Adventure & Sports: Chiang Mai
Known as the “Rose of the North”, this northern province is one of the top adventure destinations with its lush forested-mountain landscape, fascinating high-altitude flora and fauna, and various ethnic hilltribes.
Accommodation
Ranges from modest to luxury in the provincial capital. Hilltribe village lodgings are spartan and may not include bathrooms. List of discount hotels in Chiang Mai
Adventure in Chiang Mai
- Birdwatching
Doi Inthanon, the highest peak in Thailand at 2,565 metres above sea level, is a mecca for birdwatchers. It forms the southerly end of the Himalayan range and thus provides a home for 364 species of birds, many of them not seen elsewhere in the country. The best time for birdwatching is from November to February.
- Mountainbiking
The most scenic route is from Doi Inthanon to Ob Luang Gorge via Mae Chaem. The first leg, about 20 km. long, is strictly for experienced mountainbikers while the second section, 30 km. long, is less demanding and suitable for bikers of intermediate skills and higher.
- 4WD Trek
Hilltribe trek by off-road vehicles are most enjoyable along the Chiang Mai-Ban Mae Saket route via Mae Suai, Ban Huai Krai and Doi Wawi with stops at different tribal villages.
- Elephant Rides
At Chiang Dao Elephant Camp in Chiang Dao district, elephants are trained to perform for tourists and available for rides in the nearby forest. Mae Taeng Elephant Camp, Mae Taeng district, offers ocart rides and bamboo rafting in addition to elephant-back rides.
- Bamboo Rafting
A popular rafting route starts at Ban Tha Ton in Mae Ai district and continues down the Mae Kok River. Rafting in Mae Taeng River is available through the local Elephant Camp. Contact Gem Travel (see Directory).
- Whitewater Rafting
Rafting down the Mae Chaem through Ob Luang Gorge in inflatable boats is available through Mae Sot Travel Chiang Mai (see Directory). Another challenging route is the Mae Tuen in Omkoi district, which rushes through virgin forests to end at the thunderous Pha Dam Waterfall. No rubber raft is available at the site, so it’s best to book a trip with a tour agent in Chiang Mai.
- Hiking
The best trails are found in Doi Inthanon National Park, where over 360 bird species, spectacular butterflies, wildlife, orchids and other distinct flora vie for the hiker’s attention.
- Rock Climbing
Yannawut Barracks in Amphoe Hang Dong offers rock climbing on artificial cliffs. Contact (66-53) 432-069
- Camping and Horseback Riding
The Army Pack Division Headquarters on Chotana Rd. in Mae Rim district offers camping trips and horseback riding along with basic jungle survival skills training. Contact (66-53) 297-478 ext. 205
- Motorbike Tours
Dirt bike adventure in rural Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Mae Hong Son is available through Siam Bike Travel (see Directory).
- Hilltribe Treks
These consist of stretches trekked on foot, on elephant back, mountainbike, bamboo raft and rubber kayak. Popular programmes include stops and overnight stays at ethnic villages: Karen, Lahu, and Shan.
