Chiangmai : Sticky waterfall & Land of angels & Wat ban den.

Traveling through Chiang Mai offers a mix of vibrant culture, stunning scenery, and peaceful retreats. This 6-hour guided tour promises a blend of natural wonders, intricate temples, and scenic spots that capture the essence of Northern Thailand. We’ve gathered insights from many satisfied travelers to help you decide if this experience is right for you.

What we love most about this tour is its ability to combine a variety of highlights into a compact day—from climbing limestone rocks at the sticky waterfall to marveling at the colorful, architecturally unique Wat Ban Den and capturing beautiful photos at the Land of Angels. The guides seem genuinely attentive and knowledgeable, making each stop more meaningful.

A possible consideration is the physical activity involved, especially with the hike and climbing at the waterfall, which might be challenging for some. However, for those who enjoy a bit of adventure with scenic rewards, this tour offers plenty of fun. It’s perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded day mixing nature, culture, and photo opportunities without breaking the bank.

This experience caters best to curious travelers, photography enthusiasts, and those eager to explore beyond the typical tourist spots. If you’re seeking a relaxed yet engaging day out that balances sightseeing and adventure, this tour fits the bill.

Key Points

• Diverse highlights: Includes a man-made yet stunningly natural-looking park, a colorful temple, and a unique limestone waterfall.
• Small group setting: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Expert guides: Guides like Peter, Dee Dee, and Kiki are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach.
• Active experience: Climbing limestone rocks and walking through scenic trails make it great for adventurous souls.
• Local cuisine: Enjoy a delicious Thai lunch at a local spot, adding a culinary highlight.
• Flexible & convenient: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with options to cancel or reserve flexibly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Day in Detail

Pickup & Starting Point

The tour begins with a hotel or designated pickup in Chiang Mai, which makes logistics straightforward. From there, you’re whisked away in a comfortable vehicle operated by reputable guides, guaranteed to set a friendly and informative tone for the day.

Dantewada – Land of Angels Waterfall Park

Your first stop is Dantewada, often called the Land of Angels. Located about 45 minutes north of Chiang Mai, this park is not a natural waterfall but a beautifully designed, whimsical environment with cascading man-made waterfalls, pools, and rock formations. Despite being artificial, the scenery is crafted to look entirely natural, creating a dreamlike setting perfect for photos.

Visitors love the playful atmosphere and the variety of photo spots. The waterfalls are safe for climbing, thanks to limestone rocks that are surprisingly easy to grip—even for those who aren’t expert climbers. As some reviews mention, guides like Kiki and Peter are attentive to safety, ensuring none of the slippery surfaces become hazards. One reviewer shared, “Kiki was super knowledgeable and made sure we didn’t slip,” highlighting the importance of a good guide at this part of the trip.

Beyond waterfalls, the park features beautiful gardens, cafes, and even caves to explore—adding a touch of adventure or rest, depending on your mood. Visitors often find the park’s design both impressive and relaxing, with many taking countless photos amidst the playful scenery.

Wat Ban Den – A Temple of Vibrant Colors & Unique Architecture

Next, you visit Wat Ban Den, an awe-inspiring Buddhist temple renowned for its vibrant multi-colored pagodas and intricate Lanna architecture. The cluster of twelve zodiac pagodas is a major highlight, each adorned with mosaics and carvings that draw photographers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

The temple’s main hall, or Ubosot, features detailed murals and sacred Buddha statues, offering a peaceful setting for reflection. Visitors frequently comment on the serene ambiance, making it an ideal place to pause and soak in the surroundings. The ornate woodwork and curved roofs showcase traditional Lanna craftsmanship, making it a visual feast.

One reviewer mentioned, “The serpents and peacocks are astonishing,” emphasizing the temple’s decorative details that leave a lasting impression. It’s recommended to dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees), especially for women, to respect local customs and ensure smooth entry.

