About May Waterfall
May Waterfall (Thac May) is a nine-tiered natural waterfall located in Thach Lam Commune, Thach Thanh District, Thanh Hoa Province, Vietnam, about 60 km northwest of Thanh Hoa City. Formed by streams flowing from the Cuc Phuong limestone forest, it cascades over terraced limestone steps creating clear pools. Notable for its scenic forest setting, terraced cascades, and association with local Muong culture, it is a popular nature and eco-tourism destination in western Thanh Hoa.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a multi-tiered cascade waterfall flowing over wide, terraced limestone formations within a forested valley. The waterfall has nine distinct levels with shallow, clear pools at the base of each tier suitable for wading and swimming in the dry season. Surroundings include secondary forest, limestone hills, bamboo groves, and nearby Muong ethnic villages. Visitors can walk along natural rock steps between tiers, swim in natural pools, take photographs, and explore the stream and forest trails.
Key highlights
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Nine-tiered cascade flowing over natural limestone terraces
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Clear natural pools at each level suitable for wading and swimming
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Scenic forest and limestone karst landscape of western Thanh Hoa
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Close association with Muong ethnic culture and local legends
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Relatively undeveloped natural setting ideal for nature photography
Culture & Context
The waterfall is culturally significant to the local Muong ethnic community. Local legend associates the nine tiers with nine fairies who descended to bathe, and the site is traditionally regarded as a scenic and spiritual natural landmark for villages in Thach Lam.
Route
| By air | Fly to Tho Xuan Airport serving Thanh Hoa, then continue by road approximately 50-60 km to the waterfall |
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| By train |