The essentials of Chiang Mai by road bike, between nature, temples and local life
4 days / 3 nights
Chiang Mai
Discover Chiang mai's most spectacular roads on a cycling trip designed for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and those seeking a sporting challenge. Day after day, you'll ride across varied terrain, gradually increasing your intensity and allowing you time to acclimatize to the tropical air of Northern Thailand. As the kilometers unfold, you'll cross terraced rice paddies, follow tranquil rivers, visit hidden pagodas, and discover an authentic Thailand, far from the usual tourist routes.
Please note: on average, this is 78 km and 2030 m of elevation gain per day: a significant effort reserved for well-trained cyclists.
Sports experience
César
César, your Bangkok-based expert, designs trips for outdoor enthusiasts and sporting challenges. He selects the most beautiful playgrounds for riding freely and experiencing Southeast Asia in a different way.
What makes this bike trip special
Mythical Ascent of Doi Suthep from the City
A breathtaking first step that combines culture and adventure: starting from the temples of Chiang mai, a gradual climb to the summit of Doi Suthep, followed by a visit to the famous Wat and a smooth descent to savor the panoramic views and the reward.
Samoeng Loop: Jungle, Villages, and Varied Efforts
The famous Samoeng Loop offers a condensed experience of landscapes and sensations: long climbs, winding descents, rainforests, flower-filled countryside, and delicious stops at local markets. A full day to test your legs and endurance.
Doi Inthanon: Conquering the “Roof of Thailand”
The final sporting challenge in Doi Inthanon National Park, with a hidden road, demanding slopes, and breathtaking scenery among farms, pine trees, and a waterfall. Experienced hikers can add the final ascent to the summit at 2,565 meters.
Day 1: Chiang Mai -> Ascent of Doi Suthep (47 km - 1,627 m elevation gain)
Meet your guide in Chiang mai for a typical Northern Thai lunch, a chance to recharge, adjust your bikes, and discuss the day’s route. Then, check into your hotel before setting off on your first leg of the ride. Leaving the heart of Chiang mai, you’ll cycle through the old city, its dozens of temples, and its peaceful alleyways, before beginning the steady but sustained climb up Doi Suthep. The slopes are mostly gentle, and the effort is well worth it: breathtaking views of the city, patches of jungle opening up, and the golden light of late afternoon—you’ll quickly understand why this is one of the most beautiful routes in the area. At the summit, stop at the magnificent Wat Doi Suthep, a sacred temple perched atop the mountain, adorned with gold leaf, sculptures, and the scent of incense. Then comes the ultimate pleasure: a smooth and winding 18km descent to the town, just in time for a dip in the pool, a first restorative massage or a convivial dinner to kick off this sporty seday in the spirit of the North.
- Road guide and snacks
Day 2: Samoeng Loop (89 km - 2,670 m elevation gain)
Departure for one of the local cyclists’ favorite routes: the Samoeng Loop. Today, you’ll skirt around the Doi Suthep massif, which you climbed yesterday, for a different and more challenging day of cycling, with climbs, descents, and changes of pace. The road winds through tropical forests, farmland, and authentic rural villages. Each turn reveals a new vista of the Thai countryside. Enjoy a delicious stop at a local market to sample some traditional snacks before getting back in the saddle for the final push: a sustained climb to the Samoeng viewpoint, followed by an exhilarating descent to Chiang Mai. A day to test your legs, with relentless hills and valleys, while conserving energy for tomorrow’s main event! The afternoon is free: a traditional massage, an arty café, or a stroll to discover the city’s architectural treasures—the choice is yours.
- Breakfast, snacks and road guide
Day 3: Doi Inthanon, the Roof of Thailand (98 km - 2,160 m elevation gain)
Today marks the culmination of our cycling adventure in this region of the kingdom! After a short transfer out of town, we begin the day on flat roads to warm up our legs while enjoying the peaceful landscapes of the plains. Then it’s off to Doi Inthanon National Park, where the first real climbs begin. We take a quieter, less-traveled local road that winds between banana orchards and pine forests—a physical challenge, but a true delight for the senses. A break is in order once we reach the highest point of the route, at the foot of the mountain: coffee, snacks, and fresh fruit (depending on the season). Finally, pure bliss: a smooth, winding descent on a perfectly smooth road to exit the park, before hopping back into the van that takes us back to the hotel in the afternoon. You’re free to enjoy the rest of the afternoon as you wish, before a final convivial dinner together!
Note: the basic route does not take you to the summit of Doi Inthanon. The climb ends before the final section. However, more experienced cyclists can choose to continue to the top, adding 33 km and 1,350 m of elevation gain. This brings the stage to 131 km and 3,510 m of elevation gain, an ideal option for seasoned riders looking for an extra challenge.
- Breakfast, English-speaking road guide, snacks, private van transfer and dinner
Day 4: Free day in Chiang Mai
This day is yours to enjoy: explore the peaceful alleyways and temples of Chiang Mai, relax by the pool, treat yourself to a traditional massage, or embark on your next adventure—perhaps a flight to the southern beaches. A sweet interlude before the rest of your journey.
- Breakfast
Interested in this travel inspiration?
We create personalized estimates based on duration, season and your preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this route suitable for beginners or only for experienced cyclists?
This trip isn't exclusively for experts, but it does require a good level of fitness and regular cycling experience. The pace is demanding, with several days of significant elevation gain, long climbs, and technical descents. You also need to consider the tropical climate, with heat and humidity present from late morning onwards: the best time to ride is between November and February, during the dry and cooler season. In short: this trip is accessible if you're a motivated cyclist, accustomed to long rides or sporting challenges. For experienced cyclists, it's a true playground. For occasional riders, it's best to plan some preparation before departure.
What type of bicycle do you provide? Is it included in the price?
Bicycles are not included in the trip price. The type of bicycle available depends on the destination, but we always use high-quality, well-maintained models suitable for the secondary roads we ride. The bicycles offered are generally Trek FX2 Disc or Trek Dual Sport 2 (hybrids), Trek FX3 (electrics), or Triban 520 (road/gravel).
Can I bring my own bike?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own bicycle. Please let us know when booking: this may qualify you for a discount if bike rental was included in your planned itinerary. Please note, however, that some trips include transfers which may affect the logistical arrangements.
Are the routes safe?
We pay particular attention to the safety of our routes, favoring scenic backroads with very little traffic. Thailand is a safe destination for cyclists when routes are well-designed, which we constantly monitor. This is also true for our other destinations. However, we always stay on roads and tracks: common sense and vigilance are still essential.
Is this circuit suitable for children?
This trip isn't primarily designed for families, as it requires good endurance and significant cycling experience. However, it can be suitable for teenagers from 14/15 years old, provided they ride regularly (with a club, on the road, or on group rides with you). Without this experience, the route may be too demanding: long distances, steep climbs, and tropical heat in the late morning. That said, some days can be adapted or shortened, and e-bikes are available to make the effort easier. It's also possible to add a support vehicle (the drivers are lovely!), ideal for shortening a stage if needed and keeping the experience flexible and enjoyable for everyone.
Can I extend the trip with a beach extension including a few days of cycling?
Yes, absolutely. For example in Khao Sok, Krabi, Phuket, or elsewhere. The perfect idea: alternate cycling and relaxing by the sea to end the weekend on a relaxing note.
Escapes, stories, discoveries… inspiration begins here.
Travel differently. Travel closer to the heart of each destination.
Destinations
Tailor-made
Inspirations
Customized travel
About Us
30 years of on-the-ground expertise to offer trips that reveal the soul of Southeast Asia
