It is home to the White-Handed Gibbon (Hylobates lar), which is the focus of the on-site rehabilitation program.
The waterfall is located within the last significant protected virgin rainforest remaining on Phuket.
The Khao Phra Thaeo forest serves as a critical watershed for the northern region of Phuket island.
The rehabilitation project at the site does not allow public interaction with the gibbons to prevent human-animal habituation.
The water flow is significantly influenced by rainfall, with the highest volume occurring during the monsoon months.
Bang Pae Waterfall is the tallest waterfall on Phuket Island, located within the Khao Phra Thaeo Non-Hunting Area. It serves as the primary field site for the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project, which rescues and rehabilitates captive gibbons for release into the wild. The site features a jungle trail that leads visitors from the base of the waterfall to the upper cascades. The surrounding tropical rainforest is one of the last remaining primary forest patches in Phuket. The waterfall consists of a series of drops, with the main basin area providing space for cooling off in the water. Visitors can observe the conservation efforts of the Rehabilitation Project near the entrance. The area acts as a vital sanctuary for diverse local flora and fauna. Hiking paths follow the stream through dense canopy cover.
The lower pool area provides a clear vantage point of the main waterfall drop against the green jungle background.
Wear sturdy footwear with good grip as the jungle trails can become slippery and muddy.
Bring insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes prevalent in the dense rainforest canopy.
Visit during the wet season to witness the waterfall at its maximum capacity.
Do not attempt to touch or feed the gibbons, as they are being prepared for reintroduction into the wild.
Maintain silence near the rehabilitation center to avoid distressing the rescued gibbons; do not feed wildlife.
