South Thailand
Cycle Southern Thailand from Bangkok to Phuket, riding quiet coastal roads, islands and tropical beaches.
This Northern Thailand cycling holiday blends rewarding mountain riding with rich cultural discovery. Beginning in Chiang Rai, the route heads to Mae Sai and the iconic Golden Triangle, where Thailand meets Laos and Myanmar. From here, cyclists ride through rolling hills, karst peaks and mist-covered valleys that reveal hidden temples and remote mountain communities.
With a rest day in Chiang Kham and scenic riding through Phu Lang Ka and historic Nan, the journey offers a balance of challenge and immersion. Waterfalls, traditional markets and vibrant minority cultures add depth to every stage, creating a cycling adventure that captures the natural beauty and spirit of northern Thailand.
Chiang Rai is the gateway to Thailand’s far north, a relaxed city surrounded by mountains, rice fields and forested hills. Smaller and quieter than Chiang Mai, it offers an atmospheric introduction to the region, with lively markets, Buddhist temples and a strong sense of Lanna culture.
The city is also known for its striking modern temple art, including the famous White Temple, alongside more traditional religious sites and local neighbourhoods. It makes an ideal starting point before the route heads towards the Mekong River, hill country and remote northern borderlands.

Set on the banks of the Mekong River, Chiang Saen is one of northern Thailand’s oldest towns, with ancient city walls, temple ruins and a long history as part of the Lanna kingdom. The riverside setting gives the town a peaceful feel, with views across the water towards Laos.
This area lies close to the famous Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet. Once known for opium trading, the region is now better known for its river scenery, cultural mix and fascinating borderland history. Cycling here offers a memorable blend of ancient heritage, rural landscapes and Mekong views.

Chiang Khong is a laid-back riverside town facing Laos across the Mekong. It is an important crossing point between Thailand and Laos, but retains a quiet charm, with riverside guesthouses, local markets and views of boats moving slowly along the water.
The ride towards Chiang Khong follows a beautiful section of northern Thailand, with rural roads, small villages and glimpses of everyday life along the border. The Mekong gives this part of the journey a strong sense of place, linking the landscapes and cultures of mainland Southeast Asia.

Phu Chi Fa is one of the most spectacular viewpoints in northern Thailand. Perched high above the Laos border, this dramatic mountain ridge is famous for its sea of mist at sunrise, when clouds gather in the valleys below and the surrounding peaks emerge in soft morning light.
The ride to Phu Chi Fa is a rewarding challenge, with climbing roads, forested slopes and wide mountain views. Reaching this remote highland area is one of the great highlights of the tour, offering a real sense of elevation, space and adventure.

Often described as the “Ha Long Bay of the mountains,” Phu Lang Ka is famous for its dramatic limestone peaks rising above a sea of morning mist. The stunning scenery and peaceful mountain setting make it one of the highlights of the tour.

