Huay Mark Liam Hot Spring is one of the many naturally heated lakes in the Chiang Rai province.
In the popular winter months, these hot springs are the perfect place to warm up after a chilly waterfall dip– or so I thought!
Unfortunately, the truth is that these springs are WAY too hot to swim in. However, don’t let that dissuade you from making a stop here, since there are some other nearby hot springs that you can swim at, and the Lam Nam Kok National Park nearby is worth the stop!
Where is Huay Mark Lium Hot Spring?
This naturally heated pool is located in the Lam Nam Kok National Park, approximately a 40-minute motorbike ride from Chiang Rai beside the Kok River.
Although this area isn't frequently visited by tourists, there are some great opportunities for nearby adventures including a stop at the Huay Kaew waterfall.
We rented a motorbike in Chiang Rai for 150 Baht per day from the Grace Hostel, the owner can arrange it for you. These days, expect to pay around 200-300 Baht.
You'll find the hot springs pinned on Google Maps as: "Huai Mak Liam Hot Spring". I've pinned the location below which is accurate.
My Experience
Upon arriving, we noticed that this place is almost deserted.
There is a well-kept garden, some local fishermen casting into a select few ponds, and of course, the small and underwhelming; Huay Mark Lium hot spring. No, this is nowhere near as nice as the Emerald Pool in Krabi, or the famous Hot Spring Waterfall of that region.
As mentioned, this hot spring is much too hot for comfort at 56 degrees Celsius. Trust me, you definitely will not want to stick your feet in here.
However, if you are desperate for a warm swim, you can follow the run-off through the park which leads to the river. I took a quick dip where the hot spring runoff met the cold flowing waters, which was refreshing.
Another option if you're looking for a place to swim is the Chiang Rai Beach (which is actually a river).
Alternative Hot Spring for Swimming Nearby: Pong Phra Soet
Also located in Lam Nam Kok National Park, the Pong Phra Soet hot springs are only 1 km away from Huay Mark Liam.
In fact, you’ll actually pass these hot springs on your way.
However, these springs have been turned into a commercial operation and has consequently lost its natural feel. Nevertheless, if you're intent on a warm Northern Thailand sulfuric bath, make a stop at Pong Phra Soet hot springs.
So unlike Huay Mark Lium's hot spring, here you can swim, bathe, and even cook some eggs.
Where to Stay in Chiang Rai
Looking for a great accommodation pick near Chiang Rai? Here are three options for every budget.
1. The Riverie Luxury
Nestled on the island in the middle of the Kok River, The Riverie by Katathani offers luxurious rooms surrounded by lush gardens and amazing views.
2. SuanTung Guest House Top-Reviews
This is one of the highest-rated budget guest houses in Chiang Rai. It’s super central, only a few minutes walk to the night market and the clocktower and the bus station.
3. Baan Mai Kradan Budget
With a 9.2/10 rating with hundreds of reviews, this might be the top-rated hostel in Thailand. Get Hi is a great social hostel in Chiang Rai for young adult travelers who want to meet people and have fun.
I hope that you've enjoyed this quick guide to visiting the admittedly underwhelming Huay Mark Liam Hot Spring. However, don't stress! There are plenty of fun things to do in Chiang Rai.
I recommend visiting the Chiang Rai waterfalls (especially Khun Korn or Mae Sai), or taking one of the epic Chiang Rai Mai Day Trips!
Otherwise, here are some more useful travel guides and adventure inspiration to get you pumped for your travels in Thailand.
- 13 Best Tours in Thailand - my list of favorite bookable Thai travel experiences
- How to Plan a Trip to Thailand - read this before your first trip to Thailand
- Koh Tao Guide - my ultimate guide to Koh Tao Island after living there for three months
- 20+ Things to do in Chiang Mai - my first-time visitor's guide to Chiang Mai
- Epic Things to Do in Chiang Rai - discover the hidden gem of Northern Thailand
- 3 Day Chiang Mai itinerary - the perfect way to spend a few days in the North
- Things to do at Railay - plan your trip to Thai backpacker mecca
- Things to do in Pai - find fun and free things to do in Pai
Plan Your Thailand Accommodation
Still in the planning stages of your trip? Perhaps you're booking on the fly. The below accommodation guides will help you plan where to stay in Thailand.
