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, Huay Mark Liam hot spring Chiang Rai is way too hot to swim in. However, don’t let that dissuade you from making a stop here. There are some other nearby hot springs that you can swim at, and the National Park where Huay Mark Liam hot spring is located is worth a quick visit.
RELATED: Chiang Rai Beach – Best Place to Swim in Chiang Rai
Where is Huay Mark Lium Hot Spring?
This naturally heated pool is located in the Lam Nam Kok National Park, approximately 40 minutes motorbike ride from Chiang Rai. 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.
You can rent a motorbike in Chiang Rai for 150 Baht per day. If you stay at Grace Hostel, the owner can arrange it for you.
Want to join in on a hill tribe trekking trip in Chiang Rai? Consider this 2 Day, 1 Night trek and jungle stay for under $90 with all meals included.
Huay Mark Lium Hot Spring and the Lam Nam Kok National Park
Upon arriving, you’ll notice 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.
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 really 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.
Alternative Chiang Rai Hot Spring for Swimming: Pong Phra Soet
Also located in Lam Nam Kok National Park, the Pong Phra Soet hot springs are only 1km 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 hot spring, here you can swim, bathe and even cook some eggs.
I’ve pinned the location of the Pong Phra Soet hot springs on the Google maps below.
WHERE TO STAY IN CHIANG RAI
My Chiang Mai Accommodation: Grace Hostel
Grace Hostel was actually one of my favorite hostels in Northern Thailand. The free breakfast is great. Although it’s located a little outside of the town center, the friendly owner can drive you to the markets or bus station for free.
Highly Reviewed Guest House: SuanTung Guest House
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.
Cheapest Dorm in Chiang Rai: Bar 184 Party Hostel
Bar 184 has dorm rooms for under $5 a night, which is the cheapest you’ll find in Chiang Rai. If you’re after a party vibe at a low price, this will be the place for you. These guys also arrange motorbikes if you want one to ride to Huay Mark Lium Hot Spring Chiang Rai.
I always compare accommodation across Hostelworld, Booking.com, and Agoda. Between these three, you’ll always get the cheapest price and best deals. I find that for Thailand, Booking.com usually has the best deals.
MORE CHIANG RAI TRAVEL GUIDES
