About this Cycle Tour
Discover Northern Thailand on a captivating cycling journey that weaves through charming cities, lush countryside, and breathtaking mountain scenery. Beginning in Chiang Mai, you’ll explore ancient temples and vibrant markets before riding through the storied Golden Triangle and the cultural town of Chiang Kham. The route leads to the serene province of Nan, where tranquil rivers and forested hills offer a peaceful escape. This unforgettable tour blends rich heritage with natural beauty, offering a deeper connection to the heart of the North.
11 Days
760 KM
1480$
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Main attractions or highlights:
- Chiang Mai City, The Capital Of the Lanna Kingdom
- Chiang Dao Tribal people
- Chiang Rai, The Artist Heritages
- Scenic mountain road to Nan
- The peacefulness of the countryside and friendly people.
Day 1: Arrival day in Chiang Mai
On your arrival day, I will be waiting to greet you at the airport and provide a smooth transfer to your hotel.
After settling in, we will head out for a bike fitting and test ride to ensure you are comfortable and ready for your upcoming adventures.
To cap off the day, we will enjoy a delicious dinner by the scenic Ping River.
- Meal: Dinner
- Accom: Bodhi Serene Chiang Mai
Day 1 Highlights:
- Airport transfer to hotel
- Bike fitting and test ride
- Dinner by the scenic Ping River
Day 2: Ride Chiang Mai to Chiang Dao
Today marks the beginning of an exciting journey as we depart from Chiang Mai City and transfer by van to avoid the morning traffic on our way to Chiang Dao.
Make sure to have your cycling gear ready, as we will start our adventure at the beautiful Lanna temple, Wat Wa Pa Dara Phirom.
The road ahead will lead us through charming villages and rolling hills, eventually bringing us to Mae Tang for a well-deserved lunch break.
We will continue our ride on road 107, the main route from Chiang Mai to Chiang Dao, covering a distance of 25 km. This stretch of road may have a bit more car.
Our final destination for the day is the Buraphat Resort, where we can relax and unwind after a day of thrilling exploration. Get ready for an unforgettable journey filled with breathtaking sights and unforgettable experiences.
- Transfer 30 minutes to the start point.
- Coffee, snack, drink every 30-35 km, depending on rider energy.
- Ride: 89 Km
- Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner
- Accom: Buraphat Resort
Day 2 Highlights:
- Transfer from Chiang Mai to Chiang Dao
- Cycling from Wat Wa Pa Dara Phirom
- Riding through villages and hills
- Lunch break at Mae Tang
- Overnight stay at Buraphat Resort
Day 3: Chiang Dao to Chaiprakan
Today, we will begin our cycling journey from the hotel and head north through the beautiful Chiang Dao valley.
Our route will take us through a small tribal village that is off the beaten path, offering a unique and authentic experience.
We will stop for lunch at Arunothai Village, a charming village located between the Thai and Myanmar border, where there is also a Chinese village. Along the way, we will pass through various tribal farmlands, showcasing the diversity of the region.
Our final destination for the day is Saimoonburi, located near Doi Angkhang National Park. We will take the easier road to reach our hotel for the night, where we can relax and enjoy dinner.
- Ride from hotel to hotel
- Coffee, snack, drink every 30-35 km, depending on rider energy
- Ride: 100 Km
- Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
- Accom: Saimoonburi
Day 3 Highlights:
- Cycling through the Chiang Dao valley
- Visiting a small tribal village
- Lunch at Arunothai Village
- Passing through tribal farmlands
- Overnight stay near Doi Angkhang National Park
Day 4: Ride Chai Prakan To Chiang Rai
The cycling trip from Fang to Chiang Rai is a breathtaking journey that takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in northern Thailand.
Starting in Fang, you will embark on a scenic ride along road number 109, which is known for its beautiful views and smooth road surface. As you pedal along the winding road, you will feel like you are floating above the clouds as you climb up into the majestic mountain range. The fresh mountain air and lush greenery surrounding you will invigorate your senses and make the ride truly unforgettable.
After a challenging yet rewarding climb, you will reach Mae Suai, where you will stop for a delicious lunch to refuel your energy. From there, you will continue on to the iconic White Temple, a stunning masterpiece of contemporary Thai architecture. Take some time to explore the temple and snap some photos before continuing on to Chiang Rai city.
