CLIMBING DESTINATION FOR YOUNG IN CENTRAL THAILAND

Chon Buri and Lop Buri province are the leading climbing destinations in the central region. In Chon Buri province, Ko Sichang is one of the last few relatively less commercialized destinations in the coutry. Try the rock spires on the southern point of Had Tham Phang beach as well as some rock cliffs facing Wat Tham Yai Prik. Caves are also a big draw here the biggest being Tham Saowapha, just north of the stairs down to Had Sai Kaew.

Just 2-hours away from Bangkok in Lop Buri is Khao Cheen Lair where some great limestone continues to be the focus of routing activities for Bangkok residents. Khao Jeen Lair is accessed via a temple and is a sacred place of worship. To get to the cliff you actually have to walk through the temple and up to the main face. The abbot has requested that all climbers come and say hello before going up. Furthermore, there is actually a sacred cave in the cliff. They have asked that no-one climb above the scared cave at all; climbing along the sides is allowed. If access is to maintained it is essential that this is observed. The monks here are friendly and welcoming and of course always happy to receive donations and see people making merit

HOW TO START OFF ON A ROCK CLIMBING

To start off on a rock climbing experience is pretty simple, drop by at any gym that offers climbing walls for practice. This will give you a general idea on the sport. While in Thailand, visit some of these facilities to see if this is something you’d like to pursue further. Most places would be able hook you up with or, at least refer you to, reliable rock climbing schools and service operators.

Once you’re more comfortable with the basics, you can then sign-up for outdoor climbing with service operators. Most basic course last up to 3 days after which you will be able to try out the more challenging climbs. Your service operator will be able to give you instructions for appropriate climbs according to your skill. The level of skill required for each climbing site is indicated by standardized grading. Thailand used the French system which is generally accepted as the best sport-route grading method. The reason for using the French grades in Thailand is because the first routes in the country were put up by the French. According to the French system, 4 is considered easy whereas 8b is very difficult.

CLIMBING FOR YOUNG TRAVELER IN THAILAND

Climbing can be a dangerous sport and if you’re a beginner it’s always best to sign up for trips with a service provider who will be able to provider you with trained staff to accompany you on climbs. Even if you’re a seasoned climber, consulting a local means you will be provides with information on the various sites and the level of difficulty. Ti should be noted that most accidents in this sport happen because the climber, not equipment failure, thus making consultations with trained professionals very important.

CLIMBING IN THAILAND

Climbing in Thailand is probably one of the most spectacular activities that you can do. Unlike other rock climbing experiences, climbing in southern Thailand on lime stone surface that are only accessible by sea or, located right smack on the beach. Other good rock climbing locations are in central Thailand and the north. Some of the best locations for rock climbing are in the central region near Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary in Uthai Thani or in the spectacular limestone mountains that run through Kanchanaburi, Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan. On the east coast and easily accessible from Bangkok are sites in Chon Buri. The spectacular coastal cliff of the south, with futher pitches to be found on some of the islands. Surprisingly, rock climbing is not necessarily as arduous as one may think. Granted, being physically fit is a general must, especially upper body strength as you will need to lift your entire body weight with both arms and sometimes just your finger tips. Great climbing can also be experienced through in-door climbing and can be great fun for families.