San Kamphaeng Hot Springs: The Ultimate Guide
San Kamphaeng Hot Springs offers a serene getaway from the busy streets of Chiang Mai, where you can immerse yourself in the restorative qualities of nature’s beauty and healing waters. The mineral-rich water is known for its healing properties and can be enjoyed in public pools, private pools, or even boiling eggs. This hidden gem, located just 43 km (26 miles) from the city, offers a range of activities for visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
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Surrounded by scenic hills and lush trees and extremely popular during the cooler months of November to February, San Kamphaeng Hot Springs is the perfect environment for unwinding and reconnecting with nature.
The park covers an area of about 40 acres and features two natural geysers that shoot water up to 20 meters high. Visitors can also indulge in spa treatments, explore nearby handicraft villages and temples, or simply enjoy a picnic in the gardens.
If you have ever experienced a Japanese onsen, you won’t miss the opportunity to visit San Kamphaeng Hot Springs on your next vacation. Offering something for everyone, tourists and locals alike bask in its natural beauty, history, and culture of fun and relaxing activities. This guide will help you discover all the highlights of this famous hot spring and its surroundings, ensuring you soak in the full experience.
San Kamphaeng Hot Springs’ Rich History And Location
Established in 1902 as part of the Mae Om khwaeng, this natural wonder is located in the San Kamphaeng district, just 43 km (26 miles) east of Chiang Mai (Google Map Directions), where the hot springs are located. The area was named after the three mountain ranges that surround it, providing a stunning backdrop for visitors seeking a peaceful escape from city life.
What’s more, elements of this history can still be explored at the nearby handicraft villages, offering a variety of local crafts, including silk, cotton, silverware, and ceramics. With easy access by car or bike from Chiang Mai, you won’t want to miss out on this scenic and historical gem.
San Kamphaeng Hot Springs’ Geological Wonders
The hot springs, part of Northan Thailand, are part of a geothermal system associated with granitic rocks and faults active during the Quaternary period (less than 2.6 million years ago). The hot springs are located along a fault zone that extends from Doi Suthep Mountain to the San Kamphaeng district.
The fault zone allows water to circulate deep underground and heat up by contact with hot rocks. The heated water then rises to the surface through fractures and fissures, creating geysers and pools to what you know as the Hot Springs.
Unlocking The Healing Power Of Mineral-Rich Waters
The hot springs are rich in a variety of minerals, and according to Thailands Geothermal Resources study in 2012, these minerals include:
- Sodium: Retains moisture, keeping skin smooth and glowing.
- Calcium: Regulates the natural renewal process and strengthens the skin’s protective barrier to prevent dryness, itching, and premature aging.
- Magnesium: Supports collagen and elastin production for firmness and elasticity; has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to reduce redness, irritation, and oxidative stress.
- Potassium: Balances water and pH levels, regulates blood flow and oxygen delivery, and prevents dryness, flakiness, and dullness.
- Chloride: Maintains fluid balance and pH level, cleanses the skin, enhances natural barrier function, and protects against environmental damage.
- Sulfate: Cleanses, exfoliates, and detoxifies skin; stimulates blood circulation and lymphatic drainage.
- Bicarbonate: Neutralizes acidity, soothes and calms skin, and acts as a mild antiseptic and antibacterial agent.
- Fluoride: Strengthens connective tissue, prevents sagging and wrinkling, and protects against UV damage and free radicals.
- Silica: Essential for collagen and elastin synthesis, improves texture, tone, and appearance, and has anti-inflammatory and healing properties.
The study further explains that northern Thailand has around 16 hot springs with a slightly acidic pH of 6.4 and high electrical conductivity (EC 3,000 μS/cm)2; this means that the water’s minerals are believed to have therapeutic effects on various skin conditions, arthritis, rheumatism, and other ailments. Even more reason to dip in the revitalizing waters and let nature work its magic on your body and mind!
Therapeutic Temps: San Kamphaeng’s Hot Spring’ Range
Feel the excitement of the main geyser’s high-pressure steam eruption every 10 minutes, soaring to an impressive height of 20 meters (65 feet)! At San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, various temperature options await to cater to your needs.
Public pools offer a range of pleasant hot spring water temperatures, while private pools can be personalized to your liking. Temperatures span, depending on location and season, can range from the soothing warm water of 40°C (104°F) to a steamy 105°C (221°F), typically higher during the dry season (November to April) than the rainy season (May to October).
