The Muang-On Cave is located in the San Kamphaeng district, about 30 km from Chiang Mai, just before the San Kamphaeng hot springs. From the parking lot, a 180-step Naga staircase leads up to the cave entrance, which is surprisingly closed off with a door. You can rent a flashlight there, but in my opinion, it's not really necessary, contrary to what you might think after the first few meters of the cave. Inside, there are large caverns on two levels with impressive heights, especially the lower level. This is the most interesting, featuring a huge stalagmite and a 10-meter-long reclining Buddha. A petrified dinosaur skeleton is said to be located above the statue. I must confess that I didn't notice it. Few visitors take this step, and I have to admit that the sight is somewhat disappointing. However, a staircase to the right of the cave entrance leads to the summit of the mountain, where a chedi stands. I'm not sure if the view is really worth the climb up more than 600 steps, but that's for you to decide. If you get hungry, there are several snack stands in the parking lot, and you can sit on a small terrace with a lovely view over the valley. Oh yes, I almost forgot: there are monkeys living on this mountain. I personally saw them mostly in the parking lot, but they're simply part of the experience. I recommend visiting the Muang-On Cave before going to the San Kamphaeng hot springs. The cave is truly impressive, so you can save the relaxation for after your cave visit. As they say, after the exertion comes the rest!

Entrance fee: 30 THB Torch rental: 20 THB

The Mueang On Cave is not accessible by public transport. You either need your own vehicle or have to hire a red taxi in Chiang Mai. I haven't tried it myself, but you might be able to negotiate with the driver of one of the yellow taxis that connect the Warorot Market in Chiang Mai with the San Kamphaeng hot springs. He might be willing to take you there for a small extra charge.

The Muang On Cave is a temple, and when visiting a temple in Thailand there are some rules to follow: appropriate clothing (knees and shoulders should be covered), take off your shoes when entering the building, be quiet, do not hug or kiss, do not point your feet at the Buddha statue, do not smoke.

How to get there

How do you get to Mueang On Cave? Mueang On Cave is not accessible by public transport. You either need your own vehicle or have to hire a red taxi from Chiang Mai. I haven't tried it myself, but you might be able to negotiate with the driver of one of the yellow taxis that connect Warorot Market in Chiang Mai with the San Kamphaeng hot springs. He might be willing to take you there for a small extra charge.