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Running in Thailand: Explore the Best Routes and Events to Make You Want to Fly!

| Last Updated: December 2024

It would be a gross understatement to say Thailand is a beautiful country with all the jaw-dropping scenery so visible in its mountains. So, it’s safe to say finding a good place for a run shouldn’t be a problem wherever you are in the Land of Smiles. 

Of course, when you want the best routes and events to attend to running, it’s a different story altogether. You simply can’t afford to take on whatever chance you have to put on your running shoes and waste your time. 

Still, don’t press the panic button just yet. In this guide, we’ll share our due diligence: the top destinations, routes, and events for running in Thailand—all so you can start your racing journey without a hitch! Read on.

What are the top running destinations in Thailand?

Bangkok

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Address: Bangkok

Bangkok is arguably the best running destination in Thailand. The capital city boasts numerous public parks running tracks and trails, from Lumpini Park to Benjakitti Park, Chatuchak Park, King Rama IX Park, and more.

There’s also Green Lung Bangkok which is known for its stilted and leafy cycling tracks that are suitable for running and jogging as well. Plus, you can join numerous clubs and local groups in the city which is great if you’re looking for running buddies.

This includes Sabai Run Club, Bangkok Runners, Lumpini Running Club, Wilder Training Club, etc. Most parks in the city also have convenient water stations or nearby shops so you’re covered for drinks and snacks during your running sessions.

Pro Tip: 

For the best experience, we suggest joining a fitness group like Wilder Training Club because they offer complementary fitness coaching and electrolyte drinks. It’s also worth noting that Bangkok is a frequent venue for running events in Thailand.

Check out the Jog and Joy website to learn about upcoming fun runs and marathons in Bangkok and other provinces.

Chiang Mai

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Address: Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a fan-favorite among runners who frequent northern Thailand because of its numerous running trails. This includes the Chiang Mai Old City Walls Loop, Monk’s Trail, Huai Tueng Thao Loop, Ang Kaew Reservoir Running Track, and more.

In fact, you don’t have to travel far from its city center because there are plenty of urban running spots to choose from. Think Chiang Mai Chaloem Phrakiat Park, Royal Park Rajapruek, the 700th Anniversary of Chiang Mai Stadium, and Buak Hard Public Park.

Plus, Chiang Mai offers a more relaxed running experience because its streets are pedestrian-friendly, especially if you stick to the road inside its old city walls. You’ll also find numerous temples, so running there is great for sightseeing activities as well.

Pro Tip: 

It’s best to run or jog around Chiang Mai City early in the morning or during afternoons and evenings to enjoy relaxed traffic conditions. 

Also, keep in mind that pedestrians don’t usually get right of way around crossroads, so only cross when the path is clear.

Otherwise, go for safer running spots without vehicle traffic like Royal Park Rajapruek, the 700th Anniversary of Chiang Mai Stadium, or Buak Hard Public Park.

Phuket

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Address: Phuket

Phuket is the ideal running destination in Thailand for people who like beach runs. After all, this tourist hotspot is well-known for its numerous pristine beaches, from Patong Beach to Nai Harn Beach, Kata Beach, Karon Beach, and more.

Mai Khao Beach, in particular, is a solid pick because it’s the longest beach in Phuket around 10 kilometers long, making it an easy 20-kilometer out-and-back running track. 

You can also enjoy morning and afternoon runs around Phuket Old Town. Going there gives you a chance to admire many colorful Sino-Portuguese buildings. 

The uphill trails to Karon Viewpoint and Big Buddha Phuket are also worth checking out if you want a more challenging running experience.

Pro Tip: 

Phuket also has forest trails that are suitable for running but we recommend hiring a local guide if you want to try them out. Or you can join local running groups like Coco’s Run Club and Phuket Hash House Harriers. 

Krabi

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Address: Krabi

Krabi is known for its wide selection of running spots, from its pristine beaches to its public parks, reservoirs, nature trails, and more. Notable locations include Khao Ngon Nak Nature Trail, Ao Nang Beach, Klong Haeng Reservoir, and Thara Park.

Khao Ngon Nak Nature Trail, in particular, is definitely a must-try for its diverse wildlife, challenging uphill terrain, and refreshing water streams. The running trail from Ao Nang Beach to Tonsai Beach and Railay Beach is also a top pick.

There, you can enjoy Krabi’s breathtaking coastal views, limestone rock formations, and jungle areas. Thara Park is also a great option because of its large green space, relaxed atmosphere, and stunning seaside setting.

Pro Tip: 

There are no notable running groups or clubs in Krabi so your best option is to hire a local guide if you like to explore the province’s off-the-beaten trails as well. 

Also, bear in mind that some of Krabi’s urban running routes may have plenty of stray dogs. It’s best to skip trails near residential areas to avoid encountering them. Otherwise, we suggest carrying a stick you can use to scare these dogs away.

Koh Samui

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Address: Koh Samui District, Surat Thani

Koh Samui is a haven for running enthusiasts. This island is a well-known running destination in Thailand because it has a nice variety of trails offering easy to moderate, and challenging difficulties.

