If you’ve just explored our roundup of the Best Motorcycle Routes in Northern Thailand, you already know this region is a dream for two-wheeled adventurers. From mist-covered mountains to historic border towns, the North is rich with both challenge and charm.

But what if you want to go deeper?

“Unique Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son on Two Wheels: A Day-by-Day Journey” is your next read—a detailed ride log diving into one of Thailand’s most immersive multi-day motorcycle tours. 

This guided expedition picks up where the “Best Unique Routes” blog leaves off, taking you through iconic rides like the Mae Hong Son Loop, the legendary Elephant Trail, and across scenic highlands steeped in history and culture.

This isn’t just another map pin or highlight reel—it’s a first-person experience, day by day, curve by curve. 

Strap in, because the road ahead is as unforgettable as the stories that unfold along it.

Overview

Distance: ~1,200 km round-trip

Duration: 9 days | 5–6 riding days

Start/End: Chiang Mai

Ride Type: Scenic roads, off-road segments, cultural immersion



Day 1 – Chiang Mai to Nan (Approx. 300 km):

Your journey kicks off by heading northeast on Route 118, leaving Chiang Mai’s bustle behind as you carve through mountain foothills. You can stop for a scenic lakeside lunch in Phayao before continuing east via Routes 120 and 1021. The road becomes increasingly curvy and remote as you approach Nan, with panoramic mountain views and quiet farming villages along the way. Dinner by the Nan River wraps up your first full day on the road.

Day 3 – Nan to Chiang Rai (Approx. 250 km):

Depart Nan via Route 101 and turn onto the renowned Route 1148, a hidden gem favored by riders for its endless sweepers and ridge-line views. Transition onto Route 1020 through lush countryside and farmlands, arriving in Chiang Rai via Route 1. Stop at the jaw-dropping Wat Rong Khun (White Temple), a surreal, all-white structure blending art, spirituality, and storytelling. Explore the night market and overnight in Chiang Rai.

Day 4 – Chiang Rai to Thaton (Approx. 220 km):

Ride north to the Golden Triangle on Route 1290, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge. Enjoy a boat trip on the Mekong River and a short visit to Laos (passport required). Back on your bike, continue west on Route 1 and climb into Doi Mae Salong via Route 1149—a former Kuomintang Chinese settlement known for tea plantations and Yunnanese heritage. The final stretch follows Route 1089 down into the tranquil river town of Thaton.

Day 5 – Thaton to Pai (Approx. 240 km):

Begin with a visit to Wat Thaton, a peaceful hilltop temple with colorful pagodas, quiet spots to relax, and amazing mountain views, then head south along Route 1089 through rolling farmland and the Hua Luk Royal Project. After lunch near Mae Tang, turn west onto the famously twisty Route 1095. This is where the Mae Hong Son Loop truly begins, with over 700 curves between here and Pai. En route, stop at an elephant camp before arriving in Pai in time to relax poolside or explore the walking street.

Day 6 – Pai to Mae Hong Son (Approx. 180 km):

The road tightens as Route 1095 snakes its way through dense forests and mountain ridges. After a stop at scenic viewpoints, ride into the Chinese village of Ban Rak Thai for a lakeside Yunnanese lunch. Then continue to the Pai River for a boat trip to the Karen Long Neck village, where cultural exchange meets stunning backcountry views. End the day with a sunset drink overlooking rice paddies near your Mae Hong Son resort.

Day 7 – Mae Hong Son to Chiang Mai (Approx. 300 km):

The final leg begins on Route 108 through Khun Yuam, where you’ll visit the WWII Japanese museum. From there, wind your way over Route 1263 and 1192 to the summit of Doi Inthanon—Thailand’s highest mountain at 2,565 meters. After a refreshing stop at Wachiratharn Waterfall, descend through Doi Inthanon National Park and complete the journey with a golden-hour return to Chiang Mai via the Sameong Loop.