San Kamphaeng Hot Springs Chiang Mai
Relax in natural mineral hot springs, cook eggs, and enjoy lush gardens at this affordable Chiang Mai escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
San Kamphaeng Hot Springs Chiang Mai
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Relax in natural mineral hot springs, cook eggs, and enjoy lush gardens at this affordable Chiang Mai escape.
"Affordable hot spring with private rooms offering unlimited time, a great value!"
🥚 Cook Your Own Eggs!
Buy eggs and cook them in the hot springs for a fun, unique snack.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The heat from the springs and the climate can be intense. Drink plenty of water.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Private Hot Spring Rooms
Various private rooms
Unwind in your own secluded hot spring pool for unlimited time. A truly relaxing and personal experience.

Boiling Eggs in the Springs
Designated hot spring areas
A unique and fun activity! Purchase eggs and cook them in the naturally hot mineral waters.

Open-Air Foot Soak
Shaded areas by the hot spring river
Soothe tired feet in the warm, mineral-rich waters while enjoying the lush garden surroundings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Your Soak
Navigating Pricing and Facilities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥚 Cook Your Own Eggs!
Buy eggs and cook them in the hot springs for a fun, unique snack.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The heat from the springs and the climate can be intense. Drink plenty of water.
💰 Check Pricing Differences
Foreigners and locals have different entry fees. Private rooms offer good value.
🔦 Bring a Flashlight
Essential if visiting the Light Festival due to dim paths and uneven terrain.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥚 Cook Your Own Eggs!
Buy eggs and cook them in the hot springs for a fun, unique snack.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The heat from the springs and the climate can be intense. Drink plenty of water.
💰 Check Pricing Differences
Foreigners and locals have different entry fees. Private rooms offer good value.
🔦 Bring a Flashlight
Essential if visiting the Light Festival due to dim paths and uneven terrain.
🚗 Parking Fee
Be aware of the parking fee, especially if attending the Light Festival.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
San Kamphaeng Hot Springs offers an affordable and unique natural experience, with private hot spring rooms being a highlight for their value and unlimited soaking time. While some facilities could use updates and pricing differs for foreigners, the opportunity to cook eggs and enjoy the mineral waters makes it a worthwhile visit. The annual Light Festival provides a different, albeit sometimes challenging, evening attraction.
"There is differential pricing for foreigners and Thais in relation to the entry fee (100B/40B) and 1-hour massage (250B/180B). But the private hot spring room is 65B/person regardless of nationality. You can choose your experience and pay accordingly. The grounds are expansive so you can spend hours here. The open air foot massage was outstanding. Some of the facilities, like the private hot spring rooms, could use a facelift."
Deborah Long
"Visited this park way back and it was a great outing. The ambience was lively and although the sun was scorching, there were many trees that provide shade everywhere. I love soaking my legs in the shade by the hot spring river!"
yanxin
"The third annual Light Festival at San Kamphaeng Hot Springs offers a modest but charming display, though it comes with some drawbacks. The main illuminated installations are visually appealing but limited to just a few key spots, which might leave visitors wanting more. The paths between displays are dimly lit and, in some areas, wet and uneven, so bringing a flashlight is a must for safety.Food options are disappointingly sparse, with only a handful of stalls, limiting choices for attendees. Navigation is another issue—there’s a lack of clear signage directing visitors to the event entrance, which can be frustrating. Additionally, the mandatory 40-baht parking fee feels steep, especially considering the rough, dark walk from the parking area to the festival grounds, where extra caution is needed due to the uneven terrain.Overall, while the festival has potential, improvements in lighting, signage, food variety, and parking logistics would make it a more enjoyable experience. For now, it’s a decent outing if you’re prepared, but it falls short of being a must-visit event."
VICKII VANGUARD
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
San Kamphaeng Hot Springs is located about 35 km east of Chiang Mai's Old City. The easiest way to get there is by taxi or a rented car/scooter. Songthaews (red shared taxis) are also an option, but may require transfers and can be less direct. The journey typically takes around 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
While direct public transport can be challenging, you can take a songthaew from Chiang Mai towards San Kamphaeng and then potentially another local transport option to reach the hot springs. It's advisable to confirm routes and schedules locally or opt for a taxi for convenience.
If you're already in the San Kamphaeng District, the hot springs are very accessible. You can likely reach them by a short taxi ride, songthaew, or even a scooter/bicycle if you enjoy cycling and the weather permits.
Currently, there are no widely advertised dedicated shuttle services specifically for San Kamphaeng Hot Springs. It's best to arrange private transport or use local taxi services.
From Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), it will take approximately 45-60 minutes by taxi or private car to reach San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, depending on traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are differential pricing for foreigners and Thais. The general entrance fee for foreigners is typically around 100 Baht, while for Thais it's around 40 Baht. It's always a good idea to check the latest prices upon arrival.
A private hot spring room offers unlimited time and is generally priced per person, regardless of nationality. Expect to pay around 65 Baht per person for a private room.
