Chet Sao Noi Waterfall

Flowing to the north of Muak Lek in a far-flung corner of the Khao Yai region, Chet Sao Noi Waterfall usually gets overlooked by travellers. It's not Thailand’s tallest, widest, or most popular waterfall, but with a haunting backstory and scenery that's right out of a fantasy novel, there’s something mesmerising about Chet Sao Noi.

Chet Sao Noi consists of a series of seven tiers cascading one to three metres into emerald travertine pools that are the stuff soap commercials are made of — just a glimpse and one feels refreshed. While looking similar to falls like Erawan in Kanchanaburi, Chet Sao Noi is unique when compared to the waterfalls of Khao Yai National Park.

Up to 100 metres of stream separate one step from the next, and at some points the clear water seems to come to a standstill, which is odd considering relatively sizable falls are just a stone’s throw downstream.

Adding to its mystical allure are numerous banyan trees dipping their roots into the water. These distinctive trees with snake-like roots and broad hanging branches are considered sacred by many Thais, and an area filled with banyans is said to be a place where spirits dwell. In any case, the banyans contribute a sense of spookiness to Chet Sao Noi, as though they might wake up and stroll around after dark.