Be Absorbed by Adventure in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Become a Trekking King or Queen
Backpackers have been making their way to the trekking trails around Chiang Mai for decades, for one simple reason — they are spectacular. The best way to go is to take a local guide, as they will steer you through authentic villages where you can stop at locally run tea houses.
It’s also handy to have someone who knows the trails, as most of them are unmarked.
Avoid taking trekking tours that specifically promise taking you to “hill tribes.” The villages these tours visit are often set up deliberately for tourists, and aren’t great for the local communities.
It’s always best to go with a reputable company, so do some research and choose a good tour company. You can find lots of reviews from other travelers online, which are often a great way to decide which company to choose.
Feast on Street Food
Sometimes being adventurous isn’t just doing whatever gets your heart pumping — it can be exploring new foods as well. If you find yourself wondering what to do in Chiang Mai, simply go for a walk and try out some street food.
Tucking into some street eats is a great way to explore local culture and get a true taste of Thailand. There is plenty to choose from in Chiang Mai, which is a street food mecca.
The Chang Puak Gate night market is a great place to go for dinner, with a range of food stalls selling a wide range of authentic Thai dishes for low prices.
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Go Rollin’ on the River (as in, Rafting)
The Mae Taeng River sets the scene for some epic whitewater adventures. This is a fun way to see more of the gorgeous countryside around Chiang Mai.
Swooping and dropping down the river, you’ll be treated to dramatic scenery and plenty of thrills. Don’t worry though, you won’t actually roll — the tours are all given under the expert eye of trained guides.
The fast-flowing river will sweep you past rice fields, waterfalls and hill-tribe villages as you plunge through the forested, mountainous landscape.
