Chiang Mai: Doi Suthep Temple & Sticky Waterfall Private Day Trip

Summary

Climb doi suthep temple get blessed swim at sticky waterfall

You’ll walk up Doi Suthep’s mountain steps with a local guide, take part in a monk’s blessing ceremony, eat lunch at a small local spot, then swim or climb at Bua Tong “sticky” waterfall before heading back to Chiang Mai—expect cool air, city views, and some honest laughter along the way.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit I was worried about those 306 steps up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Turns out, our guide Niran had this gentle way of making it feel like just a slow walk—with little stops so he could tell us stories about the naga serpents carved along the railing. The air up there is cooler, kind of piney, and you can hear temple bells echoing between the trees. We watched a monk tie white string around our wrists—he said something softly in Thai and I honestly didn’t catch it all, but it felt peaceful. My wrist still has that bit of string on it, actually.

The view from the balcony over Chiang Mai is wild—hazy city stretching out below, gold pagoda behind you, incense smoke curling in the breeze. Lunch was simple but good (rice with basil chicken and some soup I couldn’t name), eaten at this roadside spot where everyone smiled at my terrible attempts at “khop khun ka.” Then we drove out to Bua Tong Waterfall—the “sticky” one. I didn’t believe you could really climb straight up until I tried it; the limestone feels weirdly grippy under your feet, almost like rough soapstone. Kids were laughing and slipping around us, and Niran showed us how to find little pools where the water’s coldest.

We stopped by an orchid farm on the way back—a quick detour because someone in our group asked about local flowers. The colors were unreal, and I ended up buying a tiny potted one for my guesthouse room. By the time we got dropped off at our hotel (air-con van was a blessing), my legs were tired but my head felt clear. If you’re looking for a Chiang Mai day trip that mixes temples with something playful—and you want someone local to show you how things work here—this one’s worth it. Still thinking about that cool water on my feet.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit temple and waterfall in Chiang Mai

• Pick up from hotel at 8:00 am
• Drive to Doi Suthep - Pui National Park
• Climb 306 steps or take funicular to temple
• Receive holy blessing and wrist tying ceremony
• Enjoy panoramic view of Chiang Mai city
• Have lunch
• Visit Bua Tong "sticky" waterfall
• Swim or climb the waterfall
• Stop at orchid farm on return
• Drive back to Chiang Mai city by 5:00 pm
• Arrive at hotel and end tour

Top questions

How long does this Chiang Mai private tour last?

The tour starts with hotel pickup around 8:00 am and ends back at your hotel by about 5:00 pm.

Is lunch included in the day trip?

Yes, lunch is included during the tour at a local restaurant.

Can I choose between walking or taking the funicular up Doi Suthep?

Yes, you can either walk the 306 steps or take a funicular ride to reach Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

What should I bring for climbing Bua Tong Sticky Waterfall?

You should bring walking shoes, swimming suit or trunks, towel, sun cream, insect spray, and personal medication if needed.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it's suitable for all physical fitness levels; activities can be adjusted as needed.

Does this Chiang Mai day trip include hotel pickup?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included within Chiang Mai city area.

Are entry fees covered in this private tour?

All entry fees are included as part of your booking.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation with air-conditioning from your Chiang Mai hotel (pickup and drop-off), bottled water throughout the journey, all entry fees for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and Bua Tong Waterfall, a traditional Thai lunch at a local spot, plus guidance from a friendly local who’ll help you make sense of everything along the way before dropping you back in town by evening.