Maerim Shooting Range is a popular outdoor shooting attraction located about 20 minutes north-west of Chiang Mai city in the Mae Rim district of northern Thailand.
It’s known for offering visitors and locals the chance to fire real firearms in a controlled, supervised environment, making it an unusual yet memorable experience for travellers seeking something different from temples and nature tours.
Maerim Shooting Range, Prices, Hours, Gun Rounds, Chiang Mai
At the range, you can choose from a variety of firearms, from pistols and revolvers to larger calibre guns such as 9 mm, .38 and .45, and even shotguns and rifles.Packages typically include a set number of rounds – many visitors opt for around 30 shots for a fixed price, with all safety gear, ear protection, and paper targets supplied.
Instructors are on hand to give a brief introduction to how the weapons operate and to guide shooters through their session, which is suitable for beginners as well as more experienced shooters wanting a bit of fun.
The facility itself sits along Mae Rim-Samoeng Road and usually operates daily from morning until late afternoon, making it easy to combine with other activities in the region, such as visiting waterfalls, adventure parks, or elephant sanctuaries.
While some travellers find the session time relatively short, the sharp sound and recoil of live fire often make it feel more intense and exciting than expected, especially for first-timers.
Reviews are mixed but generally positive, with many visitors calling it a fun break from more conventional sightseeing. Prices might seem high compared with other attractions in Chiang Mai, but shooting a real firearm under supervision in Thailand is still a rare and memorable experience.
If you’re curious about handling guns or just want to try something outside the usual tourist trail, Maerim Shooting Range offers a safe, structured, and accessible way to do it while visiting Chiang Mai.
Tips and Advice for Visiting Maerim Shooting Range
- Bring your passport
Identification is typically required before you can participate. A passport is the safest form of ID for tourists. - Go earlier in the day
Mornings are usually quieter and cooler. The range is outdoors, so midday heat can be intense, especially in the hot season. - Budget accordingly
Shooting packages can be relatively expensive compared with other Chiang Mai attractions. Check the price per gun and number of rounds beforehand so there are no surprises. - Start with a smaller calibre if you’re a beginner
If it’s your first time handling a firearm, begin with a 9mm or similar handgun before trying larger calibre options. Bigger guns have stronger recoil and can be intimidating for first-timers. - Follow instructions carefully
Listen closely during the safety briefing. Instructors are present at all times, but your experience will be smoother and safer if you pay attention to handling and stance guidance. - Wear comfortable clothing
Closed shoes are recommended. Avoid loose accessories that could interfere with your grip or stance. - Protect your hearing
Ear protection is provided, but ensure it fits properly before shooting. Gunfire is extremely loud at close range. - Combine with other Mae Rim attractions
The range is located in the Mae Rim district, so you can pair your visit with waterfalls, zipline parks, or scenic countryside drives to make the most of your trip north of Chiang Mai. - Consider transport options
The range is about 20 minutes from Chiang Mai Old City. A rental car, motorbike, or ride-hailing service is the easiest way to get there.
With realistic expectations and proper preparation, Maerim Shooting Range can be a safe and memorable addition to your Chiang Mai itinerary.
Getting There
Here’s how to get to Mae Rim Shooting Range from Chiang Mai city centre:
By public transport
Take a red songthaew (shared taxi) from Chang Phueak Bus Terminal (north-west Chiang Mai). These run frequently (every few minutes) toward Mae Rim town, and a ride takes about 30 minutes for a low fare.
From the songthaew stop in Mae Rim, you’ll likely need a short motorbike taxi or a local tuk-tuk to reach the shooting range if it’s not right at the stop.
Most visitors use apps like Grab to complete this “last mile.” Public buses (MRC, MT) also run through parts of Mae Rim, but schedules can vary and may require checking a transit app for live routes near the range.
By taxi or ride-hail
Booking a taxi, Grab, or private car from Chiang Mai directly to the range is the simplest option. The journey is about 15 kilometres north of the city and usually takes 15–25 minutes depending on traffic.
This is more expensive than public transport but more direct and convenient, especially if you’re carrying gear, visiting with a group, or want to return directly afterward.
By rental car or motorbike
If you have a rental car or motorbike, follow Route 1317 out of Chiang Mai toward Mae Rim/Samoeng. The drive is straightforward through town and countryside roads for about 20–30 minutes.
There’s parking near the range entrance.
Tips
- Public transport schedules and stops aren’t always clearly marked in English, so using a ride-hail service for part or all of the journey can reduce confusion.
- Confirm the exact location and entrance with the range before you go, as rural addresses in Mae Rim can be a bit hard to find without GPS.
Do You Have a Question to Ask?