redspokes Northern Thailand cycling tour begins in Chiang Rai. You will be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel. Chiang Rai is a smaller and less commercial city than Chiang Mai and retains much of its original character and charm. One of its more striking landmarks is the Golden Clock; designed and donated to Chiang Rai by the artist Chalermchai Kositpipat creator of The White Temple. At the strike of 7pm, a flamboyant light show ensues, accompanied by music. Other more traditional attractions include the Hill Tribe Museum and Education Centre, several beautiful Wats, Mae Nam Kok River and a night market with free Northern Thai music and dance performances.
Accommodation: Hotel
After breakfast, there is the one and only vehicle transfer of the tour to Mae Sai, the Northern most point in Thailand. Mae Sai is a fascinating border town with a bustling market where you can buy an array of imported goods: cheap jewels (rubies, emerald and jade) from Burma, curio items, many of which are imported from China, fresh fruit, electronic goods, clothes and shoes and sandalwood.
After a quick look around, we start our cycling adventure with a short warm up ride through the famous Golden Triangle. This is the point where 3 countries (Thailand, Burma and Laos) and 2 rivers (the Ruak and the mighty Mekong) meet. The English name Golden Triangle comes from a CIA memo relating to the region’s notoriety in the 1920s as one of the world’s most prolific opium producers. Nowadays, it is a well known tourist destination. Locally the area is known as Sop Ruak.
The ride begins on paved road, we cycle through a scenery of gently rolling hills. We pass many pineapple plantations on our route to Chiang Saen. We will make a stop at the Buddhist Wat Phra That Chedi Lunag for a quick visit before riding on, following the ancient Chiang Saen city walls into the town to reach our guest house.
Chiang Saen is an historic city with numerous temples, historic buildings and ruins.
Cycling Distance: 37.6km (23 miles)
Total Climb: 217m (712ft)
Total Descent: 246m (807ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B, L, D)
Following the Mekong River today, we ride through lush jungle passing picturesque hill tribe villages that are characterised by simple bamboo huts on stilts. Under the huts women can often be seen weaving and children play alongside chickens and pigs. We arrive at Chiang Khong, the border crossing point from Thailand into Laos early this afternoon.
Cycling Distance: 69.9km (44 miles)
Total Climb: 540m (1,771ft)
Total Descent: 550m (1,804ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B, L, D)
Today our cycling challenge starts to get tougher as our route continues the ascent to Phu Chi Fa the highest peak in Chiang Rai Province. Remember the support vehicle is on hand if you need to take a break. As we ascend, the views are spectacular and the terrain rewarding. Look out for children carrying baskets full of crops on their backs and give a thought to the fact that they don’t have any gears and more than likely, no shoes either
Phu Chi Fa is stunning and surprisingly chilly; it becomes very cold in the winter months. The diversity of insect life, flora and fauna make it a unique area of Thailand. Visitors to this area are mostly Asian, usually from more Southerly Thai provinces; very few Westerners are seen here.
Cycling Distance: 93km (58 miles)
Total Climb: 1,976m (6,483ft)
Total Descent: 1,121m (3,677ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B, L, D)
For a truly exhilarating experience we recommend an early start at 4am, to make the trek on foot to the highest point of the mountain before sunrise. Your efforts will be more than rewarded as you witness the sunrise over mist-covered jungle with the Laos border and the Mekong far beneath us. When you return for breakfast you’ll be feeling fantastic. Do not forget your camera!
Although we make an early start, we have an easier day of cycling. We set off downhill, hugging the mountainside and following the Thailand Laos border riding on rougher surfaced curving road. We pass Phu Sang Waterfall; a thermal spring that cascades dramatically off the mountain. Continuing our journey we cycle on to our hotel in Chiang Kham.
Cycling Distance: 53.6km (33 miles)
Total Climb: 336m (1,102ft)
Total Descent: 1,132m (3,713ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B, L, D)
On your rest day in Chiang Kham, Thailand, take full advantage of the charming surroundings and the delightful resort nestled in a spectacular 19-acre property amidst the rice fields of old-world Thailand. Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the picturesque landscapes surrounding the resort, immersing yourself in the tranquility and natural beauty. Consider exploring the local culture by visiting Wat Nantaram, a noteworthy temple in the area, and appreciating the architectural and spiritual aspects it offers.
Back at the resort, situated amidst the serene rice fields, take time to relax in the peaceful ambiance. This rest day provides an opportunity to unwind, appreciate the beauty of the Thai countryside, and soak in the unique charm of the lovely resort in its idyllic setting.
Accommodation: Guest House (B)

