What you get on this adventure: AMGA/WMA experienced, local rock climbing guide with extensive knowledge of the area Climbing equipment Full day of rock climbing (choose the itinerary that suits you the most) Climbing insurance Lunch box & water Transportation to and from the climbing site from Progression Vertical climbing gym What’s not included: Transportation to Thailand Transfer from hotel to Progression Vertical climbing gym (available at an additional cost) Accommodations Guide gratuities — optional Travel and medical insurance — optional

How fit do I need to be?

If you can climb a ladder, you’re good to go. Being in good shape is always a plus but far from necessary. Rock climbing is all about using good movement technique rather than muscling up a cliff using brute strength. You can choose between several courses, some beginner and some intermediate. To ensure you have a fun day, your guide will choose routes that best suit your skill and fitness level. If you’re eager to rock climb in Thailand, check out some of our other adventures we offer: rock climbing tour in Railay or rock climbing in Lopburi .

Do I need any climbing experience?

It depends on the course you choose. Check out the prerequisites below to find your perfect course! Intro to Rock Climbing — No experience necessary, this course is perfect for total rock climbing beginners. Outdoor Top Rope Essentials — Some experience is required here, mainly the knowledge of essential knots and PBUS belaying for top-rope climbing. If you’re not yet familiarized with these, choose the Intro to Rock Climbing. The Outdoor Top Rope Essentials course is ideal for beginner to intermediate climbers who want to transition safely to outdoor rock climbing. Learn to Lead Outdoors — This course is for intermediate climbers who already know how to outdoor top rope climb, top rope belay, and tie the essential climbing knots. Please note that this course is not suitable for beginners! Intro to Multi-Pitch Climbing — This is meant for intermediate to advance climbers that have a working knowledge of critical lead climbing skills including belaying, clipping, and climbing knots before participating in this multi-pitch course. This course is not for beginners! Single-Pitch Private Guiding — All levels are welcome to join this course! It’s ideal for those looking for a personalized single-pitch experience. Multi-Pitch Private Guiding — This course is designed for climbers with some top rope ability and are comfortable at great heights. There are both beginner and more advanced routes.

What do I need to bring?

All technical climbing equipment will be provided by your guiding service. However, if you have your own gear, feel free to bring it. You’ll need: Helmet Harness with a locking carabiner, belay device, and chalk bag Ropes Rock shoes (included in the price, but we recommend bringing your own if you have them) Climbing hardware (quickdraws, cam devices, stoppers, etc.) Here’s a list of the equipment we suggest you bring: Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 40L bag) Athletic clothing Closed-toed shoes and socks Water bottle Food you can eat on-the-go Toiletries (sunscreen, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.) Sunglasses Camera — optional Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and prices: The maximum group size depends on the course you choose. In general, the maximum group size is set at 8 climbers with 2:1 or 3:1 client-to-guide ratios. Most courses are bookable for up to 3 climbers—in case you have a larger group, let us know and we’ll arrange a customized day for you! Rock climbing in Northern Thailand can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements: If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has climbers under the age of 18 , contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Getting there and meeting location

To get to Chiang Mai, most people fly into either Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) or Suvarnabhumi Bangkok International Airport (BKK) . If you fly into Chiang Mai Airport, a 10-minute drive takes you downtown. If you fly into Bangkok Airport, you’ve got several options—a train and a bus ride would take more than 9 hours, you can also rent a car, or you can also hop on a flight to Chiang Mai airport. Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet, though it will most probably be the Progression Vertical climbing gym in Chiang Mai.

Safety measures and insurance

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection . To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible , simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner ! Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered. Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!

Guided rock climbing in Northern Thailand

Group of climbers on the ground, Thailand

Chiang Mai | Thailand

Rock Climbing in Northern Thailand

5.00 ()

Season

Year round, but the best season is October through May

Duration

1-2 days

Difficulty

Guide

Thailand Climbing

From $125 () / 1-2 days

Intro
Itinerary
Brochure
Guides
Reviews
Things to know

Sure, there are plenty of premier climbing spots all over the world—but where else can a monkey pop up to say hello while you’re searching for a crinkle on the crag? This is Chiang Mai, Thailand’s second largest city, where ancient temples of the past and modern skyscrapers of the present seamlessly merge. Just outside of the metropolis, there’s a climbing gem not yet swarmed by the masses like the south of Thailand: with Crazy Horse as its most popular crag, you’ll find the whole area, including Lampang, addictive. Routes range from 5.7 to 5.13c on limestone slabs, cliffs, steep tufas, faces, and many other formations, meaning that Northern Thailand hides spectacular crags for a day of guided rock climbing. Total beginners and experienced climbers alike, what are you waiting for? Get to grips with Thailand’s soaring rocks!

