Sticky Waterfall – Chiang Dao 1-2 day trip

If you’re looking for a thrilling day trip from Chiang Mai, look no further than this Sticky Waterfalls and Chiang Dao adventure. This unforgettable journey offers breathtaking scenery, quaint local villages, and a taste of northern Thailand’s natural beauty.

Choose your ride

For this full-day adventure, we recommend using a motorbike with at least a 150cc automatic transmission or a semi-automatic or bigger manual motorcycle. A better motorbike will allow you to drive faster and more comfortably along some of the winding roads. While cheaper motorbikes can still get the job done, they may not be as comfortable or efficient for this longer trip. This trip is best suited for more experienced drivers and adventurers.

The journey begins

Starting from Chiang Mai, you’ll exit the urban city, driving through picturesque countryside, passing by stunning lakes and water reservoirs where you can make a break (drinks, food, pictures). Continue your way, either stop at a viewpoint or explore the red sands area, before heading to the famous Sticky Waterfalls, where you can explore the unique rock formations and enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pools.

A scenic drive to Chiang Dao

From the Sticky Waterfalls, continue your journey to Chiang Dao by taking the detour through the valley, winding through local villages, forests, and mountains. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to stop and admire the stunning views, take photos, and refuel with a delicious lunch at a local restaurants. Some views here are absolutely stunning.

Chiang Dao coffee shop

In Chiang Dao, visit our favorite coffee shop, situated in the middle of rice fields with a breathtaking 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains. Take a moment to relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere before embarking on the return journey to Chiang Mai. Keep in mind that the rice field is not green year round, but depending on month and season.

Optional overnight stay in Chiang Dao

If you’re looking for a more leisurely pace, consider spending the night in Chiang Dao. This will give you the chance to explore the area’s many attractions, including the Chiang Dao Hot Springs, caves, and mountain views. Simply bring a small bag with essentials and decide on the spot whether to stay overnight or continue to drive back Chiang Mai.

Trip details

The total distance for this trip is approximately 200 kilometers, and the driving time can be around 6 hours, depending on the stops and pace of the journey. With various stops for meals, leisure, coffee breaks, and resting, the total travel time can be around 10-12 hours.

Alternative day trips

If you’re looking for a shorter or easier day trip, consider the Samoeng Loop or a visit to Mae Kampong. Both options offer stunning scenery and a unique experience. Additionally, you can make a shorter day trip to the Sticky Waterfalls and water reservoir or combine such a visit with activities in Mae Rim

(Stay tuned for our upcoming information on a 1-day motorbike trip that includes the Sticky Waterfalls and Mae Rim: a shorter 1-day trip.)

A selection of our recommended spots for this trip can be found in this Google Maps list. This gives a suggestion for locations and stops you can make along the way.