Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai Bike Tour

Classic Inn to Inn ✦ 7 days ✦ Leisurely ✦ From $1995
The Original: Thailand cycling tours since 1987

Cycling Secret Roads Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai

Discover the heart and soul of Northern Thailand on our immersive cycling adventure, a journey through vibrant culture, ancient history, and tantalizing cuisine. Pedal through serene rural landscapes, past colorful temples, bustling markets, and charming villages, experiencing the true essence of Thai life. This Thailand bicycle tour unveils hidden treasures, from the awe-inspiring Wat Chaloem Phrakiat with its floating stupas to the remarkable ruins of Wiang Lo, an ancient northern kingdom.

Our adventure begins in Chiang Mai, where we'll explore local handicraft shops, visit a magnificent temple nestled in a limestone cave, and settle into a traditional homestay in the mountain village of Pang Hai. We'll cycle through the lush forests of Chae Son National Park, marvel at the ethereal white stupas of Wat Chaloem Phrakiat, and unwind at a lakeside retreat in Phayao. We'll also delve into the region's rich history, exploring the ruins of Wiang Lo and visiting exquisite teak wood temples.

Throughout our journey, we'll savor authentic Thai dishes at riverside gems and local favorites, immersing ourselves in the region's culinary delights. We'll experience the vibrant energy of local markets, witness skilled artisans at work, and connect with the warmth and hospitality of the Thai people. From the bustling streets of Chiang Mai to the tranquil countryside, this Thailand bike tour offers a unique blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and gastronomic exploration. Join us for one of Thailand's best bicycle tours and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai Bike Tour
rides: 30 to 65 kms
sleep: boutique inns
eat: best regional cuisine

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29 Jun 2025

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ornate teak temple building in Chiang Kham

Thailand bicycle tour day by day details

day 1: Welcome to Chiang Mai – Bikes, Culture & Riverside Delights

Bike fitting and cultural orientation
Welcome dinner at a riverside restaurant

Sawasdee krap! Welcome to vibrant Chiang Mai! As the sun begins to set, join our enthusiastic guides and fellow adventurers at our charming hotel in the heart of the Old City. Get ready for an unforgettable journey of local immersion and discovery. We'll get you fitted on your trusty bike and introduce you to the rich tapestry of Chiang Mai's culture. Our adventure kicks off with a delectable welcome dinner at a hidden riverside gem on the enchanting banks of the Ping River. Prepare your taste buds for some of the best Thai cuisine Chiang Mai has to offer!
Relax: Free to explore until dinner
Eat: Dinner
Sleep: The Rim Chiang Mai

day 2: Pang Hai Village – Caves, Temples & Thai Hospitality

Visiting local handicraft shops
Exploring Wat Tham Mae On cave temple
Experiencing the hospitality of Pang Hai village

After a delicious breakfast, we'll escape the city buzz and head into the tranquil countryside. Our journey begins with a visit to local handicraft shops, where you can witness artisans preserving ancient traditions. Then, we'll cycle through picturesque landscapes, arriving at the awe-inspiring Wat Tham Mae On, a magnificent temple nestled within a vast limestone cave complex. Our day's destination is the charming mountain village of Pang Hai, where we'll experience the warm embrace of traditional wooden Thai houses and immerse ourselves in local life.
Ride: 26 mi / 42 km, Land: hilly, slow climb
Eat: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sleep: Lanna Pang Hai Homestay

day 3: Chae Son National Park – Mountain Roads & Celestial Stupas

Cycling through Chae Son National Park
Visiting Wat Chaloem Phrakiat Phrachomklao Rachanusorn
Exploring the "floating" stupas

Today, we embark on a breathtaking ride through the verdant forests of Chae Son National Park. Shaded by teak and other tropical hardwoods, we'll traverse peaceful mountain roads, far from the urban hustle. As we emerge from the lush foliage, a magnificent sight awaits: Wat Chaloem Phrakiat Phrachomklao Rachanusorn, adorned with ethereal white stupas seemingly floating in the sky. After refreshing at our hotel, we'll journey to the summit to explore this awe-inspiring temple and its celestial stupas up close.
Ride: 33 mi / 54 km, Land: long slow climb
Eat: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sleep: Leelawaddee Resort

day 4: Phayao – Farmlands & Lakeside Tranquility

Cycling through picturesque farmlands
Exploring local towns and markets
Relaxing at Ta Mok Waterfall
Enjoying the tranquility of Phayao Lake