Adventure highlights

Fantastic choice of routes

More than 300 routes and counting—new ones going up all the time
Cultural experience

Don’t miss out on Chiang Mai’s trad handicrafts, bustling markets, and ancient temples
A course for every climber

A total beginner or an experienced climber, doesn’t matter—everyone will find their perfect course

Download itineraries

Available itineraries

Intro to Rock Climbing

Have you been craving to finally see what the rock climbing hype is about? Your AMGA/WMA guides won’t just teach you about climbing, but also about top-rope climbing—the easiest and the safest way to climb. The morning portion of the climbing course in Chiang Mai and Lampang will be spent learning basic mechanisms and belaying techniques of top-roping. Following a local Thai food lunch break, you’ll get a chance to learn the basics of rappelling and help build a rappel, stepping over the edge, and lowering yourself to the ground.

This is designed to be a fun yet informative day of outdoor climbing at Crazy Horse Buttress. You can expect to cover the following:
- - Crag hazard recognition and mitigation
  - Essential knots for outdoor climbing
  - PBUS belay
  - Climbing commands
  - Basic climbing movement
  - Big rappelling/abseiling

Outdoor Top Rope Essentials

Take your first steps climbing outdoors while learning belaying, setting up anchors, and cleaning climbs. This is a full-day rock climbing course in Northern Thailand’s Chiang Mai and Lampang teaching you the basics of setting up top rope climbs on your own. Your AMGA/WMA certified guides will help you identify which crags are accessible for top rope, help you set up rope anchors without needing to lead climb, and retrieve all your gear safely at the end of the day. By the end of this course, you will be confident in the correct ways to safely climb on your own. You can expect two climbing sessions with a local Thai lunch included!

- - Crag hazard recognition and mitigation
  - Essential knots for outdoor climbing
  - PBUS belay
  - Climbing commands
  - Basic climbing movement
  - Rope management
  - Essential knots and hitches for top rope climbing
  - Basic anchor systems
  - Route finding (not as clear as indoor climbing holds)
  - Cleaning and lowering from a route

Learn to Lead Outdoors

Chiang Mai’s and Lampang’s crags are the perfect place to take your climbing skills to new heights. While lead climbing opens up a whole new world of routes and more freedom, this also means more responsibility—in come your experienced AMGA/WMA guides. Spend a whole day on Northern Thailand’s rocks, separated into two portions with a delicious Thai lunch break in the middle. This course is meant to ensure you have the necessary skills and knowledge to lead climb safely and responsibly, so sign up if you’re an experienced climber ready to take the next step! By the end of the course, you will be equipped to confidently lead climb outdoors on your own.

- - Essential knots and hitches for lead climbing
  - Equipment required for lead climbing
  - Route assessment and hardware evaluation
  - Clipping correctly
  - Rope management
  - Falling on lead
  - Setting up top rope climbs
  - Climbing movement
  - Basic anchor systems
  - Route finding
  - Cleaning and lowering from a route

Intro to Multi-Pitch Climbing

Experience the thrill of multi-pitch rock climbing, hanging 60 m (200 ft) above the ground with complete confidence! This 2-day course takes you to the highest points of the crag, where you'll learn essential skills like belaying from the top, building anchors, and rappelling from multi-pitch routes. You'll also gain time-saving rope management techniques and a deep understanding of risk factors, safety, and essential equipment. By the end of the course, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to belay, build safe anchors, rappel, and handle multi-pitch-specific safety concerns—because though multi-pitch climbing is super exciting, there are always risks involved and it's important to understand them and recognize them!

Make your way to the Progression Vertical climbing gym, which is where you will review equipment and skills necessary for multi-pitch climbing. You’ll go over this with your guide.
Apply the skills learned the day before and start climbing actual multi-pitch routes at Crazy Horse Buttress! This is what you’ll cover:
- - Equipment for multi pitch climbing
  - Top belay using a plaquette belay device
  - Protecting the follower
  - Anchors for multi pitch climbing
  - Rope management
  - Multi-pitch transitions
  - Multi-pitch rappels

Single-Pitch Private Guiding

Explore the stunning single-pitch routes of Crazy Horse Buttress with AMGA-trained guides through a tailored Single-Pitch Private Guiding adventure. With over 300 bolted routes, Crazy Horse offers something for every climber. By booking a private guide, you can maximize your time at the crag, with personalized instruction that matches your skill level and goals. Experienced guides will quickly lead you to the perfect routes, helping you elevate your single-pitch climbing. Whether you’re looking to redpoint classic climbs solo or enjoy the day with friends, our guides ensure a safe and rewarding experience.

Multi-Pitch Private Guiding

Join this thrilling day of multi-pitch climbing in Northern Thailand with AMGA-trained guides! Crazy Horse Buttress offers adventures for all levels, with routes ranging from 5c to 7b+. Even if you're a moderate climber, expert guides will make multi-pitch climbing approachable and enjoyable, ensuring you feel confident with clear instructions and high safety standards. Think of it like top rope climbing—only starting 20 m (65 ft) off the ground! Whether you're new to multi-pitch or looking to level up, this experience is designed to help you climb with ease and excitement.

For less-experienced outdoor climbers, expert guides can show you a variety of exciting moderate multi-pitch routes ranging from 5b to 6a. These climbs will take you high above the Mae On Valley or within one of the caves! You have the option to climb four pitches within a cave or three pitches above the valley floor.

Choose from routes like:
- - Trojan Horse (6a+)
  - Deep Space (5c)
  - A Horse With No Name (5c)
  - Into the Sun (6a)
For more experienced climbers looking to get on some of the more challenging multi-pitch climbs, certified guides can take you to routes ranging from 6c to 7b+. These classic Crazy Horse climbs will push you out of your comfort zone with routes that require unique movements and positioning, such as the roof of Anxiety State Crisis Cave.

Choose from routes like:
- - Anxiety State Crisis (7a)
  - Sunseeker (6c)
  - Head Hunters (7a)

Rock Climbing in Northern Thailand

Adventure Brochure

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Talk with us and let one of our adventure experts help you plan your perfect adventure.

Meet your guide

5.00

Thailand Climbing

CMRCA was founded in 2002 in Chiang Mai, Thailand, by a group of local climbers. Their team consists of experts in climbing, caving, and recreation. Sustainability actions, the highest safety standards, and giving back to the community are the focus of CMRCA’s climbing community. They are passionate about sharing their love for the mountains, caves, and valleys with their clients—and along the way they help them become more confident climbers and achieve their goals.

5.00 (5 reviews)

James P (source: Tripadvisor)

30 minute drive to the climbing area, north west of the city, part of a ridge of hills overlooking a rural valley. Apart from one other couple we had the whole place to ourselves. Scores of climbs to choose from. Wide spectrum of difficulty. Our guides were super – super friendly and very knowledgeable- felt super safe all day. Climbed all morning, stopped for lunch and then cracked into again after – moving to keep out of the sun. We finished our day with a 55m rappel into a cave. Super professional outfit. Thanks for a great day.

Hsin-Ti L (source: Tripadvisor)

Great way to get the fullest of experience climbing in the nature if you are from outside of the country. And it is the best way to give back the both the local community and the crag developers. The price is way worth it’s value!

Excellent rock climbing.

Brynde K (source: Tripadvisor)

Beginner friendly and also suitable for more advanced climbers. Rigorous safety standards and friendly guides. A great way to view Chiang Mai forests from above!

Ruthjf (source: Tripadvisor)

My family of three spent a day rock climbing in Lampang with CMRCA. They were great and I would definitely recommend them. Our guide was extremely knowledgable, supportive, fun, and did a very good job meeting the different climbing skills of the three people in our group.

Great climbing and excellent instruction on our two day course.

Taylor C (source: Tripadvisor)

My partner learned to lead climb and we both learned anchor building and rescue techniques, which was a big level up for me even after years of lead climbing experience. Can’t say enough about the quality of these guides and instructors!

Things to know

What you get on this adventure:
- - AMGA/WMA experienced, local rock climbing guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  - Climbing equipment
  - Full day of rock climbing (choose the itinerary that suits you the most)
  - Climbing insurance
  - Lunch box & water
  - Transportation to and from the climbing site from Progression Vertical climbing gym
What’s not included:
- - Transportation to Thailand
  - Transfer from hotel to Progression Vertical climbing gym (available at an additional cost)
  - Accommodations
  - Guide gratuities — optional
  - Travel and medical insurance — optional
If you can climb a ladder, you’re good to go. Being in good shape is always a plus but far from necessary. Rock climbing is all about using good movement technique rather than muscling up a cliff using brute strength. You can choose between several courses, some beginner and some intermediate. To ensure you have a fun day, your guide will choose routes that best suit your skill and fitness level.

If you’re eager to rock climb in Thailand, check out some of our other adventures we offer: rock climbing tour in Railay or rock climbing in Lopburi.
It depends on the course you choose. Check out the prerequisites below to find your perfect course!
- - Intro to Rock Climbing — No experience necessary, this course is perfect for total rock climbing beginners.
  - Outdoor Top Rope Essentials — Some experience is required here, mainly the knowledge of essential knots and PBUS belaying for top-rope climbing. If you’re not yet familiarized with these, choose the Intro to Rock Climbing. The Outdoor Top Rope Essentials course is ideal for beginner to intermediate climbers who want to transition safely to outdoor rock climbing.
  - Learn to Lead Outdoors — This course is for intermediate climbers who already know how to outdoor top rope climb, top rope belay, and tie the essential climbing knots. Please note that this course is not suitable for beginners!
  - Intro to Multi-Pitch Climbing — This is meant for intermediate to advance climbers that have a working knowledge of critical lead climbing skills including belaying, clipping, and climbing knots before participating in this multi-pitch course. This course is not for beginners!
  - Single-Pitch Private Guiding — All levels are welcome to join this course! It’s ideal for those looking for a personalized single-pitch experience.
  - Multi-Pitch Private Guiding — This course is designed for climbers with some top rope ability and are comfortable at great heights. There are both beginner and more advanced routes.
All technical climbing equipment will be provided by your guiding service. However, if you have your own gear, feel free to bring it. You’ll need:
- - Helmet
  - Harness with a locking carabiner, belay device, and chalk bag
  - Ropes
  - Rock shoes (included in the price, but we recommend bringing your own if you have them)
  - Climbing hardware (quickdraws, cam devices, stoppers, etc.)
Here’s a list of the equipment we suggest you bring:
- - Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 40L bag)
  - Athletic clothing
  - Closed-toed shoes and socks
  - Water bottle
  - Food you can eat on-the-go
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
  - Sunglasses
  - Camera — optional
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
Group sizes and prices:
- - The maximum group size depends on the course you choose. In general, the maximum group size is set at 8 climbers with 2:1 or 3:1 client-to-guide ratios.
  - Most courses are bookable for up to 3 climbers—in case you have a larger group, let us know and we’ll arrange a customized day for you!
Rock climbing in Northern Thailand can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements:
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has climbers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
To get to Chiang Mai, most people fly into either Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) or Suvarnabhumi Bangkok International Airport (BKK). If you fly into Chiang Mai Airport, a 10-minute drive takes you downtown. If you fly into Bangkok Airport, you’ve got several options—a train and a bus ride would take more than 9 hours, you can also rent a car, or you can also hop on a flight to Chiang Mai airport.

Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet, though it will most probably be the Progression Vertical climbing gym in Chiang Mai.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!

Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
Day Trips Cancellations
Fully refundable within the initial 48 hours from booking, unless the trip date is less than 7 days from the time of the booking.
Cancellations up to 7 days prior to the trip date are refundable 100%.
Cancellations within 7 days prior to the trip date are non-refundable.
57hours partners with Redpoint Travel Protection, offering you a fully integrated program with a single point of contact for all your needs, from emergency services to travel assistance and protection claims. We highly recommend purchasing a comprehensive protection policy from Redpoint, which will protect you both before and during your travels. Before your departure, your investment is protected by the trip cancellation benefit. Once you depart, your policy provides coverage for trip interruption, medical assistance and rescue, baggage loss, trip delay, and more. Once you complete booking with 57hours, we'll create bespoke quote for you (and your group), making sure you're fully protected for the adventure ahead.