May Waterfall – Walk Through the Cloudy Waterfall of Thanh Hoa

Plan your trip to May Waterfall with GrandViet Tour and experience nine tiers of cascading beauty, local legends, top activities, travel tips, and the best times to visit in Thanh Hoa.

Introduction to the May Waterfall

Deep in the forests of Thanh Hoa province, May Waterfall—also known as Thac May or “Cloud Waterfall”—descends a 400‑meter hillside in a series of shimmering steps. Each tier resembles a white ribbon of mist, giving the waterfall its poetic name. Here, travelers find an escape from urban bustle, surrounded by limestone peaks, bamboo groves, and the songs of warblers.

GrandViet Tour invites you to discover May Waterfall, where nature and folklore intertwine. Our guide explains why this waterfall has captivated locals and visitors for generations, from its legends to its incredible terraces.

The nine cascading steps of May Waterfall resemble a white staircase

May Waterfall – Key Highlights

Located in Thach Lam commune, Lang Chanh district (Thanh Hoa), May Waterfall comprises nine successive cascades. Fed by streams from the Truong Son Range, the falls drop gradually over smooth limestone and into jade pools.
Highlights of May Waterfall include:
- Nine tiers: Local people associate each tier with one of the nine steps leading to heaven in folklore. Visitors often climb to each level, taking in different perspectives.
- Natural swimming pools: Clear, shallow pools at each step invite swimming and relaxation, especially during hot summers.
- Surrounding forest: The waterfall is nestled in a protected forest teeming with rare plants and birds.
- Local legend: Story says nine fairies once descended here to bathe, leaving the patterns on the rocks. Hence it’s also called “Fairy Waterfall.”
- Community crafts: Nearby villages of the Thai and Muong ethnic groups craft bamboo baskets and brocade textiles, which you can buy as souvenirs.
Walking alongside the falls feels like ascending a natural staircase into the clouds—hence its name.

When to Visit May Waterfall (Weather & Seasons)

Thanh Hoa has two main seasons that influence your experience:
- Rainy season (May – October): Heavy rains feed the waterfall, making it spectacular. Temperatures range from 24–32 °C. Trails can be slippery, so good footwear is essential.
- Dry season (November – April): Water flow decreases, revealing unique rock patterns. The climate is cooler (18–25 °C), ideal for hiking and camping.
At GrandViet Tour, we often recommend visiting during August and September, when the water remains strong but the weather begins to cool. However, if you prefer calm swimming and easy hikes, December to February provides comfortable conditions and fewer visitors.

Top Experiences & Itineraries - May Waterfall

Time at May Waterfall can be relaxing or adventurous, depending on your preference. Here are some itineraries we suggest:

Half‑Day Excursion

Drive from Lang Chanh Town or Thanh Hoa City to Thach Lam commune (about 40–50 kilometers). Hike 15 minutes from the parking area to the base of the waterfall. Enjoy climbing to different tiers, swimming, and capturing photos. Return to town in the afternoon.

1‑Day Nature & Culture Trip

Combine the waterfall visit with local culture. Start early from Thanh Hoa, explore May Waterfall for the morning, then visit a nearby Thai village for lunch. Participate in a weaving demonstration, learn about the legend of the nine fairies, and return to the city by evening.

2‑Day Outdoor Adventure

For those seeking a deeper connection with nature, spend one night camping or staying in a homestay near the waterfall. On day two, trek to Pu Luong Nature Reserve or Cam Thuy hot springs, both within a two‑hour drive.
As always, we tailor each itinerary to our guests—whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo.