In addition to taking a therapeutic soak, why not try boiling eggs in hot water at a temperature of 80°C (176°F) to 90°C (194°F)? As you journey along the water path, the temperature will increase, eventually surpassing 100°C (212°F)!
Soothing Benefits Of The Therapeutic Wonders
Again, many tourists and locals alike marvel at what this Hot Spring has to offer. This natural wonderland and its warm water are a wellness haven for visitors, from soothing skin and musculoskeletal conditions to relieving stress and promoting relaxation.
Skin And Musculoskeletal Rejuvenation
As mentioned many times on Trip Advisor, San Kamphaeng Hot Springs is renowned for its healing effect on various skin and musculoskeletal conditions. Again, rich in minerals such as sodium, calcium, magnesium, and potassium, the hot spring water can nourish the skin, reduce inflammation, and promote wound healing.
Experience the therapeutic benefits of natural mineral water as you soak in the pools and let the hot water work its magic. The slightly acidic pH of the water can also help balance the skin’s natural acidity and prevent bacterial infections. Moreover, hot water can help relax the muscles, joints, and tendons, easing pain and stiffness caused by various injuries.
Stress Relief and Blissful Relaxation
Relieve your stress and experience ultimate relaxation at San Kamphaeng Hot Springs. Take your relaxation to the next stretch with various spa treatments, including massages, scrubs, facials, and aromatherapy, all designed to enhance your overall well-being and comfort. There are many more health benefits in sitting back, relaxing, and soaking it all in.
The hot water can help lower blood pressure, calm the nervous system, and release endorphins, natural painkillers, and mood enhancers. The soothing sound of the water, the fresh air, and the scenic surroundings can also help reduce stress and anxiety levels, creating a sense of peace and harmony.
Traditional Thai Medicine Wisdom
San Kamphaeng Hot Springs is not only valued for its scientific benefits but also for its cultural and spiritual significance. According to traditional Thai medicine beliefs, hot springs can help balance the four elements of the body:
- Earth (solid organs)
- Fire (metabolism)
- Water (fluids)
- Air (breath)
Visitors can cleanse their bodies of toxins by soaking in hot water infused with minerals, restore their energy flow, and harmonize their minds and spirit.
Fun fact: the hot springs are considered sacred by many locals who believe that they are blessed by a guardian spirit named Phra Phutthabat Si Roi (Four-Footprint Buddha). Visitors can pay respect to this spirit by offering flowers, incense, candles, and boiled eggs at a shrine near the main geyser.
As exciting as that all sounds, there’s now even more reason to discover the traditional wisdom of Thai medicine and immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere!
Soak, Swim, And More: Facilities And Activities
San Kamphaeng Hot Springs is famous for its therapeutic mineral waters and its variety of facilities and activities catering to different interests and preferences. From pools for soaking and swimming to cultural egg boiling, massage and spa services, gardens, walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this natural nirvana.
Dive Into Relaxation: San Kamphaeng’s Soothing Pools
One of the main attractions of San Kamphaeng Hot Springs is its pools, which offer visitors various ways to enjoy the mineral water. Whether you want to soak your feet, relax your body, or swim some laps, there is a pool for you.
Pool Types At San Kamphaeng Hot Springs
There are several types of pools at San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, each with its own features and benefits. Here are some of them:
- Public Mineral Swimming Pools
These are large pools that can accommodate many people at once. They have a temperature of about 40°C (104°F) to 50°C (104°F) and are suitable for soaking and swimming. They are also equipped with showers and changing rooms. The entrance fee for the public mineral swimming pools is around 100 baht for adults and 50 baht for children.
- Private Pools
Notably smaller, these pools can be rented for more privacy and comfort. They have a temperature of about 40°C (104°F) to 60°C (140°F) and can be adjusted to suit personal preference. They also have showers and changing rooms, and the rental fee for the private pools is around 200 baht per hour.
- Ozone Pools
These unique pools use ozone technology to purify the water and enhance its health benefits. They have a temperature of about 40°C (104°F) to 50°C (104°F) and are suitable for soaking and swimming. Being much more affordable, the entrance fee for the ozone pools is 50 baht for adults and 30 baht for children. Showers and changing rooms are also available features for these pools.
