Welcome to the Tour of Northern Thailand – an adventure designed for the explorer in you, not just the tourist. As we start our journey from the mountainous province of Chiang Rai towards the ancient walled city of Chiang Mai, you will notice this tour balances immersive cycling with cultural exploration. We trace the course of the meandering Mae kong river on our bike, ride past beautiful orange orchards and rice fields, take a dip at hot springs en route, walk amidst ruins of historical Chiang Saen, and stop by quaint little roadside eateries.
If the thrill of riding your bike is just as significant as soaking in the local culture, heritage, people, and cuisine, our Northern Thailand tour awaits you.
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NORTHERN THAILAND
Ride Snapshot
Distance
Elevation Gain
Tour Fee
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Twin Sharing ₹ 1,32,000
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Single Occupancy ₹ 1,58,000
🗓️ 4 - 11 JAN, 2026
HIGHLIGHTS
- Bike alongside the Mekong River on the Laos and Thailand border
- Float along the gently flowing Maekok River aboard Thai longtail boats
- Visit Golden Triangle where the river Ruak and mighty Mekong join. This is where Thailand, Myanmar and Lao can be seen from one vantage point
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Chiang Rai
Check into your hotel in Chiang Rai and meet your fellow travelers. After we set our bikes up, we will take the minibus to visit Wat Ruang Khun, the famed White Temple. This bizarre-looking temple located about 5 kms. south of Chiang Rai City is the brainchild of Chiang Rai-born visual artist and painter Chalermchai Kositpipat. He brings an unconventional approach to temple architecture, fusing elements from his own imagination (white, not gold, as a pure color to embody the sacredness of temples) with orthodox Buddhist teachings about heaven, hell, karma and earthly sins.
Once back, we get together for the tour briefing.
Chiang Rai province is located in the northern most part of Thailand. The city was established by King Meng Rai in the 13th century as the first capital of the Lanna Kingdom. It is in a mountainous region, surrounded by rivers and jungles. The borders of Laos and Myanmar aren’t far. This will be more evident over the next few days as we explore the surrounding areas, some of them so close from the Myanmar and Lao that our phones might catch the neighboring signals.
- Arrive in Chiang Rai, check-in to the hotel in Old Town
- Meet and greet your fellow riders
- Visit the famed white temple – Wat Ruang Khun
Day 2: Chiang Rai - Chiang Khong
Today, we leave Chiang Rai and ride toward Chiang Khong, following scenic country roads. The journey begins along the Kok River, leading us out of town before we pass through rubber plantations and onto quiet backroads, with mountains stretching into the distance.
Lunch is at a truly local Thai eatery—one of those places where you know you’ve ventured deep into the countryside because English won’t get you far! After a well-deserved meal and some rest, we set off for the final stretch of our ride, heading to one of our favorite stays on this tour. This charming, family-run hotel, located just a few kilometers outside town, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Chiang Khong is a quaint and picturesque little town. This riverside town also serves as a sleepy traveler’s gateway to Laos. From Huay Xai, on the opposite side of the Mekong, it’s either a two-day slow boat journey or a 13-hour bus ride to Luang Prabang.
- Ride through beautiful Thai countryside, past rice fields and rubber plantations
- Stay at a charming boutique hotel by the Mekong river
- Explore the sleepy town of Chiang Khong by foot
Day 3: Chiang Khong to Chiang Saen
Distance
73 kms
Elevation Gain
558 m
Night Stay
Gin's Greenery Resort
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
There’s something special about cycling along the Mekong River, which separates Thailand from Laos.
It’s a relatively short day, giving us the luxury of a relaxed breakfast before we set off. The ride begins with a couple of short but steep climbs to wake up the legs, before we transition onto a stunning, winding road along the Mekong River. As we pass through lush orchards and farmlands, the river twists and narrows—at times, Laos feels just a stone’s throw away.
Our destination for the day is Chiang Saen, where we stop for a well-earned lunch. After some rest, we head to the legendary Golden Triangle—where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge. This is where the Ruak River meets the mighty Mekong, offering a breathtaking vantage point to see all three countries at once. While this serene landscape has become a draw for travelers, it was once infamous as one of the world’s largest opium-producing regions until Afghanistan took over that role in the 1920s.
To cap off the day, we take a boat ride on the Mekong—a unique way to experience the river’s vastness while taking in views of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos from the water.
Chiang Saen is the oldest city in Thailand, believed to date back to the 7th century. It was one of the main cities of the Lanna kingdom and was the capital before Chiang Rai was established by King Mengrai in 1262. As we ride through Chiang Saen, you’ll see ruins of the old city wall and other glimpses of a bygone era. It is very pleasant to just walk along the banks of the Mekong River or sit and watch everyday life go by. The evening street-side vendors offer delicious meals.
