10 Things to Do in Chiang Dao + Everything You Need to Know
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Chiang Dao is a small town just a 1.5-hour drive from Chiang Mai, perfect for a day trip or a few nights’ stay.
There are plenty of things to do in Chiang Dao! You can explore caves, soak in hot springs, enjoy scooter rides through tree-lined roads, and hike while being serenaded by the sounds of nature.
This small town is surrounded by jungle and offers stunning mountain views, making it a closer and quieter alternative to Pai (or do both!). And it’s still off the beaten path for international tourists.
I can’t believe I’ve lived in Chiang Mai for so many months and only just visited Chiang Dao for the first time! I rode my scooter from Chiang Mai, spent two nights, and could have easily stayed longer. I felt so relaxed in the green surroundings with geckos chirping.
Let me share all the must-dos and tips to make your visit to Chiang Dao as smooth and enjoyable as possible!
👉 I stayed at this top-rated hotel in Chiang Dao and LOVED it! This mid-range hotel offers gorgeous views, a peaceful setting, and dark skies perfect for stargazing. 🔭
1. Explore Chiang Dao Cave
One of the highlights of Chiang Dao is the Chiang Dao Cave, also known as Wat Tham Chiang Dao or The Phra Non Cave. This isn’t just any cave – it’s actually a temple inside a cave!
There are supposedly over 100 caves in the cave system, but only five main caves are open to the public.
You can freely explore two independently, while the other three require a guide.
If you’re like me and have already experienced a cave tour (I took one in Pai), you might explore the cave’s main part on your own. However, if it’s your first time, I highly recommend hiring a guide! They’ll have a lantern and take you through parts of the cave that unguided tourists can’t access, which involves bending and crawling through small spaces.
You can walk the dimly lit pathway through the main part of the cave temple without a guide. It’s quite an experience with bats flying overhead, and since there weren’t too many people visiting when I was there, it felt a bit spooky – I loved it!
- Cost: 40 baht to enter the cave and an additional 150 baht for the guided tour.
- Tip: If you forget your temple outfit (shoulders and knees covered), you can borrow a sarong for 20 baht.
Caves in Thailand gained international attention in 2018 when a soccer team had to be rescued after being trapped in a flooded cave. You can actually visit that cave, Tham Luang, if you go to Chiang Rai!
👉 Chiang Dao Cave Tours from Chiang Mai
If you don’t want to drive yourself and want to make the most of your time, there are some excellent tours from Chiang Mai that include a stop at Chiang Dao Cave:
- Full-Day Chiang Dao Caving & Jungle Kayaking: Scale the giant Chiang Dao Cave System with a local guide and spend an hour exploring. Then, join a kayaking tour to discover the Northern Thai jungle with experienced instructors and guides.
- Chiang Dao Cave Trekking Full-Day Tour: Explore the spectacular cave system of stalactites and stalagmites, see the limestone formations, and climb the Buatong Sticky Waterfall.
- Chiang Dao Cave, Den Sali Temple & Waterfall Tour: Experience an exclusive nature tour including Chiang Dao Cave, Den Sali Temple’s elaborate architecture, and a short trek through a lush forest to the Bautong Sticky Waterfall.
2. Hiking Doi Chiang Dao
Hiking Doi Chiang Dao – Thailand’s third tallest mountain and arguably the most beautiful – is a must for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The peak offers some of the prettiest nature in Northern Thailand and is lesser known to international tourists, making it a perfect spot for a more secluded adventure.
The challenging Doi Luang Chiang Dao Summit Hike is a 10.3-mile out-and-back trail that takes about 6-8 hours to complete. A guide is required, and the park entrance fee is 400 baht per person, with an additional 1,000 baht for the guide.
The Wildlife Sanctuary Office is located close to the Villa de View Hotel, where I stayed.
While it can be done in a day, hikers love spending the night and watching the sunrise. It’s a favorite for birding and camping, but keep in mind it closes during the rainy season and is only accessible from November to February.
