park, Kaeng Krachan, in a small group near the Burmese border from Hua Hin. The sixteen level Pala-U Waterfall is part of the Kaeng Krachan National Park, Thailand’s largest national park. The surrounding forest is 1,000 years old and there is a good chance of seeing wildlife and many rare species of birdlife. Enjoy your time in the cool and refreshing waters. Most visitors try to get up to the third level, where you can swim in the large deep pool and feed the fish. The best time to visit the waterfall is between November to May to get a glimpse of beautiful butterflies, that Pala-U is known for. After a 40-minute drive, visit the Huay Mongkol Temple, which houses the world's largest statue of Luang Pho Thuat. Originally named "Wat Huai Khot" and situated in the Ban Huai Khot Community, Thap Tai Sub-district, Hua Hin District, Prachuap Khiri Khan, the temple was later renamed by the King to Huai Mongkhon. This change was inspired during his visit, coinciding with the transformation of a dirt road into a paved one, which was then named after the temple. The statue of Luang Por Thuat is immense, with a lap width of 9.9 meters and a height of 11.5 meters, resting on a three-story base. The first floor spans 70 meters in both width and length, standing impressively against the horizon. Positioned serenely at the temple's center, a glance upwards allows one to sense his aura, reaching out to those who believe in the enduring virtues and teachings he has imparted for future generations to uphold. Continue to Kaeng Krachan National Park. Before reaching the waterfall, you may often see wild elephants crossing the road. Kaeng Krachan National Park, Thailand's largest, lies on the border with Burma, adjacent to the Tanintharyi Nature Reserve. Its popularity stems from its closeness to the tourist town of Hua Hin. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site on July 26, 2021. Reach Pa La-U Waterfall and trek about 45 minutes through the jungle to a beautiful spot ideal for swimming. The name "Pa La-U Waterfall" originates from "La-U" in the Karen language, meaning "bamboo," aptly named as the area is abundant with bamboo. Situated in Kaeng Krachan National Park, which spans approximately 437 million square meters, it boasts rich nature and diverse wildlife. Commonly sighted animals include gibbons, elephants, hedgehogs, and rare birds like red-headed trogons, green-billed malkohas, great slaty woodpeckers, and rusty-breasted cuckoos, making it a prime location for bird watching. The waterfall features 15 distinct cascades, each with its own unique beauty. The climb becomes increasingly challenging at higher levels, and park staff recommend visitors only ascend to the 5th level for safety and difficult path. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local Thai restaurant.