How to Get May Waterfall (From Hanoi & Other Hubs)

May Waterfall is approximately 200 kilometers southwest of Hanoi and 140 kilometers from Thanh Hoa City.
- From Hanoi: Travel via National Highway 1A and provincial roads to Lang Chanh district. The drive takes about 5–6 hours by car. We offer private transfers with air‑conditioned vehicles and scheduled rest stops.
- From Thanh Hoa City: Follow Highway 15 through Cam Thuy town to Lang Chanh. Local buses operate between the city and Lang Chanh, but a private car is more flexible.
- From Pu Luong or Mai Chau: If you’re exploring other northern attractions, you can reach May Waterfall via scenic mountain roads within 2–3 hours.
Parking is available near the trailhead. The path to the waterfall involves moderate walking; ensure you wear sturdy footwear.

Where to Stay - May Waterfall (Homestays & Eco‑Lodges)

The area around May Waterfall is still undeveloped, making accommodation simple but welcoming:
- Local homestays: Thai and Muong households offer rooms with mats, mosquito nets, and meals. Staying here allows you to learn about daily life, food preparation, and weaving techniques.
- Guesthouses in Lang Chanh: Basic guesthouses provide private rooms and hot showers. They’re ideal if you prefer more privacy while still being close to the waterfall.
- Nearby resorts: For greater comfort, stay in Pu Luong or Mai Chau, where eco‑resorts feature pools, restaurants, and panoramic views.
GrandViet Tour partners with reliable hosts and checks their facilities regularly to guarantee hygienic, safe stays for our guests.

Travel Tips, Costs & Etiquette -May Waterfall

As you plan to visit May Waterfall, keep these considerations in mind:
- Entrance fee: A small fee of 10,000–20,000 VND helps maintain the site.
- What to pack: Quick‑drying clothes, walking shoes, swimwear, towel, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a camera.
- Safety: Climb carefully; the rocks can be slick. Do not dive into pools without checking the depth.
- Cultural respect: Dress modestly in villages, ask before taking photos, and support local craftswomen by purchasing hand‑woven items.
- Costs: Meals at homestays cost around 50,000–80,000 VND per person, while lodging ranges from 150,000–300,000 VND per night.
We also encourage guests to carry reusable water bottles and limit single‑use plastic during their trip.

Why Travel with GrandViet Tour

We believe travel should inspire connection—with nature, culture, and the people you meet along the way. Our May Waterfall tours provide:
- Local insight: Knowledgeable guides explain the waterfall’s folklore and ecological significance, enriching your visit beyond photos.
- Customized itineraries: Choose a quick escape or an extended adventure; we’ll tailor the pace and activities to your interests.
- Safety & comfort: Reliable transportation, vetted accommodations, and 24/7 support mean you can relax and enjoy your journey.
- Community partnership: Tourism with us benefits local families through fair wages and cultural preservation.
Let GrandViet Tour lead you up the steps of May Waterfall and into the heart of Thanh Hoa’s countryside. Join us today to experience this hidden gem in comfort and confidence.

FAQs

Q1: Where is May Waterfall located?
A1: May Waterfall is in Thach Lam commune, Lang Chanh district, Thanh Hoa province, roughly 200 kilometers southwest of Hanoi.

Q2: How many tiers does May Waterfall have?
A2: The waterfall features nine tiers, which locals equate to steps leading to heaven and legends of nine bathing fairies.

Q3: Is there an entrance fee?
A3: Yes, there is a small maintenance fee (around 10,000–20,000 VND) to help care for the site.

Q4: Can I swim at May Waterfall?
A4: Yes, the pools between tiers are safe for swimming. Always check depth and avoid slippery rocks.

Q5: What other attractions are nearby?
A5: Pu Luong Nature Reserve, Cam Thuy hot springs, and Mai Chau valley are within a few hours’ drive and pair well with a visit to May Waterfall.

Q6: What’s the best way to reach the falls?
A6: A private car or GrandViet Tour transfer is the most convenient. Public buses operate to Lang Chanh town, from which you can hire a taxi or motorbike.

Q7: Why travel with GrandViet Tour?
A7: We combine expert guides, comfortable logistics, and community engagement to make your May Waterfall adventure meaningful and worry‑free.

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