About this Cycle Tour
Northern Thailand invites you on an enriching journey through a land where history, culture, and natural beauty converge. From the ancient temples of Chiang Mai to the artistic flair of Chiang Rai and the storied Golden Triangle, every stop reveals a new facet of the region’s charm.
Your adventure begins in Chiang Mai, the cultural heart of the former Lanna Kingdom, before heading northeast through jungle-clad hills and tribal villages toward the iconic confluence of the Mekong and Ruak rivers. Along the way, you’ll cycle through terraced rice fields, friendly mountain communities, and traditional Thai villages brimming with rustic allure and warm hospitality.
Supported by Chiang Mai Cycling States, a trusted local touring specialist, the journey includes expert guides, luggage transfers, and optional bike rentals. Whether riding through serene valleys or ascending misty mountain trails, this experience promises unforgettable moments across the diverse landscapes of Northern Thailand.
11 Days
1,950$
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Rating, Pacing & Terrain
This 10-day cycling tour spans around 600 km and is rated Moderate. The route features mostly flat or gently rolling tarmac roads, with minimal steep climbs. Riders will be supported throughout by air-conditioned vehicles, allowing for rest breaks as needed. A sweep van will follow the last cyclist, and guides or support staff will assist with navigation using in-person directions or chalk markings.
Day 1 : Arrival Day - Chiang Mai, Thailand's Cultural Capital
Chiang Mai, the ancient walled city, and center of the Lanna Kingdom. This low rise city has retained much of its charm and culture, which like the excellent northern cuisine, is quite different to other regions of Thailand to the south.
Today you will be met at the airport, and transferred to our hotel, within the old quarter. Spend the afternoon walking the narrow streets, exploring the ancient temples, or sampling locally grown coffee. Our guide team will be on site from 4pm to assist with bike fitting. Tonight we will meet at 6pm and transfer a short way to a welcome Dinner by the riverside.
- Ride:
- Accom: Bodhi Serene, Chiang Mai
- Meals: Dinner
Day 1 Highlights:
- Arrival and transfer to hotel in Chiang Mai
- Exploring Chiang Mai’s old quarter
- Bike fitting
- Welcome dinner by the riverside
Day 2 : The Journey Begins, Lanna Temples & Countryside
Our Northern Thailand cycling journey begins. We’ll be transported to the starting point at Wat Pha Daraphirom, a captivating temple in the serene Chiang Mai countryside.
From here, the journey unfolds as we head northward, following a winding, paved road through idyllic rural landscapes. This is the enchanting Mae Rim region, where our path will frequent expansive rice fields, where smiling locals engage in the timeless art of harvesting.
includes stops at Wat Nong Kai and a local coffee shop. Our final stop is the awe-inspiring Wat Baan Den, a temple celebrated for its intricate architectural details and the breath-taking natural beauty that surrounds it. We will explore the temple grounds and immerse in the tranquil ambiance. Then transfer to the hotel, a 40 minute drive.
- Ride: 51km/31miles,
- Accom: Buraphat Resort
- Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day 2 Highlights:
- Transport to Wat Pha Daraphirom
- Cycling through the Mae Rim region
- Passing rice fields and local villages
- Visiting Wat Nong Kai and a local coffee shop
- Exploring Wat Baanden
Day 3 : Chiang Dao Mountains & Ancient Civilisations
Our journey continues today from the hotel in Chiang Dao. Here, the awe-inspiring Chiang Dao mountain range offers a magnificent backdrop. This region is blessed with abundant natural wonders, including lush forests, peaceful rice paddies, and meandering rivers, creating an idyllic route for cycling.
We take our first stop today at Wat Tham Chiang Dao, a revered temple of spiritual significance. For lunch, we’ll stop at the Nakara Restaurant, to try the famed Northern-style noodle dish, Khao Soi, in its authentic setting.
In the afternoon, we make our way towards an Ahkha tribal settlement in the rugged valleys of Baan Pha Dang village. We’ll have a final climb to the village, then a transfer to our hotel.