After our exhilarating mountain rides, today is all about enjoying the idyllic flatlands. Our route meanders through picturesque farmlands, with vibrant towns, colorful temples, and bustling fresh markets along the way. We'll experience the authentic charm of rural Thailand, concluding our ride at the enchanting Ta Mok Waterfall. From there, we'll drive to Phayao, bypassing busy roads, and unwind at our lakeside hotel, enjoying the tranquility of Phayao Lake.
Ride: 35 mi / 57 km, Land: flat
Eat: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sleep: Nagatara Resort

day 5: Wiang Lo & Wat Nantaram – Ancient Kingdoms & Teak Temples

Exploring the ruins of Wiang Lo by samlor
Visiting the teak wood temple of Wat Nantaram
Learning about Tai Lue heritage at Wat Phrathat Sob Wean

We'll start with a short shuttle to the outskirts of Chiang Mai, avoiding morning traffic. Our leisurely ride takes us through farmlands and villages. We'll then switch to samlors (traditional pedicabs) driven by locals to explore the remarkable ruins of Wiang Lo, one of the three original northern kingdoms alongside Sukhothai and Chiang Saen. We'll also visit the extraordinary Wat Nantaram, an exquisite teak wood temple, and immerse ourselves in the Tai Lue people's heritage at Wat Phrathat Sob Wean, featuring a captivating museum.
Ride: 48 mi / 76 km, Land: flat
Eat: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sleep: Rico Resort

day 6: Chiang Rai – National Parks & Culinary Feasts

Cycling in Phu Sang National Park
Experiencing the Wiang Thoeng Municipal Market
Farewell dinner in Chiang Rai

After breakfast, we'll cycle to the pristine Phu Sang National Park, where a refreshing waterfall fed by natural hot springs awaits. We'll then ride towards Chiang Rai through gently rolling rural terrain, passing authentic Thai villages and towns. Our cycling adventure culminates at the vibrant Wiang Thoeng Municipal Market, a sensory feast of fresh fruits, delicious food, clothes, and household goods. We'll then shuttle to Chiang Rai for a memorable final dinner filled with the tantalizing flavors of Thailand.
Ride: 29 mi / 47 km, Land: mix flat & small hills
Eat: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sleep: Nak Nakara Hotel

day 7: Departure – Sawasdee khap!

Transfer to Chiang Rai Airport

After a hearty breakfast, we'll arrange shuttles to Chiang Rai Airport. We bid farewell with a fond Sawasdee khap and memories of our captivating exploration of Chiang Mai's culture, food, and history.
Travel: Shuttle to airport
Eat: Breakfast

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Whatcha gonna get

Expert local bilingual guides
Entrance and activity fees
Handpicked lodges, ensuite rooms, double occupancy
Daily breakfast, lunch, snacks*
Dinners featuring fine local cuisine*
Unlimited drinking water**
Support van for baggage and lifts
Free use of bicycles
Airport pick up & drop off

*as noted in itinerary
**during activity

Getting there

The Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai tour meets at Chiang Mai International Airport in Chiang Mai, Thailand and ends at Chiang Rai International Airport in Chiang Rai. Guides will meet arriving flights, between 9:00 and 14:00

Guests should plan their flights to arrive in Chiang Mai before 14:00 (2 pm) on Day 1 of the tour and their departing flights from Chiang Rai after 10:00 (10 am) on Day 7.

Chiang Mai Airport code: CNX Chiang Rai Airport code: CEI Local Time: GMT+7

Travel Tip: Buying your domestic flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and back from Chiang Rai separately from your international flight to Thailand is often a better value. But do leave sufficient time between flights (3 hours suggested).

Documents Please

Passports are a must for all travelers, and some nationalities may also need a visa. Not sure? A quick check with the Thailand embassy will keep things smooth—because the only surprises on this trip should be the amazing experiences ahead!

Good Gear

Pedalers provides Merida Speeders, a lightweight, flatbar, sport road bike. A limited number of eBikes are available at a supplemental cost (advance bookings mandatory).

As a safe health measure and plastic reduction, guests are asked to bring their own helmets and waterbottles for cycling.

Good Eats

Discover the best of northern Thai cuisine each night with our Guide Curated Menus. Your guide team has found the best dIshes to try at each of the restaurants we visit at dinner time.

Perhaps some delicately fried morning glory with a seafood sauce. Or try some nam prick, a roasted Thai chili dip eaten with fresh vegies or pork skins. Discover Lanna dishes such a pork curry or Sai Ua, a spicy northern Thai sausage.

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Your Group, Your Date

You, family, friends, your preferred date, our handcrafted tour routes, privately guided, the ultimate adventure getaway.

Insider Tip: Tour is available June to February. Oct to Feb is best.

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Join a Scheduled Departure

Join a group of like minded travelers (12 guests max) on one of the dates below:
2025: 29 Jun
Classic Inns: $1995 per person, double occupancy
Single Room: +$450 Deposit: $300

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