Buatong Waterfall
Known locally as the Sticky Waterfall, this limestone cascade in Mae Taeng District stands out from typical waterfalls because of its mineral-rich composition. Calcium carbonate deposits coat the rocks in a thin layer that provides natural grip, allowing visitors to walk and climb directly up the flowing water — an experience rarely found elsewhere in the world. The site is well-maintained, free to enter, and sits within a clean, calm natural setting with small food stalls and facilities nearby.
Visitors can expect a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere with a clear climbing route marked by ropes, wooden steps leading down to the base, and staff and locals on hand. The surrounding greenery and the novelty of wading up a waterfall make it a popular stop for couples, families, and small groups passing through northern Chiang Mai. Wildlife is present in the area, so staying aware of surroundings is sensible.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Buatong Waterfall, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Great experience! Clean bathrooms, can find food, ice, good people great staff in the small shops. Today someone got bitten by a snake 🐍 so there was an early evacuation. Beware of your surroundings.
The ‘sticky waterfalls’ are definitely worth a visit if you are in Chiang mai as they are very different to waterfalls you find in other parts of the world. We went as a group of four and the best way to get there as a group is book a grab and when the driver arrives he will ask you to pay for him to wait and take you back. This is the easiest way to get there and back as there are no taxis available there. We wen at 16:30 however people usually say it’s best early morning but there was also almost nobody there just before closing and it only takes 45 minutes odd to get up but it would be very frustrating if it was busy. So much fun definitely worth doing.
Gorgeous limestone waterfall which you can also climb up - there is steps at the side down to the bottom (wooden) and then you use the ropes / rocks to climb up (there’s a clear route) this was a stop on a tour we did. I would recommend wearing water shoes / plastic secure sandals, as the rocks can be slippery!! There’s toilets and changing facilities at the top and the view is gorgeous. Worth a visit!
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 730 reviews on Google.
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Buatong Waterfall: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Buatong Waterfall worth visiting?
Buatong Waterfall holds a 4.7★ rating from 730 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated activities & tours in Chiang Mai.
What are the opening hours of Buatong Waterfall?
Buatong Waterfall is typically open 08:00-17:00 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit Buatong Waterfall?
The best months to visit Chiang Mai are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – January & Songkran (April) — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: March – May (smoke & heat).
Where is Buatong Waterfall located?
Buatong Waterfall is at 339H+3V, Mae Ho Phra, Mae Taeng District, Chiang Mai 50150, Thailand, in Chiang Mai. Getting around Chiang Mai: Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks); Grab (available in city centre).
Location Info
339H+3V, Mae Ho Phra, Mae Taeng District, Chiang Mai 50150, Thailandticket-advance.com/sticky-waterfall-climbing-adventure-in-chiang-maiVisitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – October
Avg. temperature
15°C – 36°C(59°F – 97°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January & Songkran (April)
Getting there
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) has direct flights from Bangkok (1 hr), Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Overnight sleeper trains from Bangkok take ~12 hrs.
Getting around
- •Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks)
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Motorbike rental (฿150–250/day)
- •Tuk-tuks (negotiate price first)
Where to stay near Buatong Waterfall
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Tips for Visiting Activities & Tours
Vet Elephant Sanctuaries
Only visit sanctuaries that prohibit riding, use no chains or bullhooks, and let elephants roam freely. Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai set the standard. If a place offers painting shows or circus tricks, walk away.
Book Popular Activities Online
Booking platforms like GetYourGuide give you instant confirmation and, on many activities, free cancellation — and you can read recent reviews before committing. Compare with local agencies for multi-day trips where negotiation might save more.
Do Outdoor Activities in the Morning
Heat and humidity peak from noon to 3 PM. Schedule jungle treks, cycling tours, and outdoor cooking classes for early morning. Water activities are more flexible since you're in and out of the sea.
Nearby Places
Buatong Waterfall-Chet Si Fountain National Park
A waterfall you climb up rather than look at, and the limestone grips your feet the whole way.
Nam Phu Chet Si
A sacred seven-coloured spring near Sticky Waterfalls, steeped in Buddhist legend and natural wonder.
Similar Activities & Tours Across Thailand
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket
No rides, no shows, just feeding, mud and washing rescued elephants in the Kathu jungle.
Safari World
A full day out east of the city, and the shows are what people remember most.
Nongnooch Pattaya Garden
Half a day minimum, 500 acres of themed gardens and dinosaurs, and you'll want to be there by 8am.
Lumphini Park
Bangkok's green lung, free to enter, and full of water monitor lizards the size of your leg.
Where to stay near Buatong Waterfall
Find hotels in Chiang Mai on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – October
Avg. temperature
15°C – 36°C(59°F – 97°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January & Songkran (April)
Getting there
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) has direct flights from Bangkok (1 hr), Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Overnight sleeper trains from Bangkok take ~12 hrs.
Getting around
- •Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks)
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Motorbike rental (฿150–250/day)
- •Tuk-tuks (negotiate price first)