Two Wheels on Thailand’s Route 1095
- Author
- Cole Pennington
In Thailand, route 1095 is that motorcycle escape. The route goes from the northern urban epicenter Chiang Mai to the remote border town Mae Hong Song.
Motorcycling
The lure of a motorcycle tour along the open roads of Asia is multifaceted, and trading the confines of four wheels for the sense of liberty found on two is fast becoming a pragmatic decision as well as romantic one. Weaving unhindered through the dense traffic endemic to the region’s cities, and riding out into the exotic landscapes of Vietnam, Thailand, India, Nepal and Laos – the sites of some particularly epic routes – is becoming increasingly popular with motorcyclist enthusiasts and the more casual rider alike.
With its vast network of well-maintained highway and provincial roads, Thailand is well known among motorcyclists as one of the top international tour destinations in the world. The provinces of Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Son, Phayao, Phrae, Nan, Ubon Ratchathani, Khon Kaen and Si Saket provide thousands of miles of almost empty tarmac – notably free of commercial and industrial vehicles. Bhutan offers a very different experience to the tropical routes of Thailand, but with a population of just 50,000, even the capital of Thimphu is free from jams (and doesn’t even have traffic lights). The steep 3,450-meter climb from the capital to the Dochu La pass, followed by a 1,700-meter descent into Punakha Valley is an exciting highlight even for a country filled with adventure, like Bhutan. The once isolated kingdom of Laos has for the last decade seen a steady increase of motorcyclists into the country, keen to discover the thrills of the Laos Loop. The 300-mile journey, packed with jungle scenery, rice paddies and long stretches of challenging, uneven roads, begins and ends in the town of Thakhèk (Tha Khaek) in the Khammouane province. But, the true destination is the spectacular Kong Lor Cave, the spectacular karst limestone cave at the heart of Phu Hin Bun National Park, considered one of Southeast Asia's geological wonders.
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- Author
- Tyler Roney
Hiding just a few kilometers outside of China’s capital is one of the most beautiful rural libraries in Asia, a treasure best found by motorcycle.
The Laos Loop: A Motorcycle Journey in the Jungle
- Author
- Travelogues
Few experiences match that roaring between the thighs and the singular sense of freedom in the jungle footpaths and winding alleys of the Southeast Asian countryside by motorcycle. For the sheer thrill of open-road exploration there is nowhere quite like Laos.
Motorcycling Itineraries
7-Day Classic Bike Trip through the Nepalese Himalayas
Bike through the Himalayas on a classic Royal Enfield, with this week-long trip covering a loop from Kathmandu to some of the region’s most spectacular spots. Catch the sunset at Sarangkot, take to the sky in Pokhara, all before you roll back into the capital seven days later.
- Duration
- 7 days / 6 nights
- Price Per Person
- From $7,600
Exploring the Open Road: A Motorbike Adventure Across Nepal
This exhilarating, 16-day motorbike adventure takes you through the buzzing cities, ancient villages and remote roadways of Nepal. Enjoy the ultimate combination of luxury, nature and adrenaline as you ride through the nation’s most enchanting destinations.
- Duration
- 16 days / 15 nights
- Price Per Person
- From $16,000
Northern Laos by Motorbike: A Thrilling Journey
Experience Northern Laos by motorbike on this exhilarating 14-day luxury journey. Starting in Vientiane, you’ll rev your way across the country to charming Luang Prabang, making friends with local villagers, climbing mountains, checking out breathtaking views, and staying in some of Laos’ most luxury hotels.
- Duration
- 14 days / 13 nights
- Price Per Person
- From $8,100
Ride on the Wild Side: Motorcycling along Vietnam
This eight-day adventure will bring your wild heart joy and excitement while exploring the lush and remote jungles of Vietnam from the comfort of your motorcycle. Ride along the beautiful Ho Chi Minh Trail, taking in stunning coastal views and learning lessons of historical importance. When not on the road, take time to enjoy the ancient beauty of Vietnam.
- Duration
- 8 days / 7 nights
- Price Per Person
- From $5,700
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