- Mineral Baths
These are traditional-style wooden tubs that can fit one or two people. They have a temperature of about 40°C (104°F) to 60°C (140°F) and are ideal for relaxing and healing. They also have showers and changing rooms, charging only around 40 baht per person.
Swim Safe: Essential Pool Etiquette And Safety Tips
At San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, like in many places in Thailand, respecting one another and being responsible is essential. Visitors should follow some etiquette and safety precautions when using the pools to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment.
These include:
- Wearing appropriate swimwear
Wearing appropriate swimwear is important for hygiene and comfort reasons. Swimwear that is too loose or too tight can cause chafing, irritation, or wardrobe malfunctions.
Swimwear not designed for hot springs can also retain heat and bacteria, affecting the water quality and your health. Therefore, it is advisable to wear swimwear that fits well and is made of suitable materials for hot springs.
- Showering before and after using the pools
Showering before and after using the hot springs is a basic courtesy and a health measure. Exiting the hot springs and then showering can help rinse off any minerals, salts, or other substances from your skin and hair, which can otherwise cause dryness, irritation, or damage.
And showering before entering the hot springs can help remove dirt, sweat, cosmetics, and other contaminants from your body, which can otherwise pollute the water and affect its mineral content and therapeutic benefits.
- Avoiding bringing food and drinks into the pools
Avoiding bringing food and drinks into the hot springs is a matter of safety and cleanliness. Food and drinks can attract insects, rodents, or birds, posing a disease or injury risk.
Food and drinks can also spill or drop into the water, creating a mess and a hazard for other bathers. Moreover, eating or drinking while bathing in hot springs can increase the risk of dehydration or heatstroke. Therefore, keeping food and drinks away from the hot springs and consuming them in designated areas is best.
- Avoid not running, jumping, diving, or splashing in the pools
Avoiding running, jumping, diving, or splashing in the hot springs is a way of respecting other bathers and preventing accidents. Doing any of those activities in the hot springs can disturb or annoy other bathers trying to relax or heal. It can also create waves or splashes that can impair visibility or cause water to enter the ears or nose.
Furthermore, being too active or splashing in the hot springs can result in slips, falls, collisions, or injuries. Therefore, walking carefully around the hot springs and gently entering and exiting the water is wise.
Visitors should also not leave children unattended to risk of any water too hot for them and should consult their doctor before using the pools if they or their child have any medical conditions or allergies.
Egg Boiling Activity: A Fun And Unique Experience
You read correctly! San Kamphaeng Hot Springs offers beautiful scenery, relaxing hot springs, and a unique and fun activity of boiling eggs in natural hot water. This activity has cultural significance and is a must-try for visitors!
Not only that, but the hot springs also provide bamboo baskets for boiling your eggs and tap and basin facilities for rinsing them off. It may seem different, but boiling eggs in a hot spring is a fantastic and unique experience you shouldn’t miss out on.
Cooking Eggs In A Natural Jacuzzi: How It Works
Boiling eggs here is easy and affordable.
- Visitors can buy a small bamboo basket with three eggs for 20 baht at the entrance or near the main geyser.
- They can then take the basket to one of the basins near the geyser, where the water temperature is about 90°C (194°F) to 105°C (221°F), and hang it on a hook over the water.
- After waiting around 10 to 15 minutes, you can enjoy your cooked egg and get ready to dip it in soy sauce!
From Folklore To Fun: Cultural Significance Of A Cooked Egg
According to a local legend, boiling eggs in hot water at San Kamphaeng Hot Springs is a way of honoring the legacy of Phra Ruang, a king of Sukhothai who is said to have created the hot springs. Boiling eggs is also considered a form of offering to Phra Phutthabat Si Roi, a guardian spirit of the springs with a shrine near the main geyser.
Relax and Rejuvenate: Indulge In Massage and Spa Services
San Kamphaeng Hot Springs offers on-site massage and spa services for those looking for relaxation and pampering.
The massage and spa services at this Hot Spring are designed to provide a holistic experience promoting physical and mental well-being. That said, this husky Hot Springs site offers on-site massage and spa services for those seeking more profound relaxation and self-worthy pampering from various types of treatments, such as:
- Foot Massage – A Thai massage focusing on the feet and lower legs. It uses pressure points, stretching, and reflexology to stimulate blood circulation, ease fatigue, and promote balance.
