Travel Guide: Visiting Chiang Mai's 'Sticky Waterfall'
Chiang Mai is a location jam-packed with exciting experiences, and this is one of the most unique. The Sticky Waterfall, also known as Bua Thong Waterfall, is a remarkable natural wonder nestled in the Namtok Bua Tong-Nam Phu Chet Si National Park, just under 60 kilometers north of Chiang Mai. Its unique geological composition distinguishes this waterfall from Thailand's many other waterfalls. The porous limestone rocks of Bua Thong possess a rare quality – they're astonishingly "sticky." This allows visitors to climb directly up the waterfall without slipping, a phenomenon that has made it an internationally renowned attraction.
Surrounded by lush forest and vibrant flora, the Sticky Waterfall is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Chiang Mai. The waterfall is composed of multiple tiers, each of which offers a different climbing experience. The tiers can be climbed entirely at your own pace, with lower levels offering a gentle introduction to climbing while higher sections provide a more challenging ascent.
What is the Best Time to Visit the Sticky Waterfall?
The best time to visit the Sticky Waterfall is during the dry season, which typically spans from November to April. The dry season offers the best conditions for climbing the waterfall. The limestone rocks are less slippery with reduced water flow, allowing for a safer and more enjoyable climbing experience. In addition to this, temperatures are pleasant during this season, ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), making it comfortable for outdoor activities. If you visit at the start of the dry season (November/October), the water flow will still be powerful, and the area surrounding the waterfalls will be lush and green.
The Sticky Waterfall is open year-round, so visiting during the rainy season is still possible. Just bear in mind that the experience will be even more exhilarating the faster the flow of water!
How to Get to the Sticky Waterfall From Chiang Mai
The sticky waterfalls are located about 60 km north of Chiang Mai city, and there are a few different options for getting there:
By Rented Car/Motorbike
Renting a car or motorbike is a convenient and flexible way to get to the Sticky Waterfall. It allows you to explore at your own pace, making as many stops to admire the beautiful scenery as you'd like.
You can use a navigation app or GPS to guide you to the Namtok Bua Tong-Nam Phu Chet Si National Park, where you will find the sticky waterfall. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours from Chiang Mai City Centre. Prices for rental motorbikes range from 200 - 300 Baht per day. Cars start at 1000 Baht per day.
By Taxi/Private Transfer
You can hire a taxi directly to Namtok Bua Tong-Nam Phu Chet Si National Park. It is a comfortable option, especially if traveling with a group or having a lot of luggage. Many drivers will be happy to take you to the National Park and back to Chiang Mai, which removes the stress of finding your way around. Just make sure to confirm the fare with the driver beforehand.
By Grab
The Grab app is widely used in Thailand and can be used to book a ride to the Sticky Waterfall. Simply enter the destination, and a driver will pick you up. Grabs are often cheaper than private taxi options, so this is a good option for budget travelers and backpackers.
By Songthaew
Songthaews are shared pick-up trucks that function like a shared taxi or minibus. You can negotiate a fare with the driver to take you to the Sticky Waterfall. This is a great budget option for larger groups because the songthaews can hold up to 12 people.
By Guided Tour
Many local tour operators offer guided trips to the Sticky Waterfall. This option provides the convenience of transportation and a knowledgeable guide who can share insights about the area.
Visiting the Sticky Waterfall as Part of a Tour
Joining a tour is one of the best ways to visit the Sticky Waterfalls - it takes the hassle out of organizing transport, and visiting with a guide is the perfect way to get some extra insight into the waterfalls and the science behind why they are sticky. A tour is also a great option if you're nervous about climbing the waterfall, as you can be sure that your guide is on hand to help if you need it. Plus, it's the perfect way to meet other travelers and experience the adventure of the waterfall as part of a group!
PM Tours offers two sticky waterfall tours, each offering a slightly different experience.
Doi Suthep and Sticky Waterfalls Tour
This one-day tour is the perfect way to experience some of Chiang Mai's best cultural and natural wonders.
The day kicks off with a hotel pick-up between 8:00 - 8:30 am. You'll travel outside the city, through Northern Thailand's beautiful countryside. The first stop is the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple perched majestically atop a mountain. From this vantage point, the panoramic view of Chiang Mai city is nothing short of awe-inspiring. This sacred site is a must-see, offering a glimpse into the heart of Thai spirituality.
The journey continues to the enchanting Wat Pha Lad, a temple hidden within a lush forest. This tranquil haven boasts a unique fusion of Thai and Burmese architectural styles, standing in harmony with the natural surroundings. Positioned beside a cascading waterfall, this serene location remains a well-kept secret, providing an intimate encounter with Thai spirituality.
A visit to the Orchid Farm follows, treating visitors to a kaleidoscope of colors and species. Witness the sheer diversity of these exquisite flowers, a testament to the region's rich biodiversity.
After a satisfying lunch, the adventure takes an exhilarating turn with a visit to the Bua Tong Waterfalls, fondly known as the Sticky Waterfalls. Here, you'll have the chance to ascend the waterfall's various tiers, an experience that defies gravity thanks to the unique mineral deposits in the water.
The tour includes return transport to your accommodation and ends around 4:00 pm. The tour includes entrance fees, an English-speaking guide, a delicious lunch, drinking water, and insurance coverage.
Tour Price - 2000 THB
Sticky Waterfalls Trekking - One Day Tour
This tour offers visitors a chance to experience a one-day trek in the forests surrounding the Sticky Waterfall. Nestled in the embrace of lush rainforests, the trek begins at the serene Hidden Cave. From there, you'll follow trails leading deeper into the jungle, revealing hidden gems along the way. The highlight is the awe-inspiring Fountain of Seven Colors spring, a limestone stream that sparkles in rainbow hues as the fast-flowing water hits the sunlight.
The trek covers approximately 5 kilometers and is rated as a mild/easy route, with plenty of breaks to unwind and take in the surroundings. At midday, you'll have the chance to refuel with a tasty Thai lunch before continuing to the Sticky Waterfalls.
Once the trek reaches the waterfall, you'll have ample time to scale the tiers of the falls at your own pace.
The day concludes with a scenic drive back to the city, leaving you with cherished memories of an immersive nature adventure. The tour ensures you return to your hotel between 3:30 pm - 4:00 pm, having experienced the best of Chiang Mai's natural wonders.
The tour includes transportation, all entrance fees, insurance, an English-speaking guide, drinking water, and a delicious lunch.
Tour Price - 2000 THB
