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Parks

Buatong Waterfall-Chet Si Fountain National Park

4.7 · 6,229 reviews
Active, fun, and natural.
Buatong Waterfall-Chet Si Fountain National Park, Mae Ho Phra, Mae Taeng District, Chiang Mai 50150, Thailand
Interesting facts
1

The limestone rock is highly porous, allowing visitors to walk vertically up the waterfall without slipping.

2

The water contains high levels of calcium carbonate, which actively deposits and hardens on the rocks.

3

Chet Si Fountain is a mineral spring that appears in seven different colors depending on the light and mineral concentration.

4

Unlike most waterfalls, the moss-free surface is a direct result of the water's chemical composition.

5

The waterfall is relatively small in height but extends across multiple tiers, making it popular for family climbing activities.

Overview

Buatong Waterfall, locally known as the Sticky Waterfall, features unique mineral-rich limestone surfaces that provide enough friction for visitors to climb directly up the cascades. The water is sourced from the Chet Si Fountain, a mineral spring located upstream that remains clear throughout the year. The calcium carbonate deposits create a texture similar to firm sponge or rough stone, preventing the surface from becoming slippery despite the constant water flow. The site is divided into several tiers with rope handrails provided to assist in navigating the steeper sections of the rock face. Surrounding the falls is a dense, shaded jungle canopy providing a natural cooling effect. The park grounds include picnic areas and short nature trails that lead to the source of the spring. It is a geological rarity where the water flow is highly alkaline, preventing the growth of algae on the climbing surface.

Photo spot

From the bottom looking up at the tiered limestone formations with the rushing water in the foreground.

Insider tips

Wear athletic sandals or water shoes with good grip to protect your feet from the textured limestone.

Avoid using soap or shampoo in the water to maintain the chemical balance of the mineral spring.

Bring a change of clothes as there are basic changing facilities on-site.

What to avoid

Attempting to climb the falls during heavy rain, as the rock surface can become unstable and the water current significantly stronger.

Etiquette

Modest swimwear is expected as it is a family-oriented park; refrain from damaging the limestone formations.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings to avoid large crowds; the dry season (November to February) offers the most comfortable walking temperatures.
19.069, 99.079
Get directions
Details
TerrainLimestone with high friction
FacilitiesPicnic areas and changing rooms

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings to avoid large crowds; the dry season (November to February) offers the most comfortable walking temperatures..

From the bottom looking up at the tiered limestone formations with the rushing water in the foreground.

Close by you'll find Wat Den Sali Sri Muang Kaen (Wat Ban Den), Mae Ngat Sombun Chon Dam, Sri Lanna National Park.