Nam Phu Chet Si
Tucked away in the Mae Taeng district of Chiang Mai, Nam Phu Chet Si — meaning "The Seven Colours Fountain" — is a naturally occurring spring pool revered by locals for both its scientific curiosity and its spiritual significance. The water's striking multicoloured appearance is the result of natural mineral composition, while Buddhist legend holds that the pool was formed from the tears of the Buddha, adding a layer of cultural meaning that resonates deeply with the surrounding community. It is also the source that feeds the famous nearby Sticky Waterfalls, making it a worthwhile addition to any visit to the area.
The atmosphere is calm and reflective, with a short walk leading visitors to a small but visually distinctive pool surrounded by natural scenery. The site carries genuine religious importance to local people, so the experience is quiet and unhurried rather than tourist-heavy. Interpretive information about both the legend and the science behind the coloured water is available on-site, giving visitors helpful context.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Nam Phu Chet Si, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Very short walk from the sticky waterfalls. A religious place, so dress appropriately. The historic reason for the existence of the lake and the scientific reason for the seven coloured lake are mentioned clearly and explained well. The wooden log steps are usually slippery, so tread with caution.
'Nam Phu Chet Si' or 'The seven colors fountain' that has been respected from the locals, polite dress code needed attention (Free Entrance, Open Daily 08.00 - 17.00)
It is a nice little walk to see a small pool with different coloured water. It adds a little bit more to the magic to hear the story of Buddha’s tears but it is essentially a small pool.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 62 reviews on Google.
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Nam Phu Chet Si: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nam Phu Chet Si worth visiting?
Nam Phu Chet Si holds a 4.6★ rating from 62 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated activities & tours in Chiang Mai.
What are the opening hours of Nam Phu Chet Si?
Nam Phu Chet Si 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 Nam Phu Chet Si?
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 Nam Phu Chet Si located?
Nam Phu Chet Si is at 339J+MPV, Unnamed Road, Tambon Mae Ho Phra, Amphoe Mae Taeng, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50150, Thailand, in Chiang Mai. Getting around Chiang Mai: Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks); Grab (available in city centre).
Location Info
339J+MPV, Unnamed Road, Tambon Mae Ho Phra, Amphoe Mae Taeng, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50150, ThailandVisitor 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 Nam Phu Chet Si
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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
A unique limestone "sticky waterfall" in Mae Taeng District that visitors can actually climb barefoot.
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.
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Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket
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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 Nam Phu Chet Si
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)