ROLLING OVER NORTHERN THAILAND

Border roads and quiet mountain villages.

We leave Mae Sariang early and follow Highway 105 along the Thai–Myanmar border. The morning ride is peaceful, passing Karen villages and misty forested hills. A quick stop by the Salawin River gives us a first look at this remote border region.

The road south has a good mix of curves and rougher patches — nothing difficult, but enough to keep the ride fun. By mid-afternoon we roll into Mae Sot, a busy frontier town with markets and a blend of cultures. After check-in, there’s time to explore or relax before dinner.

Next, we head east toward the ancient city of Sukhothai.

(230 km/143 miles).

From border mountains to Thailand’s ancient capital.

We leave Mae Sot and ride east toward Tak, with smooth roads and wide mountain views easing us out of the border region. The scenery opens into fertile plains as we follow the Ping River north — an easy, relaxed ride after yesterday’s border curves.

By early afternoon we reach Sukhothai, Thailand’s first capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site. After checking in, there’s time to explore the Sukhothai Historical Park, wander among ancient temples, or join an optional sunset ride through the old city.

(240 km/149 miles).

Rural Thailand, a dam crossing, and quiet mountain roads.

We leave Sukhothai early and ride east through farmland and small rural towns. The landscape shifts from rice fields to forested hills as we approach the impressive Sirikit Dam. A short ferry crossing takes us across the lake — a fun break in the day and a great photo spot.

From the dam, the road winds through quiet backcountry toward Nan, one of Northern Thailand’s most relaxed and culturally rich towns. The final stretch is smooth and scenic, with little traffic.

We reach Nan by late afternoon, with time to settle in or enjoy a walk through the old town before dinner. Overnight in Nan.

(320 km/199 miles).

Today is all about pure riding. We leave Nan and head into the mountains toward Bo Kluea, following quiet, twisty roads with almost no traffic. This loop is famous among Thai riders — smooth curves, cool air, and nonstop views.

In Bo Kluea, we stop at the traditional salt wells, a small village where salt has been produced the same way for generations. After a relaxed lunch, we ride back toward Nan along another stunning mountain ridge.

By mid-afternoon we’re back in Nan, with free time to explore the old town, visit Wat Phumin, or enjoy a slow riverside sunset. Overnight in Nan.

(190 km/118 miles).

We ride north out of Nan on one of Thailand’s most scenic routes, climbing into the highlands toward Pua and the eastern border mountains. The morning is full of smooth curves, cool forest air, and wide-open views — classic Northern Thailand riding.

After lunch, the road becomes even more dramatic as we head toward Phu Chi Fah, a mountain ridge overlooking Laos. The final section is steep and twisty but fully paved, rewarding us with sweeping sunset views from one of the most iconic lookout points in the region.

We stay overnight in the Phu Chi Fah area, a quiet mountain village with crisp air and starry skies. Overnight in Chiang Rai.

(250 km/155 miles).

A well-earned break in Northern Thailand.

Today is a full rest day in Chiang Rai, the perfect midpoint pause on this Thailand motorcycle tour. After a relaxed breakfast, spend the morning by the pool, visit a local spa, or explore the town’s markets and temples on foot. A slow walk feels good after several days in the saddle.

For riders who still want a little throttle time, our guide offers an optional half-day ride to Doi Chang (110 km / 68 miles) — famous for its mountain scenery, viewpoints, and coffee plantations. You’ll be back at the hotel by early afternoon.

Overnight in Chiang Rai.

We ride north from Chiang Rai to the Golden Triangle, stopping at the Wat Phrathat viewpoint before heading down to the Mekong. Here you can take a short boat trip and pop over to the Laos side (passport only, no visa).

Next stop is Mae Sai, Thailand’s northernmost town, with its busy border market. From here the road climbs to Doi Tung and Doi Mae Salong, a Chinese-influenced mountain village surrounded by tea plantations and great viewpoints.

The day ends with an easy ride through rice fields and along the Kok River toward Thaton, where we check in and relax by the pool.

(220 km/137 miles).

We start with a short ride up to Wat Thaton for panoramic views over the Kok River valley — worth the walk even in riding boots. From there, we follow Route 107 south, stopping for a coffee at the Hua Luk Royal Project. Lunch options are nearby, including a quick detour to the “Giant Tree Alley.”

At Mae Tang, we turn onto the famous 1095, crossing the mountains toward Pai. This road marks the start of the legendary Mae Hong Son loop, known for its 1,864 curves and fun riding.

Before reaching town, we stop at a local Elephant Camp, then continue into Pai and settle into the resort. Enjoy the pool, wander the walking street, and sample the huge range of food and live music.

Pai is the laid-back, bohemian hub of Northern Thailand — full of characters, cafés, and evening energy.

Overnight in Pai.

(250 km/155 miles).

Today is a scenic day on the second half of the famous Mae Hong Son Loop — home to 1,864 curves. The distance is short, but with mountains and tight switchbacks, you’ll use the full day.

We ride west from Pai, passing two excellent mountain viewpoints and nonstop scenery. Around midday we reach Ban Rak Thai, a lakefront village on the Myanmar border known for its Chinese heritage. Lunch here is a highlight, with local Yunnan-style dishes served beside the water.

After lunch, we continue to Mae Hong Son and ride up to Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu for panoramic views over the city and surrounding hills.

In the afternoon, we park the bikes at the pier and take a short boat ride on the Pai River to visit the Karen Long Neck Village. Here you can meet members of the Karen tribe and learn firsthand about the cultural tradition of the brass neck rings.

We return by boat, then ride a few minutes to the resort. A cold drink at the sunset bar overlooking the rice paddies is the perfect way to end the day.

Overnight in Mae Hong Son.

(180 km/112 miles).

We begin the last day riding south on Road 108, a wide and flowing route toward Khun Yuam. Here we stop at the Khun Yuam War Museum, which tells the story of the Japanese Army’s presence during WWII. Tip: ask the staff to play the short 10-minute history video. There’s also a café and a 7-Eleven next door for a quick break.

From Khun Yuam we continue on Road 1088 and 1263, enjoying quiet twisty back roads to Mae Chaem, where we stop for a simple local lunch.

In the afternoon we climb Road 1192 and then Road 1009 all the way up to Doi Inthanon (2,565 m), the highest mountain in Thailand. We park the bikes and walk to the summit and small museum.

The descent includes a visit to the impressive Vachiratharn Waterfall, an 80-meter curtain of water surrounded by lush forest. From here we follow Road 1009 back to the main 108, riding the final stretch toward Chiang Mai.

We return to the Bike Tour Asia Service Centre by late afternoon, wrapping up this unforgettable Northern Thailand motorcycle adventure.

(300 km/186 miles).