Beam Maskati

Bangkok’s climbing scene is having a moment and the city’s walls are no longer reserved for hardcore climbers. With a new wave of urban bouldering gyms and sleek rope walls opening across the city, the sport’s appeal is clear: physical challenge, mental focus and a social vibe that spin classes can’t quite touch. Whether you’re a total noob looking for a weekend thrill, on the search for a quirky first date idea, or already chalking up for your next V6, there’s a gym out there for you.  

This cosy bouldering-focused gym has quietly built one of the strongest climbing communities in Bangkok – and it’s only growing. Tucked down Sukhumvit 69 just a short walk from BTS Phra Khanong, Stonegoat offers six distinct bouldering walls with a mix of slabs, overhangs and creative angles to keep things interesting. Routes reset weekly, so whether you're a regular or just passing through, there’s always a fresh problem to work on. The space is compact but thoughtfully set. It’s ideal for solo climbers or small groups looking to spend a couple of hours on varied terrain without the need for ropes or belay gear. Plus, the friendly staff and relaxed vibe make it easy to strike up a conversation or get beta from fellow climbers. Stonegoat also hosts casual competitions and meetups, which adds to the local energy – and if that’s not enough, they’re set to open a massive new location at The PARQ, soon to be the largest bouldering gym in Southeast Asia. Why we love it: Weekly resets, technical routes and a welcoming crowd. Perfect for boulder-focused climbers, creative movers and anyone craving a strong community feel. B300 on weekdays, B450 on weekends (B100+ for gear rental). 36/3, Sukhumvit 69, Watthana, S-69 - Office and Warehouse Space, 063-219-9933. Open Mon-Sun 10am-10pm.  

Balance Prime is the sleeker, city-centre sibling of Balance Climbing Rama 9. Set in the Sathon Prime office complex just a short walk from BTS Chong Nonsi, this bouldering gym feels tailored for Bangkok’s working crowd. The space features 710-square-metres of climbing surfaces and over 100 routes graded 1–9, refreshed regularly to keep things dynamic. More than just a place to climb, Balance Prime leans into a lifestyle vibe. Expect minimalist design, solid air-con, a clean layout, and extras like a nutrition-forward cafe, showers, lockers, and even a quiet coworking zone. It’s a one-stop spot to stretch your body, fuel up, and maybe finish that spreadsheet – all without leaving the building. While slightly pricier than its Rama 9 counterpart, Prime’s central location and slick extras justify the bump. Regular climbers can opt for the ‘Balance Passport,’ a membership that grants unlimited access to both branches. Why we love it: Beautiful space, strong route setting, and an ideal combo of movement and mindfulness. Perfect for busy professionals, city-based climbers and anyone looking for a climb-cafe-cowork flow. B495 for day pass (B100+ for gear rental). 26 Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Rd, Sathon, Sathorn Prime, 9F, 061-397-2292. Open Mon-Fri 12-10pm. Sat-Sun 10am-10pm.  

As one of Thailand’s bigger climbing gyms, Rock Domain is a full-on climbing playground for rope lovers and boulderers alike. The space spans over 1,440-square-metres and offers everything – top rope, lead, and bouldering routes – with walls reaching up to 20 metres tall. If you’re looking for height and variety, this is your spot. The bouldering section alone covers 700-square-metres and features 140+ routes, with weekly resets to keep things fresh. The route setting is solid, the holds are all polyurethane (a higher-quality, safer material than older polyester resin), and there’s plenty of full-support padding throughout the gym. Route grades range widely, so there’s something for every skill level. Beyond climbing, the gym offers hot showers, locker rooms, free Wi-Fi, a cozy café, and a well-stocked pro shop. It’s spacious enough to host parties, classes, and group events – and there’s plenty of parking. It’s a bit outside the city, but that comes with perks: more space, fewer crowds, and nearby bonuses like the biggest IKEA in Thailand (hello, post-climb Swedish meatballs) and Nong Bon Lake Park if you’re up for turning your session into a full-day adventure. Why we love it: Huge space, high walls, and seriously good route variety. Rock Domain is a destination gym – well worth the trek for anyone craving long climbs, a diverse range of styles, and a less hectic climbing experience. B350 for day pass (B100+ for gear rental). 1780 Bangna-trad road, Bangna, 02-399-4648. Open

Bangkok’s most established climbing gym is also one of its most approachable. Tucked inside The Racquet Club (no club membership needed to climb), Urban Playground is Bangkok’s OG rope gym – and it shows in the best ways. The 7,000-sq.-ft. space packs a solid range: bouldering cave, auto-belay zones, top rope, and lead walls, with climbs from beginner-friendly 5a routes to beastly 7s and 8s. While the bouldering section is compact, the rope walls more than make up for it, especially the long autobelay (climbing without someone on the ground to belay you). routes that are great for building endurance. First-timers can walk in and start bouldering or climbing on the auto-belays – no lessons or certification needed. But if you’re keen to learn the ropes (literally), book the one-hour Intro to Climbing class (B600) offered hourly from 2pm on weekdays and 11am on weekends. It’s small-group and super accessible. The vibe? Chill, clean, and not too crowded, especially on weekdays. Climbers tend to know what they’re doing, and the check-in process is refreshingly fast. Plus, the day pass gets you access to other Racquet Club facilities – handy if you want to squeeze in a gym session, sauna, or swim too. Why we love it: Solid route variety, relaxed atmosphere, really good AC. Perfect for all levels – from total beginners to seasoned climbers looking for a solid rope session in Bangkok. B495 on weekdays, B595 on weekends (B150+ for gear rental). 6 8, Sukhumvit 49/9, Watthana, The Racqu