Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls: How to Get There from Chiang Mai
April 6, 2025Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls: How to Get There from Chiang Mai
Why Visit Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls?
Have you ever thought about being able to walk naked up a waterfall? Doesn’t make sense, does it? The Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls are only an hour and a half drive from Chiang Mai, and they will make that magical experience come true for you.
This natural wonder is hidden in a thick forest north of Chiang Mai. It’s not like other waterfalls you’ve seen. The rocks here aren’t at all slippery because they have unique layers of calcium and limestone. Instead, they give you great grip, which lets you climb up the falling water, which is a lot of fun. People who live there call it “Nam Phu Chet Si,” but tourists just call it “the Sticky Waterfalls.”
This hidden gem is the perfect place to get away from the crowds in Chiang Mai’s old city, spend time in the jungle instead of visiting temples, or add a bit of excitement to your trip through northern Thailand.
This guide will show you how to get from Chiang Mai to Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls. It will also compare your transportation choices, give you road trip tips, and explain why this unique place should be on your travel list.
Exactly Where Are the Sticky Waterfalls?
Let’s find our way around first before we talk about how to get there. The Sri Lanna National Forest, which is about 60 kilometers northeast of Chiang Mai, is where the Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls are. The Mae Taeng district includes this area. This district is known for its beautiful drives, lush woods, and slow village life. Depending on traffic and how you get there, it takes about an hour and a half to get to the waterfalls.
The waterfalls are in a park called Nam Phu Chet Si. The park is holy to the people who live there because of a spring that they think has holy water. Before you get to the waterfalls, you’ll go by a quiet shrine area surrounded by trees where people collect water for spiritual reasons. It’s a beautiful reminder that this isn’t just a place for tourists to visit; it has deep cultural value.
There is a big difference between how exciting the Sticky Waterfalls are and how peaceful the area is around them. You can hear birds singing, kids laughing as they climb up the rocks, and cool, clear water running down limestone boulders all the time. The mood is fun, refreshing, and surprisingly calm.
When is the best time to go? The Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls are open all year, but it’s easier to get to and cooler in the dry season (November to March). No matter what time of year it is, the spot is still open. Just remember to bring rain gear and drive carefully.
The best thing about going to Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls for the day is that there is no fee to get in. There are bathrooms, picnic spots with shade, food vendors (especially on weekends), and a small parking lot on-site. Part of its charm is that it’s not sold to tourists like some Thai sites are.
How to Get There – Do You Want to Drive Yourself, Hire a Private Driver, or Go on a Group Tour?
The question is how to get from Chiang Mai to Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls. It’s not hard, but it can be tricky to figure out which choice will work best for your way of traveling.
1. Drive Yourself by Car or Motorcycle
Renting a car or motorbike is a great way to see the area if you’re comfortable behind the wheel and love stopping wherever you want. From Chiang Mai, the route is along Route 1001, which is a pretty beautiful drive through suburban roads and parts of forests.
By car or motorcycle, it takes about an hour and a half to get there. The roads are mostly smooth and paved, but watch out for potholes and sharp turns, especially on the last part that gets closer to the forest.
- Motorbike rental: 200–300 THB/day
- Car rental: 800–1,200 THB/day (includes insurance)
Pros:
- You can stop at any sight, market, or roadside café you want
- Less expensive if you already rent a car
- Adventure-friendly
Not so good:
- Needs an international driver’s license that is still valid
- If you’re not used to Thai roads, it can get old fast
- No one to help you find your way or explain things along the way
2. Private Driver or Car with Driver
You should hire a private car with a driver if you want to save time and not have to deal with maps and GPS. This is the most relaxing and easy way to get from Chiang Mai to Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls.
Most hotels, tour agencies, and apps like Klook and GetYourGuide let you rent cars for half or full days. Prices range from 1,200 to 2,000 THB per car, based on the size of the car and the number of hours booked.
Your driver will pick you up at your hotel, wait for you at the waterfalls while you enjoy yourself, and then drive you back. No muss, no fuss. Some drivers are also casual tour guides who talk about the culture as they drive.
Pros:
- Service from door to door
- Great for groups, families, and older tourists
- Comfortable air conditioning, which is great in Thailand’s heat
- Choice to stop along the way at secret gems
Not so good:
- A little more expensive than DIY
- Self-drive gives you more freedom to go off-route and discover more
3. Go on a Tour with a Group
If you prefer budget-friendly, all-in-one convenience, joining a group tour is a good choice. Several companies in Chiang Mai offer half-day or full-day group trips to Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls, often bundled with other sites like hot springs or temples.
- Cost: 700–1,200 THB per person
- Includes: transport, guide, and possibly meals
- Expect a shared van with 8–12 people
Pros:
- Not necessary to plan
- Pick-up and drop-off at hotels are common
- Good for people traveling alone or who don’t have much time
Not so good:
- Set plans that don’t give you much freedom
- Not as much privacy or personal space
- You might feel a little rushed at the waterfalls
Hiring a Private Driver Is the Easiest and Most Comfortable Way to Get Around
If you want to travel in comfort, ease, and flexibility, getting a private driver to get from Chiang Mai to Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls might be the best choice for you. This choice lets you make your own little adventure without the stress, which is great if you don’t want to deal with Thai roads or go on a group tour.
