Chiang Mai Thailand – Ultimate Guide for Sports Fans

• Chiang Mai, Thailand, weather –  when is the best (and worst) time to visit?
• Best golf courses in Chiang Mai – where to play in town and nearby.
• Thai boxing in Chiang Mai – where to practice and where to watch Muay Thai in Chiang Mai.
• Best sports bars in Chiang Mai for sports fans – where to watch NFL, NBA, MLB, Premier League, European football, Aussie Rules Football, Moto GP, Formula 1, and other sports.

 

Chiang Mai for Sports Fans

Chiang Mai, Thailand – a.k.a. the Rose of the North – is  great city for sports fans!

Whether you’re looking for a Muay Thai training camp in Chiang Mai to hone your kickboxing skills, a world-class golf course in Chiang Mai to play a round of golf, a track with a scenic view to go jogging on in Chiang Mai, a gym in Chiang Mai to work out at, or a sports bar in Chiang Mai to root for your favorite team, you’ve found the right page!

This is your ultimate guide to Chiang Mai for sports fans!

• Recommended: Best NFL Bars for all 32 Teams>>

 

Weather in Chiang Mai for Sports Fans 

So what is the weather in Chiang Mai, Thailand, like? First let’s sort out the geography.

Chiang Mai is 700 kilometers (435 miles) north of Bangkok in a mountainous region called the Thai Highlands. Chiang Mai  is located 1,000 feet or 300 meters above sea level.

Because of its mountainous, inland location, Chiang Mai has a climate that is a bit cooler and drier than Bangkok and the beach resorts of Phuket, Pattaya, Koh Samui, Hua Hin, and Krabi. Does this make Chiang Mai especially suitable for sports such as golf, jogging, trekking, and mountain biking?

To clarify, Chiang Mai has a tropical climate with two seasons: dry and rainy. Running from November to February, the dry season tends to be cooler than other months. Running from March to October, the rainy season tends to be hotter.

April is the hottest month of the year in Chiang Mai, with an average high of 98 degree Fahrenheit, or 36.7 degrees Celsius. December is the coolest month of the year, with an average high of 36 degrees Fahrenheit, or 20.3 degrees Celsius.

Chiang Mai averages 43 inches, or 1,100 millimeters, of rainfall per year. The rainiest months are August and September. Rain is very rare from December through March.

What is the best time to visit Chiang Mai for sports fans?

What are the best months in Chiang Mai for sports fans? If you want to engage in outdoor activities, the best time to visit Chiang Mai is during the cool season, which runs from November to February. 

Needless to say, this is the best time to play golf in Chiang Mai. It is also an ideal time to explore the city or jog along the shores of the Ping River, which meanders through the heart of Chiang Mai.

In addition, the dry season is a good time to go hiking, backpacking, trekking, or mountain-biking in the nearby hills that surround Chiang Mai. During the wet season, trails can become wet and muddy.

Many hotels in Chiang Mai have outdoor swimming pools. But even if they don’t, not to worry. It is sometimes possible to purchase a day pass at hotels that do.

For example, I stumbled across a hotel with an excellent swimming pool and lots of lounge chairs. And it was perfect for doing laps.

A day pass at the Burisiri Hotel cost just 150 Thai baht, approximately US$4.50. And that included a soft drink!

What is the worst time to visit Chiang Mai for sports fans?

Without doubt, the worst time to visit Chiang Mai for sports fans is during the burning season. which takes  place between the months of February and April.

But the exact dates are hard to pin down. To clarify, burning season begins earlier and ends earlier some years. And it begins later and ends later other years.

During burning season in Chiang Mai, farmers in the nearby countryside as well as neighboring countries set their leftover crops on fire to get their fields ready for the upcoming planting season. As a result, smoke and dust can fill the air.

I spent a month in Chiang Mai at this time of year in 2023. I was horrified to learn that the air quality one day was rated as the worst in the entire world. Interestingly, the skies were blue. Which proves that the most toxic fumes are sometimes invisible!

If you happen to visit Chiang Mai in burning season, make sure to spend as much time as possible indoors. Other than working out at a gym, you can consider practicing yoga at an indoor yoga studio.

