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Want to close out your running season with a big mountain race in northern Thailand? Then take a closer look at this event: the Pocari Sweat Trail Run is a mountain race that takes place November 14–15, 2026 in Chiang Mai. The start is set up at the Chiang Mai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (CMECC), from where trails run into the surrounding mountains. The distance lineup is aimed at experienced runners; according to the organizers, the race offers 100 km, 50 km, 40 km and 30 km. November marks the start of the cool season, the best time for trail running in this area. Below we look at what this event is, when and where it takes place, how the courses are set up and what participants need to know.
What this race is
Pocari Sweat Trail Run is a mountain trail race near Chiang Mai, run under a well-known sports brand. Trail running differs from road running: the route follows mountain paths and roads with significant elevation gain, and requires not only endurance but also the ability to run over rough terrain.
The range of distances makes this a serious challenge even in its “short” format. According to the registration platform runlah.com, four distances are listed — 100, 50, 40 and 30 km — with entry fees starting from 3 300 ฿ for the “thirty” up to 5 600 ฿ for the flagship “hundred” (as of November 2026). Even the shortest distance here is a full mountain trail, not a park run. For the exact program, the start village and related activities check the event page — details may be updated closer to the date.
When and where it takes place
The event takes place over two days — November 14 and 15, 2026. This format is typical for trail races with long distances: the “hundred” often starts earlier, while shorter categories go on a separate day. The organizer publishes the start times for each distance separately, so check the current schedule on the event page.
Start area — the CMECC exhibition center on the outskirts of Chiang Mai, from where the trails head into the mountains. It is a convenient meeting point: the city center is within easy reach, and logistics are simpler than at starts deep in the mountains. You can get there by taxi, Grab or rented vehicle. If you are only planning a trip to the region, our Chiang Mai guide covers transport and neighborhoods in detail. November in Chiang Mai marks the start of the dry, cool season, ideal for running.
Courses and what participants will see
The essentials in this event: mountain trail routes around Chiang Mai. The routes follow trails and roads with climbs and descents, so you need to prepare for the terrain, not flat asphalt. On the long distances, elevation gain becomes the key factor — here the mountain sets the pace.
The reward for the effort is the views. In November, northern Thailand greets runners with dry, cool air, clear skies and panoramas of valleys from above. After the rains, the vegetation is still green, and morning mists give the mountains a special atmosphere. By the way, the Chiang Mai area also has waterfalls, mountain villages and national parks, which we cover in our overview of the Chiang Mai surroundings. The specific course profile, elevation gain, aid stations and cut-off times should be confirmed with the organizer — these are published closer to the date.
Practical tips for travelers
CMECC is on the outskirts of Chiang Mai; from the center, the easiest way to get there is by taxi, Grab or rented vehicle. For mountain trail running, trail shoes with aggressive treads are required, and for the long distances, a headlamp and a supply of water and food. November nights and dawns in the mountains are cool, so a light insulated layer will come in handy; during the day, though, it can be hot.
If you want to combine the race with some rest, check out our articles about the temples of Chiang Mai and the surrounding region. Race entry fees, registration terms, required gear and deadlines should be confirmed on the event page: according to runlah.com, the entry fee starts at around 3,300 ฿, but it is better to verify the exact figures and deadlines at the source.
Frequently Asked Questions ❓
When does the Pocari Sweat Trail Run 2026 take place?
The race takes place November 14–15, 2026 over two days. The organizer publishes the distribution of starts by distance and day. Check the exact schedule on the event page.
Where is the start of the race?
The start area is located at the CMECC exhibition center on the outskirts of Chiang Mai, from where the trails head into the mountains. The easiest way to get there from the city center is by taxi, Grab or rented vehicle.
Which distances are available?
According to runlah.com, four distances are listed: 100 km, 50 km, 40 km and 30 km. Even the shortest “thirty” is a full mountain trail. The organizer publishes the exact course profile and elevation gain.
How much does it cost to take part, and how do I register?
As of November 2026, the entry fee is listed in a range from about 3,300 ฿ (30 km) to 5,600 ฿ (100 km). For current prices, registration deadlines and mandatory gear, see the official page at https://www.runlah.com/th/MRajnd1g.
Conclusion
The Pocari Sweat Trail Run is a great reason to close out the running season with a big mountain race in cool November Chiang Mai. If you are ready for the terrain, mark November 14–15, 2026 in your calendar and check the registration details on the event page.