Take a break from the magnificent beaches of Koh Samui and visit Namuang Waterfall. Hike through lush tropical forests, go swimming, spot varied wildlife and take a ride on an elephant’s back. Namuang Waterfall is two separate waterfalls set amid the island’s central hills. The name, meaning Purple Waterfalls, stems from the way the rocks turn a shade of purple when water flows down them.
Start your visit at the 59-foot-tall (18-metre) Namuang Waterfall 1, accessible via a short walk from a public parking area. Watch as the milky-white water cascades down into a large, rocky pool. Look up to see the surrounding green foliage. Take a dip in the pool and swim to the rock face to feel the force of the water. Large boulders surround the pool and are great places to sit and appreciate the scenery.
Follow the uphill trail from the parking lot for about 30 minutes to reach Namuang Waterfall 2. Marvel as it rises to a height of 260 feet (80 metres) above a small pool. Note the purple colour of the rocks and see how the water runs down in the shape of a fork. Swimming is also possible here. Due to its more remote setting, this pool is often less crowded.
About halfway between the two falls is Namuang Safari Park. Join an elephant trek to the waterfalls or ride a quad bike through jungle and coconut forests. Watch elephant bathing demonstrations, acrobatic monkeys and a crocodile feeding show. Feast on a buffet of typical Thai dishes at the park’s restaurant.
The waterfalls are a 25-minute drive southeast of Nathon and a 40-minute drive southwest of Chaweng Beach. Get here by taxi, rented scooter or organised tours, which operate from the island’s main beaches. Parking is free.
Visit Namuang Waterfall from September through November, when water levels are higher and the falls are at their most powerful. There is no admission fee. However, be aware of people posing as guides and requesting fees.