- Ride: 63km/39miles,
- Accom: Saimoon bury
- Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day 3 Highlights:
- Cycling with the Chiang Dao mountain range as a backdrop
- Visiting Wat Tham Chiang Dao
- Lunch at Nakara Restaurant (Khao Soi)
- Visiting an Akha tribal settlement in Baan Pha Dang village
Day 4 : Fang Valley
This morning we will enjoy a very different experience, as we load our bikes onto a long-tail boat journey along the Kok River in the authentic style. Along this route, we’ll be immersed in the natural beauty on both sides of the meandering River.
Passing through picturesque cornfields, lush rice paddies, and scenic agricultural landscapes for about an hour until we reach a small village where we take our bikes. As we pedal onwards, we’ll venture through the hill tribe villages of Akha, Lahu, and Paganyaw.
Our path crosses an exhilarating hanging bridge in Kwaewwua Dam Village, before we arrive at the White Temple, one of the most popular attractions in Chiang Rai. After exploring the temple, we’ll continue our bike ride to the hotel.
- Ride: 56km/34miles,
- Accom: Laluna Hotel and Resort, Chiang Rai
- Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day 4 Highlights:
- Long-tail boat journey along the Kok River
- Cycling through hill tribe villages (Akha, Lahu, Paganyaw)
- Crossing a hanging bridge in Kwaewwua Dam Village
- Visiting the White Temple
Day 5: The Kok River & White Temple
This morning we will enjoy a very different experience, as we load our bikes onto a long-tail boat journey along the Kok River in the authentic style. Along this route, we’ll be immersed in the natural beauty on both sides of the meandering River.
Passing through picturesque cornfields, lush rice paddies, and scenic agricultural landscapes for about an hour until we reach a small village where we take our bikes. As we pedal onwards, we’ll venture through the hill tribe villages of Akha, Lahu, and Paganyaw.
Our path crosses an exhilarating hanging bridge in Kwaewwua Dam Village, before we arrive at the White Temple, one of the most popular attractions in Chiang Rai. After exploring the temple, we’ll continue our bike ride to the hotel.
- Ride: 56km/34miles,
- Accom: Laluna Hotel and Resort, Chiang Rai
- Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day 5 Highlights:
- Long-tail boat journey along the Kok River
- Cycling through hill tribe villages (Akha, Lahu, Paganyaw)
- Crossing a hanging bridge in Kwaewwua Dam Village
- Visiting the White Temple
Day 6 : Free Day.
Get massages and wander around Chiang Rai City, we will manage a driver to take all you visit to the most famous place in Chiang Rai.
- Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)
Features: Known for its striking blue color and intricate artwork. It blends traditional Buddhist temple architecture with modern artistic 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.
But today you will take care your own meal for lunch and dinner
- Ride: –
- Accom: Laluna Hotel and Resort, Chiang Rai
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 6 Highlights:
- Free day to explore 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)
Day 7 : The Golden Triangle
Today we will start with transferring out of a busy road in the city 30 minutes away. From there we will ride to the Golden Triangle.
The Golden Triangle, was a phrase coined by the CIA, during the notorious history of the region, as one of the worlds largest opium producers. Much has changed these days, as crops have been replanted with flowers and other legal alternatives.
Today our route is gently rolling or flat, but slowly climbing overall. That is until the end of the day, when we will tackle a short but steep climb to the viewpoint at Huay Sai Mam. From there we will stop at The Opium Hall, a museum of the Opium trade of the past. Our last break is at the Kong river where we can see 3 countries, Thailand, Myanmar and Laos.
After this we ride to our hotel and enjoy dinner looking out across panoramic views to the neighboring country.
- Ride: 68km/38miles,
- Accom: The Imperial Golden Triangle
- Meals: (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Day 7 Highlights:
- Transfer out of the city to start the ride
- Riding to the Golden Triangle
- Visiting the viewpoint at Huay Sai Mam
- Visiting The Opium Hall museum
- Seeing the border of 3 countries at the Kong River
Day 8: Golden Triangle to Chiang Kong
Our day riding in the Northern Thailand Landscape. tracing the Mekong river to Chiang Kong.
Enjoying beautiful riverside scenery on both sides of the border, Thai and Laos. The ride is easy and rolling all the way to Lunch. Then we followed a neat bike path all the way to our riverside hotel.
