Trekking: this is the number one activity that attracts visitors to Chiang Mai and is the quintessential Northern Thailand experience for all free-spirited travellers. Numerous operators offer trips ranging from two to five days, in which you take in the magnificent jungles and mountainous vistas of remote backwoods, staying each night in a hill tribe village.

Fantastic waterfalls, skiffing on remote mountain streams and elephant rides are all part of the adventure.

Walking tours: are an excellent way to explore the temples and back lanes of the Old City and its pretty moat. You can take in the quiet-paced way of life at your own pace, stop at the coffee shops or simply have fun getting lost.

Courses: are popular here, because it’s a cheap place to kill time, resulting in a proliferation of Thai massage, cooking, kickboxing, language and other courses, ranging from a single day to several weeks. The one-day cooking courses are particularly popular and fun.

Golf: is offered at more than eight courses in the area, with green fees starting at 700 baht and upwards. The courses are all open to the public and many rent clubs on-site and offer affordable caddies and carts. The fairways and greens are all beautifully maintained, often with stunning backdrops.

Rock climbing: is another adrenalin activity that is provided by two companies in the city, each with a climbing or bouldering wall of their own for you to learn the basics on before a trip to the nearby Crazy Horse Buttress.

Swimming: cool off in the tropical heat at one of the city pools, such as those open to the public at the Lotus Hotel, Chiang Mai Land complex, Huay Kaew and Monthathan Waterfalls or Huay Tung Tao recreation reservoir, near the 700 Year Stadium.