Chiang Mai is a dream destination for motorbike enthusiasts. With its winding mountain roads, lush jungles, and breathtaking viewpoints, there’s no better way to explore Northern Thailand than on two wheels. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just looking for a leisurely cruise, Chiang Mai has a route for you. Let’s explore the Top 10 Scenic Motorbike Routes Around Chiang Mai.
Before you hit the road, make sure you have a reliable motorbike rental. At Byklo, we connect tourists with trusted local motorbike rental shops that provide well-maintained motorbikes, helmets, and full insurance—ensuring you can focus on enjoying the ride. Now, let’s dive into the top 10 scenic motorbike routes around Chiang Mai!
1. The Samoeng Loop (Mae Sa Valley Loop) – 100 km
One of the most famous motorbike routes near Chiang Mai, the Samoeng Loop is perfect for a day trip. The loop takes you through the lush Mae Sa Valley, past stunning waterfalls, elephant sanctuaries, and the famous Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden.
• Highlights: Mae Sa Waterfall, Pongyang Zipline, Mon Cham viewpoint
• Difficulty: Moderate (winding roads but well-paved)
👉 Rent a motorbike with Byklo to fully enjoy the Samoeng Loop at your own pace!
2. Doi Suthep & Doi Pui Mountain Road – 30 km
A must-do ride for first-time visitors to Chiang Mai. The ride up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai’s most famous temple, is both scenic and relatively easy. For those seeking more adventure, continue up to Doi Pui Viewpoint, which offers a breathtaking panorama of the entire city.
• Highlights: Doi Suthep Temple, Bhubing Palace, Hmong Village
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate (some sharp curves)
🚀 Pro Tip: Start your ride early in the morning to avoid traffic and experience the sunrise over Chiang Mai!
3. Mae Rim to Mon Jam – 45 km
This mountainous route takes you through winding roads surrounded by endless green hills. Mon Jam, a picturesque hilltop village, is the perfect spot to stop for a coffee and admire the view. The ride offers a mix of smooth highways and fun, twisting roads.
• Highlights: Strawberry farms, hill tribe villages, flower gardens
• Difficulty: Moderate (some steep climbs)
4. Mae Wang Loop – 90 km
A lesser-known but stunning ride, the Mae Wang Loop is a fantastic way to escape the crowds. This road takes you past rice fields, small villages, and eventually to the Pha Chor Canyon, a stunning natural rock formation.
• Highlights: Pha Chor Canyon, Elephant camps, Bamboo rafting
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
5. Chiang Mai to Doi Inthanon – 230 km (Round Trip)
This longer ride takes you to the highest peak in Thailand, Doi Inthanon (2,565m). The ride is challenging but rewarding, offering breathtaking views, waterfalls, and cool mountain air.
• Highlights: Wachirathan Waterfall, King & Queen Pagodas, Summit of Doi Inthanon
• Difficulty: Hard (steep and long ride)
⚡ Make sure you rent a powerful motorbike from Byklo to handle the steep climb up Doi Inthanon!
6. Chiang Mai to Pai – 130 km
The road to Pai is legendary among motorbike riders. It features 762 curves, passing through mountains, valleys, and breathtaking landscapes. This ride is not for beginners but is one of the most rewarding experiences in Northern Thailand.
• Highlights: Waterfalls, hot springs, Yun Lai viewpoint
• Difficulty: Hard (many sharp curves and steep sections)
🎯 Planning to ride to Pai? Byklo has well-maintained bikes with insurance included for peace of mind!
7. The Chiang Dao Loop – 230 km
If you’re looking for a mix of jungle, limestone mountains, and off-the-beaten-path adventure, Chiang Dao is the perfect destination. The ride takes you past stunning caves, hot springs, and Buddhist temples hidden in the mountains.
• Highlights: Chiang Dao Cave, Sri Sungwan Waterfall, Pong Arng Hot Springs
• Difficulty: Moderate to hard
8. Phrao & Sri Lanna National Park – 180 km
This less touristy route takes you through small farming villages, quiet countryside roads, and the beautiful Sri Lanna National Park, home to lakes and waterfalls.
• Highlights: Mae Ngat Dam, Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls
• Difficulty: Moderate
9. Chiang Mai to Lamphun via the Old Road – 60 km
This short and relaxing ride follows the old highway to Lamphun, lined with giant trees on both sides. It’s a peaceful and scenic drive, perfect for those looking for a low-effort yet rewarding ride.
• Highlights: Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, Giant Tree Road
• Difficulty: Easy
10. Chiang Mai to Mae Kampong – 100 km
One of the most picturesque villages in our Top 10 Scenic Motorbike Routes Around Chiang Mai Thailand is Mae Kamping. Mae Kampong offers fresh mountain air, charming wooden houses, and coffee shops overlooking the river. The ride itself is a joy, with winding mountain roads and minimal traffic.
• Highlights: Mae Kampong Village, Waterfalls, Jungle Coffee Shops
• Difficulty: Moderate
Final Tips for Motorbike Riding in Chiang Mai
- Always wear a helmet – it’s the law, and it can save your life.
- Carry an international driver’s permit (IDP) if you’re a foreign visitor.
- Check your brakes, tires, and lights before starting any ride.
- Avoid night riding – many mountain roads have no streetlights.
- Get travel insurance that covers motorbike accidents.
🏍️ Ready to explore Chiang Mai on two wheels? Rent a reliable motorbike from Byklo and start your adventure today!