Mae Khachan Hot Spring

📍 Location of Mae Khachan Hot Spring 🚘 Directions to Mae Khachan Hot Spring

About Mae Khachan Hot Spring

The Mae Khachan Hot Springs is a popular destination for those seeking a unique experience in Thailand. The hot springs are a natural wonder, with geysers that spew hot water high into the air, creating a spectacle that is both fascinating and awe-inspiring. Visitors can take advantage of the opportunity to capture some memorable photos of this natural phenomenon.

The hot springs are conveniently located as a halfway stop between Chiang Mai and Phayao, making it an ideal place to rest and rejuvenate during a long journey. The area is equipped with numerous amenities including food stalls, coffee shops, and souvenir shops. The hot springs are not artesian, but rather, pumps are used to bring the subsurface water to the surface. The water is rich in minerals and has a distinctive sulfurous smell.

One of the unique features of the hot springs is the opportunity to cook eggs in the hot water. For a small fee, visitors can purchase eggs and cook them in the spring, providing a fun and unique experience. The water is hot enough to boil the eggs, making for a tasty and memorable snack.

In addition to the hot springs, there are several cafes where visitors can sit, relax, and enjoy a cold drink or some food. After a morning of exploring the local temples, it's a wonderful place to sit down, soak your feet in the warm spring water, and take a break. There are also facilities available, including a toilet block for a small fee.

However, it's worth noting that the hot springs have changed over the years. What was once a must-stop destination for travelers between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai has now become more commercialized, with dozens of shops surrounding the geyser and a mock-Khmer temple added to the mix. The original spring, located on the right-hand side when coming from Chiang Mai, is now in a dilapidated condition.

Despite these changes, the hot springs remain a popular stop on day trips north from Chiang Mai. While the area may not be worth seeking out on its own, it's likely that you'll stop here as part of a larger tour. The hot springs, while small, offer very hot water for soaking your feet, providing a unique and relaxing experience. However, be prepared for the tourist trap markets and gimmicks that surround the area.

In conclusion, the Mae Khachan Hot Springs offer a unique and interesting experience for those traveling in Thailand. Whether you're stopping by to soak your feet, cook an egg, or simply take a break from your journey, it's a place that's sure to leave a lasting impression.