Located 25 km from Da Lat, Elephant Waterfall is one of the most magnificent waterfalls in the Central Highlands. Due to its glorious cascades, unspoiled forests in the surrounding vicinity, and Linh An Pagoda, Elephant Waterfall offers visitors adventure and tranquility.
Introduction To Elephant Waterfall
Located roughly 25 km from Da Lat city, the Elephant Waterfall (Thác Voi) remains a very spectacular natural wonder. The water plunging almost 30 meters creates a powerful waterfall with a veil of mist surrounding the forest and making all surroundings mysterious. Unlike Da Lat is known for gentle romance, Elephant Waterfall reveals a wilder, more raw side of the highlands, where beauty and legend come together.
The journey to the bottom of the waterfall certainly makes a trip to Elephant Waterfall memorable, as it isn’t just about seeing the powerful falls. Travelers navigate winding stone steps, climb over moss-covered cliffs, and pass through trails with vibrant greenery before arriving at a hidden cave tucked behind the waterfall. Elephant Waterfall is a must-visit destination for those wanting a deeper connection to nature that is lost in a busy resort town like Da Lat.
History Of Elephant Waterfall
The origins of Elephant Waterfall are closely associated with a story that the K’ho people deeply cherish. A long time ago, in a small village called Jơi Biêng that is still in existence today, the village chief had a daughter of amazing beauty and an incredibly pure and melodious singing voice. When she sang, the trees would sway and flutter with gentle whispers, and the birds of the forest would become quiet and stand still to listen. The young woman fell in love with the son of the chief of a neighboring village, and the two promised to become husband and wife.
Their happiness was short-lived. The young husband had been called to war, leaving his beloved behind, waiting… Days turned to years, and he did not return. When word reached her that he was dead, the heartbroken maiden went to the place where she had promised him eternal love. She sang her sad song until her voice failed and she was exhausted. A herd of elephants passing by was so moved by her lamentation that they stopped, bowed at her feet, and turned to stone. Then the earth shook and opened a crack in the mountain, and water poured over the stone elephants. Thereafter, the mighty waterfall came to be called Elephant Waterfall, where love and loss, and legend blended into nature.
Top 2 Iconic Attractions in Elephant Waterfall
Discovering Elephant Waterfall not only showcases the raw power of nature but also highlights some of the unforgettable highlights of this region. From wide-ranging views and hidden caves, the waterfall has something for every visitor type.
Waterfall Panoramic View
Standing roughly 30 meters high and 40 meters wide, Elephant Waterfall offers a display of wild, majestic beauty. Visitors have the option to take 145 stone steps from the base to reach the top of the waterfall or opt for a short concrete pathway from the entrance to step up to the mighty viewpoint. From this viewpoint, the entire waterfall comes into view, surrounded by age-old trees, sheer cliffs, and an abundance of vegetation. The water flow is colored because of local silt, slightly yellow, putting an inner natural charm and raw character into the waterfall.
The Mysterious Bat Cave
Adjacent to the waterfall is the intriguing Bat Cave. The Bat Cave rests at the base of the waterfall under thick vegetation and uniquely shaped rocks with a narrow opening and a dark and hidden space. The cave goes about 50 meters back into the mountain below the waterfall, providing cool breezes and the roar of the waterfall, creating an eerie, mysterious hiding place. The cave is being developed slowly to be accessed for explorer visits, including to explore the hidden depths of the Bat Cave.
5 Unforgettable Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss
Although Elephant Waterfall is not largely developed, there are many engaging activities for visitors to enjoy. Below are a few of the memorable experiences you will want to enjoy when visiting.
Hike To the Top of Elephant Waterfall
From the front of Elephant Waterfall, all it takes is a small concrete path followed by 145 curving stone steps to get to the top of the waterfall. The steps are built on cliffs, and on either side lie ancient trees, thick tree roots, and a mixture of moss-covered old rocks, all contributing to the magical atmosphere experienced during the walk in the climb. Once at the top, you are rewarded with ample views over the top of the beautiful waterfall with surrounding highland forest through a light mist.
The hike is short, but sections are more difficult than others, which is good for those looking for adventure in their experience and who enjoy pushing their limits. Although the hike is exhilarating, nothing will be as memorable as the feeling of reaching the top.
Admiring The Unspoiled Beauty
Standing 30 meters high and 40 meters wide, the Elephant Waterfall reveals a pure and majestic beauty. The sound of the water crashing feels like nature’s voice. Huge boulders shaped like elephants have a wild charm that is almost poetic. The untouched landscape brings together water, sky, and green in a truly mesmerizing way to impress any photographer or nature-lover. Being at the waterfall is relaxing but powerful.
