Pa Tueng Hot Springs
Pa Tueng Hot Springs is a geothermal park in Mae Chan District where a natural geyser shoots mineral-rich water roughly 10 metres into the air. When steam meets sunlight, the spray produces a visible rainbow — one of the site's most striking natural moments. The park draws a steady crowd of locals, school groups, and the occasional independent traveller, giving it an authentic, unhurried atmosphere that sets it apart from more commercialised hot springs destinations in northern Thailand. Visitors can soak in free outdoor hot spring pools, boil eggs directly in the warmest vents, and feed carp in a small lakeside area within the park. For those wanting more privacy, paid private onsen rooms are available on-site. A river dam nearby offers a scenic backdrop worth exploring for photographs. The combination of geothermal activity, wildlife, and open green space makes it a practical family outing as well as a relaxed stop for independent travellers passing through the Mae Chan area. Practical notes: entrance to the public pools is free, though private onsens carry a fee — confirm current pricing on arrival. The site has no official website and opening hours are unconfirmed, so it is worth checking locally before making the trip. Situated in a rural location, personal transport or a hired driver is the most reliable way to get there. Visiting during the cooler months of November through February makes the most of the warm water against cooler air temperatures. Bring a swimsuit, a towel, and eggs if you want to try the springs the way locals do.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Pa Tueng Hot Springs, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
A very nice little park with a good hot spring with medicinal water. The various hot springs soaking pools are free of charge. If you have some eggs on you, you can boil them too. There are usually nice local people here and if you want to spend more time there is a private hot spring pool. If you're really adventurous you can shower in the central hot fountain!
It is a hot spring that rises from underground to a height of about 10 meters. It is especially beautiful when the steam meets the sunlight, creating a rainbow. Very impressive—truly unforgettable. A small downside is a slight sulfur smell, and the water is not very hot.
Cute small hotsprings, without any tourists. Entrance is free. The locals go there to bathe their feet, and even boil eggs in the warmest springs! You can also privatise an onsen.
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 Through Klook or GetYourGuide
These platforms offer instant confirmation, free cancellation on most activities, and prices that are often lower than walk-up rates. 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.
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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). Bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. 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)