Huai Sai Khao Hot Springs
Tucked beside the main bypass road between Chiang Rai and Phayao, Huai Sai Khao Hot Springs is a well-maintained natural attraction in the Phan District that draws travellers seeking a quiet, unhurried stop amid the northern Thai countryside. The springs are fed by naturally heated mineral water, and the site is noted for being exceptionally clean and welcoming, with genuinely friendly staff on hand.
Visitors can soak their feet in the open hot spring pools free of charge, with donations accepted to support upkeep. For those wanting a more private experience, bungalows with private baths are available on site. A massage service is also offered, making it a practical rest stop that can stretch into a longer, more restorative visit. The atmosphere is calm and low-key, appealing to those who prefer an unfussy, natural setting over a polished resort experience.
As a practical note, entry to the foot soaking area operates on a donation basis of around 20 baht, keeping costs minimal. The site sits directly on the highway, making it easily accessible by personal vehicle or during a road trip between Chiang Rai and Phayao. Opening hours are not consistently published online, so it is advisable to check locally before making a dedicated trip. Bringing a towel and a change of clothes is recommended, particularly if planning to use the private bath facilities.
Book tours & tickets in Chiang Rai
Day trips, skip-the-line entry, and guided experiences around Huai Sai Khao Hot Springs — book ahead and skip the on-the-ground markup.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Huai Sai Khao Hot Springs, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
A great place for a rest stop during road trips. Quiet and peaceful. Free to walk around and soak feet in the hot spring water.
Fantastic place. Free admission. Donations accepted. Very clean and well kept.
Nice place to visit. Not really much to do but put your feet in the hot water. Everything available for a 20baht donation. There is a massage service available.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 654 reviews on Google.
Also Popular in Chiang Rai

Rong Suea Ten Temple
Free to enter, electric blue from floor to ceiling, and quieter first thing in the morning.

Wat Rong Khun
All white plaster and mirror glass, dazzling in the sun, and packed with people from the moment it opens.

Wat Huay Pla Kang
A 79-metre Guan Yin you can climb inside, plus a nine-storey pagoda and hilltop views, all free to enter.

Choui Fong Tea Plantation
A working tea estate where the terraced views, the cafe and the winding road up all pull their weight.
Huai Sai Khao Hot Springs: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Huai Sai Khao Hot Springs worth visiting?
Huai Sai Khao Hot Springs holds a 4.4★ rating from 654 Google reviews — a strong rating for activities & tours in Chiang Rai.
What are the opening hours of Huai Sai Khao Hot Springs?
Huai Sai Khao Hot Springs is typically open 08:30-16:00 — 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 Huai Sai Khao Hot Springs?
The best months to visit Chiang Rai are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – February — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: March – May (smoke & heat).
Where is Huai Sai Khao Hot Springs located?
Huai Sai Khao Hot Springs is at JPPV+69R, Sai Khao, Phan District, Chiang Rai 57120, Thailand, in Chiang Rai. Getting around Chiang Rai: Grab (available in city centre); Songthaews.
Location Info
JPPV+69R, Sai Khao, Phan District, Chiang Rai 57120, Thailand082 787 5614Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – September
Avg. temperature
14°C – 35°C(57°F – 95°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Mae Fah Luang Airport (CEI) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). The bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. There's also a scenic Golden Triangle road trip from Chiang Mai.
Getting around
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Songthaews
- •Motorbike rental (฿200/day)
- •Car hire (for Golden Triangle & hill tribes)
Where to stay near Huai Sai Khao Hot Springs
Find hotels in Chiang Rai 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.
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.
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 Huai Sai Khao Hot Springs
Find hotels in Chiang Rai 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 – September
Avg. temperature
14°C – 35°C(57°F – 95°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Mae Fah Luang Airport (CEI) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). The bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. There's also a scenic Golden Triangle road trip from Chiang Mai.
Getting around
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Songthaews
- •Motorbike rental (฿200/day)
- •Car hire (for Golden Triangle & hill tribes)
