Chiang Mai Marathon

About the Event

Immerse yourself in the historic charm of Northern Thailand at the Muang Thai Chiang Mai Marathon 2026, scheduled for Sunday, December 20, 2026. This landmark 21st edition takes on special significance as it serves as a centerpiece for the 730th Anniversary of Chiang Mai City, supporting the region's bid for UNESCO World Heritage status. Known as the marathon with the highest international participation in Thailand, the event invites thousands of runners from over 60 countries to experience the "Soft Power" of Lanna culture. Starting in the pre-dawn coolness at the iconic Tha Phae Gate, participants embark on a journey that blends ancient tradition with the vibrant energy of Thailand’s premier tourist destination.

The race features a meticulously designed route that is famously flat and fast, set against a refreshing winter climate of 12–18°C. Athletes can choose from the flagship Full Marathon (42.195km) and Half Marathon (21.1km), both of which finish at the majestic King Naresuan the Great Monument in Mae Rim, or opt for the 10K Run and 3K Smile Run which start and finish at the city’s historic gate. The marathon and half marathon offer a professional experience with timing chips, AIMS-standard course management, and a free shuttle service to bring runners back to the city center, ensuring a seamless adventure from the 3:00 AM start to the final celebration.

Beyond the competition, the Chiang Mai Marathon is a gateway to the legendary hospitality of the North, where "honored guests are welcomed to feel at home." Participants receive premium race kits including high-quality souvenir shirts, unique finisher medals, and, for the 42K conquerors, an exclusive finisher T-shirt. With direct international flights from major Asian hubs and a wide array of accommodations near Tha Phae Gate, the event offers the perfect "runcation" opportunity. Secure your entry during the Early Bird window starting June 6, 2026, and prepare to run through history in the heart of the "Rose of the North."

Races Offered

Marathon

Dec 20, 2026

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Distance — 42.2K

terrain

Type — Running

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03:00

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$35.00

Half Marathon

Dec 20, 2026

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Distance — 21.1K

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Type — Running

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04:00

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$28.00

10 km Run

Dec 20, 2026

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Distance — 10K

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Type — Running

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05:00

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$20.00

3 km Smile Run

Dec 20, 2026

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Distance — 3 km Smile Run

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Type — Running

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05:20

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$13.00

Weather History

These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for December in Chiang Mai.

thermostat Temperature

18.2° / 27.9°

wb_sunny Feels like

19.7° / 29.8°

light_mode Avg sunshine hours

10h 37m

water_drop Avg rainfall

0.9 mm

ac_unit Avg snowfall

—

air Avg wind speed

3.6 km/h (Light breeze)

opacity Sweat loss rate

High

terrain Course conditions

Hard and dry surface

sunny Max UV Index

Low (2.4)

humidity_mid Humidity

75.6%

wb_twilight Sunrise

06:48

nightlight Sunset

17:49

About Chiang Mai

Learn more about the host city, Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai (เชียงใหม่) is the hub of northern Thailand. On a plain at an elevation of 316 m, surrounded by mountains and lush countryside, it is much greener and quieter than the capital and has a cosmopolitan air and a significant expatriate population, all factors which have led many from Bangkok to settle permanently in this "rose of the north".