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Adventure Sports in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai Activities and Sports

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.



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