While Chiang Dao is well-known for its Elephant Training Center, many adventurers flock to the area for an entirely different experience: cave trekking. The Chiang Dao Cave (Wat Tham Chiang Dao) is a remarkable site, featuring five limestone caverns filled with stunning stalactites, stalagmites, Buddha statues, and votive offerings from devoted pilgrims.
Your journey begins with an 88km (55 mi) drive north from Chiang Mai to the starting point. Before entering the caves, you'll have time to explore the scenic grounds, dotted with ancient ruins and temples. You'll embark on an adventure through interconnected caverns that extend over 10km (7 mi) into the heart of the mountain. Expect cooler air inside, though humidity can be high on hot days.
While 2 - 3 caves can be easily visited on your own thanks to electric lighting, don't miss the impressive 4-meter (13 ft) reclining Buddha and the row of 5 seated Buddhas in the first cavern. For those eager to explore deeper, hiring a guide with a gas lantern is recommended for navigating the darker sections - don't forget you phone flashlight!
While the main caves are spacious, some offshoots can be narrow and low, requiring you to climb, squeeze, and duck through passageways, possibly spotting a bat or two overhead.
After your cave exploration, you'll head to the Chiang Dao market to enjoy delicious meals before visiting the Buatong Sticky Waterfall. Known for its unique mineral deposits, this waterfall allows visitors to climb its surface safely, making it a fun and scenic spot to appreciate nature.
Duration: 8 hours and 30 minutes