Mae Salong Loop PART 1: Chiang Mai to Chiang Dao

While many travelers to northern Thailand have heard of the Mae Hong Son Loop, we chose a slightly less touristy alternative: the Mae Salong Loop. Over six days, we rented a car (yes, a car-not a motorbike!) and explored this beautiful region. With little information available about this loop for car travelers, we’re sharing our full experience in a three-part series to inspire your journey.
In Part 1, we traveled from Chiang Mai to Chiang Dao, a short but eventful drive.
Here’s what we did along the way:
Sticky Waterfall (Bua Thong Waterfall): A popular day trip from Chiang Mai, we stopped here for lunch and a quick nature walk. While we skipped climbing the unique "sticky" limestone falls, it was a peaceful spot to stretch our legs and take in the fresh mountain air.
Scenic Drive Through Phrao: Instead of taking the most direct route, we opted for the scenic way, passing through lush landscapes and small villages that made the journey even more memorable.
Exploring Chiang Dao:
Chiang Dao is a serene town surrounded by mountains and greenery. During our one-night stay, we explored two must-see attractions:
Wat Tham Pha Plong: This temple is perched on a hill and accessed by a peaceful staircase lined with inspiring quotes. The views at the top are breathtaking, making it a worthwhile stop.
Chiang Dao Caves: A mix of natural and man-made wonders, the caves are vast and mysterious. We explored the lit section with a guide who explained the history and pointed out fascinating formations.
Part 1 is just the beginning-stay tuned for the next leg of our Mae Salong Loop journey!