7 Amazing Thailand Hot Springs
Thailand has 112 hot springs in the northern, western, central and southern locations with hot water temperatures at the surface from 40 to 100 degrees celsius.
Doi Saket hot springs are one of seven hot spring destinations in Chiang Mai, a northern province in Thailand. The local community developed a sharing bathhouse where local villagers bathe themselves in the morning and evening, especially in winter as part of their rural lifestyle.
This spa town has two large hot springs temperature of 80 degrees celsius, and 4-5 smaller hot springs, some of which are used by the villagers to bathe, wash, boil eggs or use to blanch vegetables to preserve food. It is the use of natural resources as the way of life of the community like in Japanese Onsen.
Ranong geothermal system, one of the larger systems in Southern Thailand, is famous for its hot springs, which have drawn attention to local visitors and foreign tourists. Wat Potharam hot spring as called by local people is praised as a famous landmark of Ranong City, which providing spa and hot massage therapy nearby.
Note: Aluminum can be high in some of the hot springs, so care should be taken.
Potharam Hot Spring
Located within the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, Potharam boasts steaming waterfalls cascading into natural pools amidst lush greenery. Hike through the park and enjoy the scenic beauty before soaking in the mineral-rich waters.
Rich in sulfur, calcium, and magnesium, the waters offer potential benefits for skin conditions, muscle relaxation, and stress relief.
Doi Suthep-Pui National Park is named after two mountains within the park; Doi Suthep and Doi Pui. Doi Suthep is where the hermit Sudeva lived on it's slopes for many years. The main attractions of the park are; Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Doi Pui Mountain, waterfalls, viewpoints and trails. Mammals seen in the park are; Indian muntjacs, wild boars, Assam macaques, Indochinese serows, Asian golden cats, Malayan porcupines and Asian black bears.
The park is in easy reach of Chiang Mai by car or bike from the west end of the city (see map or "Get there & stay" section). Higher elevations beyond Doi Pui are better to be visited with a stronger terrain vehicle because of poor roads.
Secret Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Combine your trip with a visit to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a stunning temple atop Doi Suthep mountain.
Best Time to Go: Dry season (November-March) offers pleasant temperatures and clear skies, while the rainy season (April-October) can be lush but presents potential landslides.
Water Quality: 4 stars (minor sediment, slight sulfur smell)
Ease of Access: 4 stars (easy paved road access, ample parking)
Ability to be Alone: 3 stars (moderate crowds, some designated quiet areas)
Water Temperature: 4 stars (multiple pools with varying temperatures)
Health Benefits: 4 stars (sulfur, calcium, magnesium for skin, muscle relaxation)
Nearby Amenities: 4 stars (restaurants, shops, massage services nearby)
Raksawarin hot springs and Park Arboretum are situated 2 km east of Ranong town. There are three main spring wells: father, mother, and child. The water from each of these springs is considered so pure that it was used during important ceremonies to celebrate the 60th birthday of King Bhumibhol, Thailand's current monarch.
From Mueang Ranong Municipality take Highway no. 4005 (Chon Ra-u Road) around 1 km. The hot spring located on the right.
Immerse yourself in the rainforest at Raksawarin, featuring multiple natural pools with varying temperatures up to 65 C. Enjoy the scenic surroundings and the soothing sound of cascading water. Nestled amidst towering limestone cliffs, Raksawarin offers a breathtaking backdrop for your soak. Hike through the jungle, explore hidden caves, and then unwind in the naturally formed pools.
You can take free foot hot spring. If not, you can pay 40 THB to private area (managed by Tinidee Hotel) as very near from foot hot spring and gives access to changing rooms, lockers and other facilities are available.
There is a hot yoga pavilion that is a cement courtyard with a high and airy roof. People can sit or lie in the hot yoga pavilion to receive hot steam from the mineral water tanks installed under the cement floor, which this section is free of charge as well.
It is along a river so you can walk paths on both sides and there is a suspension bridge across the river to refreshment stands and sitting area in the shade.
The waters are rich in sulfur, sodium, and calcium, offering potential benefits for skin conditions, joint pain, and muscle relaxation.
