Cycling Chiang Mai To Luang Prabang

Chiang Mai, Thailand, and Luang Prabang, Laos, were once the centers of powerful kingdoms in the highlands of Southeast Asia. Today, these two cities—steeped in rich cultural heritage—are must-sees on any travel itinerary to the region. Connecting them by bike takes you off the beaten path, through jungle-clad mountains, along meandering rivers, past glimmering Buddhist temples, and into remote ethnic villages. Over the course of 11 exhilarating days, we travel by road, trail, and boat to explore the north’s picturesque landscapes and captivating cultures.

Starting from bustling Chiang Mai, we warm up in the flat plains surrounding the Ping River before venturing deeper into the hilly terrain of northern Thailand. We ride along gravel trails and backcountry roads, visit the sacred Chiang Dao Caves, and unwind at a riverside hotel by the Mae Kok River. Next, we weave through hilltribe country to reach the city of Chiang Rai before cycling along the banks of the Mekong River to the border with Laos. This mighty river becomes our home for a couple of hours as we cruise by slow boat from the Laos border to the village of Pakbeng. Following this, we embark on a series of leg-testing days on remote roads surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, and overnight at idyllic resorts in quaint riverside towns. One more scenic boat journey takes us to Nong Khiaw along the Nam Ou River, followed by a final long and winding ride into the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang. This enchanting city is renowned for its classic temples, colonial architecture, and Old World charm. The tour concludes in Luang Prabang.