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San Kamphaeng Hot Springs
San Khamphaeng Hot Springs, หมู่ที่ 7 Ban Sa Ha Khon, Mae On District, Chiang Mai, Thailand
These stunning natural hot springs are only about an hour away from Chiang Mai on a motorcycle, and it’s a great place to spend an entire day relaxing in the beautiful surroundings. It’s likely that many visitors to Chiang Mai don’t even know that this place exists, but take the time to seek it out and you will be rewarded with a memorable experience and many great photo opportunities. And if you want to spend the night there, you can, with chalets and tents available at very reasonable prices.
What to See and Do
The springs themselves are set in a small complex with many things to see and do, but the area is very clean and natural-feeling, an ideal day out from Chiang Mai. The grounds and gardens are meticulously maintained, with a lovely man-made canal circling the grounds where you can sit, dip your feet in and relax. There are two erupting geysers with a small thermal spring pool containing water hot enough to cook eggs, the pool has lots of hooks around the edge where people hang their baskets to do just that. It’s definitely one of the more relaxing spots, and with several places to buy food and drinks you can easily spend a day here. If you are traveling with children, they will love the swimming pool.
How to Get There
Around 40km from Chiang Mai, it’s an hour’s dive via motorcycle or a bit less by car or taxi. But it’s a scenic and enjoyable drive, from the ThaPhae Gate, take route 1141 south out of the city. This then turns into the 1317 which gets you there, as you approach there are large signs to the springs in both English and Thai. If you don’t mind the additional cost, you could book a tour from your hotel. If you go by public transport, you should be aware that the last songthaew back to Chiang Mai leaves around 4pm.
Opening Times and Admission Fees
Entry is 100 baht ($3.25) per person with a charge of 10 baht ($0.33) to park a motorcycle. The swimming pool is 50 baht ($1.63), and an hour-long soak in a private mineral bath is 300 baht ($9.78). The complex is open from 8am to 9pm every day. There is no dress code, but remember that this is Thailand so err on the conservative side if you are unsure.
