Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls
About an hour from Chiang Mai City are the Bua Thong waterfalls, also known as the Sticky waterfalls. What makes these falls unique is that the rocks are sticky and easy to climb.
In Thai called Nam Phu Chet Si, the multi-tiered falls are located in the Si Lanna National Park, a peaceful, relaxing place with pristine forests.
The drive to the Sticky Waterfalls
The drive up to the falls is a beautiful ride through the Chiang Mai countryside with open fields, small villages, mountains and green forests.
Picnic tables near the entrance
The entrance is near the top of the falls. Here you will find picnic tables and a few basic eateries selling Thai food, snacks and drinks.
Creamy white colored rocks
Limestone mineral deposits color the rocks cream to white. The limestone coating on the rocks makes them “sticky” and easy to hold on to. It’s a fun experience to climb the sticky rocks up to the waterfall while enjoying the beautiful scenery of forested mountains.
From the entrance at the top it’s about a 150 meter walk down a pathway to the bottom of the falls. From there, climb up three levels back to the top while the water pours down rapidly around you.
Pool with crystal clear waters at the top
At the top is a small pool with crystal clear waters where the falls gets its water from. From here you will have great views of the tropical jungle.
Sticky Waterfalls
The stream that feeds the waterfalls runs through limestone. The limestone minerals are deposited on the rocks making them sticky and easy to climb. Hold on to the creamy colored rocks that feel a little like a hardened sponge and climb your way up to the top.
Feel like Spider-Man climbing up the waterfall
Feel like Spider-Man literally walking up the waterfall while the water gushes down. At some of the steeper sections there are ropes to hold on to. Only a few spots where the sun does not reach have some green algae and can be slippery.
Natural pools at the bottom of the falls
At the bottom of the falls are a few small pools that are too shallow to swim, but good to cool off. Here you can feel like Tarzan swinging on the jungle rope over the pool’s water.
What to bring
You will get a little wet if you are going to climb the waterfalls. Bring a swimsuit or a change of clothes and some towels.
Admission
Admission is free.
What time to visit
You can visit the Bua Thong falls every day. It can get busy on weekends and public holidays when Thai people from Chiang Mai visit the place to relax.
Location
The sticky waterfalls are located off Route 1001 on the edge of the Si Lanna National Park in Mae Tang district, about 60 kilometers North of Chiang Mai city. It takes one to one and a half hours to get there by car.
How to get there
To get there you can charter a red songthaew with driver for the day. The rate would be between about 1,000 and 1,500 Baht. Agree on the price with the driver before leaving. The driver will wait at the falls for the return trip back to Chiang Mai city.
Other Chiang Mai attractions:
Attractions in Chiang Mai
Sticky Waterfalls Tours
- Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls
- Half day or full day
- Private or join trip
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