Gems of Chiangmai: Dantewada, Wat Ban den, Sticky Waterfall

Gems of Chiangmai: Dantewada, Wat Banden, Sticky Waterfall—A Full-Day Adventure

When it comes to exploring Chiang Mai beyond its busy temples and markets, a tour like this offers a well-rounded peek into nature and spirituality—conveniently packaged into one day. This experience, rated a perfect 5 out of 5 based on a single glowing review, combines scenic waterfalls, sacred temples, and lush landscapes, all with the comfort of air-conditioned transport and included meals.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the chance to stand beneath the Angel Waterfall (Dantewada), a human-made marvel with impressive views. Second, the visit to Wat Banden, a beautiful temple offering both spiritual insight and photo opportunities. Third, the finale at Sticky Waterfalls, where the unique terrain allows for an adventurous climb that’s both fun and memorable. That said, it’s not ideal for very young children, those afraid of heights, or travelers with limited mobility, given the physical activity involved.

This tour is especially suited for those who want a balanced day of nature and culture, with a taste of adventure along the way. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to avoid overly strenuous activities but still enjoy scenic views and authentic experiences.

Key Points

• Balanced Itinerary: Combines natural beauty, cultural sites, and adventure into one seamless day.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned minivans make the 8-hour journey easy and relaxing.
• Inclusive Pricing: Ticket, water, and lunch are included, offering great value.
• Authentic Experiences: Local guides and scenic viewpoints enhance your understanding and enjoyment.
• Physical Activity: Climbing the Sticky Waterfalls adds a fun challenge, but may not suit everyone.
• Ideal for: Nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful yet active day outside Chiang Mai.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting the Day: Pickup and Travel

The tour begins with a pickup from your Chiang Mai hotel or designated meeting point, followed by a comfortable one-hour drive to the first stop. The transport is by air-conditioned minivan, which is a definite plus in the tropical climate, ensuring you stay cool and relaxed. The driver, who speaks English, also serves as your guide, sharing tidbits about the sights along the way.

Dantewada Waterfall (Angel Waterfall)

Our first stop is the Dantewada—or Angel Waterfall—a spot that’s been constructed rather than formed naturally, which is a refreshing reminder that not all waterfalls need to be ancient. It’s a picturesque location perfect for photos and taking in some fresh air. Reviewers mention this spot as a highlight, with Elsa from Sweden noting it was a “very fun trip with a very nice driver” and praising the help provided at each stop.

While the waterfall isn’t natural, the site’s charm lies in its design and the views it offers. The area is great for a quick walk, some light shopping for souvenirs, and capturing scenic photos. The water here is included, so you can relax and enjoy the coolness.

Wat Banden Temple

Next, after about a 20-minute drive, you arrive at Wat Banden, a beautifully maintained temple. Covered shoulders and knees are required here, so remember to be respectful with your attire—covering up is part of the experience and shows respect for the local customs.

The temple offers a tranquil setting for photos and reflection. Visitors have commented on the helpfulness of guides and the serene atmosphere. It’s a peaceful spot to appreciate Thai spirituality alongside scenic views, and it’s a solid break from the more active portions of the day.

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Sticky Waterfalls (Bua Thong)

The highlight of this trip is undoubtedly the Sticky Waterfalls—a natural marvel with mineral deposits that create a surface offering extraordinary grip. This allows you to climb the waterfalls with relative ease, making it an adventure for all ages (except those with mobility issues or fear of heights).

You’ll have about two hours here: 30 minutes to enjoy a lunch (with options for vegetarian or chicken Pad Thai), and then further time for photos, exploration, and simply soaking in the lush surroundings. The reviews repeatedly praise this stop for its stunning views and the fun of navigating the textured rocks.

The climb offers a playful physical challenge, but it’s accessible enough for most, according to reviews. Elsa mentioned she received good help from the guide during the climb, making it more enjoyable and less intimidating. Be sure to bring swimwear and a towel if you plan to get wet or swim.

Return Journey

The day concludes with a 1.5-hour drive back to Chiang Mai, giving you time to unwind and reflect on the day. The comfortable van, coupled with the scenic drive, makes the return trip feel shorter and more relaxing.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

The all-inclusive price covers transportation, entrance fees, water, and lunch, which means you don’t have to worry about hidden costs or last-minute expenses. The quality of the included meal—Pad Thai with chicken, with a vegetarian option—is a thoughtful touch, especially after a physically active morning.

Plus, the tour’s flexibility and the use of local guides mean you get authentic insights into each site, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing. The reviewer from Sweden appreciated the “good help” from the driver, highlighting the importance of local guides in making the day smooth.

The Physical and Scenic Balance

This tour balances scenic beauty with a bit of physical activity. The water and waterfalls provide cooling relief in the heat, while the temple visit offers a peaceful cultural respite. Climbing the sticky waterfall is exciting without being overly strenuous, making it suitable for most visitors with average fitness levels.

Potential Drawbacks

One consideration is the physical requirement for climbing the waterfalls, which may not be suitable for very young children, elderly travelers, or those with mobility issues. Also, the tour is quite full—covering three major stops—so if you prefer a more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit rushed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to those seeking a combination of natural beauty and cultural insight in a single day. It’s ideal for travelers who want a manageable itinerary with enough adventure and photo-worthy scenery. Nature lovers will enjoy the waterfalls, while culture buffs will appreciate the peaceful temple.

Families with children over a certain age (who are comfortable climbing and walking) will find it fun and engaging. Active travelers will love the climbing, but those with low fitness levels or limited mobility should consider other options.

In summary, it’s a well-rounded, value-packed day that showcases the highlights of Chiang Mai’s countryside in a manageable, engaging way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour provides air-conditioned minivan transport from Chiang Mai and back, making the journey comfortable and hassle-free.

What should I bring? You’ll want to pack swimwear, a towel, and comfortable shoes suitable for climbing. Remember to dress modestly for the temple, covering shoulders and knees.

Are meals included? Yes, a lunch of Pad Thai with chicken or a vegetarian option is included, along with water throughout the day.

Is this tour suitable for children? It’s best suited for children over 5 years old who are comfortable walking and climbing. Those afraid of heights or with mobility issues might find the waterfall climb challenging.

What is the physical effort involved? Expect some walking, photo stops, and climbing on the sticky waterfalls, which requires a moderate level of fitness. The guide can assist during the climb.

Are there any restrictions on what I can bring? Drones, baby strollers, fireworks, alcohol, and party groups are not permitted, ensuring safety and respect for the sites.

To sum it up, this tour offers an engaging blend of natural beauty, cultural insight, and light adventure, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a full day of authentic Chiang Mai experiences. You’ll leave with stunning photos, a peaceful mind, and perhaps a new appreciation for Thailand’s diverse landscapes and spiritual sites. If you’re after a well-organized, meaningful day trip that balances fun and relaxation, this tour is worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: