Travel
Volunteer and Adventure

Paramotoring in Chiang Mai: An Adventure of a Lifetime

Petrina Darrah

Posted: April 19, 2023

Chiang Mai, known as the cultural capital of Thailand, is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. While there are many ways to explore this amazing city, one of the most exhilarating experiences is by taking a paramotoring tour. Paramotoring in Chiang Mai provides breathtaking views of the city and the countryside while giving you a unique perspective on this beautiful destination. In this article, we’ll explore the wonders of paramotoring in Chiang Mai and what makes it such a thrilling adventure.

Overview of Chiang Mai

Before we dive into the world of paramotoring, let’s take a quick overview of Chiang Mai. Located in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is surrounded by lush green hills and is home to more than 300 temples. The city has a subtropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round, making it an ideal location for outdoor activities. Chiang Mai is famous for its night markets, street food, and vibrant culture. The city is also known for its elephant sanctuaries, where visitors can interact with rescued elephants in a responsible and ethical way.

What is Paramotoring?

Paramotoring is a form of powered paragliding that combines a small motor and a paraglider wing. The motor provides the necessary thrust to take off, and the paraglider wing provides lift to soar through the air. The pilot sits in a harness attached to the motor, controlling the direction and speed of the flight.

The history of paramotoring can be traced back to the 1980s, when adventurous pilots started modifying their paragliders with small engines. The sport has since evolved, with modern equipment making it more accessible and safe for people to try.

Equipment Needed for Paramotoring

To participate in a paramotoring tour, you’ll need to have the proper equipment. The equipment includes a paramotor, which consists of a small engine, a propeller, and a frame; a paraglider wing, which provides lift; and a harness to hold the pilot in place. It’s essential to use high-quality equipment, and all equipment must be regularly inspected and maintained for safety.

Paramotoring in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a popular destination for paramotoring tours because of its diverse landscapes and natural beauty. The tours typically last for around an hour, with experienced pilots guiding you through the skies. There are many different routes available, ranging from flying over the city to exploring the countryside.

One popular route is the Mae Ping River route, which takes you over the river and the surrounding rice fields. You’ll get a bird’s eye view of the lush greenery and local villages, providing a unique perspective on rural life in Thailand. Another popular route is the Doi Suthep route, which takes you over the famous Doi Suthep temple and the mountain range surrounding the city. You’ll get an incredible view of the city and the surrounding hills, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Safety Precautions

Safety is of utmost importance when it comes to paramotoring. Before taking off, all equipment must be inspected and checked to ensure it is in good working condition. The pilots are trained professionals who follow strict safety protocols and guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable flight. It’s important to follow all instructions given by the pilot, wear appropriate clothing and equipment, and not engage in any risky behaviour during the flight.

Benefits of Paramotoring in Chiang Mai

Paramotoring in Chiang Mai offers a unique perspective on the city and the surrounding countryside. It’s a thrilling experience that provides a sense of freedom and adventure, with the wind rushing through your hair and the stunning scenery passing by beneath you. The feeling of being suspended in the air while soaring above the earth is truly unforgettable.

One of the main benefits of paramotoring in Chiang Mai is the breathtaking views that you’ll see. From above, you’ll get an entirely different perspective on the city and the surrounding countryside. You’ll see the ancient temples, the bustling markets, the green hills, and the winding river from a completely different viewpoint. The views are especially stunning at sunrise or sunset when the colours of the sky blend with the colours of the earth, creating a magical atmosphere.

Paramotoring in Chiang Mai is also a unique way to explore the city. While there are many ways to see Chiang Mai, paramotoring allows you to explore the city in a way that few others have experienced. You’ll be able to fly over the city and see the landmarks from a completely different angle. You’ll also be able to discover the hidden gems that are not visible from the ground.

Finally, paramotoring in Chiang Mai is a thrilling experience that you’ll never forget. The rush of adrenaline that you’ll feel as you take off and soar through the air is unlike anything else. It’s a feeling of freedom and adventure that you’ll carry with you for the rest of your life.

Other Adventures in Chiang Mai

While paramotoring in Chiang Mai is a unique and thrilling experience, there are also many other adventures to be had in this beautiful city.

If you’re interested in giving back while you travel, consider volunteering with GVI in Chiang Mai. GVI is a global organisation that runs sustainable development and conservation programs around the world. In Chiang Mai, they have a program that focuses on elephant conservation and community development. As a volunteer, you’ll work alongside local communities and elephant sanctuaries to help protect these incredible animals and their habitats. It’s a rewarding experience that allows you to make a positive impact while also learning about Thai culture and traditions.

For a thrill-seeker’s perspective on the lush jungle surrounding Chiang Mai, try ziplining. There are several companies in the area that offer zipline tours, allowing you to soar through the treetops and get a bird’s-eye view of the landscape. It’s an exhilarating experience that combines adrenaline-pumping adventure with the beauty of the natural world.

For those who prefer to explore on foot, trekking is a popular activity in Chiang Mai. There are many guided tours that will take you through the jungle and up into the hills, allowing you to see some of the region’s most stunning landscapes up close. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn about the local flora and fauna, as well as the traditional cultures of the hill tribes who call this area home.

Paramotoring in Chiang Mai is an adventure of a lifetime that offers a unique perspective on this beautiful city. From above, you’ll see the city and the surrounding countryside in a way that few others have experienced. You’ll get an incredible view of the ancient temples, the bustling markets, and the lush green hills. Paramotoring in Chiang Mai is a thrilling experience that you’ll never forget, providing a sense of freedom and adventure that is unmatched by any other activity. So why not give it a try and see Chiang Mai from a completely different perspective? It’s an experience that you’ll cherish for the rest of your life.

By Petrina Darrah

Petrina Darrah is a freelance writer from New Zealand with a passion for outdoor adventure and sustainable travel. She has been writing about travel for more than five years and her work has appeared in print and digital publications including National Geographic Travel, Conde Nast Travel, Business Insider, Atlas Obscura and more. You can see more of her work at petrinadarrah.com.

Speak to us about special offers

Get a grant of up to 80% on conservation programs!

are now available for conservation programs. Apply by 31 Dec to get up to aud10000 off.

Apply

what’s up next?

Raja Ampat: Indonesia’s Diving Paradise

Discover Raja Ampat, Indonesia's diving paradise in the Coral Triangle. Explore rich marine life, pristine waters and unique dive sites like Misool and Cape Kri.

GVI

Posted: July 10, 2024

Read the article