Lilawadi Park
Lilawadi Park occupies the site of Chiang Rai's former airport, and its long, open runway has been repurposed into one of the city's most distinctive recreational spaces. Stretching approximately 1.5 kilometres from end to end — a roughly 20-minute walk — the straight, flat track draws locals and visitors alike for jogging, walking, and cycling. It offers a genuine window into everyday northern Thai life, well away from the city's more commercialised attractions.
The atmosphere here is energetic yet unhurried, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon when locals gather to exercise. A road crosses the former runway at one point, so cyclists and runners should stay alert to passing traffic. Beyond daily recreation, the park also hosts seasonal night markets and community gatherings, giving it a lively social dimension depending on when you visit. A fruit seller near the park entrance is a local fixture worth seeking out for a refreshing snack.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Lilawadi Park, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Nice little trail & runway is a great place to run/bike beware that the local road cuts thru the runway so youl will have to look out for traffic
Old Chiang Rai airport, now a meeting point for joggers and sometimes place for fiestas and local gatherings. From top to bottom it's about 1.5 km. Can jog or cycle.
This is the old airport and it's runway is now used by mainly joggers and walkers but also some cyclists. At certain times of the year a big night market is staged here.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google.
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Lilawadi Park: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lilawadi Park worth visiting?
Lilawadi Park holds a 4.3★ rating from 135 Google reviews — a strong rating for activities & tours in Chiang Rai.
When is the best time to visit Lilawadi Park?
The best months to visit Chiang Rai are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – February — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: March – May (smoke & heat).
Where is Lilawadi Park located?
Lilawadi Park is at 14 Prachaasanti Rd, Tambon Rop Wiang, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Rai, Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand, in Chiang Rai. Getting around Chiang Rai: Grab (available in city centre); Songthaews.
Location Info
14 Prachaasanti Rd, Tambon Rop Wiang, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Rai, Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57000, ThailandVisitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – September
Avg. temperature
14°C – 35°C(57°F – 95°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Mae Fah Luang Airport (CEI) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). The bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. There's also a scenic Golden Triangle road trip from Chiang Mai.
Getting around
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Songthaews
- •Motorbike rental (฿200/day)
- •Car hire (for Golden Triangle & hill tribes)
Where to stay near Lilawadi Park
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Tips for Visiting Activities & Tours
Vet Elephant Sanctuaries
Only visit sanctuaries that prohibit riding, use no chains or bullhooks, and let elephants roam freely. Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai set the standard. If a place offers painting shows or circus tricks, walk away.
Book Popular Activities Online
Booking platforms like GetYourGuide give you instant confirmation and, on many activities, free cancellation — and you can read recent reviews before committing. Compare with local agencies for multi-day trips where negotiation might save more.
Do Outdoor Activities in the Morning
Heat and humidity peak from noon to 3 PM. Schedule jungle treks, cycling tours, and outdoor cooking classes for early morning. Water activities are more flexible since you're in and out of the sea.
Nearby Places
Jttt-Travel
Chiang Rai tour operator running guided temple, trekking, and cultural day tours with knowledgeable local guides.
SO GOOD AIRLINE SERVICE AND TRAVEL
Chiang Rai travel agency specialising in slow boat trips to Laos, temple tours, and northern Thailand packages.
Chiang Rai Lanna Tours
A highly regarded private tour operator offering personalised day trips and guided experiences across Chiang Rai.
LOMA Adventure Playground
A family-friendly indoor playground and cafe in Chiang Rai where kids can climb, play, and eat well.
Similar Activities & Tours Across Thailand
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket
No rides, no shows, just feeding, mud and washing rescued elephants in the Kathu jungle.
Safari World
A full day out east of the city, and the shows are what people remember most.
Nongnooch Pattaya Garden
Half a day minimum, 500 acres of themed gardens and dinosaurs, and you'll want to be there by 8am.
Lumphini Park
Bangkok's green lung, free to enter, and full of water monitor lizards the size of your leg.
Where to stay near Lilawadi Park
Find hotels in Chiang Rai on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – September
Avg. temperature
14°C – 35°C(57°F – 95°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Mae Fah Luang Airport (CEI) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). The bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. There's also a scenic Golden Triangle road trip from Chiang Mai.
Getting around
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Songthaews
- •Motorbike rental (฿200/day)
- •Car hire (for Golden Triangle & hill tribes)