Imagine trading your laptop screen for the open trails of Chiang Mai, where the rhythm of hoofbeats replaces the click of a keyboard.
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For digital nomads seeking a refreshing and unique way to balance work with leisure, horseback riding offers the perfect retreat into nature.
This immersive experience allows you to connect with the serene landscapes of Northern Thailand. It provides a sense of freedom and adventure that rejuvenates the mind and spirit.
Key Highlights
- Chiang Mai provides a range of equestrian adventures, from peaceful riding trails to comprehensive training suitable for all experience levels.
- These venues provide riding opportunities and emphasize horse care, rehabilitation, and natural horsemanship, fostering a deeper connection between riders and horses.
- Digital nomads can fully engage in cultural activities, like the six-hour horseback ride at Pong Horse Park, which includes mingling with the Hmong community.
- Standout horseback riding venues in Chiang Mai include Second Wind Ranch for horse rehabilitation, Equestrian Education Center for multilingual lessons, Casaka Stables for high-class boarding, Ride Journey Co. for diverse tour packages, Pong Horse Park for family-friendly rides, and Montana Horse Riding Club for guided trail rides and excellent facilities.
- These riding establishments combine adventure, education, and relaxation while putting the well-being of the horses and riders first. Additionally, they serve digital nomads looking for unique ways to balance work and leisure.
- Horseback riding in Chiang Mai provides a unique and enriching way to explore the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Top destinations offer something for every rider, from novices to experts.
Where to Go for Horse Back Riding Activities in Chiang Mai
Join us as we reveal the top six best places for horseback riding in Chiang Mai. Discover where to go for horseback riding activities and immerse yourself in the serene and exhilarating experience of riding through this captivating region.
From tranquil trails to comprehensive riding lessons, these destinations promise adventure and relaxation for riders of all levels.
Whether you’re looking to learn the basics, enjoy a scenic trail ride, or spend quality time with these magnificent creatures, Chiang Mai’s horseback riding venues offer something for every traveler and digital nomad.
1. Second Wind Ranch and Rescue
The Second Wind Ranch and Rescue is a not-for-profit horse sanctuary based in Chiang Mai. The Wind Ranch and Rescue family runs it, where they rescue, rehabilitate, and re-home injured horses.
Most of the horses you will find here were formerly racing horses discarded after their useful life.
Besides riding, the Wind Ranch and Rescue Family also gives you hands-on experience with the horses. You are made to learn how to bathe, groom, and feed a horse.
At Wind Ranch and Rescue, you can get trail rides along the foothills of the National Park. If you have just started riding, opt for their western riding lessons.
I have always been fascinated with horses. They look so magical, and their mane is so lustrous.
However, their size also intimidated me back when I was younger. Now that I am taller and bigger (or heavier), I am taking this chance to conquer my fears and learn to ride a horse.
Hey, it’s never too late to learn a new skill and experience something new in every nomadic journey, including horseback riding.
Unnamed Road, Nam Phrae, Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai 50230, Thailand
+66 61 248 7980
2. Equestrian Education Center Chiang Mai
The Equestrian Education Center (EEC) in Chiang Mai offers comprehensive horse riding education for individuals of all age groups and skill levels, from beginners to experienced riders.
Situated in the southeastern part of Chiang Mai, this center provides professional riding lessons, including lungeing, horse dressage, horse jumping, and vaulting.
EEC adheres to the principles of natural horsemanship, treating horses as partners rather than tools. It fosters a respectful and close relationship between riders and their horse partners, which includes grooming and tacking.
Lessons are conducted in English, German, and Thai, making them accessible to many students.
The center operates daily from 07:00 to 20:00 and welcomes visitors during these hours. However, calling ahead for detailed discussions or specific arrangements is advisable.
If you want to learn the legit and proper equestrian, EEC is the way to go, nomads.
188/8 Nong Faek Saraphi District, Chiang Mai 50140, Thailand
+66 85 707 9468
3. Casaka Stables
Casaka Stables is a premier horse boarding facility in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Spread across 18 Rai, the facility includes three stables, indoor and outdoor arenas, a lunging pen, and four paddocks.
Carolyn McCarthy, a passionate dressage rider, manages the facility, which employs a team of grooms, cleaners, and a stable manager to ensure the highest standards of care for the horses.
Casaka Stables offers high-class boarding services with exclusive treatments such as FlexBeam red light therapy and Thai herbal compress massages.
Casaka Stables’ riding academy trains riders of all levels and ages, from beginners to advanced. This world-class private equestrian center focuses on dressage and show jumping.
The mild climate of Chiang Mai makes Casaka Stables an ideal location for both competitive and pleasure riders. It is also a perfect place for retirement horses or those needing rest and rehabilitation.
Additionally, the facility is available for venue rentals and hosting events like kids’ birthday pony parties, photo shoots, school outings, and company events.
Party with these lovable horses? How cool is that, right?