In 2021, UNESCO recognized Doi Chiang Dao as a world biosphere reserve, making it the fifth natural site in Thailand to receive this prestigious recognition. This area is a haven for wildlife, including clouded leopards, fire leopards, langurs, monkeys, deer, and hundreds of species of birds and reptiles.
Shorter and easier trails are also available in the area— it’s best to ask your accommodation for tips or to connect you with local guides who know the area well.
Unfortunately, it was the rainy season when I visited, so I didn’t get to do any hiking. Next time!
👉 My pick is this top-rated 3-Day Chiang Dao Mountain Trek that takes you through scenic mountain ridges, bamboo forests, and jungle trails, with visits to traditional hill tribe villages and homestay accommodations. Enjoy stunning natural scenery and delicious Thai meals along the way.
3. Chiang Dao Hot Springs
After hiking and exploring caves, you’ll want to relax and unwind! Chiang Dao Hot Springs is the perfect place to do just that.
Located in a serene jungle setting, these hot springs offer both public and private options to suit your relaxation needs.
The public hot spring tubs are FREE to use and located to the right of the parking lot. They are a great place to soak in natural hot water while listening to the sounds of the jungle.
The tubs are covered in algae, but the water is continuously piped in and seemed clean enough to me. Nearby, there’s a cool river where you can take a refreshing dip before jumping back into the hot springs.
For a more secluded experience, head to the left of the parking lot, where you can rent private cabanas and tubs for 50 baht per hour. These tubs looked a bit cleaner.
Several stalls sell snacks, coffee, and drinks, making it easy to spend a relaxing afternoon here. There’s also a bathroom to the left, which costs 5 baht to use.
I visited on a weekday afternoon, and there were just a couple of other locals there, with plenty of open tubs. I passed two tourists coming in as I was leaving, so it’s a pretty quiet spot.
4. Climb 500 Steps in the Jungle to Wat Tham Pha Plong
A visit to Wat Tham Pha Plong can be combined with a trip to Chiang Dao Cave, which can be visited in less than an hour. Located just 2 kilometers up the road, this “walking temple” is built into the mountain and requires a 500-step climb through the jungle.
The climb up took me about 10-15 minutes. I was the only one there, so I took my time. There’s a rail the whole way, and I didn’t find it particularly challenging. Before you start, check to see if there are any supplies the monks need help carrying to the top, such as a bucket of sand or bottles of water.
As you make the climb, you’ll find signs in both Thai and English with Buddhist sayings to ponder (or use as an excuse to rest when needed). There are also seating areas halfway up if you need a break. Complimentary drinking water and bathrooms are available at the top.
Don’t forget to bring bug spray, as it is buggy in the jungle.
The temple itself wasn’t that exciting, and the pagoda was closed for construction, but climbing the stairs in the middle of the jungle was peaceful and special. I’m glad I went!
At the top, I chatted with a Thai girl who was staying at the temple for a few days to study meditation—a free program with free accommodation, in case you’re interested in extending your stay!
Some history for you –
Wat Tham Pha Plong was home to Phra Ajaan Mun Bhuriadatta Mahathera (1870-1949), a revered Thai monk of the Theravada Sect, Dhammayut Order. He played a significant role in reviving the forest ascetic tradition, which has now spread throughout Thailand and other countries.
During his 57 years of monkhood, he devoted himself to learning and practicing meditation in solitude, often wandering into deep forests, remote mountains, and caves. His practice emphasized simplicity, humility, and austerity, closely following the Buddha’s footsteps. This dedication influenced generations of students and disciples, and his teachings are reflected in the sayings you’ll read on your way up to the temple.
This isn’t the only temple in Chiang Dao, just one of the most famous (after the Cave Temple). I passed several other temples while scootering around Chiang Dao, but after spending so much time in Asia, I have to admit I’m pretty templed out, so I don’t visit all of them anymore.
5. Chiang Dao Market
The Chiang Dao Market is open every day, starting very early in the morning, and offers a variety of fresh produce, clothes, and other goods. I love wandering through local markets, and this one, while smaller than the markets in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, provides a very authentic experience.
You’ll find lots of food stalls set up, selling everything from fried chicken to desserts – I even saw waffles! During my visit, I didn’t notice any other tourists.
