Bua Tong Sticky Waterfalls, Chiang Mai: A No FOMO Thailand Traveler’s Guide
Planning a trip to the Bua Tong Sticky Waterfalls in Chiang Mai, Thailand?
Just north of Chiang Mai, Thailand, lies a peculiar natural wonder – Bua Tong Waterfall or “Sticky Waterfalls. Its distinguishing trait? An amazing ability to allow you to cling onto its walls and ascend, just like Spiderman!
Why is the Sticky Waterfall Sticky?
The distinctive tufa surface of Sticky Waterfalls is what sets it apart from other waterfalls in Thailand. As the water cascades over the limestone, a chemical reaction causes crystallization and generates “sticky” mineral deposits of calcium carbonate. This allows visitors to safely climb up the limestone waterfall walls.
If that sounds enticing, continue reading to find out all the information needed to visit the Bua Tong Sticky Waterfalls, Chiang Mai. We’ll cover directions on how to get there, the trip costs, the best times to visit, and any final tips!
Don’t get FOMO!
Sticky Waterfalls is one of the weirdest things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand. It’s pretty far out of town (1.5 hours away), so if you’re looking for a tour, book a Best of Chiang Mai Tour that combines a trip to Sticky Waterfall with another top attraction, Doi Suthep. Plus, a delicious lunch is included.
Where is the Sticky Waterfall Located?
Sticky Waterfalls, Chiang Mai is located in the Namtok Bua Thong-Nam Phu Chet Si National Park in northern Thailand, just south of Sri Lanna National Park.
The drive to Sticky Waterfalls is about 1.5 hours and 60 kilometers north of Chiang Mai.
Click here to go to the exact Google Maps location.
How to Get to Sticky Waterfall from Chiang Mai?
The best and cheapest way to get to Sticky Waterfalls is by renting a scooter or chartering a Songthaew if you’ve got a good group of people.
Scooters can be rented for 200-250 baht per day from many rental services or your accommodation in Chiang Mai.
Related Post: Read full details on renting a scooter in Thailand
If you’re traveling around Asia, it’s strongly recommended that you purchase travel insurance. Rocking those knee and elbow bandages isn’t exactly a great look; I personally go with Nomad Insurance, Safety Wings — as a long-term traveler, they only charge me $42 per month until canceled.
If you aren’t confident riding a scooter, you can hail a songthaew (pick-up truck with bench seats). These red trucks can be hired for charter and can fit around 10 people. Ask at your accommodation, and they will know someone to call to help you get around.
I asked one big group who each paid 250 baht per person, and the driver waited for them for two hours. Plus, it’s pretty convenient that you can keep all of your belongings in the backseat as you explore.
Bua Tong Sticky Waterfalls Tour
Visiting Sticky Waterfall certainly does not require a guided tour, but it is quite far from the city. Why not make the trip even more worthwhile by combining it a visit to another top Chiang Mai attraction, Doi Suthep with a Best of Chiang Mai tour?
First, see stunning views of all of Chiang Mai from this glorious golden temple with an experienced guide in tow. Then after a tasty lunch, easily transport to Sticky Waterfalls for a refreshing hike up this fun destination.
I recommend this Best of Chiang Mai Tour in particular as it has only stellar 5 stars reviews from over 97 positive ratings. Check one of the reviews below:
“Wow, what a trip! We customised our trip to include Doi Suthep, Orchid & Butterly farm and the Sticky Waterfalls (which had to be the highlight of our visit to Chiang Mai). Our guide (Maggie) was absolutely amazing, full of knowledge for Doi Suthep and general Thai life, with such a friendly vibe and humour as well. We’ll definitely be using the company again on our next visit to Chiang Mai and will be requesting Maggie for sure!”
– Martin, Nov 2022 (See more Reviews on Viator)
Sticky Waterfalls Information
Entrance Fee of Sticky Waterfall
There is no entrance fee for Sticky Waterfall. My favorite price point!
Lockers can be rented from the visitor center for 30 baht.
Opening Times for Sticky Waterfall
The park is open from 8 am to 5 pm every day.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Sticky Waterfalls is during the dry season before the burning season begins, between November and February.
During the winter months, you’ll be blessed with sun-filled days without rain. However, as soon as the burning season starts due to agricultural fires in the north during March and April, the environment will be tainted by smokey skies and low air quality.
Dress code for the Sticky Waterfall
Generally, you can be in your bikini and shirtless on the waterfall portion of the park. However, the Nam Phu Chet Si cold mineral spring “Seven Colors Fountain” is a respected area by the locals. Since it is sacred, dress as you would for any other Thai cultural sites by covering your shoulders and knees.