Exploring The Wind Cave
After enjoying the spectacular lookouts, you can make your way to the bottom of the falls and find the secret Wind Cave. It is almost hidden behind thorny and twisted vines. When you walk into the cave, a coolness meets your skin as the space opens to a larger area with rocks that are formed in ways that seem almost playful. The unique, dark, and mysterious interior will excite any lover of wild spaces! A light jacket is a good idea if you plan to stay deep within the cave.
Exploring the Mysterious Bat Cave
For the adventurous, adventurers enjoy a fantastical cave-like atmosphere. The cave exists below the waterfall and teems with hundreds of flying foxes for a truly mystical and mysterious excursion. The Bat Cave provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore and represents an elusive and rarely seen side of the Elephant Waterfall ecosystem. For the nature lovers, it is a breathtaking experience. The cave interior is cool, dark, and eerie, making it an excursion unlike any other.
Camping and Picnicking at Elephant Waterfall
A simple picnic or camping on an unadorned day can make lasting memories in the wilderness of Elephant Waterfall. A small BBQ or simple lunches made within the forest and rushing water will delight. The experience allows visitors to slow down and enjoy the scenery of the Central Highlands area. Simply remember to bring everything you need for your big outdoor adventure.
Entrance Fee
The entrance fee for Elephant Waterfall is 20,000 VND/person. This information is for reference only and may change at any time. Please contact the Elephant Waterfall Management Board for the most up-to-date information at (0263) 3659444.
Opening Hours
Elephant Waterfall operates from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day. Da Lat has a temperate climate, so you can visit any time of the year and enjoy both the refreshing air and fantastic scenery. During the rainy season, for example, the falls build up more water and create much more intensity and drama for the explorer who enjoys the adventure and tougher side of nature.
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from October to April. In the dry season, you will experience plenty of sunny weather, and the trails are much better for exploring the lush green forest, whereas the waterfall will be gentler and more peaceful.
How to Get to Elephant Waterfall
Elephant Waterfall is situated in Gia Lam commune, Nam Ban town, Lam Ha district, about 25 km away from Da Lat’s city center. The falls were named a national scenic site in 2001. However, Elephant Waterfall is still wild and untouched.
Getting to Da Lat
Traveling to Da Lat can be done in a number of ways – flying, taking a bus, or riding a motorbike. Flying is likely the quickest and convenient way to get to Da Lat, as Lien Khuong Airport is about 30 km from Da Lat. Once you arrive at Lien Khuong Airport, you can get a shuttle or taxi to the city or even ride a motorbike.
From Da Lat To Elephant Waterfall
From the downtown city of Da Lat, you can reach Elephant Waterfall by bike, car, or taxi. Getting to Elephant Waterfall requires getting on Hoang Van Thu Street first, and then riding on DT725 for approximately 20 km before arriving in Nam Ban. Be ready to walk down about 145 winding stone steps and cross a rugged wooden bridge to reach the base of the falls.
Things to Know Before Traveling to Elephant Waterfall
There are a couple of reasonable tips to have in mind before heading to the Elephant Waterfall. These few simple notes will help you to have a safe and enjoyable trip, and hopefully take home the best memories while enjoying this natural wonder.
- There is a Linh An Pagoda near the waterfall that provides great views of the waterfall from afar.
- If you plan on taking pictures, this is best done in the morning, especially during the dry season from December to April.
- Be sure you wear sneakers or shoes with a good grip! The paths can be slippery and wet.
- You may want to check the weather forecast before traveling there and plan to visit on a non-rainy day to avoid any unexpected risk.
- If you are traveling with children, just be aware that the rocks can be uneven and the current can be strong.
- Watch your belongings and remember not to leave any rubbish behind. It is your responsibility to take care of our environment!
FAQs About Elephant Waterfall
Before heading to Elephant Waterfall, some questions come to mind. The following are some lengthy answers to the most common ones to help guide you
Is there any special attraction around Elephant Waterfall?
Yes, within walking distance from the waterfall, there exists the Linh An Pagoda that contains a giant Happy Buddha statue as well as tranquil gardens. Since both the spiritual atmosphere as well as nature appeal, the location is the perfect place after visiting the falls.
Is the Elephant Waterfall safe for children and older visitors?
Not at all. Accessing the falls requires descending 145 stone steps, some of which are very steep and slippery, even during the rainy season. Sturdy footwear and a slow, careful gait will make the experience safer as well as more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts: Is Elephant Waterfall Worth Visiting?
Elephant Waterfall is a combination of raw natural beauty, interesting legends, and a thrilling experience to be found in one spot. Whether you are trekking through mossy steps, exploring hidden caves, or seeing things from panoramic views… every second is thrilling and refreshing. If you are ever in Da Lat, do not miss a chance to discover this majestic wonder. Let Seni World become your partner in making those journey memories.
