Temples and night markets are only half of Chiang Mai. The hills and rivers around the city make it one of the best bases in Thailand for getting outdoors. Here are ten ideas, starting with the one we know best.
1. Tandem paramotor flight
Ride beside a pilot at around 1,500 ft for 15-20 minutes, looking down on rice paddies, villages and the hills around the valley. No experience needed. Flights start at ฿2,900, with free city pickup and a GoPro to film it.
2. Ziplining in the forest
Several canopy courses in the hills north of the city send you between giant trees on long cables.
3. White-water rafting
The Mae Taeng river is liveliest in the rainy season, roughly July to October.
4. ATV and dirt-bike tours
Half-day trails take you through farmland and forest tracks outside the city.
5. Rock climbing
Crazy Horse Buttress, east of town, has routes for complete beginners and seasoned climbers.
6. Mountain biking down Doi Suthep
Guided downhill rides start high on the mountain and finish near the city edge.
7. Bungee jumping
For a short, sharp burst of adrenaline, there are jumps over water close to the city.
8. Muay Thai class
Many gyms welcome drop-in visitors for a single training session.
9. Ethical elephant sanctuaries
Choose a no-riding sanctuary in the Mae Taeng or Mae Wang areas.
10. Hiking Doi Inthanon
Thailand's highest peak is a day trip away, with cool cloud-forest trails.
Fitting a flight into your trip
Book the 06:30-09:00 morning slot and you are back at your hotel in time for breakfast and a full day of exploring.