It’s also popular thanks to its beautiful sandbanks that appear during the low tide. However, one of the island’s best running spots is the 9.6-kilometer loop around the neighborhood in Koh Samui’s northeast end.

This loop consists of the Chaweng-Choengmon and Sanam Bin Road which is along Samui Airport. Koh Samui also has notable beaches that are great for beach runs like Chaweng Beach, Bo Phut Beach, Lamai Beach, Maenam Beach, and more.

Pro Tip: 

Renu Run Club is the most notable running club in Koh Samui so we recommend joining them if you’re looking for running buddies. They hold biweekly 3K and 5K running sessions at the leafy Koh Samui Stadium which has a 1-kilometer looped trail.

Pattaya

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Address: Pattaya City

Pattaya City is a great choice for running enthusiasts looking for a nice mix of beach and urban running spots in Thailand. There, you can enjoy intensive running sessions at Pattaya Beach and Jomtien Beach while admiring their stunning ocean views.

In fact, Pattaya is best known for its annual International Bikini Beach Race which attracts tourists from around the world. You can also opt for a more relaxing run at the Pattaya City Public Park which has a few good elevations to offer. 

You can take things further by extending your running laps to include the nearby Phra Tamnak Mountain Viewpoint and Big Buddha Hill. Other notable running spots include Map Phrachan Reservoir Loop, Chaloem Park Foothill Loop, and Krating Beach.

Pro Tip: 

Visit Pattaya around October or November if you want to join the International Bikini Beach Race. Bear in mind that it’s a 5K race in the sand, so it’s more physically demanding than regular 5K running events.

Prachuap Khiri Khan

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Address: Prachuap Khiri Khan

Prachuap Khiri Khan is a well-known running destination in Thailand because of its numerous running trails and routes. This includes Phraya Nakhon Cave Trail, Southeast Khao Khuang Hill, Pran Buri Reservoir South Trail, and South Khao Kalok Beach.

There’s also the popular Hua Hin Beach if you like a more lengthy beach running session. Plus, this beach has numerous cafes and restaurants so you’re covered for snacks and drinks during your runs.

Rajabhakti Park is also a solid pick, especially if you’re a history buff. There, you can enjoy a relaxing run of its 1.3-kilometer loop while admiring the revered statues of the 7 ancient Thai kings in the middle.

Pro Tip: 

The Hua Hin Hash House Harriers is your best option if you’re looking for a running group to join in Prachuap Khiri Khan. This group holds numerous running sessions in the province at various locations.

Bang Krachao Cycling Route

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Address: Bang Kachao, Phra Pradaeng District, Samut Prakan
Distance: 20 kilometers
Time to run: 2 to 3 hours
Difficulty: Easy

The Bang Krachao Cycling Route is one of the more popular workout venues in Bangkok. It’s aptly called the Green Lung because of its artificial island’s lung-like shape and lush greenery which are home to diverse urban wildlife.

This cycling route features narrow stilted tracks equipped with handrails that protect clumsy runners and cyclists from accidental falls. There are numerous eateries and markets in the area as well, so you’re covered for drinks and snacks after your runs.

This place also has the Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park and Botanical Garden. There, you can also find concrete paths and wooden walkways that are great for running.

Pro Tip: 

You may need to slow down several times while running in the Green Lung when cyclists pass by, thanks to the narrow pathways. It isn’t really the best option if you plan to train at a constant pace.

Lumpini Park Loop

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Address: Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok
Distance: 2.56 kilometers
Time to run: 15 to 20 minutes
Difficulty: Easy

Lumpini Park is one of the more accessible running routes in Thailand. It’s a popular public park with a looped concrete trail and large green spaces.

You can also find many wildlife in the area which is great for animal-spotting activities during your running sessions. Think water monitor lizards, crows, pigeons, etc.

This park also has free outdoor gym equipment, tai chi, and aerobic sessions you can join for a more holistic fitness regimen. The convenient food and drink stalls at the park’s entrances are also a plus.

Pro Tip: 

Most runners in Bangkok gather here at night. To avoid huge crowds or the city’s midday heat, train at dawn.

Mae Nam Beach Route

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Address: 2 Tambon Mae Nam, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani
Distance: 7.2 kilometers
Time to run: 40 minutes to 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy

Mae Nam Beach is a 3.6-kilometer bay area in Koh Samui which makes it an easy 7.2-kilometer out-and-back running beach trail—great for building endurance. Aside from that, beaches usually have better air quality which helps with lung health.

This palm-fringed beach is also one of the less touristy spots on the island which is ideal if you’re looking for a more relaxed running experience. Plus, you have access to numerous cafes and restaurants so you’re covered for food and drinks as well.

Moreover, the fisherman’s village in the trail’s middle section also gives you a chance for a nice cultural experience.

Pro Tip: 

It’s best to run at this beach during early mornings or afternoons because midday temperatures are usually high. 