Once you arrive in Chiang Rai, you can freshen up with a shower before heading out for a well-deserved dinner. Indulge in some delicious local cuisine and relax after a long day of cycling. The trip from Fang to Chiang Rai is not only a physical challenge, but also a feast for the eyes and soul, offering a truly unforgettable experience for any cycling enthusiast.
- Ride from hotel to hotel
- Coffee, snack, drink every 30-35 km, depending on rider energy
- Ride: 120 Km
- Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
- Accom: Sann Boutique Hotel
Day 4 Highlights:
- Scenic ride along road number 109
- Climbing through the mountain range
- Lunch stop at Mae Suai
- Visiting the White Temple
- Arrival in Chiang Rai City
Day 5: Free Day and Sightseeing, Transfer to Golden Triangle
Get massages and wander around Chiang Rai City. We will guide you all to visit the most famous place in Chiang Rai.
- Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)
Features: Known for its striking blue colour and intricate artwork. It blends traditional Buddhist temple architecture with modern artist styles.
Highlights: The large white Buddha statue inside the main hall and the beautiful blue themed murals.
- Black House (Baan Dam Museum)
Creator: Thawan Duchanee, a renowned Thai artist.
Features: A collection of around 40 buildings in a dark, gothic style. It combines traditional Thai architecture with unique art pieces.
Highlights: The unique blend of art, architecture, and cultural artifacts, including animal bones and skins.
- White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)
Creator: Chalermchai Kositpipat, a contemporary Thai artist.
Features: Famous for its white colour and intricate, detailed designs. It serves both as a temple and an art exhibit.
Highlights: The main building (ubosot) adorned with mirrored fragments, the bridge of the “cycle of rebirth,” and the ornate sculptures representing various aspects of Buddhist teachings.
These three sites are among Chiang Rai’s most popular attractions, each offering a distinct experience reflecting different art visions and cultural themes.
Opium Hall Golden Triangle (Closed Mondays)
The Opium Hall at the Golden Triangle is a museum located in the Golden Triangle region of Southeast Asia, where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet.
The museum showcases the history and culture of opium production and trade in the region, as well as the impact of opium on local communities. It also educates visitors about the efforts to combat opium production and trafficking in the area.
- Ride:
- Meal: Breakfast
Accom: River Breeze
Day 5 Highlights:
- Free day for relaxation and massages
- Sightseeing in Chiang Rai City
- Visiting the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)
- Exploring the Black House (Baan Dam Museum)
- Visiting the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)
- Optional visit to the Opium Hall at the Golden Triangle
Day 6: Ride Golden Triangle to Chaing Khong
Today’s itinerary offers a perfect balance of activity and relaxation.
We will start our day with a leisurely ride along the picturesque Mekong River, enjoying the flat terrain and peaceful surroundings. The border town of Chiang Khong awaits us with its charming cafes, providing the perfect setting for a well-deserved lunch.
Afterwards, you have the afternoon to unwind and recharge. Whether you choose to relax on your balcony with a view of the river, or immerse yourself in the local culture at the river bank wall path. We will reconvene for a delicious dinner. Overall, today offers a chance to slow down and appreciate the beauty of our surroundings, making it a semi-rest day that is sure to leave you feeling rejuvenated.
- Ride from hotel to hotel
- Coffee, snack, drink every 30-35 km, depending on rider energy
- Ride: 77 Km
- Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Accom: Teak Garden Chiang Khong
Day 6 Highlights:
- Leisurely ride along the Mekong River
- Visiting the border town of Chiang Khong
- Relaxing in the afternoon
Day 7: Ride Chiang Khong to Chaing Kham
The cycling trip from Chiang Khong to Chiang Kham is a scenic and adventurous journey through the northern region of Thailand.
Starting in Chiang Khong, a small town located on the banks of the Mekong River, you will pedal through lush countryside, passing by rice paddies, small villages, and temples along the way.
The route is approximately 116 kilometers long and takes you through the beautiful mountainous terrain of northern Thailand. The roads are mostly paved and in good condition, making for a smooth and enjoyable ride.
Along the way, you can take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. As you make your way towards Chiang Kham, you will have the opportunity to experience the local culture and hospitality of the northern Thai people.
The town of Chiang Kham is a charming and peaceful destination, known for its traditional Lanna architecture and friendly atmosphere.
Overall, the cycling trip from Chiang Khong to Chiang Kham offers a unique and memorable experience for cyclists looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and rich culture of northern Thailand.
- Ride from hotel to hotel
- Coffee, snack, drink every 30-35 km, depending on rider energy
- Ride: 116 Km
- Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
- Accom: Rico resort
Day 7 Highlights:
- Scenic ride from Chiang Khong to Chiang Kham
- Cycling through lush countryside
- Passing by rice paddies, villages, and temples
- Experiencing the local culture and hospitality
Day 7 : Ride Chiang Kham to Pua
Today, after enjoying a delightful breakfast at the hotel, we will embark on an exhilarating paddle journey towards Pau-a quaint and serene town nestled in the Nan province.
This charming destination is favoured by 95% domestic Thai tourists and is renowned for its idyllic road trips.
As we set out, brace yourself for what promises to be one of the more challenging and lengthy rides of our adventure. To prepare, we’ll start with a 32 km warm-up to get our legs ready for the day ahead.
We’ll make sure to stay hydrated and energised, refilling our drinks in anticipation of the ascent that awaits us.
At the 45 km mark, we’ll be rewarded with a stop at the enchanting Magic Mountain Coffee for a panoramic view.
After this rejuvenating break, we’ll continue along road number 1148. Along the route, we’ll take ample opportunities to pause for coffee and a leisurely lunch.
The journey will take us over smooth mountain roads, punctuated by gentle inclines and descents. We’ll weave through picturesque villages and be treated to views of the lush and verdant countryside.
Our destination for the day is Pau-a small town celebrated for its tranquil vibe and picturesque landscapes. It’s the perfect place to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.
- Ride from hotel to hotel
- Coffee, snack, drink every 30-35 km, depending on rider energy
- Ride: 125 Km
- Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
- Accom: Pua De View Boutique Hotel
Day 7 Highlights:
- Ride to Pua in Nan province
- Warm-up ride
- Stop at Magic Mountain Coffee for panoramic views
- Riding on smooth mountain roads
- Views of the countryside
Day 8: Free day at Pua
Pua is a peaceful and picturesque destination for those looking to experience the slower pace of life in rural Thailand, offering visitors a taste of authentic Thai culture.
We can have a low day as we have a long ride the day before, get a massage, walk around for coffee or even go for lunch at the local village food.
And then save energy for the next day for a short yet challenging ride.
- Ride: –
- Meal: Breakfast
Accom: Pua De View Boutique Hotel
Day 8 Highlights:
- Relaxing in Pua
- Experiencing the slower pace of life in rural Thailand
- Exploring local Thai culture
Day 9: Pua to Bo Kluea
Today the ride is a short but hard climb, with one long climb up and then a long down slope to the hotel.
Will stop for coffee and plenty of drinks and snacks in the van.
The support van is available for any cyclist to take to the top of the hill, or ride as much as you can.
Then when we check in at the hotel after lunch we will walk to the small town of Bo Kluea to see Bo Kluea Rock Salt Well, offers a unique and authentic glimpse into Thailand’s traditional salt mining local industry and is a must-visit destination for for this small town, to exploring the country’s cultural heritage.
- Ride from hotel to hotel
- If today it too much for any rider, they may choose to skip the hill and ride in the van
- Coffee, snack, drink stop along the hill, depending on rider energy
- Ride: 44 Km
- Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
- Accom: Bo Klueng Resort
Day 9 Highlights:
- Short but challenging ride with a long climb
- Visiting Bo Kluea Rock Salt Well
- Experiencing Thailand’s traditional salt mining
Day 10: Final day, BoKluea-Nan
After many days of riding, today is our final ride day of the trip!
The road bike cycling route from Boklua to Nan is a scenic and challenging ride that takes cyclists through the beautiful countryside of Northern Thailand.
The route starts in the small village of Boklua and follows Road Number 1081 as it winds its way through lush forests, rolling hills, and picturesque valleys.
Along the way, you will pass through traditional Thai villages, where you can experience the local culture and sample authentic Thai cuisine.
The road is well-maintained and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it a popular route for cyclists looking to explore the natural beauty of Thailand. The route includes some steep climbs and descents, making it suitable for experienced cyclists.
Overall, road bike cycling from Boklua to Nan via Road Number 1081 is a challenging yet rewarding experience that showcases the best of northern Thailand’s countryside.
- Ride from hotel to hotel
- Coffee, snack, drink every 30-35 km, depending on rider energy.
- Ride: 85 Km
- Meal: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
- Accom: Ban Nan Hotel
Day 10 Highlights:
- Final ride day from Boklua to Nan
- Scenic route through Northern Thailand’s countryside
- Experiencing local Thai villages and culture
Day 11: Departure Day Nan
Departure
After bidding farewell to our service team last night, today we will arrange transportation for you.
A taxi will take you from the hotel to either Nan or Chiang Rai Airport or your new hotel in Nan or Chiang Rai City.
Another option is to come back with us to Chiang Mai in a 5-6 hour drive.
We wish you a safe and pleasant journey back home.
- Ride: –
- Meal: Breakfast
- Accom: –
Day 11 Highlights:
- Transportation arrangement from Nan
- Options for departure:
- Taxi to Nan/Chiang Rai Airport
- Taxi to new hotel in Nan/Chiang Rai City
- Return to Chiang Mai by car (5-6 hours)
Duration: 11 Days 11 Nights
Start: Chiang Mai, Thailand (CNX)
End: Nan , Thailand
Inclusions, Payments & Cancellations:
Total tour cost is in USD per person, based on sharing a room. If you do not have a roommate, we will do our best to assign one to you. Singles are welcome, and single rooms are available on request at a surcharge $280 per room.
2 people = $2,323
3 people = $1,950
4 people = $1,750
5 people = $1,635
6 people + = $1548
E-bike rental with extra battery
- $230
Trek Emonda Carbon Road Bike Rental
- $230
BOOKING CONDITIONS & TERMS OF SERVICE
PAYMENT TERMS
- A 35% deposit is required upon booking time.
- The remaining balance payment is required 60 days before departure.
International transfer fees or bank charges may not be deducted from the amount listed on your invoice.
These fees are an additional charge that the transferor is responsible for paying.
CANCELLATION POLICY
Number of days before the trip starts cancellation fee per person
61 days or more : full cash refund (less bank charges and any fees*).
40-60 days : full credit (with no deductions for admin or any other small-print item) to use on any tour with no time limit.
15-39 days : We will refund 30% of the tour price in cash (less bank charges and any fees*) or credit (no fees).
0-14 days : No refund is possible.
Start From : 1,480$
Bike Hire for the whole trip:
USD $230: Trek Carbon Road Bike, Emonda SL5 or Trek Domane Carbon Road Bike.
If those bikes are unavailable for your trip, you will be notified in advance with an alternative option of another Carbon Road Bike brand with Untragar R8000 Compact 50/34 and 11-34 Driving Chain.
The cost includes:
- Arrival and departure drop off.
- 11 nights accommodation with breakfasts, lunch and dinner (Dinner and lunch not included on Free Day)
- Our listed hotels are always accurate at the time of writing, but should we have to change any hotel, it will always be for a similar or better one.
- Guiding and support services, vehicle following every day on tour.
- Entry fees when mentioned.
- Snacks & drinks, local snacks, fresh fruits every riding day.
- Coffee break mostly at a café 2 times a day (depend on the area we pass by)
The cost does not include:
- International and domestic airfares.
- Guide and Team gratuities.
- Alcohol.
- Insurance.
Weather
November-February is the High Season in Thailand, and it is a great time to travel to the areas we will visit. It is the dry season with average temperatures between 22-32 celsius. For riding, starting rides in the morning with layers, and peeling off in the warmth of the day is the best strategy. Support vehicles are always on hand to carry day bags which can be accessed easily.
Money & Expenses
It’s a good idea to have some cash on you for incidentals, either in USD or better yet some local currency. The Thai currency is the baht. ATMs, which are abundant, are the easiest ways to get Thai baht. Having some new crisp US dollars in cash will enable you to exchange money, in case of card issues. Cards are accepted in chain and larger establishments, but baht notes are accepted everywhere.