224/1 Moo 3, Tambon Namphrae, Amphoe Hang Dong, 50230 Chiang Mai, Thailand
+66 95 40 21 844
4. Ride Journey Co. Chiang Mai
Ride Journey Co. offers an exceptional horse riding experience in Chiang Mai through its “Horse Trail Thailand” program. It offers various horseback riding packages, including half-day, full-day, and multi-day tours, catering to riders of all skill levels.
The half-day tours feature the Serene Temple Ride, a morning trip to a Lanna-style temple followed by a trail through local plantations, and the Exotic Jungle Ride, an afternoon journey through secluded terrains.
For a comprehensive experience, the Combo Ride combines both.
Full-day tours include the Lanna Heritage Ride, a 30 km exploration of cultural heritage sites, and the Local Route Native Ride, an adventurous trek through hills and tribal villages.
The two-day Rainforest Ride & Night offers a rejuvenating trek through rainforest mountains with overnight accommodation.
The horse stable is 30 minutes from CNX Airport and features Native Thai breeds known for their bravery on long trails. The facility is family-friendly and provides horse carriages for non-riders and additional tours to national parks.
The Horse Trail Thailand program by Ride Journey Co. is the most comprehensive activity package I have experienced here in Chiang Mai. I highly recommend it to digital nomads who want to spend leisure time with the horse while enjoying the scenic places in town.
5. Pong Horse Park
Pong Horse Park is in the Hang Dong District of Chiang Mai, surrounded by scenic mountains and verdant forests. This equestrian center provides a range of horseback riding experiences, such as trailblazing treks through the wilderness and riding instruction.
Digital nomads can enjoy a unique experience at Pong Horse Park by riding horses across the stunning Chiang Mai scenery.
One of their most notable options is a six-hour equestrian trip, which offers an intensive cultural experience and two hours of up-close interaction with the Hmong community.
The park accommodates all riders, ages beginning at three years old. It enforces weight restrictions for the horses’ and riders’ comfort and safety.
Pong Horse Park provides all guests with an unforgettable and rewarding experience, regardless of whether they are searching for a quiet ride or an exciting adventure in the outskirts of Chiang Mai.
119 Moo 1 Ban Pong Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai 50230, Thailand
+66 81 882 8899
6. Montana Horse Riding Club
Montana Horse Riding Club in Chiang Mai offers various horseback riding activities and services. It is particularly popular for providing basic riding training. Thus, it is perfect for all skill levels, from novice to advanced riders.
The club may provide guided trail rides through the scenic landscapes surrounding Chiang Mai, allowing riders to experience the natural beauty of the area.
Montana features well-maintained stables, arenas for dressage and jumping, and paddocks for the horses. The club is staffed by experienced instructors and caretakers dedicated to ensuring the well-being of both riders and horses.
Chiang Mai-Lamphun Rd, Nong Phueng, Saraphi District, Chiang Mai 50140, Thailand
+66 84 482 0303
Final Thoughts: Horse Riding in Chiang Mai
Exploring Chiang Mai on horseback offers a memorable and enriching way to experience the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
The top six horseback riding destinations in Chiang Mai each provide distinct opportunities for both novices and experienced riders to enjoy this timeless activity.
From the serene and rehabilitative environment of Second Wind Ranch and Rescue to the comprehensive equestrian education at Equestrian Education Center Chiang Mai, there is something for travelers and digital nomads.
Casaka Stables and Ride Journey Co. provide luxurious and adventurous options, respectively. At the same time, Pong Horse Park and Montana Horse Riding Club offer family-friendly and beginner-friendly environments.
Where to Go for Horse Back Riding Activities in Chiang Mai
For those looking to engage in horseback riding activities in Chiang Mai, these six venues stand out for their quality of service and dedication to the well-being of the horses and their riders.
Whether you want to learn the basics, enjoy a scenic trail ride, or even participate in horse-related events, these establishments offer a variety of experiences to meet your expectations.
Embrace the adventure and tranquility of horseback riding in Chiang Mai and create unforgettable memories in this beautiful part of Thailand.
FAQ
Many of Chiang Mai’s riding centers accommodate riders of all abilities, from total novices to expert riders. They provide classes and guided rides to assist beginners.
Many different horseback riding activities are available in Chiang Mai, such as trail rides, dressage, horse jumping, vaulting, and even cultural rides that take you through the area’s villages and historical monuments.
Prices vary depending on the center and the riding experience you want. A session typically costs 700 to 3,000 Thai Baht. It is best to speak with the centers directly for precise pricing.
Sure, many riding centers provide extracurricular activities like feeding and grooming and instruction on horse care. These encounters improve your stay and foster a closer bond with the horses.
Long pants and closed-toe shoes are recommended clothing for riding horses. When out on a trail ride, it’s also advisable to wear cool, comfortable gear and a cap to protect yourself from the sun. Most centers provide helmets for safety.
