There’s a new attraction north of Chiang Mai that only locals seem to know about. Fortunately, I am blessed to have wonderful Thai friends who invite me along on day trips around northern Thailand. Most recently they introduced me to Dantewada Land of Angels Waterfall Park, a man made attraction with two massive waterfalls, caves, exquisitely planted flower gardens, a coffee shop, and a cafe with delicious food.
Our first stop was the coffee shop near the entrance. While waiting for iced coffee drinks, we posed in front of gorgeous works of art that decorated the walls. Angels with halos paid homage to the park’s name, while other scenes depicted stately peacocks, jagged mountain landscapes, and serene Buddhas in lotus poses. Outside, we climbed to the upper level and discovered a second seating area, complete with stained glass walls and images of the Buddha. Best of all, a platform surrounding the upper level looked down upon a complex of waterfalls, which I photographed at a slow speed to bring out the “cotton-candy” effect of the rushing water.
We began our exploration of the park on paved trails that wound through tall stands of trees. A burbling stream played hide and seek with us. Sometimes it disappeared altogether, only to reemerge at the top of a giant boulder and tumble down to out feet. At the edge of the forested area, raised platforms overlooked acres of blooming flowers, beyond which the main waterfall cascaded down a four-story high mountain.
After snapping photos of one another lounging in heart and crescent moon-shaped wicker chairs, we descended into fields of hot pink Cosmos, yellow Marigolds, white Shasta daisies, violet Lupine, and rows of Cock’s Combs in fire-engine red, orange, and gold. Everywhere, people were crouched among the blossoms snapping photos. We soon joined them and spent half an hour trying to capture perfect, flower-strewn portraits of one another. When we tired of shooting photos, we ducked inside the mountain and hopped between stepping-stones to dodge spray from mini-cataracts.
Hot and tired (and slightly damp), we retired to the on-site cafe for lunch. Many of you have heard me rave about Thai food. I eat it almost every day. So believe me when I say that the Pad See Ew at this cafe was the best I’ve ever had. I’d go back again just to eat there. The waterfalls, caves, and gardens are a bonus!
Dantewada Land of Angels Waterfall Park is located at Located at 288 Moo 2, in the San Maha Phon Subdistrict of Mae Taeng District, in Chiang Mai Province. It takes about 45 minutes to drive there from Chiang Mai, so it’s perfect for a day trip from Chiang Mai. Take Route 107 north and pass the turnoff to Pai (Route 1095). A few miles further, you will see a branch of the Government Savings Bank on the left side of the road. Turn left here, on the road just past the bank. The park is a short distance down the small lane, on the right-hand side. Parking is available in a lot just past the park, on the opposite side of the street. The entrance fee is 60 baht (about $2 USD). Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week. Their Facebook Page is in Thai, but Google translate works pretty well.
Your description of Dantewada’s Land of Angels and the Waterfall Park in Mae Taeng is truly captivating! The way you’ve highlighted the serene beauty and spiritual significance of the area really brings it to life for readers. I love how you captured the peaceful atmosphere and the breathtaking natural scenery, making it clear why this hidden gem in Thailand is a must-visit. Your personal reflections add a special touch, making the place feel even more inviting. A wonderfully inspiring read!
I just came across your post about the Dantewada “Land of Angels” Waterfall Park in Mae Taeng, Thailand and I have to say, I am absolutely blown away by the beauty of this place! Your description and the stunning photos you shared have really piqued my interest, and I’m already planning my next trip to Thailand just so I can visit this park.
I love how you’ve highlighted the eco-friendly and sustainable features of the park, and the fact that it’s designed to blend in seamlessly with the surrounding nature is truly impressive. It’s clear that a lot of thought and care has gone into the development of this attraction, and it’s heartening to see a focus on preserving and celebrating the natural beauty of the area.
Thank you so much for sharing this gem of a destination on your blog! I can’t wait to experience it for myself and create unforgettable memories in this “Land of Angels”.
Best regards,
Lizette E. Boucher
Hi Lizette: I’m so happy that you enjoyed my story. Thai people LOVE flowers and gardens, so there are many such attractions like this, especially in the north. Enjoy your next trip to the Land of Smiles.
Hallo Barbara, wat een prachtige foto’s! Bedankt voor de informatie. Mag je erin zwemmen?
Thank you Monika. Glad you enjoyed my story. Unfortunately, there is no swimming at the park.
Bonjour Barbara
Une découverte pour moi ton site.
Le mois prochain, lors d’un circuit de Mar Hong Son à Chiang Rai, j’ai une étape à Cave Tham Lodge (phan Mapha) et une à Chiang Dao
Sur la route entre les 2 j’ai repéré ton article sur ce parc.
Peut tu me dire combien de temps pour faire le tour du parc tranquillement et déguster un Pad see ew
Merci par avance de ta réponse
All the photos are so so incredibly beautiful. I love the way you come up with such lovely discoveries.
Thank you so much Anukrati. I’m very fortunate to have good Thai friends who include me in their day trips.
Chiang Mai is the gift that keeps on giving Barb. I keep finding new spots through farang expats and their Thai friends on each returning trip. What a fun spot. I love coffee shop culture in Thailand.
Ryan
Hi Ryan: Hope you make it back some day to see al the changes – some good, some not so good.
Dear Barbara,
Thank you for your wonderful article and in depth explanation which made me feel I too was there.
Blessings ?
René
René Apack
Hi Rene: Thanks so much. Glad you enjoyed my article.
Looks lovely. If I ever can get back to Thailand, this would be first on my list to visit.
Hi Betty. It’s a really nice day trip. Hope you can come back soon.
Fantastic photos, Barbara…and what an awesome find! Another one to add to the list when I return!
I KNEW you would like it Crystal!
Those flowers!
They were gorgeous!
This is so beautiful. All of it. Especially the waterfalls. I’m glad you have such good friends who help you to enjoy your new life.
Hi Linda: Thanks so much. I’m very lucky to know so many wonderful Thai people who include me.
Great photos! It’s likely I will be going that way around the end of August, and will check it out. The park is difficult to find on Google maps, and isn’t shown on the satellite view, but the park’s Facebook site has a link to the location.
Be sure to try the food in the cafe in the rear of the grounds, next to the river. Delicious food!
September 2021 update: Dantewada is closed now, and won’t reopen until the Covid-19 situation improves.
Absolutely beautiful! Thank u so much. I’ve so enjoyed your travels.
Thanks Bernice. I’m so pleased you enjoy my stories.