Sticky Waterfall and Angel Waterfall Park Day Tour Chiang Mai

Bua Tong Sticky Waterfall

Bua Tong Waterfall lies in the forested hills of Mae Taeng district, about an hour's drive north of Chiang Mai. Locals and visitors call it the Sticky Waterfall because the water is rich in calcium carbonate, which has built up layers of rough, porous limestone over the rocks. Instead of slippery algae, the surface feels like fine sandpaper, so you can walk straight up the cascades barefoot.

Climbing the falls is the main reason travellers search for a Sticky Waterfall tour from Chiang Mai. Ropes hang along the steeper sections for extra support, and the water is shallow and cool, flowing over three main tiers through the jungle. It is safe and fun for most ages when you take your time, and it makes for brilliant photos and videos.

The Spring and Forest Trails at Bua Tong

At the top of the falls, a short forest path leads to the spring that feeds Bua Tong, a clear turquoise pool where water bubbles up from underground. Its colours change with the light, and the mineral-rich water is what keeps the rocks below so grippy. The surrounding forest is part of a protected national park, with tall trees, birdsong and shaded picnic areas.

Plan about two hours here so you can climb, rest in the pools and walk to the spring without rushing. Is the Sticky Waterfall worth visiting? For anyone who enjoys a hands-on nature experience, absolutely. The best time to visit is from November to February, when the weather is cool and dry, though the falls flow all year.

Dan Tewada Angel Waterfall Park

The second stop is Dan Tewada, often called the Angel Waterfall Park, a landscaped nature park set in the green hills north of the city. Its name means the realm of angels, and it lives up to it with flower gardens, stone pathways, small waterfalls spilling into clear pools, wooden bridges and viewpoints over the surrounding valley.

The park is designed for gentle wandering and photography, with plenty of shaded corners to sit and enjoy the scenery. You have free time to explore at your own pace, usually about an hour to an hour and a half. Entrance to Dan Tewada is included in this tour. It is a calm, pretty contrast to the adventure of the Sticky Waterfall climb earlier in the day.

Getting There from Chiang Mai

Both sites are outside the city and not well served by public transport, which is why most visitors choose a Chiang Mai waterfall tour with transport. The drive north passes rice fields, small villages and forested hills, and takes about an hour in an air-conditioned vehicle. Our English-speaking driver handles the road while you relax and enjoy the views.

Lunch is not included, but there are simple local food stalls near the waterfalls, so bring some cash. The whole trip takes about six hours, leaving you back in the city for the evening. Other options on this page start from a central meeting point at different times, or offer a private vehicle with a choice of start times and more time at each stop.