The market is conveniently located next to the Chiang Dao Bus Station and right by 7-Eleven if you need to pick up anything. This is the main road in town, so you can also find ATMs and gas stations.
The best day to visit the Chiang Dao Market is Tuesday. This is when people from the surrounding hill tribes come to the market, adding a unique cultural aspect to your visit. The market starts early and typically finishes around midday, so make sure to get there in the morning to catch all the action.
6. Cool Off at Sri Sungwan Waterfall
Sri Sungwan Waterfall is a beautiful, medium-sized limestone waterfall located in Pha Daeng National Park, about 32 kilometers from Chiang Dao. It’s an easy 36-minute drive, making it a perfect spot to cool off and enjoy nature.
The waterfall is 10-15 meters wide and 10-20 meters tall, with water flowing all year round.
I hiked to the Huay Tung Tao Waterfall in Chiang Mai a couple of days before visiting Chiang Dao, so I opted for a scooter adventure to Mueang Khong Village instead, but Sri Sungwan Waterfall comes highly recommended.
The falls are surrounded by lush trees, providing plenty of shade, and the limestone makes the walk to the falls easy and non-slippery, similar to Bua Tong Sticky Waterfalls. It’s a serene spot where locals often come to relax and cool off in the water.
The entrance fee is 20 baht per person, with an additional 30 baht for car parking. The area also offers cabins and campsites, so you can bring your own tent if you wish to stay overnight.
Despite missing out this time, I’ve heard it’s a fantastic place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Enjoy!
7. Makhampom Art Space
Although I didn’t get a chance to visit Makhampom Art Space during my trip, I’ve heard great things about this vibrant community hub. Founded in 2004 with a theater building, Makhampom has grown into a learning space for theatre and arts for change, attracting both local and international audiences.
At Makhampom Art Space, you can enjoy a variety of art forms, including contemporary theater, a sculpture garden, and a reading corner. They host festivals, workshops on social issues, and performances open to the public, making it a welcoming spot for people of all ages.
One highlight is the Sculpture Garden, an open public space where you can see musical instruments made from recycled waste and other creative works of art that blend with the natural surroundings of Chiang Dao. It’s a great place to relax and even try your hand at creating your own artwork. Plus, there are delicious food and drinks available to enjoy while you soak in the creative atmosphere.
For a break, stop by Gooseberry Café for a cup of tea or coffee, along with tasty cakes, pastries, and ice cream. If you’re interested in shopping, Gooseberry Shop offers handmade recycled products, Tamarind T-shirts, good books, and local products from small entrepreneurs in the community.
8. Scooter Adventure to Mueang Khong Village
For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, take a scooter trip to Mueang Khong Village. It’s about a one-hour drive from Chiang Dao, offering beautiful views along the way.
This tiny community used to be a place people passed through on their way somewhere else, but now it’s a charming destination with homestays, coffee shops, rice fields, and great photography spots.
The drive from Chiang Dao involves a steep, hilly route, so you’ll need good brakes and some scooter experience. Be mindful of dogs and water buffalo that might wander onto the road. The journey reminded me of the villages I passed through while exploring Pai, which isn’t too far away.
Halfway to Mueang Khong, you can stop at the Doi Luang Chiang Dao Viewpoint.
When I visited Mueang Khong during the rainy season, it was very quiet. I imagine it gets more visitors from November to February during the dry season. My host mentioned there’s bamboo rafting available in the area, but I didn’t see it, so be sure to ask your host for tips before you go. Still, I love riding my scooter through remote places, and I never get tired of rice paddy views!
For a local bite, I ate noodle soup next door to the town’s “post office.” It cost 40 baht, and while there wasn’t any English spoken, the soup hit the spot. There’s a squat toilet here if you need one.
9. Adventurous Hike Through the Jungle
If you’re looking for a true adventure, consider taking a half-day trek through the jungle to a tiny village within the national park. This hike is led by the woman who owns The Cave Bar, and it sounds like an unforgettable experience.
