Thailand · the Mae Hong Son loop
Mae Hong Son Loop Cycling Tour
690 km of beauty, sweat & unforgettable moments
- Days
- 11
- Distance
- 693
km - Climbing
- 15,279
m - Group
- 8–15
- Grade
- Advanced
The ride
About this tour
Mae Hong Son district is tucked away in the remote northwest corner, of a scenic mountainous region of Thailand. The route takes you up and over mountains, quaint little villages, through forests, and across bridges for its entire 690 km length. With butter smooth tarmac, sparse traffic, stunning scenery, and Khao Soi to die for (talk about Thai cuisine!), this is a dream cycling holiday. But only if you are ready for the hills.
The shape of the week
693 km
15,279 m up
Each bar is one day's climbing.
- Arrive
- 1,527m 1,527m
- 2,500m 2,500m
- 3,206m 3,206m
- Rest
- 2,055m 2,055m
- 861m 861m
- 3,085m 3,085m
- Rest
- 2,045m 2,045m
- Depart
- D1 — —
- D2 79 km 79 km
- D3 86 km 86 km
- D4 129 km 129 km
- D5 — —
- D6 96 km 96 km
- D7 67 km 67 km
- D8 107 km 107 km
- D9 — —
- D10 129 km 129 km
- D11 — —
Highlights
What you'll
remember
Ride through one of the most authentic parts of Thailand, known for stunning scenery and various ethnic hill tribes who live in remote villages.
Experience the confluence of Burmese and Thai cuisine at the town of Mae Hong Son, a beautiful and remote province in Northern Thailand.
Summit Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s tallest peak.
Day by day
The itinerary
Day 1 Arrival at Chiang Mai No riding
- Distance
- —
- Climbing
- —
- Night stay
- Le Naview Hotel
- Meals
- Dinner
The day
Check into your hotel in Chiang Mai. Meet fellow travellers, set up bikes, and rest. Chiang Mai, founded in 1296 and the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom, is peaceful and small compared to Bangkok. We’ll stay in the “Old City” inside the walled moat. In the early evening, take a short walk to explore Chiang Mai’s temples. Later, we’ll have a tour briefing and dinner.
Highlights
- Arrive in Chiang Mai, check-in to the hotel in Old Town
- Meet and greet your fellow riders
- Short ride to test the bikes
Day 2 Samoeng Loop 79 km1,527 m
- Distance
- 79 km
- Climbing
- 1,527 m
- Night stay
- Le Naview Hotel
- Meals
- Dinner
The day
An iconic route in the local cycling community, this journey unfolds with an initial twenty kilometres of level terrain before gradually ascending. As we progress, the road meanders through rice fields, plantations, and quaint mountain villages. We eventually reach the highest point of the day at an elevation of 1,150 meters above sea level. A rewarding descent through the Mae Sa Valley follows before we hit the canal road and finally to our hotel in Chiang Mai.
Highlights
- Start the day ascending gradually through rice fields, plantations, and quaint mountain villages
- Enjoy a rewarding descent through Mae Sa Valley, finishing with a scenic canal road ride back to the hotel
- Explore Chiang Mai’s old town on foot, rich with history, temples, and charming streets
Day 3 Chiang Mai - Mae Chaem 86 km2,500 m
- Distance
- 86 km
- Climbing
- 2,500 m
- Night stay
- Le Naview Hotel
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The day
We begin the day with a one-hour transfer to conserve energy for the climbs and scenic highlights. Near Chom Thong, we turn towards Doi Inthanon National Park, where the terrain changes dramatically with numerous waterfalls. We stop at one for lunch. Afterwards, riders can choose to summit Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s tallest peak, or take a detour towards Mae Chaem. The final 20 km to Mae Chaem is downhill, offering stunning views along scenic roads.
Destination
Today we leave Chaing Mai and ride to Mae Chaem, a tranquil village nestled among mountains on the western side of Doi Inthanon. Renowned for its natural beauty, the area also boasts several ancient temples, adding to its allure.
Highlights
- Experience the thrill of cycling through Doi Inthanon National Park, with its dramatic climbs, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking views
- Summit Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s tallest peak
- Discover tranquil Mae Chaem on foot: Temples, markets, and warm hospitality in rural Thailand
Day 4 Mae Chaem - Mae Sariang 129 km3,206 m
- Distance
- 129 km
- Climbing
- 3,206 m
- Night stay
- River House Hotel
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The day
Today marks one of the more demanding days of the tour, with total ascent for the day exceeding 3000 meters. Early starts are essential as we embark on route 1088 towards Op Lulang National Park, eventually merging onto 108 and guiding us to Mae Sariang, our destination for the day.
