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Fri, Sep 4
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Discover Erawan

About Erawan, Thailand

Erawan is a locality in western Thailand, situated in Kanchanaburi Province. Known for its proximity to the Erawan National Park, the area is renowned for its natural beauty, particularly the Erawan Waterfall, a major draw for both domestic and international tourists. Erawan provides a gateway to exploring Thailand's rich natural landscapes and offers visitors opportunities to engage with the country's natural heritage through its parks and trails.

Main Points of Interest in Erawan
  • Erawan National Park: Famous for the seven-tiered Erawan Waterfall, which is considered one of Thailand's most beautiful waterfalls.
  • Phra That Cave: A notable cave within the park featuring impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
  • Sai Yok National Park: Located nearby, offering additional trails and waterfalls, including the Sai Yok Noi Waterfall.
  • Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum: A historical site and museum commemorating the World War II railway construction.
Climate and Best Times to Visit Erawan

Erawan has a tropical savanna climate. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to February, when temperatures range from 20-30°C (68-86°F) and humidity is lower. The hot season spans March to May, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (95°F). The rainy season lasts from June to October, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in September.

Budget and Travel Costs in Erawan

Erawan is generally affordable, with various options suiting different budgets. Prices are estimates and subject to change (approx. 37 THB to 1 USD).

  • Accommodation:
    • Basic Guesthouse: $10 - $20 USD (370 - 740 THB) per night.
    • Mid-Range Hotel: $30 - $50 USD (1,100 - 1,850 THB) per night.
  • Food & Drink:
    • Local Thai Meal: $2 - $5 USD (75 - 185 THB).
    • Dining in a Tourist Area: $10 - $20 USD (370 - 740 THB).
  • Activities:
    • National Park Entry Fee: $10 USD (370 THB) for foreigners.
Transportation To and From Erawan

Erawan is accessible via road and rail, with Kanchanaburi City serving as the primary transit hub.

  • By Train: Regular trains run from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi, with bus and taxi connections to Erawan.
  • By Bus: Direct buses from Bangkok and Kanchanaburi connect travelers to Erawan National Park.
  • By Car: The journey from Bangkok to Erawan is approximately 200 kilometers, taking around 3 hours by car.

Top Erawan Routes by Transport Type

Bus to Erawan

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
5
09:00
13:00
4h0m
$9.01
  5.0

Van to Erawan

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
2
08:00
08:10
1h30m
$13.52
  4.3

Popular Questions

Is it fun to go to Erawan alone?

Visiting Erawan National Park alone can be an enjoyable experience for nature lovers and solo travelers. The park, known for its seven-tiered Erawan Waterfalls, offers hiking trails that vary in difficulty, allowing you to explore at your own pace. The serene environment provides a great opportunity for reflection and photography.

Transportation and Entry
You can reach Erawan National Park by bus from Kanchanaburi, with tickets costing around 50 THB ($1.50). Entrance fees are approximately 300 THB ($9) for foreigners.

Safety and Tips
It's advisable to wear sturdy shoes for the trails, carry insect repellent, and bring plenty of water. Be mindful of slippery rocks near the waterfalls. Solo travelers should inform someone about their plans for added safety.

Water Cleanliness
The water in the waterfalls is generally clean and suitable for swimming. However, it's best to avoid drinking tap water in the area; opt for bottled water instead.

With these precautions, a solo trip to Erawan can be both safe and rewarding.

Is it cheap to live in Erawan?

Living costs in Erawan, a rural district in Thailand, tend to be lower than in urban areas like Bangkok. Monthly expenses for a single person, excluding rent, are typically around 10,000-15,000 THB ($280-$420). Rent for a basic apartment can range from 3,000 to 7,000 THB ($85-$200) depending on location and amenities.

Groceries and local dining are affordable, with meals at local eateries costing about 40-70 THB ($1.10-$2). Transportation is generally inexpensive, with local buses and motorbike taxis being common. Utilities, including water and electricity, may add another 1,500-2,500 THB ($42-$70) per month.

Tap water is not safe to drink directly; bottled water is recommended. There are no major swimming areas in Erawan, but nearby attractions like Erawan National Park offer clean and monitored natural pools for swimming. Overall, Erawan provides a cost-effective lifestyle, particularly suited for those seeking a quieter, rural environment.

How to roam around Erawan?

To explore Erawan, which is known for the Erawan National Park and Erawan Waterfalls, start by planning your transportation. The park is accessible from Kanchanaburi, about 65 kilometers away. You can take a bus from Kanchanaburi bus station to Erawan, which costs around 50 THB ($1.50) one way. The journey takes about 1.5 hours.

Once at the park, you can hike the 7-tiered waterfall, which is the main attraction. The trails are well-marked, but some parts can be steep or slippery, so wear suitable footwear. There is an entrance fee of 300 THB ($9) for foreigners.

For dining, there are small food stalls near the entrance offering snacks and drinks. It's advisable to bring your own water and snacks. Tap water is not safe to drink, so carry bottled water.

If you plan to swim, the water in the pools is generally clean, but it's best to check local conditions and any advisories posted by park authorities.

Is Erawan overrun with tourists?

Erawan National Park, known for its beautiful waterfalls, is a popular destination in Thailand and can experience heavy tourist traffic, particularly during the peak season from November to February. Weekends and holidays also tend to see more visitors. For a quieter experience, consider visiting on weekdays and arriving early in the morning when the park opens.

The seven-tiered Erawan Falls are a major draw, and the upper tiers generally have fewer people. It's advisable to wear sturdy footwear for the hike and bring swimwear if you wish to enjoy the natural pools.

Entry fees are 300 THB ($9) for adults and 200 THB ($6) for children. Drinking water is available for purchase, but it's wise to bring your own. Tap water is not safe for drinking, but the park's swimming areas are generally clean and well-maintained for visitors.

Is 2 days in Erawan enough?

Two days in Erawan National Park can be sufficient to explore its main attractions. Spend your first day hiking the park’s well-marked trails to the famous Erawan Waterfalls, a series of seven tiers known for their clear waters. Allocate time to swim in the natural pools, which are generally safe and clean.

For the second day, consider exploring the park’s cave systems, such as Phra That Cave, which features impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Bring a flashlight and wear sturdy shoes for cave exploration. Alternatively, you could take a guided tour to learn more about the park's diverse flora and fauna.

Accommodation options range from campsites within the park (~150-300 THB per night; $4.50-$9) to nearby guesthouses (~500-1,000 THB per night; $15-$30). For dining, local food stalls at the park entrance offer affordable meals (~50-100 THB; $1.50-$3).

Remember that park entry costs around 300 THB ($9) for adults. Always check the weather forecast to ensure a pleasant visit, and bring plenty of water, as park facilities may be limited.