Northern Thailand is a rider’s paradise. With winding mountain roads, misty valleys, hidden villages, and culturally rich towns, this region offers some of the most thrilling and scenic motorcycle adventures in Southeast Asia. 

Whether you're cruising through tea plantations, navigating switchbacks that snake along the Myanmar border, or exploring ancient Lanna temples, Northern Thailand delivers the perfect blend of challenge, culture, and natural beauty.



As a Lead guide with 10+ years riding Northern Thailand, we are here to help you plan your two-wheeled escape. We've rounded up the best motorcycle routes in Northern Thailand, covering between 200 and 800 km each, complete with highlights and a downloadable map. 

1. Mae Hong Son Loop – Thailand’s Legendary Ride

Distance & Time: ~600 km; ideal for a 3–5 day ride (120–200 km/day)

Road Quality: 85% smooth asphalt, some gravel and dirt sections near Pai, occasional potholes

Curves: 1,864 curves, offering thrilling twisty roads

Elevation Gain: From 300 m → 1,600 m

Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (due to winding roads and variable conditions)

Highlights:

• Pai’s chill night market, hot springs & boho cafes
• Mae Hong Son’s lakefront town & scenic viewpoints
• Ban Rak Thai, a Chinese village on the Myanmar border known for Yunnanese food and tea
• Karen Long Neck Village: accessible via boat ride on the Pai River
• Sunrise viewpoints at Huai Nam Dang, tribal village stops on Route 1081.



Fuel Availability: 

Fuel available every 100–150 km; refuel in Maerim in Chiangmai (A big gas station before you drive to the mountain), Papae in Chiangmai, Mae Sariang, Mae Hong Son, Pai, and small villages along the route. Be prepared for longer stretches between stations in more remote areas.

Rest Stops: 

Pai’s night market and hot springs offer great spots to relax. Mae Hong Son’s lakefront town and scenic viewpoints also provide breaks with beautiful views. If you have time, extend the leg to 



Bonus Highlight – The Bua Tong Bloom at Doi Mae U-Kho

If you’re riding the Mae Hong Son Loop in November, make a detour to Doi Mae U-Kho near Khun Yuam. At 1,600 meters above sea level, Thailand’s largest Bua Tong (Mexican Sunflower) field bursts into bloom, 500 rai of golden yellow flowers covering the hillside. It's no wonder this breathtaking bloom has become the symbol of Mae Hong Son, echoing the province's motto: “Luen Nam Thin Bua Tong”, famed land of the wild sunflower.

It’s one of Mae Hong Son’s proudest natural sights and a seasonal highlight you won’t want to miss.

3. Chiang Rai Loop – Tea Hills, Temples & the Golden Triangle

Distance & Time: ~400 km; ideal for a 2-day ride (200 km/day)

Road Quality: 85% smooth asphalt, some gravel roads in the Golden Triangle area

Curves: 200–300 curves, moderate winding

Elevation Gain: From 300 m → 1,500 m

Difficulty: Easy to moderate (shorter distances and scenic roads)

(Map - Chiang Rai Loop)

Highlights:

• The futuristic White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)
• Cruise through the coffee-rich highlands of Doi Chang
• Visit Wat Thaton, near the Myanmar border
• Stop at the legendary Golden Triangle where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet
• Ride scenic backroads through Doi Mae Salong, known for tea plantations and Chinese heritage

What You’ll Experience:

This loop combines Northern Thailand’s best: winding mountain roads, vibrant border towns, and deep cultural flavor. Start with a coffee stop in Doi Chang, then ride into Chiang Rai for the White Temple and a taste of local Khao Soi.

From there, it’s onward to the Golden Triangle, where the Mekong River separates three nations and stories of opium, trade, and tribal history still linger. Wind your way through Doi Mae Salong’s tea-covered hills and roll into Thaton for a peaceful riverside overnight. On day two, follow lesser-traveled roads back to Chiang Mai through lush countryside and village life.

Fuel Availability: 

There are gas stations in Chiang Rai, Thaton, and other major towns. Fill up before heading into remote areas like Doi Mae Salong.

Rest Stops: 

The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) is a major cultural stop. The Golden Triangle is also a must-see. Doi Mae Salong offers a scenic and quiet retreat for a break.

4. The Amazing Land of Lanna Route

Distance & Time: ~1,910 km; ideal for a 9-day ride (200–250 km/day)

Road Quality: 80% paved, some remote gravel roads in Doi Mae Salong and Bo Kluea

Curves: 500+ curves, with a mix of winding roads and straightaways

Elevation Gain: From 300 m → 1,600 m

Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (longer distances, winding mountain roads)

(Map)

Highlights:

• Bo Kluea’s salt village, Wat Phumin in Nan
  
• Scenic boat ride on the Mekong at the Golden Triangle
  
• Explore Doi Mae Salong and Pai
  
• Meet the Karen Long Neck tribe
  
• Ride the famous Sameong Loop and climb Doi Inthanon
  
  

What You’ll Experience:

This amazing Lanna route is the perfect way to see Northern Thailand, packed with breathtaking scenery and cultural gems. 

