Elephant Riding & Trekking
Golfing
In Chiang Rai, sporty and active tourists have ample activities to choose from. Golf is one of them. At present, many golf courses have sprung up. You can check the admission fees and hours of operation with your travel agent.
Mountain Biking
Since Chiang Rai has a scenic mountain landscape and fresh air, it is an excellent place to go mountain biking. Cyclists will enjoy the natural beauty along the trails following the Mekong River including the views of Myanmar and tropical forests. Please contact travel agencies for more details.
Rafting Along the Mae Kok River
This 130-km river is well known as one of the most picturesque and clean rivers in Thailand. Rafting along the waterway is a very relaxing activity because tourists can see hilltribe villages situated along the banks. Lush jungles and mountain cliffs create scenic views and a fresh atmosphere.
It takes 3 days and 2 nights to cover the 80-km distance by raft from Tha Ton of Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai town. River trips to and from Chiang Rai by long-tail boats are also organized regularly. The trip takes about 4-5 hrs.
Trekking
As Chiang Rai has a lot of mountains and hilltribe villages of all major groups, there are many areas good for trekking, e.g. Doi Tung, Doi Mae Salong, Doi Pa Tang and the banks along the Mae Kok River. Many travel agencies and hotels offer trekking packages with experienced guides. Prices, which include guide, meals, transportation and accommodation, normally depend on the number of days and number of participants (the more people, the cheaper price per person). Trekking alone or with unauthorized tour guide is not recommended, even though you have a route map.
See "Trekking in Northern Thailand" for more details.
Elephant Riding & Trekking
Riding on elephant's back is one of the exciting activities you should not miss because you will not only taste the adventurous ride but also have a good opportunity to explore the jungle. For more information please contact your travel agency.