Chiang Mai City Wall Loop

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Address: Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District
Distance: 6.2 kilometers
Time to run: 30 to 40 minutes
Difficulty: Easy

Chiang Mai City Wall Loop is a beginner-friendly running spot in northern Thailand. It’s a straightforward looped trail along the city’s ancient walls which makes it a great option for history buffs and running enthusiasts.

You can also modify the route and explore the old city’s middle portions for some temple sightseeing adventures. Or you can extend your run along Loi Kroh Road via the Tha Phae Gate on the east side wall.

This will take you to Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, Anusarn Market, and Kalare Night Bazaar for some street food action.

Pro Tip: 

Early morning is the best time for running in the Chiang Mai City Wall Loop because of the lighter vehicle traffic. But, you still need to be careful when approaching the crossroads because Thai motorists don’t usually yield the right of way to pedestrians.

Monk’s Trail

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Address: Unnamed Road, Mueang Chiang Mai District
Distance: 7.2 kilometers
Time to run: 1.5 to 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate

The Monk’s Trail is an accessible running trail that offers a good challenge to runners who frequent Chiang Mai. It’s also great for sightseeing because it takes you to 2 iconic temples: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and Wat Pha Lat.

There, you’ll be greeted with numerous gilded pagodas, shrines, prayer halls, and Buddha images. Moreover, this trail is also straightforward so it’s also one of the easier routes to navigate for people visiting Chiang Mai for the first time.

Pro Tip: 

Bear in mind that the Monk’s Trail is aptly named so it’s used by local monks going to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and Wat Pha Lat as well. We recommend wearing appropriate clothing that covers your shoulders and knees at least.

Huay Tueng Thao Reservoir Loop

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Address: 283 Moo 3, Don Kaeo, Mae Rim District
Distance: 3.6 kilometers
Time to run: 25 to 30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy

Huay Tueng Thao Reservoir Loop is a relaxing tree-lined running trail. It’s ideal for midday running sessions because its shaded concrete pathway provides excellent protection against the harsh sunlight.

You’ll also find trail markers every 500 meters which helps make tracking the distance you’ve covered a breeze. Plus, this reservoir is known for its cozy lakeside restaurants and cafes, so you have plenty of options for food and drinks.

There’s also a sculpture park at the reservoir’s north end which is great for sightseeing and photo opportunities.

Pro Tip: 

For the best experience, start your run early in the morning to make the most of the reservoir’s stunning scenery and peaceful atmosphere. Most visitors only start arriving after 6:30 a.m. when the earliest on-site restaurants open for the day.

Laguna Phuket Marathon

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Address: Laguna Grove Phuket, Lagoon Road, Choeng Thale, Thalang District
Distances: 2K Kids, 5K, 10K, 21K, 42K, 42K Relay
Schedule: Usually held in June

Laguna Grove Resort’s Laguna Phuket Marathon is arguably Phuket’s largest annual sporting event. It’s also certified by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races so it attracts professional athletes and running enthusiasts worldwide.

It’s also a qualifying event for the prestigious Boston Marathon, so it’s definitely a must-try for serious runners and marathon relay teams. The event also awards trophies to the top three winners for each age group and special medals for the finishers.

Pro Tip: 

If you book a room at the Laguna Grove Resort, you’ll have access to their free shuttle service which is a convenient way to get around the sporting venue.

Bangkok Midnight Marathon

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Address: Rattanakosin Island, Wat Ratchabophit, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok
Distances: 10K, 21K
Schedule: Usually held in December

The Bangkok Midnight Marathon is one of the more important running events in Thailand so it usually attracts thousands of runners across the globe. Its starting point is Sanam Chai Road and ends at the Giant Swing in Dinso Road.

This unique night-time race will also pass through popular landmarks like the King Rama V and Democracy monuments. Plus, they also feature the artwork of famous artists like Rukkit.

You can find their designs on the race’s numerous prizes and special items. Think medals, race shirts, finisher shirts, goodie bags, and more.

Pro Tip: 

Be sure to prepare for the heat and humidity during this marathon because it surprises most runners who think the temperature will be colder because it’s midnight. Plus, it’s best to bring plenty of water in case they run out at the fueling stations. 

Pattaya International Bikini Beach Race

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Address: Pattaya Beach, Chon Buri
Distances: 5K
Schedule: Usually held in November

Pattaya City’s International Bikini Beach Race is a unique running event in Thailand. It’s a beach race, so runners are expected to wear their bikinis and beach outfits which also makes it one of the country’s sexier marathons.

It only has a 5K event but expect it to be more physically demanding because you’ll be running in Pattaya Beach’s fine golden sands. This event is also known for its party atmosphere with live DJ music, influencers, and beauty queens gracing the venue.

Your entry includes a finisher medal, event t-shirt, post-race medal, photo service, and more.

Pro Tip: 

Stay after the race because there will be DJ and band concerts. It’s also worth noting that they offer a VIP entry package with a 1-night stay at Somerset Pattaya, Courtyard by Marriott, Hotel Baraquda Heeton, or OZO North Pattaya.

You also get Woo GoGi vouchers and tickets to Ramayana Water Park.

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