Today we begin cycling a gentle uphill route, following snaking road from Yoan through a vast expanse of rice fields to reach our destination. We ride on following a series of rolling hills, some of them quite steep.
There are many traditional temples and teak house villages in the areas that we pass through. Around Phu Lang ka there is an abundance of wild flowers. Our accommodation tonight is simple, the main feature of your time here will be the stunning early morning views. You will also have the opportunity to learn about Yao culture. This is your second opportunity on the tour to benefit from splendid mountain views of sunset and tomorrow if you are an early riser a stunning dawn sunrise.
Cycling Distance: 46km (28.5 miles)
Total Climb: 880m (2,887ft)
Total Descent: 480m (1,574ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B, L, D)
It is worth rising early this morning to witness the breath-taking sunrise. Often shrouded in early morning mists the stunning landscape of karst rocks, mountains and valley emerges with a quite magical aura; on a clear day, you will glimpse Laos in the distance. The area has been described as the Ha Long Bay of the mountains. Setting off with a drop downhill we have a challenging cycle today towards Pua a small, busy town set in a wide, fertile valley with beautiful views to the east, of Doi Phuka national park where the peaks are just shy of 2000m.
Cycling Distance: 79km (47 miles)
Total Climb: 1,269m (4,163ft)
Total Descent: 1,795m (5,889ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B, L, D)
We leave Pua cycling through beautiful jungle greenery, beginning with a challenging steep climb as we ride up over the mountain. We pass Doi Phuka National Park, an expanse of evergreen mountainous parkland. For the final stretch of today’s ride we drop downhill to the tiny Htin village of Bo Kluea in a scenic valley; we are now in the far northeast of Nan province, close to the Lao border. Bo Kluea in Thai means salt well. The village is built around two natural saltwater wells and traditional salt mining can be seen still in practise. Very few foreign visitors make it up here so Bo Kluea retains an authentic, unspoiled character.
Cycling Distance: 45km (28 miles)
Total Climb: 1,860m (6,102ft)
Total Descent: 1,450m (4,757ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B, L)
Our cycling route today from Bo Kluea follows classic twisting roads with little in the way of traffic as we head towards the capital of Nan province, also called Nan. For centuries Nan was an autonomous region with few links to the outside world. This beautiful town with many well-preserved temples is a perfect place to end our cycling adventure.
You will have time to visit Wat Phumin the area’s most well-known temple. Built in 1596, as if it were on the back of two immense snakes it has four entrances, with a small corridor leading to each door. The interior of the temple is inspired by Thai Lue architecture. There are twelve teak pillars decorated with gold, black and red lacquer elephants to support the heavily decorated roof and some magnificent murals that still retain their original artwork. There is also an interesting national museum in Nan.
Cycling Distance: 86km (53 miles)
Total Climb: 1,590m (5,216ft)
Total Descent: 2,060m (6.758ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B, L, D)
On your rest day, be sure to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the local markets. Nan’s markets are a treasure trove of cultural experiences and culinary delights. Begin your day by exploring the morning market, where you can witness the lively hustle and bustle as locals engage in daily commerce. Indulge in the array of fresh produce, exotic spices, and handmade crafts that showcase the region’s unique flavors and traditions.
For a more immersive experience, visit the night markets, where the town comes alive with colourful stalls, street performances, and the aromatic scent of Thai street food. Engage with local vendors, sample delectable snacks like skewered satay and mango sticky rice, and perhaps find souvenirs to commemorate your visit. The markets not only offer a feast for the senses but also provide a glimpse into the heart of Nan’s community life, making your rest day a culturally enriching and delightful experience.
Accommodation: Hotel (B)
Pedaling from Nan to Chiang Muan after a day off is like diving into a sensory adventure through northern Thailand. Picture cruising through the colourful Bang Luang village, with bustling markets and the delicious smells of street food making your mouth water. As you cycle along Route 1091, the scenery changes, offering breathtaking views of rolling hills and valleys. Imagine the cool mountain air hitting your face, carrying the sweet scent of wildflowers along the way.
The journey is sprinkled with cultural treasures like ancient temples, where the air is filled with the calming fragrance of incense. It’s not just a bike ride; it’s a full-on experience, blending the sights and smells of local life, nature, and Thai culture, turning the road from Nan to Chiang Muan into an unforgettable journey for the senses.
Cycling Distance: 69km (43 miles)
Total Climb: 1,430m (4,691ft)
Total Descent: 1,360m (4,462ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B, L, D)
Our final day of cycling is a journey filled with cultural discoveries and natural beauty. Along the way, we encounter the tranquil Wat Tha Fah, where the intricate architecture of the temples provides a glimpse into the local culture and traditions. These serene spots punctuate our ride, offering a reflective pause in our cycling adventure.
As we continue, the route takes us through the enchanting Doi Phu Nang National Park. This natural haven boasts lush green landscapes, stunning vistas, and a serene ambiance, creating a refreshing contrast to our cycling journey. Finally, our destination is a return to Ricos Resort in Chiang Kham. This resort offers a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication, providing a luxurious retreat with its inviting accommodation. It’s a fitting end to our cycling expedition, allowing us to relax and relish the diverse experiences of our memorable journey.
Cycling Distance: 88km (55 miles)
Total Climb: 540m (1,771ft)
Total Descent: 410m (4,462ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B, L, D)
As our Northern Thailand cycling tour comes to a close today, it marks the end of an exhilarating adventure exploring the cultural and scenic wonders of this region. We hope you’ve enjoyed the picturesque landscapes, cultural discoveries, and the camaraderie of fellow cyclists. To ensure a seamless departure, there will be a complimentary transfer to Chiang Rai airport at 9 am for those catching their return flights home.
(B)

