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Chiang Mai is an energetic place, the kind of place where
people go to experience something new and different. There's
something about the city that encourages people to expand
their horizons and try things they never thought they'd be
capable of. Maybe you never thought you'd be the one to try
your hand at rock climbing or river rafting but Chiang Mai
might change your mind.
Rafting
The highlands of Chiang Mai are the watersheds for all of
northern Thailand and many of the rivers that wind their way
across southeast Asia have their birthplace right here. Rafting
Chiang Mai can be a very rewarding experience, whether you
crave a heart pumping run through boiling rapids or a leisurely
float through hushed valleys.
Cold water sprays in your face as you grip the paddle and
fight the roaring current. You can't see your hands but you
know your knuckles are white as you shoot through the surging
water. Suddenly the bottom drops out of the world and you
are falling for an endless second. Then it's over like someone
flipped off a switch and you're left with nothing but the
pounding of your heart, the trembling of your hands and the
insatiable desire to do it again. Welcome to the thrill that
is whitewater rafting, the closest thing mother nature has
to a roller coaster.
Whitewater rafting in Chiang Mai is an experience that no
one ever forgets. The powerful mountain rivers are riddled
with rapids that run from grade two (moving water with occasional
rocks) to grade four (large falls but not continuous; very
difficult, powerful waves). Safety is always first priority
and tours are available for all levels of experience. Almost
anyone can participate; all you need is a basic level of physical
fitness. Quality tour companies will provide instruction,
safety gear and an experienced guide to take you through the
waters. With all the precautions in the world rafting is still
potentially dangerous so do a little research and make sure
to go out with a company you feel comfortable with.
Not all rafting in Chiang Mai involves rapids and adrenaline.
For those keen on relaxation there are plenty of chances to
float down the tranquil Ping River on board a bamboo float.
Lazily poling your way downstream, enjoying the peace and
quiet, maybe knocking back a beer or two lets you drift away
from your worries and simply enjoy life.
Bamboo rafting is included with many treks and tours in Chiang
Mai and there are also plenty of place where you can set up
an all day trip. Most include lunch and maybe a stop at a
hilltribe village.
Cycling in Chiang Mai
With all those beautiful mountains surrounding the city,
its small wonder that Chiang Mai is a regular stop for rock
climbers. The city features several artificial walls as well
as the world famous Crazy Horse Buttress, located just a little
ways east of the city.
For many people the most rewarding thing about rock climbing
isn't the thrill or the magnificent views, it's the deep sense
of accomplishment they feel after doing something they didn't
think they were capable of. Imagine clinging to a sheer rock
face with nothing between you and the ground but a rope and
50 meters of empty space. You see the next hand hold above
you but it looks so far away. Somehow you find that extra
reserve of mental and physical strength to propel yourself
upwards and grasp the next ledge. When you come down from
the cliff you're a different person than when you started.
Whether you're a rank amateur or a seasoned Spider-Man you'll
find that Chiang Mai has climbing that matches your level
of intensity. There are over 120 routes up the 60 metre (160
foot) Crazy Horse Buttress, ranging from well angled routes
suitable for first-timers to tough, challenging routes for
experienced climbers.
If you'd like to get your feet wet before you tackle the
crag, there are a number of climbing walls located in the
city. Chiang Mai Climbing Club (C3) has two of the largest
bouldering walls in Thailand. The indoor and outdoor walls
are a great place to get some exercise or some practice for
the real thing. A one day pass costs 100 baht and shoe rental
is only 50 baht. Near the Night Bazaar you'll find the Peak
Rock Climbing Wall. At 15 metres (50 feet) tall and 16 metres
(52 feet) wide it's the largest wall of its kind in Southeast
Asia, with room and routes for beginners and advanced climbers.
There are several companies which provide instruction, guides
and equipment for novice climbers. The Peak and C3 are both
very reputable, with international safety standards and high
quality equipment.
Cycling in Chiang Mai
Cycling is a great way to get out and see the quaint and
fascinating landscape of the city and surrounding areas while
enjoying some pleasant exercise. A bike tour of the old city
takes about four hours and encompasses the major sites, while
the roads to the smaller nearby towns are in great condition
for those who are interested in longer runs.
If you're looking to get down and dirty take to the hills
on the back of a mountain bike. There are several reputable
companies that offer excellent single or multi-day mountain
bike tours. The mountains and hills of Chiang Mai offer wild
descents, twisting tracks and show stopping views. Many trails
wind near rarely visited hilltribe villages, where you can
get an authentic look at their way of life.
Bike rental is widespread over Chiang Mai and most rental
shops can kit you out with full suspension bikes and all the
safety gear.
Other Adventure Activities
Chiang Mai has loads of other opportunities for outdoor thrills
and excitement. Jungle Bungee is the only fully licensed and
insured bungee jump operator in Thailand. New Zealand safety
standards means you can feel confident taking the plunge.
If you want to rise above it all try an ultralight trip with
Chiang Mai Sky Adventures or a balloon ride with Oriental
Balloons. To get your Dirty Harry fix head to the Lanna Sports
Complex for an afternoon of target shooting. |