- Ride along the mythical Maekong – a river that divides Thailand and Lao
- Stay at a beautiful riverside resort overlooking Laos
- Visit Golden triangle and enjoy a boat ride on the Mekong river
Day 4: Chiang Saen to Tha Ton
Distance
91 kms
Elevation Gain
902 m
Night Stay
Maekok River Village Resort
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, we set off on scenic country roads, cycling through traditional Thai villages and rice fields, with Doi Tung and the mountains of Myanmar visible in the distance.
About an hour and a half into the ride, the landscape shifts dramatically as we enter serene pine forests. A couple of forested climbs follow—the first one being the longer but more picturesque—before we stop at a quaint roadside eatery for some Phat Kaprao, a local favorite. From there, we descend toward a small village by the Kok River, where the final leg of our journey takes place on a private longtail boat.
Our destination for the day is Tha Ton, a charming northern Thai town nestled near the Myanmar border.
The small and highly picturesque town of Tha Ton lies on the banks of the Kok River at the point where the river emerges into Thailand from the neighboring hills of Burma’s Shan state. Its picturesque riverside setting is captivating, with the stunning hilltop temple, Wat Tha Ton, overlooking the town. Friendly locals and Akha women in their traditional regalia, coming into town to sell their handmade crafts, add to the town’s unique character.
Our destination is a beautiful riverside resort, perfectly nestled just before the entrance to Tha Ton.
- Ride past lush rice fields, dense forests, and rolling mountains
- Glide along the scenic Kok River on a long-tail boat, the river twisting and turning through stunning mountain backdrops
- Stay at a tranquil riverside retreat – with lush gardens, mountain views, and the perfect place to relax and recharge
Day 5: Rest day at Thaton
After three incredible days of cycling through Northern Thailand’s breathtaking landscapes, our rest day in Thaton offers the perfect opportunity to unwind. Nestled along the banks of the Maekok River, our stay provides a peaceful retreat with stunning views, comfortable accommodations, and a range of activities to relax or explore at your own pace.
- Savor a delicious breakfast spread at the resort’s restaurant, overlooking the serene Maekok River
- Explore Wat Thaton, a hilltop temple offering stunning valley and river views
- Treat yourself to a rejuvenating Thai massage at the resort
Day 6: Thaton to Chiang Dao
Heading out of our resort, we ride past traditional Thai villages and orange orchards. Its is a beautiful ride through some serene backroads. You will enjoy gentle climbs, exhilarating descents, and charming local villages that offer glimpses into rural Thai life. As we start riding towards Chiang Dao, we are accompanied by some superb mountain scenery. The day’s ride concludes in Chiang Dao, known for its majestic limestone mountains.
Dominated by the mighty Doi Luang Chiang Dao (Thailand’s 3rd highest mountain at 2225 meters), Chiang Dao is located in a beautiful, peaceful mountainous area. Chiang Dao serves as a peaceful retreat, perfectly balancing adventure and relaxation.
- Ride on backroads past orange orchards and local temples
- Stay at a beautiful resort overlooking Doi Chiang Dao
- Unwind at a charming nearby café with breathtaking mountain scenery
Day 7: Chiang Dao to Chiang Mai
We start the day with a 45-minute van transfer to bypass a slightly busy highway. Once out of the van, we begin our ride on a scenic country road, passing through idyllic Thai villages. A final coffee break awaits before we tackle the last stretch—a beautiful ride along the Ping River, leading us to our hotel in Chiang Mai’s old town.
In the evening, it is time to pack your bikes up (Don’t pack them yet if you doing Doi Suthep tomorrow!) and go for a celebratory dinner. Relaxing with a much deserved beer, we can reflect on a journey that has taken us from the beautiful city of Chiang Rai to the historic Golden Triangle, and then to the laid back river side town of Thaton and finally to the ancient Lanna kingdom of Chiang Mai. Over the last one week, we have seen and experienced Northern Thailand in a way that only a few travelers do.
Chiang Mai is the largest city in Northern Thailand and the third largest city in the nation. The settlement, founded as a royal residence in 1292 and as a town in 1296, served as the capital of the Lanna Thai kingdom until 1558, when it fell to the Myanmar. The older part of town, particularly the 18th-century walled settlement, is on the west bank of the river; it contains ruins of many 13th and 14th century temples.