- Thai Massage – traditional Thai massage covers the whole body. It uses pressure points, stretching, and yoga-like poses to loosen muscles, joints, and tendons, improve flexibility, and restore energy flow.
- Oil Massage – aromatic oils to lubricate the skin and enhance relaxation. It uses gentle strokes, kneading, and rubbing to soothe muscles, nerves, and emotions.
- Herbal Compress – uses heated bundles of herbs wrapped in a cloth to apply heat and pressure to the body. It helps relieve inflammation, pain, and stiffness and detoxifies and nourishes the skin.
- Facial treatment – a treatment that cleanses, exfoliates and moisturizes the face using natural products. It helps to remove impurities, dead skin cells, and excess oil, as well as improve the complexion and texture of the skin.
- Body Scrub – a treatment that uses natural ingredients such as salt, sugar, coffee, or fruit to scrub the body and remove dead skin cells. It helps smooth, soften, and brighten the skin and stimulates blood circulation and lymphatic drainage.
Recharging Benefits Of Their Spa Treatments
At San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, indulging in a spa treatment on a long day trip can offer numerous benefits for your physical and mental well-being. Here are some of the breathtaking benefits you can expect:
- Relaxation – helps your body and mind unwind by calming the nervous system, reducing stress hormones, and releasing feel-good endorphins, ultimately lowering blood pressure.
- Pain Relief – eases pain and tension by relaxing muscles, tendons, and joints, improving blood flow, reducing inflammation, and stimulating nerve endings.
- Skin Health – rejuvenate your skin by removing toxins, cleansing pores and healthy tissues, hydrating cells, and enhancing skin elasticity.
- Immune System Boost – enhance your immune system by stimulating lymphatic drainage, balancing hormones, increasing white blood cells, and fighting infections.
- Mood Enhancement – feel better by reducing anxiety and depression symptoms, improving sleep quality, boosting self-esteem, and promoting happiness.
Additional Recreational Options At San Kamphaeng Hot Springs
Aside from the pools and spa services, San Kamphaeng Hot Springs offers a variety of other recreational facilities for visitors to enjoy. These facilities cater to visitors of all ages and interests and provide a fun and entertaining experience.
Lush Gardens and Scenic Walking Paths
Visitors can explore and appreciate the beautiful gardens and walking paths surrounding San Kamphaeng Hot Springs. The gardens will greet you with various colorful flowers, plants, neatly trimmed hedges, and trees, creating a fragrant and vibrant atmosphere.
Along the way, visitors can also admire some sculptures, fountains, and bridges that enhance the location’s charm. The walking paths are well-maintained and paved, providing a suitable location for visitors to stroll, jog, and cycle.
Outdoor Leisure Areas For Families And Children
This majestic Hot Spring site also provides picnic areas and playgrounds for visitors to utilize for leisure and entertainment. Conveniently located near the pools and gardens, these areas are easily accessible for visitors.
- The picnic areas have tables, benches, and shelters, allowing visitors to sit comfortably and eat their meals or snacks.
- The playgrounds have equipment such as swings, slides, seesaws, and more that children can play on and enjoy.
On-site Facilities At San Kamphaeng Hot Springs
San Kamphaeng Hot Springs offers various facilities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. You can pitch a tent and camp overnight, with free mineral baths included. They also have Tongurai guesthouses and luxury guesthouses equipped with modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and television – all with bookings options available from their website.
Additionally, you can browse through various shops that sell traditional Thai wear, handcrafted bags, spices, and teas. So, don’t miss the chance to have a stay overnight and BBQ party, shop, and soak it all in with your friends and family right by the hot springs!
Discover More: Nearby Attractions And Travel Guide
San Kamphaeng Hot Springs is a fantastic place to visit, but there’s more to explore in the area! The following travel information will help you plan your day trip and discover more about the local culture and nature.
Local Culture: Handicraft Villages and Temples
San Kamphaeng district is renowned for its handicraft villages, temples, and cultural sites. And with that, here are two of the most striking options for nearby attractions:
- See How Artisans Create Beautiful Products: Handicraft Villages
If you are interested in traditional crafts, the San Kamphaeng district is a paradise worth discovering. Here, you can see how skilled artisans make various handmade products such as silk, cotton, silverware, ceramics, umbrellas, and wood carvings. Besides, you can buy souvenirs or gifts at reasonable prices. The following are the most widespread handicraft villages in the area:
- Bo Sang Umbrella Village:
- About 9 km (5.5 miles) from the popular tourist hot springs lies a creative little village where you can see how traditional paper umbrellas are crafted from bamboo and paper. Also, you can watch how they are painted with colorful designs and patterns.