Yes, you can choose your experience and pay accordingly. Options include general entry to the park, access to public pools, and private hot spring rooms. Some services like massages also have separate fees.
Advance booking is generally not required for general entry or private rooms, as they are often available on a first-come, first-served basis. However, for specific packages or during peak festival times, it might be worth inquiring.
The hot springs are typically open daily, but specific hours can vary. It's best to check their official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date opening and closing times, especially if you plan to visit for the Light Festival.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can soak in public pools or private hot spring rooms, enjoy a relaxing foot soak by the river, and even cook eggs in the natural hot springs. The grounds are also suitable for leisurely walks and picnics.
The hot springs are naturally heated. While locals use them for various purposes, it's advisable to test the water temperature before fully immersing yourself, especially in areas where the water is extremely hot.
Yes, San Kamphaeng Hot Springs offers massages, including an open-air foot massage which has been highly praised. There are differential pricing for foreigners and Thais for these services.
Bring a swimsuit, towel, and comfortable clothing. If visiting the Light Festival, a flashlight is highly recommended due to dim and uneven paths. Sunscreen and insect repellent are also good to have.
Yes, families can enjoy the hot springs, especially the private rooms and the unique egg-boiling activity. The expansive grounds also offer space for children to explore.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food options can be limited, especially outside of any special events like the Light Festival. There are usually a few stalls selling snacks and local dishes. It's advisable to bring your own food or eat at a local restaurant in San Kamphaeng town if you're looking for more variety.
Yes, you can typically bring your own food and drinks to enjoy in the picnic areas. This is a good option if you want to ensure you have a wider selection of food.
The San Kamphaeng District has many local restaurants, particularly if you are in areas like Bo Sang. However, options for foreign cuisine might be scarce.
There are usually some food stalls or a small eatery within the complex, but their offerings can be basic. For a more substantial meal, exploring the surrounding town is recommended.
While you can cook eggs in the hot springs, there are no facilities for cooking other types of food.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the steam rising from the hot springs, the lush garden surroundings, and the unique experience of cooking eggs. The private hot spring rooms also offer picturesque settings.
Photography is generally allowed in most public areas. However, always be respectful of other visitors' privacy, especially in private rooms or during any cultural performances.
During the Light Festival, you can capture illuminated installations and festive decorations. Be prepared for lower light conditions, which might require specific camera settings or a tripod.
As with most tourist attractions in Thailand, drone usage may be restricted or require special permits. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light. For dramatic steam shots, midday can be effective, but be mindful of the harsh sun. The Light Festival offers unique nighttime photography opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to bring plenty of water and snacks, as food options can be limited. Ensure children are supervised closely around the hot spring areas, and consider visiting during cooler parts of the day to avoid overheating. The foot soak areas are also a gentle way for younger ones to experience the warm waters.
💰 Budget Travelers
Bringing your own food and drinks for a picnic is a great way to save money on dining. While massages come with an extra charge, the overall cost of enjoying the natural hot springs is minimal, making it an accessible attraction for backpackers and those on a tight budget.
💑 Couples
Enjoying a leisurely soak, perhaps followed by a couples' massage, can be a perfect way to spend an afternoon. The tranquil atmosphere of the gardens and the unique opportunity to cook eggs together add to the charm of a visit for couples.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The San Kamphaeng Hot Springs Experience
The grounds themselves are quite expansive, featuring lush gardens and shaded areas, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. A particularly memorable activity is the chance to purchase eggs and cook them directly in the hot springs – a fun and quirky experience that highlights the natural power of the site. While some reviews mention that certain facilities could benefit from modernization, the overall ambiance is often described as lively and relaxing, especially when enjoying the foot soaks by the river.
Beyond the springs themselves, the area is known for its local crafts, particularly umbrella making in nearby Bo Sang. While the hot springs themselves might not be as developed as Japanese onsens, they offer an authentic Thai hot spring experience, especially appreciated during the cooler months in Northern Thailand.
Navigating Pricing and Facilities
However, the private hot spring rooms offer a more equitable pricing model, typically costing around 65 Baht per person for unlimited use. This makes them a highly recommended option for those looking for value and privacy. Despite the affordability, some visitors note that the maintenance of these rooms and other facilities could be improved, suggesting a need for some updates.
When planning your visit, consider what type of experience you're seeking. If you're on a tight budget, the public areas and foot soaks are very affordable. For a more comfortable and extended soak, the private rooms are a worthwhile investment. Always inquire about current pricing and package deals upon arrival to make the most informed decision.
The Annual Light Festival
However, visitors attending the festival should be prepared for certain challenges. Reviews indicate that the illuminated displays, while appealing, can be concentrated in limited areas. The pathways between these displays are often dimly lit, uneven, and can be wet, making a flashlight essential for safety and navigation.
Food options during the festival are usually sparse, with only a few stalls available, and signage can be lacking, leading to potential confusion. Additionally, a mandatory parking fee is often enforced, and the walk from the parking area to the festival grounds can be rough. While the festival offers a unique experience, improvements in lighting, signage, food variety, and parking logistics would significantly enhance visitor satisfaction.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit