Chiang Mai has always been known as Thailand’s cultural jewel — a city wrapped in tradition, temples, and mountain silhouettes. But once a year, it transforms into the beating heart of Southeast Asian trail running. Chiang Mai Thailand by UTMB 2025, held at the atmospheric Chiang Mai PAO Park, once again delivered an unforgettable blend of nature, culture, community, and pure mountain challenge.
This year, I took on the Suthep 20 category — a deceptively short but fierce 21.17km course packing in 1,221m of elevation gain. An adventure that tested the legs, lungs, and spirit in a way only Thai mountains know how.
🏔️ The Race: Suthep 20 — Short, Steep, Stunning
The Suthep 20 is often described as “small in distance, big in attitude,” and the 2025 edition lived up to its reputation from the very first kilometre.
🔥 The First 9km: A Relentless Climb
The course launches runners straight into a steep ascent toward the ridges of Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. For nearly 9km, the trail climbed aggressively through shaded forest tunnels, rocky switchbacks, and root-filled staircases. It was the kind of climb that silenced conversations and turned every runner inward — one step, one breath, one push at a time.
The morning air was cool, and the canopy filtered gentle light onto the trail, but the gradient was unforgiving.
🌊 Water Crossings & Technical Terrain
After the climb, the course transitioned into a playful mix of rolling terrain and river crossings. Cold water splashed over tired legs, providing brief relief from the heat building through the morning. The technical descents required focus — rocks, damp soil, and twisted roots kept runners alert, while the sound of flowing streams added a calming contrast to racing heartbeats.
🥤 The 9km Aid Station: Thoughtful, Refreshing, Perfectly Placed
Reaching the 9km aid station felt like arriving at an oasis. UTMB events are known for their hospitality and logistics, and this station was no exception.
Runners were greeted with:
- Electrolyte drinks
- Ice-cold water (a gift from heaven)
- Soft drinks to bump up energy
- Fresh fruits — refreshing watermelons, and oranges
- Snacks for refuelling
- Shower facilities to cool down before the second half
That cold shower — even just a few refreshing splashes — reset both body and mind. It was the perfect launchpad for the remaining distance.
🏁 The Final Stretch
The return route offered a more runnable profile: flowing single tracks, shaded undulating paths, and a gentle descent into PAO Park. Tired legs found new rhythm, and the sounds of music from the race village slowly grew louder.
Crossing the finish line was a mix of exhaustion, pride, and gratitude — a feeling amplified by the warm cheer of volunteers and fellow runners.
🎪 The Race Village: Like a Festival Hidden in a Park
One of the biggest highlights of UTMB Thailand 2025 was the incredible race village at Chiang Mai PAO Park. It didn’t feel like a typical running expo — it felt like a festival nested within nature.
✨ What Made the Race Village Special
- A fantastic selection of food and drink booths featuring Northern Thai delicacies, snacks, desserts, smoothies, and speciality drinks.
- Participants could use their personalised QR codes to offset payments — super convenient, especially post-race when carrying cash is the last thing you want to think about.
- Popular brand booths from sponsors and local vendors showcase gear, sports nutrition, and handmade products.
- Great music played throughout the expo and race days, keeping the energy upbeat and festive.
- At night, the entire village was beautifully illuminated, transforming PAO Park into a cosy, lantern-lit atmosphere perfect for strolling and celebrating.
The entire setup added heart and personality to the event — a reminder of how Chiang Mai blends culture, creativity, and community seamlessly.
🌾 What We Did After the Race: A Chiang Mai Cultural Marathon
The race was only half the adventure — the post-event itinerary completed the story. Chiang Mai is a place where recovery means more than rest… it means exploration, culture, food, and joyful experiences.
Here’s a recap of our unforgettable days after the Suthep 20 finish:
🥗 Lunch at Ohkajhu Organic Restaurant
A Chiang Mai staple known for huge portions, fresh farm-to-table ingredients, and vibrant salads. Perfect for hungry runners refuelling after a tough mountain morning.
Visit Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan
One of Chiang Mai’s most revered temples, rich with Lanna architecture and peaceful courtyards. A grounding place to reflect after the race.
☕ Mars Café
A charming café with excellent drinks — the iced coffee hit especially well after hours in the heat. Cosy atmosphere, clean aesthetic, and great pastries.
Wat Intharawat (Wat Ton Kwen)
A hidden gem. One of the last remaining wooden Lanna-style temples, beautifully preserved and incredibly photogenic. Quiet, serene, and deeply cultural.
Try Northern Thai Traditional Costumes
A fun and meaningful cultural experience — dressing in Northern Thai (Lanna) style attire and capturing photos among traditional backdrops.
🍽️ Dinner at On The Rock @ NamPhrae
A lovely dinner venue with a rustic vibe, comfort food, and scenic views. The perfect wind-down after a day of cultural exploration.
🍛 Lunch at Kiew Kai Kha
A local favourite offering authentic Northern Thai flavours. The spicy dishes hit the spot — especially khao soi and nam prik ong.
💆 Spa: Aromatherapy Oil Massage at Fah Lanna Nimman
A well-earned reward. Warm oils, expert therapists, calming ambience — the kind of massage that melts soreness and revives clarity.
🌸 Visit Ying Yong Flower Farm
Rows of flowers, colourful landscapes, and relaxed farm vibes. Great photo opportunities and a refreshing escape from the city crowds.
🍽️ Dinner at The House by Ginger
Stylish, modern Thai cuisine served in a beautifully designed space. Flavorful dishes, elegant plating, and excellent cocktails.
🛍️ Visit Warorot Market
A classic Chiang Mai experience — bustling lanes filled with snacks, dried fruits, textiles, and delightful chaos. Perfect for souvenirs and snacks.
☕ WTF Coffee Camp
A hip, fun, open-air coffee spot surrounded by greenery. The perfect last stop for caffeine lovers. Great drinks and a relaxed atmosphere.
🏨 Stay at SYN Boutique Hotel
The stay at SYN Boutique Hotel was exceptional — spacious rooms, stylish design, friendly staff, comfortable beds, and great location. An ideal base for both race preparation and post-race relaxation. The daily Thai fusion breakfast spread was also scrumptious.
🌟 Final Thoughts: A Trail Adventure Beyond the Finish Line
Chiang Mai Thailand by UTMB 2025 wasn’t just another race — it was an experience.
A blend of challenge, culture, food, community, and adventure that few destinations can match.
From the gruelling 1,221m climb to the festive race village to days spent exploring temples, cafés, flower farms, and markets, the journey felt complete, fulfilling, and deeply memorable.
For anyone seeking:
🏔️ A trail challenge
🌴 A cultural escape
🍜 A food paradise
✨ A meaningful travel experience
Chiang Mai serves it all — and UTMB brings it to life.
Until the next climb, Chiang Mai.
Khop khun ka/khrap. 🌿💛