The trek takes about 1.5 hours each way, with the guide carving the path with a machete through rough terrain. You’ll feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by dense jungle and even passing by a waterfall. It’s a challenging hike but perfect for those seeking an authentic and adventurous experience.
I can’t speak much to this one since I didn’t do it, but it sounds like quite the adventure! If this interests you, just stop by The Cave Bar and ask about it. It kind of reminds me of my trek to see the mountain gorillas in Rwanda – definitely not for the faint of heart, but incredibly rewarding.
The Cave Bar itself is a well-known spot in Chiang Dao for food, beer, and making friends. It’s one of the few places for “nightlife” in town.
10. Take Instagram-Worthy Photos
Chiang Dao is a paradise for photography enthusiasts with no shortage of picturesque spots to capture. Here are some of the best places to take Instagram-worthy photos:
- Giant Trees Alley: This spot features tall, majestic trees lining the path, creating a stunning natural corridor perfect for dramatic shots.
- Cafes: The charming local cafes offer cozy settings and delicious treats, making them ideal for both foodie snaps and relaxed, aesthetic photos. Many of them have mountain views!
- Temples: The intricate architecture and serene surroundings of the local temples provide beautiful backdrops for cultural and spiritual photos.
- Jungle: The lush, green jungle is teeming with vibrant plant life and wildlife, offering endless opportunities for capturing the beauty of nature.
- Rice Fields: The expansive, emerald-green rice fields are quintessentially Thai and make for breathtaking landscape photos, especially during golden hour. Mueang Khong village was especially great for this.
- Dark Sky: Chiang Dao’s clear, dark skies are perfect for astrophotography. Capture stunning shots of the night sky, filled with stars, away from the city lights. Best done in the dry season when it’s less cloudy.
Where to Stay in Chiang Dao
Accommodations in Chiang Dao are generally rustic, offering a range of options from staying near the main part of town to more secluded spots surrounded by nature.
- Villa de View (Midrange): This is where I stayed! The best hotel in Chiang Dao, offering gorgeous views, a peaceful setting, and air conditioning. I stayed in a room attached to the main building, but there are also standalone bungalows. The farm property is BEAUTIFUL with dark skies perfect for stargazing. Conveniently located near several attractions and restaurants. Free breakfast includes eggs and bacon. Check Rates and Availability.
- Doo-Dao-Doi Farm & Stay (Budget): Ideal for budget travelers, this place offers bungalows with fans, great views, and an amazing breakfast. There’s no cell signal, but free Wi-Fi is available. The serene location has a river flowing next to it and shady trees. You can walk to Chiang Dao Hot Springs, and the host is very kind. Check Rates and Availability.
- Chiang Dao Hostel (Budget): Offers a 6-bed mixed dorm, private rooms, or tents. The property is quiet and peaceful with stunning mountain views. The warm staff, free water refills, and garden with a river make it a pleasant stay. It’s near the main street and bus station, with hammocks for relaxing. Walking distance to a 7-Eleven and markets. Check Rates and Availability.
Best Restaurants in Chiang Dao
The umami burger and fries at Microkosmos Craft Beer were fantastic (they’re closed on Tuesdays).
Jin’s is an Italian restaurant run by a friendly Thai/British couple, and it was great, too. Don’t go if you’re in a rush, though. Stop by the Cave Bar next door after you eat.
I ate at Pornpen 2498 for lunch – the braised pork was as good as the famous Cowboy Hat Lady in Chiang Mai. The mango salad with coconut was also tasty.
Other popular places are Chiang Dao Nest, Sudjairai, Chai Cafe (breakfast), Pronto Coffee, Velar fusion restaurant, Bhagava Cafe & Cuisine, and Padthai Aladin (recommended by my host).
How to Get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Dao
Whether you drive, scooter, or take the bus, the trip is pleasant and manageable, making Chiang Dao a great addition to your Northern Thailand adventure.
By Car or Scooter:
The route is mostly on Highway 107, which is not too busy but requires attention for double parking in the shoulder lane and sudden pull-outs by other vehicles. There may be some road work, but nothing too disruptive.
The distance from Chiang Mai to Chiang Dao is about 70 kilometers, taking around 1.5 hours with a slight incline and light winding but generally an easy drive.