- San Kamphaeng Cotton and Silk Village: In this village, about 13 km (8 miles) from San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, you can see how cotton and silk fabrics are handwoven on wooden looms. Also, you can learn about the history and culture of Thai textiles and how they are dyed with natural colors.
- Baan Muang Kung Pottery Village: This village is famous for earthenware pottery made from clay and baked in kilns and is about 15 km (9 miles) from San Kamphaeng Hot Springs. Here, you can make your pottery or buy souvenirs.
- Admire the Architecture, Art, and Spirituality of Thai Buddhism: Temples and Cultural Sites
San Kamphaeng district also has some fantastic temples and cultural sites that showcase the rich history and heritage of the area. Here are some of the most notable temples and cultural sites:
- Wat Pa Tueng: A beautiful Lanna-style chedi (stupa) holds a relic of Buddha from this temple that dates back to the 14th century. The temple also has a giant reclining Buddha statue and a museum that displays ancient artifacts and scriptures and is about 12 km (7 miles) from San Kamphaeng Hot Springs.
- Wat Doi Phra That Mae Yen: Slightly further away from the Hot Springs, around 18 km (11 miles), you will find a temple on a hilltop that offers stunning views of the valley. The temple has a golden chedi that enshrines a relic of the Buddha and a huge white Buddha statue that faces the sunrise.
- Baan Mae Kampong: This cultural village preserves the traditional way of life of the hill tribe people living in harmony with nature and is roughly 20 km (12 miles) from the beautiful Hot Spring site. Here, you can experience their culture by staying in their homestays, eating food, joining activities, and learning about their history.
Summary
San Kamphaeng Hot Springs is a popular tourist attraction and a serene destination offering healing mineral water in public or private pools. Visitors can even boil eggs in hot water. With beautiful scenery, spa treatments, nearby handicraft villages and temples, and picnic areas, there is genuinely something to captivate everyone. So don’t miss the chance to experience this natural beauty on your next vacation!
FAQ
You can reach San Kamphaeng hot springs by car, taxi, or public transportation like songthaews (shared taxi). It is approximately 36 km east of Chiang Mai city center. Also, you can rent a motorbike from us.
There is usually an entrance fee, but it may vary depending on the time of your visit. Additional costs may apply for activities or services like locker rental or egg cooking. For more detailed information about the cost of entry, read this article above, in section Dive Into Relaxation: San Kamphaeng’s Soothing Pools.
The temperature range of the hot springs can be between 40-100°C (104-212°F). There are typically various pools available with different temperatures to accommodate different preferences.
Sure, hot springs are known for their therapeutic properties, which may include improving circulation, reducing stress, and alleviating muscle and joint pain.
You can soak in the hot springs, but swimming may not be allowed due to the high temperatures. It’s important to follow posted guidelines and restrictions for your safety.
Yeap, most hot springs facilities offer changing rooms, showers, and lockers for visitors’ convenience.
Sure, it is often possible to cook eggs in the hot springs. Designated areas or containers for egg cooking may be provided by the facility.
Sure, there are usually other attractions in the area, such as the San Kamphaeng handicraft village, the Bo Sang Umbrella Village, and various temples or nature trails.
The area around San Kamphaeng hot springs offers various facilities and services, including restaurants, cafes, accommodations, and souvenir shops.
Accessibility may vary depending on the facility. It’s best to check with the hot springs management in advance to ensure they can accommodate your needs.
Check out our prices for renting automatic scooters and maxi-scooters, semi-automatic motorbikes, and motorcycles with manual gear in Chiang Mai on the Bike Rental Rates page.
If you prefer to travel by car, be sure to read our guide on how you can save up to half the cost of a rental car in Chiang Mai.
For a complete list of our travel guides, see our Northern Thailand Routes and Travel Notes section.
If you find inaccuracies in the text or want to add interesting information for our readers, feel free to message us.
Cat Motors Team
- Author: Cat Motors Team
- Posted:
- Updated: January 25, 2024
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