From the mountains to the rivers, you’ll get a chance to explore the heart of this region, including its stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique traditions.

Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-timer, this route covers everything you need to see in the North, from the quiet beauty of small villages to the thrill of mountain climbs and the warmth of local communities. 

It’s an immersive experience that captures the essence of Northern Thailand - and it’s our favorite ride on this list.

Fuel Availability: 

Fuel stations are available in most towns along the route, but some more remote spots may have limited options. Always fill up before heading into rural areas.

Rest Stops: 

The salt village in Bo Kluea is a unique cultural stop, while scenic views along Doi Mae Salong and Pai are ideal for stretching. The Sameong Loop offers great panoramic views.



5. Rolling Over Northern Thailand Route – The Ultimate 11-Day Ride

Distance & Time: 2,200+ km; ideal for an 11-day ride (200 km/day)

Road Quality: 90% paved, some sections with gravel near remote areas like Doi Angkhang

Curves: 1,000+ curves, varied terrain from steep mountains to valleys

Elevation Gain: From 300 m → 2,000 m

Difficulty: Challenging (long distances, remote areas)

Highlights:

• Cross rivers along the Salawin River near Myanmar
  
• Visit Sukhothai Historical Park (UNESCO site)
  
• Explore the ancient opium trail at the Golden Triangle
  
• Ride the winding roads of Doi Angkhang, Doi Mae Salong, Doi Inthanon
  
• Visit tribal villages, remote temples, and Chiang Rai’s White Temple
  
  

What You’ll Experience:

This is the Rolling Over Northern Thailand grand route. You’ll traverse jungles, national parks, farmland, and mountain peaks, interspersed with historic towns and cultural encounters. It’s perfect for seasoned riders who want to see it all, from border crossings to ancient ruins.

Fuel Availability: 

There are fuel stations in major towns like Chiang Mai, Sukhothai, and Chiang Rai. However, remote areas like Doi Angkhang and Doi Mae Salong may have fewer options, so plan ahead.

Rest Stops: 

Sukhothai Historical Park (UNESCO site) is a fantastic cultural stop. Tribal villages and temples along the route also provide opportunities to rest and interact with locals.

6. Roads Less Travelled – Into Thailand’s Remote Northern & Western Frontier

Distance & Time: ~1,340 km; ideal for a 7-day ride (180–220 km/day)

Road Quality: 70% paved, 30% gravel, especially near the border and remote mountain roads

Curves: 1,200+ curves, with tight and sweeping turns

Difficulty: Challenging to difficult (remote areas, rougher roads)

Highlights:

• Ride the famous 1,219 curves from Mae Sot to Umphang
  
• Explore Thi Lor Su: Thailand’s highest waterfall
  
• Visit Karen villages at the road’s end in Perkler
  
• Experience the scenic pine forests of Bo Kaeo
  
• See the Bhumibol Dam, Thailand’s largest reservoir
  
• Stay in local lodges deep in the border mountains
  
  

What You’ll Experience:

This is a rare journey into one of Thailand’s most remote and untouched corners—perfect for riders who crave solitude, nature, and authenticity. The route hugs the Myanmar border and dives deep into forested national parks, ending at the edge of civilization in the Karen village of Perkler. You’ll climb through pine forests, cross vast reservoirs, and conquer endless twisties along mountain ridges few have traveled. At Thi Lor Su, the country’s tallest waterfall thunders through the jungle, an unforgettable natural wonder. This ride is about discovery and connection, off-the-grid, culturally rich, and raw in the best way.

Fuel Availability: 

Gas stations are sparse in the more remote areas near the Myanmar border. Plan fuel stops carefully, especially in regions like Mae Sot, Umphang, and Perkler.



Rest Stops:

Thi Lor Su Waterfall is a breathtaking natural stop, and Karen villages provide insight into local culture. The scenic pine forests of Bo Kaeo offer a quiet place to take a break.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're carving twisties in Pai, sipping tea in Doi Mae Salong, or standing at the edge of three countries in the Golden Triangle, Northern Thailand’s roads aren’t just about the ride—they’re about the stories you’ll collect.

So pick your route, check your mirrors, and ride into the heart of the Lanna Kingdom. There’s no better way to explore this corner of the world than on two wheels. At Bike Tour Asia, we are offering both guided tours and self guided tours with all routes above. Email or call us for more information.