More Great Tours Nearby

Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls – Climb Limestone Rocks & Enjoy Nature

The grand finale is the famous Sticky Waterfall, known locally as Bua Thong. Unlike typical waterfalls, this limestone formation allows visitors to climb up and down its textured surfaces with ease—thanks to the rock’s natural stickiness. Guides like Mr. Ed are praised for their attentiveness, making sure everyone stays safe while climbing.

The experience of scaling these rocks is exhilarating; reviewers often describe it as feeling like a gecko with “gecko hands and feet.” One comment noted, “It’s quite easy, not slippery, and you can climb without getting too wet,” which makes it accessible for most visitors. For those inclined to swim, there’s a small pool at the base, so bringing a swimsuit might be worth considering.

The hike to the Seven-Colored Fountain—source of the waterfall—is a short but scenic walk through lush trees, where the sounds of birds provide a soothing backdrop. It’s a lovely spot to take photos or simply enjoy nature’s tranquility.

Practical Details & Tips

The entire tour lasts around 6 hours, with most of the time spent traveling and exploring each site. The small group size (up to 8 people) means you can enjoy personal attention, ask questions, and move at your own pace.

The tour includes a tasty Thai lunch at a local restaurant—an opportunity to enjoy authentic flavors and support local businesses. Reviewers highlight how much they appreciated the delicious food and friendly staff, often noting it as a highlight of the day.

For comfort, bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat, especially since much of the day involves outdoor walking and climbing. Water shoes or old sneakers are recommended for the sticky waterfall, but walking barefoot is also an option. Remember to dress modestly at the temple, and ladies should carry something to cover shoulders if needed.

Why This Tour Delivers Great Value

Compared to similar experiences, this tour offers a well-rounded package of natural beauty, cultural insight, and adventure, all with a knowledgeable guide and small-group intimacy. The inclusion of hotel pickup, lunch, and flexible cancellation policies adds to its appeal.

The reviews consistently praise guides like Peter, Dee Dee, and Kiki for their helpfulness, enthusiasm, and safety focus. The combination of photo-worthy spots and active fun makes it ideal for travelers wanting a variety of experiences without feeling rushed.

The price reflects the convenience, personalized attention, and quality of sites visited. Since some locations are lesser-known or off the beaten path, this tour provides access that might be hard to arrange independently.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to see a mix of natural wonders and cultural sites without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. It suits those with a sense of adventure—ready to climb limestone rocks—and captures fantastic photos along the way.

If you’re traveling with family, especially older children or teenagers who enjoy physical activity and scenic environments, this tour will keep everyone engaged. It’s also ideal for solo travelers or couples seeking a day of laid-back exploration with a guide to enrich the experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 4 years old, mainly because of the walking and climbing involved.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and lunch.

What should I wear?
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for the temple, and comfortable shoes suitable for climbing and walking. Water shoes or sneakers are advised for the waterfall.

Is the water at the sticky waterfall safe for swimming?
There is a small swimming pool at the bottom if you want to take a dip, but most visitors climb without getting very wet.

Are the sites crowded?
While Dantewada can get busy later in the day, the small group size helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is led in English, suitable for international travelers.

Is food included?
Yes, a local Thai lunch is part of the package, with reviews highlighting its deliciousness and authenticity.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a wonderful mix of scenery, culture, and adventure, tailored for those who want more than just a quick visit to Chiang Mai’s highlights. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly approach elevate the experience, making it more enriching and enjoyable. Whether you’re a photography lover eager for photo stops, an active traveler craving limestone climbing, or a culture seeker interested in unique temples, this trip has something for you.

Most reviewers agree it’s excellent value for money, considering the range of sites covered and the personalized service. The combination of engaging sites, scenic beauty, and authentic Thai lunch makes this a memorable day out. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate a balanced itinerary that mixes fun activities with cultural insights.

If you’re ready for a well-organized, authentic, and fun day exploring Northern Thailand’s natural and spiritual treasures, this tour is a fantastic choice.

Note: Be prepared for some physical activity and bring essentials like insect repellent, sunscreen, and water shoes. Planning ahead ensures you’ll get the most out of this fulfilling day.

You can check availability for your dates here: