Chiang Mai Exotic Excursion Unseen Miracle of Faith To Pupadang Lampang Temple

Travelers looking to combine spiritual sights, natural beauty, and a taste of authentic Thai culture will find this tour quite appealing. It offers a well-rounded day that takes you off the beaten path to explore some of Chiang Mai’s lesser-known wonders. From majestic temples perched on mountain tops to soothing hot springs, this experience balances sightseeing, relaxation, and delicious food.

What we really love about this tour is its focus on authentic, less touristy sites—like the unseen temple with a white pagoda, and the impressive Doi Phu Pha Mok hilltop enshrining sacred footprints. The knowledgeable guides help make each stop memorable, and the inclusion of activities like boiling eggs in hot springs or enjoying the waterfalls makes it feel more like an adventure than just sightseeing.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the physical effort involved—climbing stairs and walking up hills is required at some stops, which might be challenging for those with mobility issues. The tour is best suited for travelers with moderate fitness who love nature and spiritual sites.

This trip suits curious explorers who want to see something truly unique beyond the standard temples and enjoy an immersive day in northern Thailand’s natural landscape. If you’re after a mix of culture, nature, and good value, this tour hits quite a few marks.

Key Points

• Authentic experiences: Visits to lesser-known temples and natural hot springs away from crowds.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insightful commentary.
• Diverse activities: From spiritual sites to relaxing hot springs and waterfalls.
• Comfortable transportation: Round-trip transfers with a small group ensure a personalized trip.
• Value for money: All entry fees, insurance, and a Thai lunch included in the price.
• Moderate physical activity: Walking and climbing stairs are involved, so good mobility is helpful.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starts with Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat (Wat Phra Phutthabat Sutthawat)

Our adventure begins early, with a pickup at 7:30 am. Our first stop is Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat, a temple perched at 815 meters above sea level. This isn’t your typical Thai temple; it features a large stone slab with a footprint of Lord Buddha—considered a spiritual treasure this site is said to be unseen in Thailand. The white pagoda on the mountain top adds a striking contrast to the lush surroundings, offering panoramic views and an air of serenity.

Our guide, Ms. Kat, shared interesting tidbits about the site, explaining the significance of the Buddha images and the chedi housing Phra Prathan Buddha images in all four directions. She was notably attentive, making sure everyone appreciated both the spiritual and scenic aspects of this high-altitude sanctuary. Visitors can expect a mix of cultural reverence and breathtaking scenery here, with about 3.5 hours allocated for this stop, including exploring the temple and the surrounding viewpoints.

Next, Wat Phra Bat Pupha Daeng

This second stop is a pilgrimage site where you can pay respects and pray for prosperity. Ascending from the parking area involves a walk of about 300 meters, along a recently improved, comfortable path and stairs—making the ascent much easier than in the past. At the hilltop, you’ll find the Big Buddha Footprint and Double Buddha Footprint, surrounded by colorful relics and white pagodas, all positioned on Doi Phu Pha Mok.

The highlight is walking about a kilometer further to the very top, where the temple complex offers awe-inspiring views and a peaceful atmosphere. We loved how this stop felt both spiritual and scenic, especially with the impressive relics and the sense of accomplishment after the walk. The total time here is around 2 hours 30 minutes, with entrance fees included.

Relaxation at Chae Son Hot Spring Onsen

After exploring spiritual sites, we move to the Chae Son Hot Spring, an iconic natural wonder. Here, the thermal waters bubble up from the ground, creating several pools at different temperatures—some reaching a boiling 100°C. The hot springs are a real treat, and the experience is heightened by the opportunity to boil eggs in the bubbling water, a classic Thai experience that adds a fun, hands-on element.

The outdoor onsen offers a relaxing vibe amid natural surroundings, perfect for unwinding after the uphill climbs and walking. Expect about 1.5 hours here, with free access to the hot springs. The soothing warm waters are a highlight, as many reviews note how rejuvenating they are.

The Grand Finale: Chae Son Waterfall

The day wraps up with a visit to Chae Son Waterfall, a stunning cascade within the national park. The waterfall is unique because it flows down multiple tiers—six in total—each with its own character. The crystal-clear waters originate from the Mon River, flowing year-round through lush mountain scenery.

Exploring the different layers of the waterfall provides a chance to take photos, cool off, and enjoy the fresh mountain air. The walk to the falls is about 3.5 hours, including time to admire the different levels and soak in the tranquility of nature. This stop is perfect for those who love scenic landscapes and a good dose of fresh air.

What Makes This Tour Special

This experience is a well-balanced mix of cultural discovery and natural beauty. The itinerary is thoughtfully curated to showcase some of the most unique sights in northern Thailand, with a focus on spiritual and natural wonders that aren’t typically crowded with travelers. The inclusion of delicious Thai lunch, bottled water, and all entrance fees makes it excellent value.

The guide’s knowledge, especially noted in reviews, adds depth to the experience. For example, Angelic_A praised Ms. Kat for her thoughtfulness and professionalism, which created a welcoming atmosphere. The guide clearly enhances the trip by sharing insights that aren’t found in guidebooks, such as the significance of the footprints and the history behind the temples.

The tour also impresses with its small group size—max 15 travelers—which ensures a more personalized, less rushed experience. The round-trip transfer simplifies logistics, making the day seamless even for those unfamiliar with local transport.

Physical Demands and Considerations

While most stops are accessible with some walking and climbing stairs, reviewers mentioned that the staircases at the temples can be substantial. One reviewer, Matthieu, warned about the physical effort needed to climb many stairs, so travelers should be prepared for some exertion, especially at the hilltop temples. This makes it less suitable for those with mobility challenges, but overall, most visitors found it manageable with moderate fitness.

Value and Pricing

At $149.94 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusions: transportation, guide, entrance fees, insurance, and a Thai meal. The experience covers a lot of ground in one day, giving travelers a glimpse of northern Thailand’s spiritual and natural landscapes without feeling rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys exploring off-the-beaten-path sites, appreciates learning about local culture and history, and wants a balanced day of activity and relaxation, this tour is a good fit. It’s perfect for travelers comfortable with walking and climbing stairs, and those who love natural scenery and authentic spiritual sites.

It’s especially suitable for those wanting a small-group experience with personalized attention, and who appreciate a mix of cultural insights, scenic landscapes, and outdoor fun like boiling eggs in hot springs.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a fantastic day out in northern Thailand, combining spiritual sites, natural wonders, and local experiences into one package. The focus on lesser-visited temples and pristine waterfalls means you’re more likely to enjoy peaceful, awe-inspiring moments rather than crowded tourist spots.

The knowledgeable guide, balanced itinerary, and inclusive price make it a great value for curious travelers eager to see a different side of Chiang Mai. If you love nature, history, and authentic experiences, you’ll find this tour to be both enriching and fun.

It’s ideal for moderate fitness travelers who want to explore with ease, and it’s a perfect way to re-energize while discovering some of the less obvious treasures of Thailand’s north.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins with pickup at 7:30 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the day.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transfers from Chiang Mai are included, making logistics simple.

How long is the entire tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 11 hours, from pickup to drop-off.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind some walking and stair climbing may be involved. Check your family’s mobility levels.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees to temples, waterfalls, and hot springs are covered in the ticket price.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing for walking and climbing stairs is recommended. Modest dress is suitable for temples.

Are meals included?
Yes, a delicious Thai lunch is provided. Bottled water is also supplied throughout the day.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This detailed overview should help you decide whether this tour aligns with your travel style. It’s a thoughtful mix of spirituality, nature, and local flavor—perfect for those looking to enrich their Chiang Mai visit beyond the usual sights.