Last Updated on 2025 年 11 月 21 日 by 総合編集組
Best 4 Chiang Mai Day Trips in 2025 – From Thailand’s Highest Peak to the Sticky Waterfall
Planning a trip to Chiang Mai in 2025? Don’t just stay inside the old city walls – the real magic is in the mountains just 1-2 hours away! Here are the top 4 most epic day trips you can do from Chiang Mai, all doable in one day and back before dinner.
1. Doi Inthanon National Park – Standing on the Roof of Thailand (2,565m) Known as “The Roof of Thailand”, Doi Inthanon is the highest mountain in the country. On a clear morning (best Dec-Feb), you’ll stand above a sea of clouds with twin royal pagodas glowing in golden light. Key spots: Highest point marker, King & Queen Pagodas, Wachirathan Waterfall, Ang Ka Nature Trail. 2025 Entrance fees: 300 THB (adult) + 100 THB for the pagodas + 30 THB car fee. Pro tip: Leave Chiang Mai at 6:00 AM sharp with a private driver (3,000-3,500 THB per car, split 4 ways = only ~750-900 THB per person).
2. Mae Rim District – Thailand’s Longest 400m Glass Skywalk & Mountain Vibes Perfect for families, Instagram lovers, and chill travelers. Everything is within 15 km – no rush, all fun. Must-visit: • Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden (400m canopy walkway 20m above the jungle) • Mon Cham (royal agricultural project with epic valley views) • Mae Sa Waterfall (10 tiers, great for kids) • The Giant Treehouse Café Drive the famous “Mae Sa Loop” on routes 1096 & 1269 – coffee shops, waterfalls, and strawberry fields all day long. Total entrance fees under 500 THB per person.
3. Chiang Dao – Caves, Temples & Pure Serenity Nicknamed “City of Stars” because of zero light pollution, Chiang Dao is pure peace. The limestone cave system is one of Thailand’s most beautiful – walk with lantern-guided tours deep inside (100-320 THB per group). Then climb 341 steps to Wat Tham Pha Plong for silence and mountain views that feel spiritual. Transport warning: Public bus is only 80 THB but last 6 km has no transport. Private car is highly recommended (around 3,000 THB per car).
4. Bua Tong Sticky Waterfall – Climb a Waterfall with Bare Feet! The most unique natural wonder near Chiang Mai – ZERO entrance fee! Mineral deposits make the rocks super grippy, so you can literally walk up a 3-story waterfall like Spider-Man. Safe, fun, and completely free in 2025. Budget hack: Team up with other backpackers at hostels (Stamps, Hug Hostel, etc.) and share a songthaew – as low as 250 THB per person round trip!
Which Day Trip Should You Choose? • Love hiking & epic views → Doi Inthanon • Traveling with kids or want Insta photos → Mae Rim • Want culture & caves → Chiang Dao • On a budget & love crazy experiences → Sticky Waterfall
Final Tips for 2025
- Private driver with car is the best value for 3-4 people (750-1,000 THB pp)
- Renting a scooter on mountain roads is risky – many accidents every year
- All prices and opening hours are current as of Nov 2025 – always double-check locally
- Book private drivers via local Facebook groups or your hotel for the best rates
Save this guide – your perfect Chiang Mai day trip is waiting!
