How to visit the Bua Tong Sticky Waterfall in Chiang Mai
Explore Chiang Mai's unique Bua Tong Sticky Waterfall - everything you need to know
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Chiang Mai might be famed for its ancient temples and night markets, but just outside the city lies a pretty unique natural phenomenon – the Bua Tong Sticky Waterfall. Nestled within Sri Lanna National Park, this waterfall invites you to climb up its cascading tiers without slipping, thanks to the extraordinary grip provided by its mineral-rich limestone rocks. Its close distance to Chiang Mai makes it a fun and adventurous day out. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting one of Thailand’s most unique natural wonders.
How to get to Bua Tong Sticky Waterfall
Located around 60km north of Chiang Mai, the journey to Bua Tong Sticky Waterfall takes about 1-1.5 hours, depending on your mode of transport. You can get there one of three ways – hiring a songthaew, driving yourself or joining a tour.
Private Vehicle
Renting a car or motorbike is the easiest and most flexible way to reach the waterfall. From Chiang Mai, you’ll head north on Route 1001 towards Phrao. The drive is scenic, with views of rural landscapes and occasional glimpses of local life in small villages along the way. After about 48km, keep an eye out for signs pointing towards the waterfall or “Nam Phu Chet Si,” the name of the nearby sacred spring. A right turn off the main road and a short drive further will bring you to the entrance.
If you’re comfortable with navigating Thai roads, this option allows you the freedom to set your own schedule and explore other nearby sights if you have time.
Public Transportation
For those who prefer not to drive, you can hire a songthaew – a red pickup truck taxi. You can negotiate a price with the driver, typically ranging from 1,000 to 1,500 THB for a round trip, including waiting time at the falls. This option removes the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads and can be a cheap way of travelling if there are a few of you to split the cost of the songthaew.
The more adventurous amongst you might opt to take a bus from Chiang Mai’s Chang Phuak Bus Station to Mae Taeng and then hire a local taxi or motorbike taxi to the waterfall. This way of travelling is pretty time consuming but would probably be the most cost-effective way of getting to the falls.
Joining a Tour / Private Driver
Several tour operators in Chiang Mai offer organised trips to Bua Tong Sticky Waterfall. These tours often include transportation, a guide, lunch and sometimes additional stops at attractions like local markets or temples. Prices vary but generally range from 1,200 to 2,500 THB per person. These are great options for solo travellers looking to meet new people. You can also hire a private driver for the day. Their fee will often include the full day, as they wait for you to explore the waterfalls before driving you back to Chiang Mai in the afternoon or evening.
Bua Tong Sticky Waterfall
Imagine a waterfall where, instead of being cautioned to stay clear of the slippery rocks, you’re encouraged to climb directly up the flowing cascades. The Bua Tong Waterfall, also affectionately known as the “Sticky Waterfall,” offers just that, with a unique geology that results in a non-slip surface. The waterfall is formed by mineral deposits from the flowing water, which coat the rocks with a textured layer of limestone. This creates a surprising level of traction underfoot, making the rocks feel almost “sticky” despite the constant flow of water over them.
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The waterfall is divided into three main tiers, each offering its own challenge! Starting at the lowest level, you can ease into the experience. The gentle incline and moderate flow of water make it an ideal spot to get used to walking up a waterfall. As you gain confidence, move on to the higher tiers. The second level is steeper, with more cascades, while the third level presents the ultimate challenge with its height and water flow.
Ropes are installed along the steeper sections, for extra support. Many people choose to climb barefoot to maximise the tactile grip of the rocks, though water shoes with good traction would also work great. It’s a surreal experience, feeling the rushing water beneath you as you seem to defy gravity and climb higher up the cascade!
The Seven Colors Spring
A short walk from the waterfall brings you to the Nam Phu Chet Si, or the Seven Colors Spring. This natural spring is considered sacred by locals and is a place of quiet beauty. The water is astonishingly clear, and light refracting through it creates a spectrum of colours, giving the spring its name. While swimming is not permitted out of respect for its sacred status, it’s still a magical spot and a contrast to the raucous experience of walking up a waterfall.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
The waterfall is accessible year-round. In the dry season, from November to February, you’ll find cooler temperatures and less humidity, making it a comfortable time to climb. The rainy season, from June to October, brings a more vigorous flow to the waterfall, which will make the climbing experience a little more exhilarating! Arriving early in the day helps avoid crowds and the midday heat.
Food & Drink
The area around the waterfall is equipped with picnic tables and benches, many shaded by the forest canopy. There are also local eateries and coffee shops at the falls, so you don’t need to bring food with you. We loved Pad Thai Original, which served incredible, authentic food despite its humble appearance!
Clothing
We’d suggest wearing a swimsuit under lightweight, quick-drying clothes. Bring a change of clothes for after the climb – you will get wet! Most people climb the falls barefoot but you can wear water shoes or sandals if you’d prefer.
Explore Nearby
If time permits, consider extending your adventure to some more gems around Chiang Mai.
Mae Ngat Dam and Reservoir
Located about 30km from Bua Tong, the reservoir has activities like boating and kayaking, surrounded by rainforest and with views of the northern Thai mountains.
Sri Lanna National Park
The waterfall is part of this national park, which features hiking trails, bird watching and camping opportunities if you want to extend your stay here longer.
Chiang Dao Cave
Further afield but worth a visit for its impressive stalactite formations and the Buddhist shrines hidden within its depths. Explore two of the caverns by yourself, or hire a guide to take you deeper into the cave complex.
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