The Ng Tung Chai Waterfalls Trail is a forested loop of about 4.5 km on the northern slopes of Tai Mo Shan Country Park, near Ng Tung Chai Village in Tai Po District, New Territories. It passes four main waterfalls, including the Main Fall, which drops about 35 m and is among the tallest in Hong Kong. The walk takes 2 to 3 hours, with about 250 m of ascent on steep stone steps, so it rates as easy on distance but demands steady effort on the stairs. Visitors take the MTR to Tai Po Market, then minibus 64K toward Ng Tung Chai, or a taxi for about HK$70-90. The current minibus should be confirmed in the HKeMobility app, and return is by the same minibus or taxi. No permit is required. The route starts at Ng Tung Chai Village along a paved lane and enters shaded woodland with streams and moss-covered rocks. The surface is a mix of stone steps, dirt and rock, which becomes slippery when wet, so shoes with wet grip are important. Shade is heavy, making the trail cooler than most in Hong Kong. Landmarks include the Bottom Fall, Middle Fall, Main Fall and Scenic Fall, connected by signed paths and small footbridges. Water flow is best in the rainy season, but heavy rain can raise stream levels and make the paths unsafe. Insect repellent is helpful, as mosquitoes are common beside the streams. There are no refuge huts, and refills are not available on the trail, so hikers carry 2 litres of water. Visitors seeking a shorter outing can turn around after the Main Fall. The loop can continue to a higher path toward Tai Mo Shan for those wanting a longer hike, but this requires more time and preparation.
| Distance | About 4.5 km loop |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2-3 hours |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Trailhead | MTR to Tai Po Market, then minibus 64K toward Ng Tung Chai or a taxi (about HK$70-90, ~$9-12). Confirm the current minibus in the HKeMobility app. Return by the same minibus or taxi. |
| Best season | April to October (best flow); avoid heavy rain |
| Address | Ng Tung Chai Village, Ng Tung Chai Road, Tai Po, Hong Kong |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Tai Mo Shan Country Park (Ng Tung Chai), Tai Po District, New Territories
What to bring
2 litres of water minimum (3 litres in summer); Sturdy shoes with grip (trail runners or hiking shoes); Sun hat, sunscreen and sunglasses; Electrolyte sachets or salty snacks; Fully charged phone with offline map and a power bank; Light rain jacket in the wet season; Insect repellent; Shoes with wet grip
Location
Ng Tung Chai Village, Ng Tung Chai Road, Tai Po, Hong Kong
22.4374, 114.1279 View on map
Highlights
- Main Fall, one of the tallest waterfalls in Hong Kong at about 35 m
- Four signed waterfalls along a shaded forest loop
- Stream crossings and mossy woodland close to Tai Po
- Easy minibus access from Tai Po Market MTR
Tips for visiting
- Wear shoes with wet grip, as steps and rocks are slippery
- Take insect repellent for the shaded streamside sections
- Avoid the trail during or just after heavy rain or a black rainstorm warning
- Carry 2 litres of water, since there are no refills on the trail
- Confirm the minibus in the HKeMobility app and note the return time
When to visit
April to October gives the strongest waterfall flow, though heavy rain should be avoided. Weekday mornings are quieter than weekends.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair- or stroller-friendly, as it uses steep stone steps and uneven rock. Only the paved village lane at the start is level.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Ng Tung Chai trail take?
The loop is about 4.5 km and takes 2 to 3 hours. It includes roughly 250 m of ascent on steep stone steps.
How do hikers reach the trailhead?
Take the MTR to Tai Po Market, then minibus 64K toward Ng Tung Chai or a taxi for about HK$70-90.
When is the best water flow?
Flow is best from April to October during the wetter months. Heavy rain should be avoided for safety.
Is swimming allowed at the waterfalls?
Swimming is discouraged because the pools are shallow and rocks are slippery. Visitors should follow posted signs.