Mae Sariang is also home to some charming and atmospheric pubs. After conquering two challenging days, it’s the perfect time to head out and celebrate with some Thai Beer!
Destination
Mae Sariang is a serene town nestled near the Thailand-Myanmar border. This small district town occupies a picturesque spot along a mostly untouched riverside, surrounded by verdant hills and paddy-filled valleys.
Highlights
- Cycle through breathtaking mountain views on one of the most challenging yet scenic days of the tour
- Enjoy a picnic lunch at Bo Kaeo Pine Tree Garden among towering pine trees
- Stay at a charming wooden boutique hotel by the river in Mae Sariang, offering a serene end to your day
Day 5 Rest Day at Mae Sariang No riding
- Distance
- —
- Climbing
- —
- Night stay
- River House Hotel
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The day
It’s a rest day and we plan to kick back and take it easy! After a chill breakfast at our resort, we will head out to a cosy local joint for some authentic Thai coffee. Later, we’ll engage in a leisurely exploration of the town and its surroundings.
Destination
Set on the eastern bank of the Yuam River, Mae Sariang remains a sleepy, fairly non-touristy backwater. The town has some interesting things to see and do, including quite a few old teak buildings, and a handful of Burmese/Shan-style Wats.
Highlights
- Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on the terrace of our hotel, overlooking Yuam river
- Wander through the quiet streets of Mae Sariang, lined with traditional wooden houses and local shops
- Explore the local coffee and the cuisine
Day 6 Mae Sariang - Khun Yuam 96 km2,055 m
- Distance
- 96 km
- Climbing
- 2,055 m
- Night stay
- Mit Khun Yuam
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The day
It is going to be an exhilarating day, covering just under 100 km with a total ascent of 2000 meters. The route starts amidst towering teak trees and later transitions to stunning landscapes of picturesque rice terraces and quaint hill tribe villages.
Destination
Khun Yuam, a modest town on Route 108, hosts the Thai-Japan Friendship Memorial Hall. During WWII, it served as a vital Japanese base in Thailand, now commemorated with a museum founded in 1995 by a dedicated local police chief, showcasing an extensive collection of wartime artefacts.
Highlights
- Start your day cycling through majestic teak forests, then enjoy winding through picturesque rice terraces and charming hill tribe villages with stunning, diverse scenery
- At Khun Yuam, stop over for lunch at a lovely cafe set amidst lush green rice fields
- Visit the Thai-Japan Friendship Memorial Hall in Khun Yuam, explore World War II artefacts and learn about the town’s historical significance
Day 7 Khun Yuam - Mae Hong Son 67 km861 m
- Distance
- 67 km
- Climbing
- 861 m
- Night stay
- Jong Kham View
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The day
Today is the easiest ride of the tour. Even with an easy pace, we should be able to make it to Mae Hong Son by noon. This part of Thailand is known for oranges and late December to mid-February is the season. We will ride past locals selling fresh oranges by the roadside, and stop over to sample a few!
Destination
Mae Hong Son is a charming little town, in a valley surrounded by mountains. Our hotel is right at the edge of Chong Kham Lake, at the heart of the small town.
Highlights
- Enjoy the most relaxed ride of the tour, yet very scenic
- Hike to Wat Phra That for stunning sunset views over Mae Hong Son and its picturesque surroundings
- Enjoy a distinctive fusion of Thai and Burmese flavours with a special lunch in Mae Hong Son, celebrated as a standout highlight on the loop!
Day 8 Mae Hong Son - Pai 107 km3,085 m
- Distance
- 107 km
- Climbing
- 3,085 m
- Night stay
- Pai My Guest
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The day
The journey from Mae Hong Son to Pai is a captivating adventure through northern Thailand’s rugged beauty. As you ascend, panoramic vistas of mist-shrouded mountains unfold, creating a dramatic backdrop for your journey. Of course, this is also one of the more challenging days on the bike!
Pai awaits with its laid-back atmosphere, nestled amidst rolling hills and surrounded by natural splendour!
Destination
Pai is renowned for its laid-back atmosphere, picturesque scenery, vibrant arts and music scene, hot springs, waterfalls, and the Pai Canyon. It’s a haven for backpackers seeking a relaxed vibe amidst Northern Thailand’s natural beauty. Every night the main street of Pai fills up with food vendors and market stalls selling everything from your quintessential hippie clothing and jewellery to personalized postcards and a variety of culinary delights!
