After our marathon day trip to Chiang Rai, we had a day off to take things a bit slower we headed to the mall didn’t do a lot just took some time to recharge.
The next day we had a trip planned and we thought we’d take things a little easier than the temple run, but easier is relative. Even when you try to have a slow day here, it somehow ends up packed with adventure.
This time, we swapped the long taxi ride for something closer to Chiang Mai but still full of unique experiences.
Mae Taeng Bamboo Rafting
We kicked off the day with a bamboo rafting trip on the Mae Taeng River, about an hour north of the city. This was hands-down one of the most relaxing and slightly hilarious ways to take in the jungle scenery, Georgia started off by saying she hated it, but soon realised it was more fun than she thought and she was paddling down the river absolutely loving it, which is a time to point out things you don’t wanna do end up being quite fun!
The rafts are made from thick bamboo poles lashed together into a surprisingly sturdy platform. We all sat cross-legged (or tried to) while our guide stood at the back with a long pole, expertly navigating around rocks and steering us downriver.
The river was calm but wide, and we drifted past lush greenery, glimpses of local villages, and the occasional water buffalo cooling off at the banks. Georgia was trying to see crocodiles I don’t think there is any in the shallows and waving to people along the shore.
Tip: Wear clothes that can get wet there’s no way to stay completely dry, and that’s part of the fun. (we did as it was particularly calm.)
Bua Tong – Namphu Chet Si Waterfall (Sticky Waterfall)
Next, we drove on to the Bua Tong Waterfall, also called the Sticky Waterfall because you can literally walk up it without slipping. It’s hard to believe until you try your feet stick to the limestone-covered rock like Velcro.
We climbed up in bare feet, feeling the cool water rushing past as we scrambled from one ledge to the next. It felt part playground, part natural wonder. Georgia was absolutely in her element, charging up and down the cascades while we tried to keep up.
The surrounding forest is lush and shady, so it’s a beautiful place to cool off and let everyone burn off some energy.
Tip: Bring a change of clothes and maybe a waterproof phone case you’ll want photos, and you will get wet.
A Quiet Break and Lunch
After the waterfall, we had a gap in the day when we didn’t do much of anything a rare pause to rest and regroup. We found a small café nearby with simple Thai dishes. Everyone recharged, swapped soggy clothes, and just enjoyed the slower pace for an hour before heading to our final stop.
San Kamphaeng Hot Springs
Later in the afternoon, we made our way to the San Kamphaeng Hot Springs. After the chilly waterfall, the steaming mineral pools were a complete contrast.
We soaked in the warm water under a shaded pavilion, surrounded by gardens and the sound of bubbling springs. it was unbelievably hot,  you could only stay in it for five or 10 minutes before getting out to cool down in the 35° air,  Dottie thought that this time is the best time to do a poo and spent 20 minutes struggling away bless her!.
At this site the highlight for many visitors is boiling eggs in the hot spring water, but we had already done it a couple of days before so opted out, just to let you know locals sell little baskets of eggs you can cook in a matter of minutes.
Tip: The pools vary in temperature some are very hot so test the water carefully before getting in.
Final Thoughts
Compared to our Chiang Rai temple run, this day felt more balanced. We had adventure, nature, and time to rest in between. It was still a long day out of Chiang Mai, but with a lot more space to pause and enjoy each place without feeling rushed.
If you’re looking for something active but not overwhelming, this combo of rafting, the Sticky Waterfall, and a soak in the hot springs is a perfect day trip. You’ll come back with tired legs, fresh memories, and that happy, contented exhaustion that only a day outdoors can bring.
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