The sport of Thai kick boxing holds a strong fascination for Western visitors as it is so different to the version practiced in Europe and the USA.
The boxers go barefoot and use their feet as much as their fists in an attempt to knock out their opponent.
Some visitors simply want to witness a few bouts, which is quite an exciting experience as Thai spectators scream out encouragement to their favorite fighter, and the fighters perform ancient rituals to the sound of wailing instruments before each bout.
There are several places to watch Thai boxing in Chiang Mai. The most convenient locations are at the Bar Beer Center just inside Tha Pae Gate (entrance next to the Top North Hotel on Moonmuang Road) and at the entertainment center on Loy Kroh Road. These are a lot of fun and usually involve a cabaret performance by local ladyboys.
For a more purist venue, head out to the Kawila Stadium on Kong Sai Road near San Pakoy Market, to the east of the city center. Tickets cost around 300B-400B and are on sale in many tourist-oriented restaurants and guest houses in the town center.
Many visitors also fancy themselves as Thai boxing heroes, and if you’d like to learn the skills involved, contact one of the many boxing schools in the area. One of the most convenient locations with a good reputation is the Lanna Muay Thai School at 161 Soi Chang Klan, Huay Kaew Road (tel: 053892102; www.lannamuaythai.com).