Duration
10 days / 9 nights
Price Per Person
Interests
Destinations

The best way to enjoy Northern Thailand is by spending most of your time outdoors, enjoying the lush jungle-covered mountains that make the region unique. Take in the vibrant green rolling valleys and picturesque peaks as you head towards the famous Golden Triangle. This 10-day itinerary offers an incredible tour of the north as you cycle through Chiang Rai, Thaton, Chiang Saen, Chiang Khong, Phu Chi Fa, Phayao, Viang Pa Pao and Chiang Mai. 

This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.

Highlights

  • Thailand on Two Wheels: Thailand's northern landscapes are best explored with the wind in your face as you wind around jungle-covered hills.
  • Art vs Religion: Chiang Rai's Wat Rong Khun, better known as the White Temple, stood derelict until Chalermchai Kositpipat transformed the site into a thought-provoking and aesthetically overwhelming installation that muses on Buddhism, worship, and popular culture.
  • Chasing Waterfalls: This cycling adventure ends at Chiang Mai's Bua Thong Waterfall (sticky waterfall), so named because it's easy to climb the tiers without slipping - the finest reward after a week pedaling around the northern highlands.

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Chiang Rai

Start in Chiang Rai, Thailand’s northernmost large city and once the royal capital of the Mangrai dynasty. Have a relaxing, leisurely warm-up ride before the trip ahead. This pleasant afternoon journey will help you adjust to biking in Thailand. Bikers ride on the left side in Thailand, which is often a change for many travelers. Bike through stunning rice paddy fields following the Mae Lao River until reaching Wat Rong Khun - famously known as the White Temple. A local architect created the temple in a unique style. Relax at your hotel - we recommend Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort - before perusing the bustling night bazaar and indulging in Northern-style Thai food.

Hotel Options
About

The perfect little hideaway, Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort is the ideal oasis for travelers in northern Thailand. This luxurious resort, sprawling over 10 glorious acres, is situated on the Mae Kok river and boasts an outdoor pool, spa and children’s center for ultimate relaxation.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 2

Thaton

Today you will be heading up to the hills of Wawee, but you will have a nice fast flat stretch of 25 miles to warm up your legs before the real work begins. The first climb is through a variety of fields from sugar cane to maize, small farming villages, and endless mountain views, enough to distract you from the effort of ascending 2,625 feet in just 9.3 miles ! You will stop for a scenic rest stop with panoramic views before a fast 6.2-mile descent. The remainder of your ride will be undulating on quiet roads in good condition. You’ll end at Thaton along the banks of the Maekok River where your resort with a swimming pool awaits. You will have ascended almost 6,562 feet in 76 miles, a respectable first day!

Hotel Options
About

Welcome to the Maekok River Village Resort, located in the hilly northwest corner of Thailand, hugging the Myanmar (Burma) border. This comfortable resort provides a picturesque place to lay your head – and enjoy lush garden views – while soaking in the history and culture of the city of Thaton.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 3

Chiang Saen

Ease into the day, as you won’t need to start pedaling hard until about 10 miles into the ride. Begin a gradual climb, followed by a short downhill section. Pass hill tribe farmers hard at work in their fields. You will probably pass a massive water buffalo or two grazing along the roadside. Make your descent into the quaint 7th-century town of Chiang Saen along the Mekong River on the border with Laos. All of the ancient walls surrounding the city are still standing.

Hotel Options
About

Set on the banks of the gorgeous Mekong River, the Siam Triangle Hotel is a breathtaking four-star hotel that will fulfill most travel desires. Choose from 52 modern rooms, each equipped with stylish décor, spacious balconies with a scenic river view, free WiFi, flat-screen TV and basic kitchen facilities.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Chiang Saen
Chiang Saen

Day 4

Chiang Khong

It’s an easy day of riding with a fast and flat ride in the morning! The rest of the day is free for your relaxation needs. The ride traces the Mekong River, which forms the border between Thailand and Laos. Finish your 48-mile ride in the border town of Chiang Khong. Check into a local hotel before hitting the town in search of savory northern curries or flat-egg noodle dishes.