Why Hire Your Own Driver?
Having a private driver is a huge plus for many travelers, especially families, couples, and people going with elderly parents. Imagine being picked up right at your Chiang Mai hotel, riding in a cool car, and being able to stop whenever you want to get a coconut, take a picture, or check out a small temple by the side of the road.
The nice thing about this choice is that the trip from Chiang Mai to Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls is not just a way to get there; it’s part of the experience.
Whether you book a half-day or full-day service, most drivers charge between 1,200 and 2,000 THB per car. Some drivers will even take you to other places in the area if they have time—like local markets, hot springs, or a hidden coffee shop.
The Best Way to Hire a Private Driver
It’s now easier than ever to book a driver. If you like to plan ahead, websites like Klook, GetYourGuide, and Viator offer services that have been checked out, have reviews, and have set prices. Many hotels and guesthouses in Chiang Mai also know reliable local drivers, so booking through them is a direct way to help the community.
Before you book, here’s what you should check:
- Check if fuel and tolls are included
- Ask if the driver will wait at the waterfalls
- Make sure the driver speaks English (if that matters to you)
- Confirm pick-up and drop-off times
Some drivers also act as casual tour guides, telling you about the culture of the area and suggesting great places to eat lunch along the way.
Go on a Group Tour — It’s Cheap and Fun!
Let’s face it: not everyone likes to plan their whole trip. A group tour from Chiang Mai to Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls is a great option if you’re on a tight budget, going alone, or just want everything to be taken care of for you.
These tours are meant to be easy, cheap, and quick. Most of them pick you up and drop you off at your hotel in a shared minivan. Some even include lunch, water, or a stop at another site like Mae Sa Waterfall or a hot spring.
What to Look Forward to on a Group Tour
- Most tours last 4 to 6 hours
- Morning tours pick up around 8–9 AM
- Afternoon tours start early afternoon
- You’ll share the van with 8–12 other people
Once you arrive, you’ll have about 1.5 to 2 hours to explore and enjoy the Sticky Waterfalls.
Booking Options:
- Online
- Through your hotel
- At local Chiang Mai travel offices Prices: 700–1,200 THB per person
Who Should Go on a Group Tour?
- Solo travelers who want to meet others
- Budget-conscious visitors
- Short-on-time tourists
- Travelers who prefer a no-hassle plan
Note: Group tours have fixed times. If you prefer to explore slowly or take lots of photos without being rushed, a private trip may be a better fit.
Best Ways to Get from Chiang Mai to Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls
| Choice of Transport | Trip Time | Cost Estimated (Per Person) | Level of Comfort | Flexibility | Best For |
| Self-Drive (Car or Bike) | ~1.5 hours | 150–500 THB | Medium | High | Couples, risk-takers, independent explorers |
| Private Driver / Car with Driver | ~1.5 hours | 300–500 THB (shared) | High | High | Families, seniors, small groups |
| Group Tour | ~1.5–2 hours | 700–1,200 THB | Medium | Low to Medium | Solo travelers, budget tourists, short on time |
What to Bring and Some Last Travel Tips
Now that you know how to get from Chiang Mai to Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls, it’s time to get ready for the fun part: actually going. Here’s how to be prepared.
What to Bring
You’ll be climbing slippery (but safe) rocks in moving water, so safety and comfort are key.
Pack This:
- Waterproof bag (for phone, wallet, camera)
- Quick-dry clothes or swimwear
- Towel (also nice to sit on)
- Water shoes or sandals with grip
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks (food is limited on weekdays)
Getting Up the Waterfalls
The best part is the climb! There are three levels of falls, and the limestone rocks have a naturally grippy texture—even when wet.
- You can walk barefoot
- Ropes are available for balance
- Suitable for most people, ages 6 to 60
- It’s like a natural water park, minus the chlorine
Advice on Safety
- Don’t climb during storms or heavy rain
- Keep an eye on kids (though locals bring them all the time)
- Respect the nature: don’t litter or mess with the spring
- Wear proper shoes if you’re unsure on wet surfaces
There are public bathrooms, changing areas, picnic tables, and local snack stalls on weekends. But don’t expect lockers or commercial facilities. That’s part of the charm—you’re deep in nature, not a theme park.
Should You Make the Trip to Bua Thong?
Of course, yes. One of the best day trips in Northern Thailand is from Chiang Mai to Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls. Whether you take a scooter, rent a car, or hire a private driver, it’s fun, natural, and refreshing—and won’t break the bank.
There are beautiful temples, elephant sanctuaries, and night markets in Thailand, but this simple waterfall experience still stands out. You don’t just look at the view—you become a part of it.
If you’re in Chiang Mai and wondering how to spend a free day, consider heading north to a place where you can walk up a waterfall. You’ll be talking about it long after your tan fades.