Tour Status Definitions
Booking & Payments
Small Group Note
For groups of fewer than four participants, the guide may lead from the support vehicle rather than cycling with the group, ensuring full logistical and guiding support.
Fully supported cycling holiday
Meal Key (used in the itinerary)
Tour Start
Tour End
Flights
Meals on Tour
Most meals are included in your tour price, except on rest days and a few other occasions.
Please check the itinerary for all meals provided.
Dietary Requirements
If you have any special dietary needs, please let us know at the time of booking.
We can cater for most diets, but advance notice is essential to ensure the best experience.
Taste of Northern Thailand
Northern Thai cuisine (Lanna style) is distinct from central and southern Thai food — generally less sweet, slightly milder in chilli heat, and rich in herbs and fragrant spices.
Typical dishes you may Encounter:
Support Vehicle
On-Ride Support
Helmet Policy
For this tour we have Trek FX3 bikes that come with a carbon rigid fork and 27 speeds, in a range of sizes. They are mostly new for this season and all are well maintained.
What’s Included with Bike Hire
Customising Your Bike
Yes, this tour is suitable for most types of bikes; there are some long and steep climbs so a Hybrid/Cyclocross/Gravel bikes or mountain bike with slick tyres would be ideal.
Pre-trip bike servicing
We strongly recommend having your bike fully serviced before travelling. Please make sure:
What to bring
We recommend packing the following essential items:
Travelling with your bike
The local currency in Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB). All purchases—including in shops, restaurants, and markets—must be made in baht. Foreign currencies are not accepted.
What to Bring
Where to Exchange
Spending Money
Staff Tipping
Travel Insurance
Mandatory for all participants and must cover:
Health & Vaccinations
Staying Hydrated on Hot Rides – 6 Tips for Cyclists
As a cycling company, we know how important proper hydration is—especially when you’re out riding in hot conditions. Below are some general hydration tips that riders find helpful for staying fuelled and feeling strong on the bike.
Please note: We are not medical professionals and this information should not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Each cyclist is different, so if you have specific health concerns or conditions, it is always best to consult your doctor and adhere to their advice.
1. Prioritize Gut Health
2. Time Your Hydration
3. Hydrate Beyond Water
4. Don’t Forget the Minerals
5. Absorb Water Better
6. Keep Your Electrolytes in Check
In terms of clothing this is clearly up to you and we can only supply a rough guide as to what to take. This guide is entirely flexible and should be tailored to your specific needs.
Our guides carry first aid supplies, however we recommend you bring your own first aid kit which should contain the following item;
Miscellaneous
Comfortable local hotels and boutique lodges with private facilities. Occasional simpler nights in smaller towns, but overall good comfort and warm Thai hospitality.