If you must go outside, take appropriate precautions, and make sure to stay hydrated!

Otherwise, you will have to limit your activities to going to the movies, taking cooking classes, having spa treatments, shopping till you drop, visiting museums and art galleries, or chilling out at one of Chiang Mai’s ever-so-cool coffee houses.

Chiang Mai has a well-deserved reputation as a paradise for coffee lovers. I stumbled across Hang & Craft by accident. It was located across the street from Ging Grai. a gourmet restaurant serving regional Thai cuisine.

The surroundings were delightful. And the Black Orange, iced espresso with freshly squeezed orange juice, was very refreshing.

Muay Thai in Chiang Mai for Sports Fans

Muay Thai is considered the national sport of Thailand. A martial art, Muay Thai is sometimes called the Art of Eight Limbs because fists,  elbows, knees, and legs are all used in combat. 

A study conducted by Stanford University in the United States concluded that Thai boxing is the most lethal marital art on the planet. In fact, no other martial art comes even close!

If you would like to hone your Muay Thai skills, there are several Muay Thai gyms and Muay Thai training camps in Chiang Mai where you can do so.

There are also several Muay Thai stadiums in Chiang Mai where you can watch live Muay Thai matches. 

Religious and cultural traditions are an important part of Muay Thai, and this can make watching a Muay Thai match particularly interesting!

What are the best Muay Thai training camps in Chiang Mai?

Looking for a place to study Muay Thai in Chiang Mai? Chiang Mai Muay Thai gyms cater to all skill levels. And that runs from absolute beginners to seasoned professionals wanting to elevate their Thai boxing skills.

Included are both day gyms and training camps offering on-site accommodation. For an immersive experience, your options run from shared dormitories to comfortable private villas.

Many Muay Thai gyms in Chiang Mai are located in town, while larger Muay Thai training camps are usually located in the countryside surrounding the city.

In addition to Muay Thai, some gyms offer mixed martial arts (MMA) and yoga. Many are equipped with other work-out equipment and swimming pools.

If you are serious about learning Muay Thai, many gyms can arrange education visas so you can remain in Thailand for an extended period while you perfect your skills.

• Bangarang Muay Thai Gym– 340 M1 T. Rimnuea Mae Rim, Chiang Mai, Thailand. 
• Chiangmai Muay Thai Gym – 76 Wiang Kaew Road, Tambol Sripoom, Chiang Mai, Thailand. FACEBOOK
• The Camp Muay Thai Resort and Academy – FACEBOOK
• Happy Gym Muay Thai Chiang Mai – FACEBOOK 
• Hong Thong Muay Thai – 129/4 Moo 5, Chiangmai-Sankampang Road, Soi Roongroje, T. Tasala, Muang, Chiang Mai, Thailand. FACEBOOK
• Dang Mauy Thai Gym – 43, 1 Arak Road, Tambon Si Phum, Chiang Mai, Thailand. FACEBOOK
• SKP Muay Thai Gym – 190/3 Moo 7, T. Sankamphaeng, A. Sankamphaeng, Chiang Mai, Thailand. FACEBOOK
• Lanna Muay Thai – 177, Moo. 8, Tha Wang Tan, Amphoe Saraphi, Thailand. FACEBOOK
• Tiger Muay Thai and MMA Training Camp – 298 Moo. 6 Tambon Maefaek-mai, Amphur Sansai, Chiang Mai, Thailand. FACEBOOK

 

What are the best places to watch Muay Thai in Chiang Mai?

There are several Muay Thai stadiums in Chiang Mai, where you can watch live Muay Thai matches. 

Muay Thai matches are usually held nightly except Sunday. They generally start at 9 pm and finish at midnight. And tickets can usually be purchased at the door.

Most of the Muay Thai stadiums are fully or partially open air. An exception is Chiang Mai Boxing Stadium, which is fully indoors. This would be your best bet during Chiang Mai’s hottest months!