- A picturesque ride through the lush valleys and forested hills surrounding Chiang Dao
- Conclude your journey with a triumphant ride into Chiang Mai, one of Thailand’s most culturally rich cities
- Celebrate the finale with a well-deserved celebratory dinner
Day 8: Departure from Chiang Mai
Post breakfast, enjoy a free morning in Chiang Mai or attempt the climb to nearby Doi Suthep. 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.
Tour Map
Other Info
Inclusions
- Accommodation for 8 nights on twin sharing basis
- 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches and 7 Dinners
- English speaking tour guide
- Service of a bicycle technician
- Service of a luggage van carrying luggage, necessary spares and bicycles
- Minibus assistance for guest
- Water, electrolytes, soft drinks, fruits and local snacks during ride
- Longtail boat ride on Maekok river and golden triangle, subject to availability
Exclusions
- Flights
- Visa
- Bike hire
- Travel Insurance
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.
FAQs
Where should I book my flights to and from?
The tour begins in Chiang Rai and ends in Chiang Mai. So, you should fly into Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI) and fly out of Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX).
When should I arrive and depart?
You’ll need to arrive in Chiang Rai by noon on 04 Jan 2026 and plan your departure from Chiang Mai on 11Jan 2026, any time after breakfast. Once your registration and payment are confirmed, we’ll get in touch to assist you with flight options and timings for smooth transfers.
Is this tour suitable for new riders?
Our tours are designed for individuals with some cycling experience and may not be suitable for absolute beginners. To fully enjoy our rides, we recommend that participants have a level of fitness that allows them to comfortably cover distances of 70–80 kilometers.
Are the rides supported?
Yes, all rides on this tour are fully supported. A minivan travels with the group, serving both as a guest transport vehicle and luggage carrier, with ample space at the back for your bags. In addition, a SAG (Support and Gear) vehicle follows the riders, carrying essential spares and offering sweep support at the rear of the group. A bicycle technician is part of the crew to assist with any mechanical issues during the ride. We also provide water, electrolytes, soft drinks, fruits, and local snacks at regular intervals. With multiple layers of support in place, you can ride with complete peace of mind.
How do we navigate? Are there signs at road turnings?
No, we don’t place signs or have volunteers marking turns along the route. Instead, we’ll share GPX and Strava route files with all participants well in advance. We strongly recommend using a GPS navigation device (like a Wahoo or Garmin) mounted on your bike for reliable turn-by-turn directions.
If you don’t have a GPS device, you’ll need to mount your phone on your handlebar and use Strava for navigation. While this works in most cases, Strava is not always perfect for real-time routing and missing a turn is a possibility.
Are there a lot of climbs?
No. The average climbing per day is under 600 meters, making it manageable even for newer cyclists.
What’s the group size?
We keep our tours intimate, with 8–16 riders and a dedicated support crew of 3-4 people. This ensures personal attention, safety, and flexibility throughout the journey.
What kind of places will we be staying in?
We stay in a mix of boutique hotels, riverfront resorts, and charming hotels — often with a local flavor. All are cyclist-friendly and comfortable.
What meals are included?
All meals are included — daily breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and even coffee stops during the rides. At Barnowl Adventures, food is an integral part of the touring experience, right alongside route design and hotel selection. We personally scout and handpick the restaurants, cafés, and local eateries where we stop.
Do we ride non-stop every day?
Heck no. Part of the reason you’re here is to experience a new country from the saddle — and if you ride too fast, you’ll miss all the fun. We make refueling stops every 20–30 km, and there’s at least one relaxed coffee stop every day, often in a beautiful village café or scenic spot. On longer days, we even pause for a sit-down lunch en route. The pace is steady, not rushed — it’s all about soaking in the landscapes, the culture, and the camaraderie.
Will I receive the routes in advance?
Yes. We’ll share GPX files for all planned rides before the camp begins so you can preload your device.
Can I ride at my own pace?
Absolutely. While we encourage riding in groups for safety and camaraderie, you’re free to ride at a pace that suits you. We regroup at key stops and meal points.
What's the terrain like?
Expect a mix of gentle river valley roads, rolling hills, and scenic mountain sections. Roads are well-paved with little or no traffic. Some days are flatter (Chiang Mai to Chiang Khong and Chiang Dao to Chiang Mai), while others feature some climbing (Chiang Saen to Thaton).
What kind of bikes are best?
Road bikes or Hybrids.
What should I pack?
We’ll send you a detailed packing checklist about a month before the tour, covering everything you need — both cycling gear and non-cycling essentials. This includes recommendations on clothing, accessories, personal items, and optional extras based on the weather and terrain.
I am a vegetarian. Are there going to be sufficient options for me?
Yes. Could be limited options during the day as we ride through smaller town. But in the evening, there will be enough choices.
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