Highlights
- Experience panoramic vistas of mist-shrouded mountains as you ascend through northern Thailand’s rugged terrain
- Join us early evening at one of the most magical spots for breathtaking sunset views
- Enjoy the diverse culinary delights of Pai’s bustling night market, offering everything from sushi to fresh fruit smoothies and local specialities
Day 9 Rest day at Pai No riding
- Distance
- —
- Climbing
- —
- Night stay
- Pai My Guest
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The day
Enjoy a rest day in Pai with a range of options to unwind. Choose to visit a local hot spring for relaxation, explore the scenic Pai Canyon, or simply chill at one of the town’s many cafes. If you prefer, indulge in a traditional Thai massage for ultimate relaxation.
Highlights
- Relax and unwind with a leisurely stroll through Pai, known for its laid-back vibe
- Visit the Tha Pai Hot Springs and soak in naturally warm, mineral-rich waters amid Pai’s serene and picturesque landscape
- Watch the sunset from Pai Canyon, famed for its steep cliffs and panoramic views
Day 10 Pai - Chiang Mai 129 km2,045 m
- Distance
- 129 km
- Climbing
- 2,045 m
- Night stay
- Le Naview Hotel
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The day
“There are 762 turns on the road from Chiang Mai to Pai. 762 turns through hills, and forest and rolling farmland, “ says one of the travel blogs. Irrespective of the number of turns, there can’t be any argument about the beauty of the terrain it passes through. The hills, the valleys, and the switchbacks all make you gasp in amazement and scream for mercy. Both at the same time!
Later in the evening, it is time for a little celebration. Not only have we conquered some of the longest climbs of Thailand, but we have seen and experienced it in a way that only a few travellers do.
Destination
Chiang Mai, the cultural heart of northern Thailand, awaits at the end of your journey from Pai. Explore its ancient temples, vibrant markets, and rich culinary scene amid a backdrop of lush mountains.
Highlights
- Stop at the Japanese Memorial Bridge for a poignant reminder and a photo opportunity of Thailand’s World War II history
- Ride through Huai Nam Dang National Park, where lush forests and scenic viewpoints await
- Celebrate conquering Thailand’s Mae Hong Son loop with a well-deserved celebratory dinner
Day 11 Departure from Chiang Mai No riding
- Distance
- —
- Climbing
- —
- Night stay
- —
- Meals
- —
The day
Post breakfast, enjoy a free morning in Chiang Mai. If you would like to buy some souvenirs to take back home, the local market is definitely worth a visit. Later in the day, we transfer you from the hotel to the airport for your onward flight.
The route
Where this
tour goes
Dates & pricing
Dates to be announced
Mae Hong Son Challenge
- Twin sharing
- ₹1,21,000
- Single occupancy
- ₹1,49,000
The detail
What's included
Included
- Accommodation for 10 nights
- 8 breakfasts, 8 lunches and 10 dinners
- Water, electrolytes, hot and cold beverages, fruits and snacks while riding
- 1 support vehicle which can carry bicycles and riders
- 1 baggage vehicle to ferry baggage and set up drink stops
- Entrance fee to Doi Inthanon National Park
Not included
- Flights and Visa
- Entrance fees to national parks and sites not mentioned under ‘Inclusions’
- Bike hire
- Travel Insurance
- Alcoholic beverages
Before you come
Practical
information
Repairs & safety
Basic spares and tools are carried by the guide and on the support vehicle, though we cannot guarantee having spares for every conceivable problem. Carrying a basic tool kit, a spare tube and a pump while riding is recommended.
Wearing a helmet is required on all our biking adventures and is non negotiable. If you do not wear a helmet you will not be allowed to cycle. Your tour leader is trained in first aid and emergency rescue, but to a large degree you must be responsible for your own safety while riding.
More on what an Indian rider needs to know before riding abroad, including visas, connections and which month suits where.
Questions
Asked before
you book
If yours isn't here, ask us directly.
Is it suitable for beginners?
No. Due to the nature of the terrain, this ride is only suitable for experienced cyclists.
Is there a lot of climbing?
Yes, there is going to be a significant amount of climbing and descending most of the days.
How are the road conditions?
Excellent roads. Perfect for road bikes.
I am not sure if I can keep up with the group. Can I ride it at my own pace?
Absolutely! It’s common for our groups to naturally separate into smaller groups on the hills. But one thing we know for sure; ride it too hard and you miss out on the breathtaking scenery and cultural highlights along the route! Remember, this isn’t a race 🙂
Are we going to have any time for sightseeing?
Yes, we have 2 rest days. One each at Mae Sariang and Pai. Additionally, a few half-day rides leave us enough time to explore some local sights.
How do I reach Chiang Mai?