•  Loi Kroh Boxing Stadium – 96-98, Loi Kroh Road Chang Khlan, Chiang Mai, Thailand. FACEBOOK
• Chiang Mai Boxing Stadium – 177, Soi Changphuak 4 Si Phum, Chiang Mai, Thailand. FACEBOOK
•  Anusarn  Boxing Stadium – Chanklan Road, Anusarn Market, Chiang Mai, Thailand.  FACEBOOK
• Kalare Stadium – 89, 2 Changklan Road, Tambon Chang Moi, Chiang Mai. Thailand. 
• Thapae  Boxing Stadium – 1 Mun Mueang Road, Phra Sing, Chiang Mai, Thailand. FACEBOOK

Golf in Chiang Mai for Sports Fans

If you want to play a round of golf in Chiang Mai, there are at least 12 golf courses in and around the city. Here is a short list of the best golf courses in Chiang Mai and in the surrounding countryside:

• Chiangmai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort  – Set in the foothills to the east of the city, Chiangmai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort has a 27-hole championship golf course with mountain views at every hole. FACEBOOK
• Alpine Golf Resort  – The  27-hole championship golf course at Alpine Golf Resort has a combination of both easy and difficult holes. FACEBOOK
•  Royal Chiang Mai Golf Club – The tree-lined golf course at Chiang Mai Gold Club has water hazards at almost every hole. FACEBOOK
• The Summit Green Valley Chiang Mai Country Club – The golf course at the summit is one of the most challenging golf courses in Thailand. FACEBOOK

Jogging in Chiang Mai for Sports Fans

The weather in Chiang Mai ranges from hot to very hot, and it can be very wet and humid several months of the year, making it not the best time for sports fans.

Not only that, the air quality should be taken into considering during burning season. Therefore, be sure to take the appropriate precautions when jogging in Chiang Mai. And by all means, stay hydrated!

A list of the best spots in and around Chiang Mai to go jogging follows:

• River Ping Small Loop – there is a two-mile loop trail near Saraphi, Chiang Mai, which takes you along the shores of the Ping River. Considered moderately challenging, the route takes about 45 minutes to complete.
• Huay Tueng Tao Lake – located North of Chiang Mai, Huay Tuemg Tao Lake has a cycle track, running track, and lake loop offering scenic off-road views.
• Chiang Mai University – situated next to the Arboretum and Ang Kaew Reservoir, Chiang Mai University has an excellent running track at Central Stadium.
• Royal Park Rajapruek – located near the Mae-Hia Agricultral Research Center, the park is an excellent spot to go jogging in Chiang Mai.
• Doi Suthep – located west of Chiang Mai, Soi Suthep offers an endless variety of mountain trails, which are among the best in Thailand for hiking, cycling, and jogging.

Action Sports in Chiang Mai for Sports Fans

In addition to Muay Thai, Chiang Mai is a paradise for other action sports enthusiasts, as well!

For example, there are excellent trails and downhill runs for mountain bikers. And there are guided tours for various skills levels.

You can also  go on nature walks, visit tribal villages, explore caves, go kayaking, check out waterfalls – the list goes on.

Keep in mind that mountain trails can become wet wet and muddy during rainy season.

Top 12 Bars in Chiang Mai for Sports Fans

Looking for a sports bar in Chiang Mai to root for your favorite team? 

There are any number of bars in Chiang Mai for sports fans, where you can watch National Football League, Aussie Rules Football, European football, baseball, basketball, ice hockey, soccer (football?}, golf, rugby, motor sports, boxing – the list goes on. 