You’ll pass several gas stations and cafes if you need to take a break. Google Maps worked well for me, guiding me through the entire route.
I loved having my scooter in Chiang Dao for the freedom it offers. The roads are very easy to drive with little traffic, making it a great place to practice if you’re new to riding a motorbike. The roads are less hilly and windy than those in Pai.
If you’re not comfortable on a scooter, you can easily rent a car in Chiang Mai or arrange a driver through your accommodation.
I did get stopped at a checkpoint between Chiang Dao and Chiang Mai. It’s pretty typical in Thailand to get stopped. They checked my International Driving Permit (IDP) and sent me on my way. If you’re on a scooter and don’t have an IDP with a motorcycle designation, you could get fined (I’ve been fined 500 baht each time in the past).
Pit Stops Along the Way:
Along the way, there are a couple of interesting stops you might want to check out.
Wat Densaleesrimuangkaen, also known as Wat Ban Den, is a beautiful temple complex with a reclining Buddha and the Zodiac Temple where the sign of the pig is replaced by an elephant. It’s free to visit.
Another fun place to visit is Air Diamond Cafe & Hotel, which is a cafe inside a real Airbus A330. You have to buy a “boarding pass” for 150 baht to enter the cafe, but it includes a drink. The bathrooms here are free and clean, making it a good stop for a bathroom break even if you don’t want to enter the cafe.
You’ll see signs for elephant camps along the way as well, but I do NOT recommend stopping here. I’m very cafeful about which elephant experiences I recommend due to ethical concerns.
🚙 I recommend using Discover Cars to compare costs and get the best deal.
By Bus:
If you’re taking the bus from Chiang Mai, you’ll need to leave from the Chang Puek bus station, not the main bus station.
Buses leave every 30 minutes and cost about 40 baht. Once you arrive in Chiang Dao, you might need to hitchhike or take a songthaew (shared taxi) for around 100 baht to your guesthouse if it isn’t near the bus station. Alternatively, many accommodations offer complimentary pick-up, so check with your place beforehand.
I also saw some people biking around, which could be a great option if you’re looking for an active way to explore the area.
Chiang Dao is a little detour off the Mae Hong Son Loop, and it’s about 2 hours and 40 minutes from Pai if you’re planning to continue your journey.
👉 Pro Tip: I use this site to look up train, bus, and ferry routes.
Tips for Visiting Chiang Dao, Thailand
- How Many Days in Chiang Dao: To fully experience Chiang Dao, I recommend staying for at least two to three days. This will give you enough time to explore the caves, relax in the hot springs, hike, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. You could easily see the cave, temples, hot springs, and cafes in a day trip, if you’re short on time!
- Safety for Solo Travelers: Chiang Dao is safe for solo travelers, although I didn’t meet too many people as it was very quiet. This could be partially because I went during low season. The serene environment makes it perfect for solo exploration.
- Scooter Riding: Just driving around Chiang Dao is fun and scenic. It’s a good place to get comfortable on a scooter due to minimal traffic and fewer curves compared to Pai. While cars might pass you, the roads are generally flat and easy to navigate. Don’t forget your sunglasses or a visor as there are a lot of bugs – they kept hitting me in the face!
- When to Visit: The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to February. During the rainy season, some trails and attractions may be closed. The weather can get chilly (by Thai standards), so pack accordingly.
- Facilities: There are ATMs, gas stations, and a 7-Eleven in town for your convenience. The town has everything you need for a comfortable stay.
- Internet and Connectivity: Internet seemed reliable in the hotels and cafes, so you can hang out and get work done. I lost service partway to Mueang Khong over the mountain pass, so plan accordingly.
- Insects: There are a lot more bugs here, so it’s good to have sunglasses or a visor while driving. Bug spray is a must to keep those pesky insects at bay.
Final Thoughts: Is Chiang Dao Worth Visiting?
Yes, Chiang Dao is worth visiting!
Chiang Dao is the perfect getaway for travelers seeking a peaceful and picturesque escape from the busy city life of Chiang Mai. It’s only 1.5 hours away, making it easier to visit than either Chiang Rai or Pai.
