Cycle from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle
Discover Northern Thailand by bike on our fully supported Chiang Rai Golden Triangle Cycling Tour. Starting in Chiang Mai, this 7-day cycling journey takes you through Chiang Dao, Thaton, Mae Chan, Chiang Saen, Chiang Khong and Phu Chi Fa before finishing beside beautiful Phayao Lake.
Ride quiet countryside roads, mountain landscapes and along the Mekong River, with a boat trip through the famous Golden Triangle where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet.
🚴 Riding days: 7
📍 Distance: ~656 km
⛰ Climbing: ~6,900 m
💰 Double room: 50,000 THB
💰 Single room: 55,000 THB
Chiang Rai Golden Triangle Cycling Tour Itinerary
Day 1 — Arrival in Chiang Mai
Day 2 — Chiang Mai → Chiang Dao (118 km | +1,318 m)
A steady rollout on quiet backroads north of Chiang Mai. A long but manageable first day, finishing beneath the dramatic limestone cliffs of Chiang Dao.
Day 3 — Chiang Dao → Thaton (139 km | +2,087 m)
A big day in the saddle with rolling terrain and sustained climbing. Remote roads and beautiful landscapes all the way to the riverside town of Thaton.
Day 4 — Thaton → Mae Salong → Mae Chan (91 km | +1,986 m)
Shorter in distance but demanding. You wind through quiet mountain roads and lush tea plantations on the way to Mae Chan - one of the most scenic stretches of the whole tour.
Day 5 — Mae Chan → Doi Tung → Chiang Saen (81 km | +1,628 m)
The highlight climb of Doi Tung, followed by a ridge ride along the Thai-Myanmar border above 1,400m. A long descent brings you to the Mekong River and Chiang Saen. After the ride, a short boat trip to the Golden Triangle — where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet.
Day 6 — Chiang Saen → Chiang Khong (67 km | +707 m)
A more relaxed day following the Mekong River south. Easier pace, big views, and a well-earned rest in Chiang Khong.
Day 7 — Chiang Khong → Phu Chi Fa (90 km | +2,242 m)
The queen stage. A long, relentless climb to Phu Chi Fa - rewarded with some of the most stunning panoramic views in all of Thailand. Worth every pedal stroke.
Day 8 — Phu Chi Fa → Phayao → Chiang Mai (147 km | +970 m)
A long final ride with rolling terrain to Phayao. After lunch, transfer by van back to Chiang Mai.
Day 9 — Departure
A long final ride with rolling terrain to Phayao. After lunch, transfer by van back to Chiang Mai.
What’s Included
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Professional English-speaking local cycling guide(s)
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Support vehicle and driver
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Accommodation in selected hotels and resorts
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All meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner
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Snacks, fruit and drinks during rides
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Daily luggage transfers
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Chiang Mai Airport pickup and drop-off
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Golden Triangle boat trip
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Chiang Mai Cycling Buddy jersey
What’s Not Included
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International or domestic flights
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Bike rental
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Visa fees, if required
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Alcoholic drinks
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Personal travel insurance
Road Bike Rental
Don't want to travel with your own bike?
Carbon road bikes with Shimano 105 Di2 12-speed are available to rent for the tour. Please contact us with your height and bike size requirements when booking.
Private Golden Triangle Cycling Tours
Private Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai and Golden Triangle cycling tours can also be arranged on alternative dates. Contact us with your preferred dates, number of riders and riding experience, and we can discuss the best option for your group.