• O’Malley’s Irish Pub – 149/14-15, Anusarn Market, Chiang Mai, Thailand. Watch English Premier, NFL, Australian Rules Football, Rugby, NBA, NRL, Formula One, Tennis and Nascar, Triple Crown horse racing, PGA golf, and other sports at this popular Irish pub in Chiang Mai. FACEBOOK
• U. N. Irish Pub and Restaurant – 24-24/1 Ratchawithi Road, Chiang Mai, Thailand. An Irish and international sports bar in Chiang Mai showing NBA, NFL, NHL, Premier League Football, Championship Football, UFC, Rugby Championship, Moto GP, Formula 1, and Gaelic Football. FACEBOOK
• The Score Sportsbar and Restaurant – 25/5-6 Ratchawithi Road, Si Phum Sub-district, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai, Thailand. Weekly sports schedules include AFL, NRL, Rugby Leagues, Formula 1, MotoGP, and Premier League. FACEBOOK
• Radost Czech-German Pub – 1 Changphuak Soi 1, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat, Chiang Mai, Thailand. Premier League, Bundesliga, Champions League, La Liga, NFL, NBA, NHL, AFL, ARL, Formula 1, and all other sports are featured. 
• Freerolls Sports Bar and Restaurant – 148/2, Moo 4, Chiang Mai Business Park, Chiang Mai, Thailand.  Expect live football, motorsports, boxing mixed martial arts, and other sports.  FACEBOOK
• Chiang Mai Saloon 2 – 30 Ratchawithi Road, Chiang Mai, Thailand. A sports bar in Old Chiang Mai offering a combination of American and Thai  cuisine. FACEBOOK
• Downunder Pub & Bistro – 186/1 Loi Kroh road, Amphoe Muang, Chiang Mai, Thailand. An Australian themed sports bar in Chiang Mai. FACEBOOK
• Winstons Pool and Sports Club – 12 Huaykaew Road, Chiang Mai, Thailand, Chiang Mai, Thailand. A guest house with a restaurant, sports bar, and beer garden showing most major games and matches. There is a projector on a large screen and several TV screens.  FACEBOOK
• Krusty”s Sports Bar and Grill – 360/1 Charoen Prathet Road, Chang Klan, Chiang Mai, Thailand. Set in a garden with five large-screen TVs. FACEBOOK
• The Red Lion Sports Bar & Pub – 123 Tha Pae Road, Chiang Mai, Thailand. An English pub located in the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar.  FACEBOOK
• My Place Lounge Sports Bar and Restaurant – 80 Loi Kroh Road, Chiang Mai, Thailand. NFL, MLB, NBA, Premier League, fight nights, AFL, rugby, boxing, and other sporting events.   FACEBOOK
• The Travellers Arms and Guest House – 64/1 Ratchapakinai Road, T. Prasing A. Muang, Chiang Mai, Thailand. A guest house with a restaurant, sports bar, and beer garden showing sporting events. FACEBOOK

 

The following sports bars in Chiang Mai appear to have closed: Flying Circus, Cha Cha Sports Bar & Grill, The Riverside Bar & Grill, and The Wall Sports Bar & Restaurant. Please let me know if any other bars have closed so I can update this list!

Your Feedback on Sports Bars in Chiang Mai Wanted

Have you ever been to any of these sports bars in Chiang Mai? If so, your feedback is wanted! Overall, do you consider these sports bars good for sports fans? 

You can comment on the live sports coverage. For example, which sports channels are offered? Do they show North American sports such as NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL? What about Premier League, Bundesliga, AFL, NRL, Rugby League, Formula 1, motor sports, or boxing?

What about the number and quality of the television screens? Can you get an unobstructed view? Do they turn the sound on?

You can comment on what the quality of the food and drinks and what the menu options are. And don’t forget to mention specific dishes.

For example, I found the Irish stew at O’Malley’s Irish Pub to be absolutely delicious! I also liked the chili con carne.

What about the beer? Do they offer a good selection? Are there any specialty cocktails? Do they offer special promotions during high profile sporting events?

You can comment on the atmosphere. Is it quiet or lively? Is it a good place to hang out with friends? Do any fans groups hang out there? 

You can comment on the seating. Is it comfortable? Does it offer an unobstructed view of TV screens? Can you reserve seats in advance?

Does the bar have live music? Are there special events? Is there dancing? Are there games such as pool, darts, or beer pong? 

Chiang Mai for Sports Fans – Useful Information

If you are a sports fan planning a visit to Chiang Mai, you might find the following links useful:

• Etiquette Tips for Travelers Visiting Thailand>>
• Chiang Mai International Airport>>
• Where to  Stay in Chiang Mai>>
• Chiang Mai Tourism Board>>

 

Chiang Mai Thailand Ultimate Guide for Sports Fans is the first in a series of travel guides for sports fans in Thailand!