Hotel Options
About

Resting along the serene Mekong River, the charming Chiang Khong Teak Garden Hotel is the perfect place to discover the scenic gems of Northern Thailand. Surrounded by a garden of century-old golden teak trees, the hotel features 72 contemporary rooms and four spacious suites.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 5

Phu Chi Fa Forest Park

Start the day by heading south to Phu Chi Fah for an incredible view. Warm up for 31 miles at a leisurely pace before beginning to bike up the steep ascent. Pause along the way at viewpoints for an unrivaled view of the surrounding valleys and lush forests. The finish is atop an amazing cliff formation unlike any other in the region. After biking 55 miles, spend the evening relaxing and enjoying fresh cool air in your cosy bungalow.

Hotel Options
About

Ukrist Farm Hill Resort places you conveniently 7.5 mi (12.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Phu Chi Fa Forest Park
Phu Chi Fa Forest Park

Day 6

Phayao

Start the day by heading south to Phu Chi Fah for an incredible view. Warm up for 25 miles at a leisurely pace before beginning to bike up the steep ascent. Pause along the way at Phu Sang Waterfall, where the water comes from a hot spring with water temperature around 33-35 degrees, and enjoy the unrivaled view of the surrounding valleys and lush forests. The finish is atop an amazing cliff formation unlike any other in the region. After biking 78 miles, spend the evening relaxing at the Green Hill Hotel.

Hotel Options
About

Green Hill Hotel stands near “Kwan Phayao” and is surrounded by natural beauty from the mountain and the lake. The lakeside breezes help keep the area cool, and the sunset views across the lake to the distant hills make a picturesque place to stay.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 7

Wiang Pa Pao

Spend the morning at leisure in the laidback atmosphere for which Phayao is famous. After lunch, climb back on your bike and travel to the next valley, biking through the mountain range. After reaching over 3,000 feet, pause and enjoy the stunning views of Tan Tong Waterfall. Ride through the foothills of the mountains as the sun dips in the sky. Reach your resting place for the night after finishing a 52-mile ride.

Hotel Options
About

The Full House Resort is conveniently situated in the Pa Ngio part of Wiang Pa Pao, close to the Thung Theewii Hot Springs, Wang Macha, and Champ Thong Waterfall. Its 14 guest rooms feature air conditioning, TVs, balconies, refrigerators, and en suite bathrooms with showers.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

About

Palm Hug Hotel is set in Wiang Pa Pao, conveniently located 2.4 km from the popular Wiang Pa Pao hot springs, and 4.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 8

Chiang Mai

It’s a fun day of climbs and riding through the dense forests. Look for exotic birds flitting in and out of the trees. Continue the 65-mile ride through rice fields and orchards until you reach the Bua Thong Waterfall. Take a refreshing dip and keep your eye out for freshwater crabs! Finish the day with a transfer to Chiang Mai. 

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Individuality: The 137 Pillars House is a recently opened, renovated, historically colonial boutique property of select suites.

Added Extras: Guests receive complimentary breakfasts, soft drinks and beer from the mini bar.

Location: Situated in one of Chiang Mai’s most stylish areas, by the Ping River and near unique art galleries, antique shops, coffee houses and just a stone’s throw from some of the cities most up-market nightlife venues.

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137 Pillars House Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: The vast resort grounds comprise verdant rice terraces and lush landscaped rainforest gardens over looking a stunning Thai mountain range in the distance.

Dining: Four superb restaurants and a handful of bars in beautiful locations serving Thai, Italian and international cuisine, as well as afternoon tea, signature cocktails and fine wines.

Facilities: Guests may enjoy plenty of world-class facilities including an award winning spa, fitness center, infinity pool, tennis courts, cooking school, library and children’s clubs.

Privacy: The hideaway resort is situated away from the hustle of Chiang Mai city, yet within easy reach of the areas attractions. There are five daily shuttle services to the city center.

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Four Seasons Chiang Mai Preferred Hotel
About

Chiang Mai's Villa Mahabhirom is located west of the old city, a short walk from the 700-year-old Wat Umong Buddhist temple and only a 15-minute drive from the international airport. The name translates as "Villa of Great Pleasure," and the property is designed around the concept of groups of friends and families spending time together.

If our Preferred Hotel is unavailable, this accommodation is a reliable alternative and has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai

Day 9

Chiang Mai

Do a ride around Chiang Mai’s famous Doi Suthep Mountain, famous for the temple on its summit. From the top, you can view all of the city below. Ride to Samoeng, a farming village, and stop for lunch. Ride to the top of Doi Suthep - it will be quite a workout, but likely the crown of your journey. The ride back is a refreshing downhill loop into the foothills around Chiang Mai.