Chiang Mai is one hour by flight from Bangkok. There are no direct flights from India yet, and we need to go via Bangkok or Singapore.
I am a vegetarian. Are there going to be sufficient options for me?
Yes, absolutely! While smaller towns may offer limited options during the day, evenings typically provide a wider selection to accommodate your dietary preferences.
What kind of accommodation is provided for the Tour?
We’ll be travelling through smaller towns, except for Pai. The accommodations consist of charming boutique hotels.
Is there Wi-Fi and mobile network coverage along the route?
At many points along the route, we ride through forested areas where signals could be weak. In most other places, we will have good signal coverage. All hotels we will be staying at have Wi-Fi available.
How many participants are typically in a group?
A typical group size for our tours ranges between 8 to 14 participants.
How easy or difficult is it to carry my own bike for the tour?
Carrying your own bike to Chiang Mai is quite easy. We encourage you to book with Thai Airways, which has a very bike-friendly policy. This has been the preferred airline for all our Thailand tours. Currently, they don’t charge anything extra as long as the total weight of your bike and check-in luggage is under the weight limit. The weight limit typically varies from 25-35 kg depending on your ticket type.
Can I rent a bike if I don't want to bring my own?
Yes, it is possible to rent a road bike. Considering our tour is during peak season, we encourage you to book the bike early. Please let us know if you would like us to arrange the bike rental on your behalf.
How is the weather in general during January in the areas we will be riding?
The temperature throughout the day will generally vary from 15-26 degrees Celsius. The average riding temperature will typically range from 18-26 degrees Celsius, making it comfortable for cycling.
What time do we generally start our rides?
We usually start at 8 AM, after breakfast. An earlier start isn’t necessary since the weather in the afternoon is quite pleasant for riding. Also, most hotels won’t allow us to check in before 2 PM.
Riders
Who has ridden
this one
Imagine 600 km of switchbacks, climbs, waterfalls and coconuts. The struggle was real, the pleasure was unreal. We cycled over 20% gradients and pristine farms with the same vigour. Over those eight days we had the most memorable time of our lives.
No dates yet
Be told first
about Mae Hong Son
This one does not have dates on sale yet. Leave your name and we will email you when they are confirmed, before they go on the website.
Usually ridden in December to January
Name and email, and how many of you if you know.
No dates yet
Be told first about Mae Hong Son
We will email you when the dates are confirmed, before they go on the website. Nothing else is sent to you.
Usually ridden in December to January
Dates to come
You are on the list
We will email you when the dates for Mae Hong Son are confirmed, before they go on the website. That is all this list does: nothing else is sent to you in the meantime.
Usually ridden in December to January
Check your spam folder for the confirmation if it has not arrived in a few minutes.
Private groups
Bring your own
group of eight
8 riders or more and we will run Mae Hong Son on your dates rather than ours, with the week built around what your group actually rides.
The week that suits you
Not the departures listed above. Tell us roughly when, and we will work back from the season.
Set to your riders
Daily distance and climbing pitched at the group you are actually bringing, not at an average.
Longer or shorter
The itinerary here runs 11 days. Yours can run longer if you want more of the country, or shorter if the time is what it is.
We scout every route ourselves, so a change to the itinerary is one we plan rather than pass to somebody else. Corporate groups, clubs and friends riding together are all the same job to us.
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Difficulty
What the grades mean
Climbing sets the grade, not distance. Measured per riding day, averaged across the tour, with rest days excluded.
Beginner
- Climbing
- Under 500 m
- Distance
- Varies with the terrain
Flatter terrain with fewer challenging inclines. A more relaxed ride, suitable for those not yet accustomed to frequent climbing.
Intermediate
- Climbing
- 500 – 1,200 m
- Distance
- Usually 48 to 88 km
A mix of flat sections, rolling hills and occasional moderate climbs. A more diverse range of landscapes and challenges through the week.
Advanced
This tour- Climbing
- 1,200 m+
- Distance
- Usually 68 to 99 km
For experienced cyclists after a genuinely demanding week. Steep ascents and descents, and a real test of climbing.
On Mae Hong Son Challenge the average riding day is 99 km with 2,183 m of climbing, across 7 riding days.
Not sure it's for you? Read the full guide or ask us. We will tell you honestly.
Booking
What happens after you pay
We check every payment against the bank ourselves rather than taking a reference on trust.
Your place is confirmed once we have seen it arrive, normally within one working day. You get an email as soon as that is done, and we call you within a day of it to talk through fitness, bike and logistics.
The balance is arranged with you afterwards, on the schedule shown beside the prices. Nothing is taken automatically; every payment is one you make yourself.