Rating: 4.4/5 (5 votes)

Open Days: Generally daily (some sections may be temporarily restricted depending on weather and water levels inside the cave)

Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00 (recommended to visit in the morning or early afternoon for comfort and safety)

 

Chiang Dao Cave is one of Chiang Mai’s most iconic caves, and part of what makes it special is that it’s not just about stalactites and stalagmites. There is a temple right at the entrance, and inside the cave you’ll find sacred points where visitors can pay respects along the route. The result is a rare blend of natural wonder and a calm, temple-like atmosphere that feels balanced rather than staged. The cave lies in Chiang Dao District at the foothills of Doi Luang Chiang Dao, and because the cave system is large, the visit naturally breaks into different “rhythms”—from easy, well-lit sections to deeper chambers that typically require a local guide and lantern.

 

The first thing most visitors talk about is the cave’s natural limestone formations. Stalactites and stalagmites take on shapes that invite imagination, and in some sections, when light hits the mineral surfaces just right, you’ll notice a fine, shimmering sparkle. The deeper you go, the more the quiet of the cave seems to slow you down on its own. Another signature detail of Chiang Dao Cave is the clear, cool water that flows out near the entrance year-round, gathering into a small pool where fish circle calmly. With shade trees and fresh air, the entrance area becomes a genuinely pleasant place to rest before or after your cave walk.

 

Chiang Dao Cave offers multiple walking routes, which helps visitors choose a difficulty level that matches their comfort. Local references commonly describe main routes such as the Tham Phra Non route (about 360 meters), the Tham Kaew–Tham Nam route (about 734 meters), and the Tham Muet–Tham Ma route (about 735 meters). In practice, deeper and darker sections are typically accessed with a local guide and lantern for safety, and some routes may be limited depending on on-site rules and conditions on the day.

 

For the smoothest and safest visit, keep it simple but prepared: wear shoes with good grip because some areas can be damp and slippery, and bring a flashlight or headlamp as backup (even if certain sections are lit). Avoid touching stalactites and stalagmites, since repeated contact can affect their surface and disrupt the natural formation process. Walk steadily, don’t rush in narrow passages, and if you bring young children, keep them close at all times.

 

The most comfortable window is usually morning through early afternoon. It’s cooler outside, you have plenty of time to choose routes or wait for a guide if needed, and you won’t feel pressured to hurry. During the rainy season, the scenery around Chiang Dao is beautifully green, but plan for extra caution: surfaces can be slick, and some parts of the cave may have water or temporary access restrictions. If you’re hoping to go deeper into the cave, calling ahead can save you a wasted trip.

 

One more thing that gives this place its gentle charm is Wat Tham Chiang Dao right at the entrance. For many visitors, it feels natural to make merit before exploring the cave, or to stop for a quiet moment after coming back out and sitting near the entrance pool. It can feel like a single trip that covers both nature and the mind. As it is a temple area, it’s best to dress respectfully, keep voices low, and avoid disturbing people who are there to pray or practice.

 

Getting There Chiang Dao Cave is about 77 kilometers from Chiang Mai city. Drive to Chiang Dao town (roughly 72 kilometers), then turn off and continue about 5 kilometers to the cave. The road is paved and generally easy to drive, and the parking area near the entrance is fairly spacious. If you’re using public transport, the common approach is to travel to Chiang Dao District first, then take a local vehicle or hire transport to the cave so you can manage your return time more flexibly.

 

 

A: It generally operates around 08:00 – 17:00. Morning or early afternoon is recommended, and during the rainy season it’s best to confirm conditions before traveling.

 

A: Entry is commonly around 20 THB per person. For deeper sections, a local guide with a lantern is typically required (commonly around 200 THB per set). Please follow on-site announcements and rules.

 

A: Yes, especially the easier, better-lit sections. However, keep children close because some surfaces can be damp and slippery, and certain passages are narrow.

 

A: Non-slip shoes are recommended, plus a flashlight/headlamp, drinking water, and a light layer since it can feel cool and humid inside.

 

A: Yes, but take extra care. Paths may be slippery and some sections may have water or temporary restrictions. Calling ahead can help you plan confidently.