Day 10

Departure

Enjoy an amazing sense of accomplishment after touring the north of Thailand by bike. The morning is yours to relax before beginning your journey back home.

Suggested Hotel For Day 1

Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort

Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort


The perfect little hideaway, Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort is the ideal oasis for travelers in northern Thailand. This luxurious resort, sprawling over 10 glorious acres, is situated on the Mae Kok river and boasts an outdoor pool, spa and children’s center for ultimate relaxation. With close proximity - and a complimentary shuttle bus - to nearby popular sites, the resort can be used as a home base for touring or a retreat from the road. With the option of nearly 160 rooms, spanning from Deluxe Room to Grand Deluxe Room to Grand Suite Rooms, and four on-site dining options, including a poolside bar, guests may never want to leave the premises. 


Suggested Hotel For Day 2

Maekok River Village Resort

Maekok River Village Resort

Welcome to the Maekok River Village Resort, located in the hilly northwest corner of Thailand, hugging the Myanmar (Burma) border. This comfortable resort provides a picturesque place to lay your head – and enjoy lush garden views – while soaking in the history and culture of the city of Thaton. Every room has its own patio or balcony to enjoy the fresh mountain air after a day of sightseeing. Guests can also spend their days participating in one of the many on-site activities, from archery to high ropes to rafting to Thai cooking. Enjoy fresh, local cuisine from the nearby Wa Wee hills and breathe in Northern Thailand – it is an experience to remember!

Suggested Hotel For Day 3

Siam Triangle Hotel

Siam Triangle Hotel


Set on the banks of the gorgeous Mekong River, the Siam Triangle Hotel is a breathtaking four-star hotel that will fulfill most travel desires. Choose from 52 modern rooms, each equipped with stylish décor, spacious balconies with a scenic river view, free WiFi, flat-screen TV and basic kitchen facilities. After checking in, patrons can lounge by the large outdoor swimming pool, relax in the sauna, work up a sweat at the fitness center or enjoy a soothing Thai massage at the on-site spa. Friendly hotel staff are more than happy to help guests organize travel excursions, book car hires, plan events at the hotel’s grand meeting facilities, take care of dry cleaning and much more. After a day of exploring Chiang Rai, guests may head to the hotel restaurant and feast on delicious Thai and international cuisine while overlooking the scenic river. The Siam Triangle Hotel is also only a few miles away from the Golden Triangle and is the perfect base from which to explore the treasures of Northern Thailand.


Suggested Hotel For Day 4

Chiang Khong Teak Garden Hotel

Chiang Khong Teak Garden Hotel


Resting along the serene Mekong River, the charming Chiang Khong Teak Garden Hotel is the perfect place to discover the scenic gems of Northern Thailand. Surrounded by a garden of century-old golden teak trees, the hotel features 72 contemporary rooms and four spacious suites. Each accommodation is fitted with teak and burl wood flooring, a scenic view overlooking the lush garden, satellite TV, free WiFi and modern amenities.  After checking in, patrons can enjoy a relaxing Thai massage at the spa, check e-mails at the business center, grab a refreshing drink at the bar or dance the night away at the nightclub. Guests can also indulge in savory Thai cuisine at the restaurant on-site. During the day, visitors can take advantage of the bicycle rental facility at the hotel and pedal to lush hills, tropical greenery and majestic rivers. The hotel is also located near the peaceful beach town of Chiang Khong. 


Suggested Hotel For Day 5

Ukrist Farm Hill

Ukrist Farm Hill

Ukrist Farm Hill Resort places you conveniently 7.5 mi (12.1 km) from Phu Chi Fa Forest Park. Surrounded by forestry, this resort has 31 basic bungalow style rooms with balconies, many of which offer dramatic views of the valley below. Rooms also feature en suite bathrooms with showers and complimentary toiletries. Free in-room wifi is available for guests to access. There is a small restaurant which serves breakfast daily. In addition, the resort offers guests recreation opportunities such as karaoke or garden walks.