Secret Tips
Visit during the week for a quieter experience. Explore the nearby Khao Phra Bang Khram National Park for stunning limestone formations and hidden waterfalls. With some historic records included, over 320 bird species have been recorded in this small sanctuary and many species of reptiles like cobras so watch your step. Note: When reaching the entrance, there is this big sign showing “Entrance to Crystal Ponds” which should be ignored. The sign is set up by a resort there, it is just an ugly way of fooling the tourists to use their parking space for a fee.
The Raksawarin Hot Mineral Springs have been analysed by the Department of Science Service to contain important minerals, and it is the only source in Thailand that does not contain any sulphur additives.
Best Time to Go: Dry season (November-April) offers sunny skies and comfortable temperatures, while the rainy season (May-October) can be wetter but provides fewer crowds.
Water Quality: 4 stars (minor sediment, slight sulfur smell)
Ease of Access: 3 stars (short hike on well-maintained path, limited parking)
Ability to be Alone: 4 stars (secluded pools, minimal crowds)
Water Temperature: 4 stars (multiple pools with varying temperatures)
Health Benefits: 4 stars (sulfur, calcium, magnesium for skin, muscle relaxation)
Nearby Amenities: 3 stars (restaurants, shops in nearby Ao Nang, limited options at springs)
Phon-Rang hot springs located in Ngao National Park are far larger and more elaborate than Rahsawarin hot springs in Ranong town.
Nestled near the Gulf of Thailand, Phon-Rang offers unique mud pools in addition to hot spring pools. Enjoy the therapeutic benefits of mud baths amidst scenic coastal views.
The springs of Phon Rang are spread over a relatively vast area and include over a dozen different pools of varying temperatures, some completely natural and others that have been built into manmade pools with ladders and everything.
There were 3 temperatures for different pools: 41C, 40C, and 39C. After soaking, there is a natural stream that allows you to cool down. In this stream are the little fish which eat the dead skin off your feet.
There are also facilities, e.g., a foot bath, body hot spring, outdoor shower, restrooms, rest pavilion, carpark, restaurant, and accommodation. There is a 200-300 baht entrance fee for foreigners, which is understandably more than locals.
Cold water showers are available to rinse off before entering the pools to keep them clean.
From the parking area, there is a small snack area that sells hardboiled eggs that were cooked in the hotspring for 18 hours. The mineral effect on the egg is very mild, and it was very tasty which a sprinkle of white pepper and splash of soy sauce.
The mud and waters are rich in sulfur, sodium, and minerals, offering potential benefits for skin conditions, joint pain, and detoxification.
Secret Tips
Combine your visit with a relaxing stay at a nearby beach resort for a complete coastal escape.
Explore the nearby Mangrove Forest for a unique ecosystem experience.
Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Lanna dishes using local ingredients.
Best Time to Go: Dry season (November-April) offers sunny weather and ideal conditions for both mud baths and soaking, while the rainy season (May-October) can be wetter but provides fewer crowds.
Water Quality: 4 stars (minor sediment, slight sulfur smell)
Ease of Access: 4 stars (easy paved road access, ample parking)
Ability to be Alone: 3 stars (moderate crowds, some designated quiet areas)
Water Temperature: 4 stars (multiple pools with varying temperatures)
Health Benefits: 4 stars (sulfur, calcium, sodium for skin, muscle relaxation, joint pain)
Nearby Amenities: 3 stars (restaurants, shops in nearby village, limited options at springs)
Located about 70km from Krabi town, the Klong Thom hot springs are in the heart of a small rainforest preserve close to the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve.
Embark on a journey to this hidden gem, featuring natural pools nestled amidst a scenic canyon. Enjoy a rustic experience and interact with the friendly local community.
You will need to bring a beach towel, sandals and swimwear. The entry fee is 90 baht for the springs.
Reaching the hot springs from the park entrance requires a 10-minute walk under the hot sun or short buggy ride for an additional fee.
The waters are rich in sulfur, calcium, and sodium, offering potential benefits for skin conditions, muscle relaxation, and stress relief.
Wat Khlong Thom is a must-see attraction near Krabi's hot springs. It houses several excavated artefacts dating back nearly 5000 years. You will come across many stone tools, pottery fragments, bronze utensils, ceramic and stone arts, metal coins, and more.
Secret Tip
Rent a motorbike for an adventurous journey to the springs. Combine your visit with exploring the nearby Krabi Town and its vibrant night markets.
Bring waterproof rubber shoes to wear into the springs to protect your feet from the sharp rocky surface.