Chiang Dao’s stunning mountain and jungle views, serene environment, and fewer international tourists ensure a unique experience that’s both relaxing and adventurous.
Whether you’re exploring the fascinating Chiang Dao Cave, hiking the beautiful trails of Doi Chiang Dao, soaking in the rejuvenating hot springs, or climbing 500 steps through the jungle to a hidden temple, there’s no shortage of things to do.
While Chiang Dao can easily be visited as a day trip from Chiang Mai, I’m glad I stayed a couple of nights to fully immerse myself in nature and unwind. The beauty of the mountains, the tranquility of the jungle, and the friendly local community make it a must-visit destination in Northern Thailand!
If you’re planning your Northern Thailand adventure, don’t miss out on Chiang Dao.
Now that you know how to visit Chiang Dao, get more inspiration for what else there is to do in and around Chiang Mai!
Read More About Chiang Mai:
- Ultimate Chiang Mai Travel Guide for Solo Travelers
- 3 Day Chiang Mai Itinerary + 15 Bonus Things to Do
- Is Chiang Mai Worth Visiting? + 19 Pros and Cons
- 16 Best Hotels with Rooftop Pools in Chiang Mai
- Best Time to Visit Chiang Mai (And The Worst Time!)
- Where to Stay in Chiang Mai: 7 Best Neighborhoods
- Buying a Chiang Mai SIM Card: Everything You Need to Know
- Doi Suthep at Sunrise: A Must-Do in Chiang Mai
- 9 Best Doi Suthep Tours in Chiang Mai
- 11 Best Ways for Getting Around Chiang Mai
- Renting a Scooter in Chiang Mai: Ultimate Guide
- Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Chiang Mai
- How to Get From Chiang Mai to Doi Inthanon
- 9 Best Chiang Mai Cooking Classes (By a Local Foodie!)
- Best Chiang Mai Food Tour for Foodies (Beyond Pad Thai!)
- Best Khao Soi in Chiang Mai: 15 Must-Try Restaurants
- 3 Best Ethical Elephant Sanctuaries in Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Chiang Mai vs Chiang Rai: Which Is Better to Visit?
- 37 Pros and Cons of Living in Chiang Mai (Expat Guide)
📝 Thailand Travel Planning Guide 🇹🇭🌟
Before you embark on your unforgettable journey to Thailand here are the essential tips every traveler should know:
🚑 Should I buy travel insurance for Thailand?
✅ 100% YES! — My #1 Safety Tip for all travelers is to buy travel insurance for every trip in case anything happens on their visit. I recommend and use SafetyWing – it’s cheap and comprehensive.
💧Can you drink the water in Thailand?
🚱 No — It’s recommended to drink filtered or bottled water in Thailand (but using tap water to brush your teeth is usually fine). I recommend this reusable water bottle! It works great, turning tap water into safe-to-drink water that tastes good.
🚙💨 Is it safe to rent a car in Thailand?
Yes — Renting a car in Thailand is one of the best ways to see the countryside! I recommend Discover Cars, which checks both international companies and local companies, so you get the best rates.
🏩 What’s the best way to book my Thailand accommodations?
My go-to for Thailand hotels is Booking.com. For hostels, I use HostelWorld. Or get free accommodations with Trusted Housesitters!
✈️ What’s the best site to book Thailand flights?
For finding cheap Thailand flights, I recommend CheapOAir.
🎫 Do I need a visa for Thailand?
🙅🏻♀️ Likely Not — US, UK, and EU passport holders don’t need visas for stays of up to 30 days in Thailand.
💰 𝗖𝘂𝗿𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆: The currency here is the Thai baht, and there are plenty of ATMs if you need cash. I always withdraw from ATMs to get the best rates (select “no” when it asks you if you accept the conversion rate).
🚕 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Getting around Thailand is a breeze! Grab is safe and cheap in major cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Bangkok has a modern metro. It’s easy to use local transport such as songthaews, too.
📶 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆: Thailand has reliable internet connectivity. SIM cards are easy to find and cheap.