Suggested Hotel For Day 6

Green Hill Hotel

Green Hill Hotel

Green Hill Hotel stands near “Kwan Phayao” and is surrounded by natural beauty from the mountain and the lake. The lakeside breezes help keep the area cool, and the sunset views across the lake to the distant hills make a picturesque place to stay. The accommodations feature 32 sqm sized rooms with either a large single bed or two twin beds, as well as roomier 58 sqm sized suites. All rooms feature air conditioning, 48 in televisions, and bathrooms with both shower and bathtubs. The hotel facilities include a small café where breakfast is served and a large salt water pool with 1.5-2 meter depth for swimming.

Suggested Hotels For Day 7

Full House Resort

Full House Resort

The Full House Resort is conveniently situated in the Pa Ngio part of Wiang Pa Pao, close to the Thung Theewii Hot Springs, Wang Macha, and Champ Thong Waterfall. Its 14 guest rooms feature air conditioning, TVs, balconies, refrigerators, and en suite bathrooms with showers. The facilities include an outdoor pool. The on-site restaurant offers breakfast as well as drinks and small bites throughout the day.
Palm Hug Hotel

Palm Hug Hotel

Palm Hug Hotel is set in Wiang Pa Pao, conveniently located 2.4 km from the popular Wiang Pa Pao hot springs, and 4.1 km from the Ban San Sali area, popular for its mountain bike trails. All of the hotel rooms include air conditioning and a flat-screen TV, with WIFI accessible throughout the property. Facilities include a fitness center, outdoor pool, and table tennis.

Suggested Hotels For Days 8–9

137 Pillars House
Preferred Hotel

137 Pillars House

Located in the heart of Wat Gate, an area in Chiang Mai that was formerly designated to foreigners by the government, 137 Pillars House sits idyllically along the Ping River, adjacent to Wat Gate Khar Rham Temple. Combining the regality of traditional Thai elegance with modern luxury, this boutique hotel offers amenities including high-speed wireless internet access, laundry service, a 24-hour on-call medical professional, babysitting services, a spa, outdoor swimming pool and a fitness facility. The Dining Room offers classic Thai cuisine, one of the many dining options offered at the hotel. 137 Pillars House is approximately 25 minutes by car from Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX).

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Four Seasons Chiang Mai
Preferred Hotel

Four Seasons Chiang Mai

The Four Seasons Chiang Mai blends with its natural surroundings seamlessly, with trees growing between and around the resort, overlooking terraced rice fields and the mountains of the Mae Rim Valley. The resort has 64 boutique pavilions, each with a private veranda, as well as 16 private luxury residences. The Sala Mae Rim serves Thai cuisine and offers sweeping views of the valley below, and the Terraces have international dishes with a view of the Doi Suthep mountain range. The hotel has a health club with state of the art equipment, including a sauna, herbal steam room, whirlpool, cold plunge pool, 20-meter infinity edge swimming pool, a business center and wi-fi access. There are also mountain bikes available for use, along with maps of trails through the surrounding forest. The Spa at the Four Seasons Chiang Mai has seven treatment suites with rain shower massage tables and private herbal steam rooms. Professional spa therapists can help you choose the best treatment package for your needs. The hotel is 25 minutes from Chiang Mai International Airport.

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Villa Mahabhirom

Villa Mahabhirom

Chiang Mai's Villa Mahabhirom is located west of the old city, a short walk from the 700-year-old Wat Umong Buddhist temple and only a 15-minute drive from the international airport. The name translates as "Villa of Great Pleasure," and the property is designed around the concept of groups of friends and families spending time together. The antique Thai villas (ruean thai) date back over a century, featuring traditional elements such as stilts, handmade clay roof tiles and dark teakwood. Reimagined for the modern traveler, the 14 villas range from one- to three-bedroom units, with some offering private saltwater plunge pools. Decor is simple and elegant, with details including vintage furniture and luxurious Italian marble in the bathroom. Custom toiletries are by Pañpuri. Hotel facilities include a large saltwater swimming pool, a spa, as well as yoga and Tai Chi classes (requested in advance). For dining, guests can enjoy home-cooked Thai and international dishes in the property's signature Restaurant or opt for the private Mahabhirom Dining Room. The Noppadol Verandah is perfect for evening sundowners and afternoon tea can be enjoyed in the Mahabhirom Tea Room - the sweet treats follow the recipes of Bangkok's Baan Mo Palace while the aromatic teas are sourced from Thailand's only organic tea plantation.

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