- Ride: 77km/47miles,
- Accom: Teak Garden Resort
- Meals: (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Day 8 Highlights:
- Riding in the Northern Thailand landscape
- Tracing the Mekong River to Chiang Kong
- Enjoying riverside scenery of Thailand and Laos
- Riding on a bike path
Day 9 Chiang Kong to Chiang Khum,
Today, after enjoying breakfast at our hotel and taking in the beautiful views of the Mekong River, we will embark on our bike ride to Chiang Kham.
The journey spans over 100 kilometers, offering an easy and scenic route filled with captivating sights. We’ll cycle through charming villages, lush countryside, and picturesque landscapes, making the ride to our next hotel both enjoyable and memorable.
- Ride: 117km/72miles
- Accom: Rico resort
- Meals: (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Day 9 Highlights:
- Enjoying views of the Mekong River
- Bike ride to Chiang Kham
- Cycling through villages and countryside
Day 10: Chiang Khum Back to Chiang Rai.
Today marks the final day of our bike ride through Northern Thailand as we make our way back to Chiang Rai.
It promises to be another wonderful day of riding, filled with breathtaking scenery and memorable experiences. We’ll pedal through lush landscapes, vibrant local villages, and serene countryside, taking in the last sights and sounds of this beautiful region.
As we approach Chiang Rai, we’ll reflect on the incredible journey we’ve had, the challenges we’ve overcome, and the unforgettable moments we’ve shared. This adventure has been truly remarkable, and while it’s time to say goodbye to our biking trip, the memories will last a lifetime. Tonight, Celebration Dinner at the riverside restaurant.
- Ride: 96km/59miles,
- Accom: Laluna Hotel and Resort, Chiang Rai
- Meals: (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Day 10 Highlights:
- Final day of bike ride back to Chiang Rai
- Riding through landscapes and villages
- Celebration Dinner at a riverside restaurant
Day 11: Departuer
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 Chiang Rai Airport or your new hotel in Chiang Rai City. We wish you a safe and pleasant journey back home.
- Ride: –
- Meals: (Breakfast)
Day 11 Highlights:
- Departure from Chiang Rai
- Transportation to Chiang Rai Airport or hotel
Duration: 11 Days 11 Nights
Start: Chiang Mai, Thailand (CNX)
Chiang Rai, Thailand
Start From : 1,480$
The Bike, (trek Merlin) included.
The Bike (Trek Merlin) will be included for this trip And for the E-bike will be rental $230 (USD) per bike for the whole trip and will have 1 spare Battery for each bike.
The ideal machine for this ride is a mountain fitted hybrid touring bike with tire 32-40 width and 2 water bottle holders. If bringing your own bike, please make sure that it is in excellent working order, and that you bring sufficient parts and supplies to complete the distance. Tubes and compressed air cartridges can be requested in advance. Tandems and Bike Fridays can be accommodated on this tour upon request.
Limited bike rentals (E-Bike) are available upon request. Saddles, clips and accessories can be fitted to rental bikes at the shakedown ride, day 2. Please mention these when booking a bike rental. Ebikes are limited, and require additional logistics, so please make sure to request these well in advance.
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 $250 per room.
2 people = $1,950
2-6 people = $1,750
6-10 people more = $1,550
Single Supplement = $250
E-Bike Rental
- $230
Trek Merlin Bike
- Free
BOOKING CONDITIONS & TERMS OF SERVICE
The cost includes:
- Chiang Mai Airport pick up and drop off.
- Accommodation for 10 nights.
- Meals; Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (expect 1 day in Chiang Rai for you own Dinner)
- 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 & boat transfers.
- Entry fees when mentioned.
- Snacks & drinks, local snack, fresh fruits whilst riding.
- Coffee break mostly at café 2 time a day (depend on the way we pass by)
The cost does not include:
- International and domestic airfares.
- Guide and Team gratuities.
- Alcohol drink.
- Insureance.
Payment & Cancellation
A non refundable 30% deposit is required 90 days in advance of the trip, while the remainder of the balance will be due 30 days prior to tour start. Bank transfer only is accepted for payment..
Weather
November-February is the High season in Thailand, and is a great time to travel to the areas we will visit. It is a Drier 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 US dollars in cash will enable you to change some money, incase of card issues. Cards are accepted in chain and larger establishments, but a few baht notes are accepted everywhere.