Best Time to Go: Dry season (November-April) offers the most comfortable conditions for traversing the terrain and enjoying the hot springs, while the rainy season (May-October) can be challenging but provides a unique experience.
Sai Gnam Hot Springs
From the center of Pai (Walking Street) it’s about 40 minutes to drive to this warm tropical surprise. However, keep in mind that there are some pretty big hills that you have to drive up and down.
The Hot Spring has a couple of large pools in which people can swim in, with the most popular being the large pool at the top. The water is a pleasant 34°C and crystal clear.
When you arrive at the Sai Ngam Hot Spring you can buy some food and/or drinks at the restaurant and shop opposite the entrance before you pay your entrance fee. There are change rooms and toilets
Enjoy other spots closeby like Pha Mon Cave, Mo Pang Waterfall, and Pai bamboo mini golf.
Secret Tip: Visit during the weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy shorter waiting times for activities. Explore the nearby Erawan National Park for breathtaking waterfalls and hiking trails.
Romanee Hot Springs
Embark on a thrilling adventure through Khao Sok National Park, home to diverse wildlife and stunning rainforest scenery. Relax in the natural hot springs after a day of exploring waterfalls and caves.
Romanee Nam Ron has four large, clean pools fed directly from a bubbling spring. The hot spring water can be from 22 and 52 degrees Celsius (68 and 114 degrees Fahrenheit).
Along the way, take in a dramatic vista of the Khao Sok valley in Khao Sok National Park View Point.
When done try out nearby Khao Sok Elephant Sanctuary, Tam Nang Waterfall, and Buddha Cave.
The waters are rich in sulfur, calcium, and magnesium, offering potential benefits for skin conditions, muscle relaxation, and stress relief.
Secret Tip: Hike to the viewpoint above the hot springs for breathtaking panoramic views of the rainforest.
Best Time to Go: Dry season (November-April) offers sunny skies and comfortable temperatures, while the rainy season (May-October) can be lush but may have higher water levels and potential for flash floods.
Water Quality: 4 stars (minor sediment, slight sulfur smell)
Ease of Access: 2 stars (moderate hike on uneven terrain, limited parking)
Ability to be Alone: 4 stars (secluded pools, minimal crowds)
Water Temperature: 4 stars (multiple pools with varying temperatures)
Health Benefits: 4 stars (sulfur, calcium, magnesium for skin, muscle relaxation)
Nearby Amenities: 3 stars (restaurants, shops within park, limited options at springs)
Pong Arng Hot Springs
Escape the crowds and discover the serenity of this hidden gem nestled within Pha Taem National Park. Enjoy cascading hot springs and stunning waterfalls in a peaceful environment.
The hot springs is off the road heading north from Chiang Dao town. The entrance ticket per person is 100baht, and the car park fee is 30 baht for a car.
There's toilets and changing rooms for the hot pools. Note: Most local women were covered up and wearing shirts. Take food and drink with you as no vendors at either site.
There's different sitting levels within the two pools. One pool is warmer than the other.
A few minutes drive further north takes you to the Sri Sungwan Waterfalls and the main Pha Daeng Park section. The waterfalls have several levels. It's similar to the sticky waterfalls near Chiang Mai ((Nam Tok Bua Tong).
The waters are rich in sulfur, calcium, and sodium, offering potential benefits for skin conditions, muscle relaxation, and joint pain.
Secret Tip: Combine your visit with exploring the nearby historical sites and temples of Ubon Ratchathani.
Best Time to Go: Dry season (November-April) offers sunny skies and comfortable temperatures, while the rainy season (May-October) can be lush but may have higher water levels and potential for flash floods.
Water Quality: 4 stars (minor sediment, slight sulfur smell)
Ease of Access: 3 stars (short hike on well-maintained path, limited parking)
Ability to be Alone: 5 stars (secluded pools, minimal crowds)
Water Temperature: 4 stars (multiple pools with varying temperatures)
Health Benefits: 4 stars (sulfur, calcium, magnesium for skin, muscle relaxation)
Nearby Amenities: 2 stars (limited options within park, restaurants in nearby town)
Are you traveling in other parts of Asia? Take a look at more hot springs in Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Nepal, Thailand, Malaysia, China, Indonesia, India, Japan, Philippines, and Vietnam.