Park Facilities
Just after the park entrance, a spacious parking lot accommodates many cars, red songthaews, and motorbikes.
An easy walk leads to an ideal family picnic area with a grassy field and a few picnic tables. Additionally, the visitor center provides useful information as well as lockers for rent, restrooms, and changing areas. And as usual, local market restaurants sell food and drink.
What to Expect: Things to Do & Tips
Post-highway out of Chiang Mai, drive through lush greenery as you make your way toward the unique Bua Tong Waterfall, colloquially nicknamed “Sticky waterfalls.” As you approach the falls, delight in the soothing sounds of trickling water as you gaze over the canopy overlook, your first stop.
Climbing the Bua Tong Sticky Waterfalls
The waterfall has been divided into four tiers. Each level has a delightful stone formation that provides a beautiful backdrop for photos, or even just to stick your head in the cascading waters and enjoy a mini massage. At the top of the waterfall is a small pool to sit and chill in.
Most visitors opt to climb down the stairs to the base of the falls and walk up the waterfall. But, you can also walk down; it’s just a bit more slippery.
Tip! Algae growth (the dark green patches) makes the sticky falls more like “slippy falls.” Be sure to hold onto the rope and be careful before attempting the steeper parts of the climb. Use your bare feet to ensure you’re not stepping on the algae.
Other Things to do at Bua Tong Sticky Waterfalls
- Walk the entirety of the Nature Trail
- Stroll over to the Sacred natural springs, Nam Phu Chet Si Cold Springs “Seven Colors Fountain”
- Feed the fish in the fishpond
- Have a picnic
Other Super Cool Things to Do On the Road
If you’re driving yourself, I added a few more points of interest to my mini-road trip itinerary.
1. Dantewada Land of Angels Waterfall Park
Gain viral fame on social media at this crazy place, this half cafe, half park is so entertaining. Irresistible bunnies, baby goats, gorgeous flower fields, and a multitude of man-made waterfalls to crawl through are waiting to be explored as you sip your coffee.
2. Air Diamond Cafe
Miss being in an airplane? Well, fancy having a cup of coffee from Air Diamond Cafe, another awesome Cafe around Chiang Mai which is inside an actual airplane (off the side of the highway.) But, unlike the real thing, have the liberty to leave whenever you want.
3. Wat Si Don Chai Pa Tung Ngam (Hell Temple)
Each province in Thailand has a “Hell Temple’, which contains graphic statues depicting the dire consequences of not living according to Buddha’s teachings and behaving morally. These temples are designed to instill fear into children so they will be more mindful of their actions; even as an adult, the depictions create an unsettling atmosphere.
Where to Stay in Chiang Mai
Most people coming to this waterfall stay in Chiang Mai, which has plenty of accommodations available for all types of travelers.
Here is one of the top options for each budget point:
Thai Lanna 4 Star Stay – T Heritage Hotel
Located in the heart of Chiang Mai Old Town, book T Heritage, a 4-star Hotel that boasts all the amenities you would desire from a luxury stay. Constructed in a fancy Thai Lanna-style décor, soak up the sunny days lounging by the scenic outdoor pool!
COOL & MODERN 3 STAR HOTEL – ISTY Hotel
Perfect for digital nomads and travelers, stay at ISTY Hotel to enjoy spacious, comfortable rooms, plus a shared lounge, restaurant, bar and awesome-looking outdoor swimming pool. Close to Santitham, it’s my favorite location to try new local eats and go out in trendy Nimman.
CLEAN, STYLISH B&B WITH DORMS – Amaka Bed and Breakfast
Book a stay at Amaka Bed and Breakfast for a cozy atmosphere surrounded by polite and helpful staff. Decorated with a clean and homey minimalistic look, this hostel is also conveniently located on the north moat of Old Town and offers tours at a much cheaper price than online options. Not to mention the delicious-looking breakfast.
Bucket List Worthy: Is Sticky Waterfalls Worth Visiting?
As awesome as the Bua Tong Sticky Waterfall was, it is quite a short activity for how far the commute is out of town. If you’re in Chiang Mai for just a couple of days, I wouldn’t suggest making this trip such a priority, but if you have more than that, it is a great day trip, especially with a good group. To make the most of your journey, consider pairing other nearby attractions with your plans!
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Catherine Xu is the founder and author of Nomadicated, an adventure travel blog that helps travelers cross off their bucket list. Since discovering traveling in 2015, she has lived and journeyed to 65 countries across 5 continents and vanlifed the west coast USA for 2+ years. These days, she splits her time in Southeast Asia and California while sharing her travel stories and resources based on first-hand experiences. Catherine's other works has been referenced in major publications like MSN, Self, and TripSavvy.