Northern Thailand Motorcycle Tours with Golden Triangle Loop Tour on Classic Bikes
Northern Thailand on two wheels – authentic, up close and full of adventure
Experience the authentic spirit of Northern Thailand with our Northern Thailand Motorcycle Tour—the ultimate way to explore the heart of Asia. Travel and discover the region just like the locals do, on two wheels, where every twist and turn of the road reveals hidden gems and breathtaking landscapes. Motorcycle riding is the only true way to experience the freedom and adventure of Asia, allowing you to connect with the land, people, and culture in a way that no other mode of travel can offer. This tour will take you through the stunning mountains of Doi Inthanon, the serene beauty of Mae Hong Son, and the vibrant town of Pai, among many other incredible destinations. You’ll ride through winding mountain roads, pass through remote villages, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Northern Thailand. From exploring historic temples and local markets, to enjoying breathtaking views, every day of this tour will be an adventure taking you deeper into the heart of Thailand.
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Our Northern Thailand Motorcycle Loop Tour offers the chance to experience the region in a truly unique way. You’ll ride like a local, following the same winding roads and paths that connect remote villages, hidden gems, and scenic viewpoints, allowing you to see parts of Thailand most tourists never experience. Along the way, you’ll interact with the local communities, discover cultural sites, and enjoy the diverse landscapes that make Northern Thailand so special. From the majestic peak of Doi Inthanon to the tranquil beauty of Mae Hong Son and the artistic charm of Pai, this tour combines thrilling riding with deep cultural immersion. Whether you’re exploring the local markets, visiting remote temples, or simply enjoying the view from a mountaintop, you’ll experience Thailand in the way it was meant to be seen.
This Northern Thailand Motorbike Tour on classic bikes is more than just a ride—it’s a true journey into the soul of Thailand. Discover the country like never before, exploring the open roads and authentic culture of one of Asia’s most stunning regions.
Guided Motorbike Tours in Northern Thailand – AT A GLANCE
02.11. – 12.11.2025 | |||||||||
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11 days / 10 nights / 9 riding days | |||||||||
Overnight stays in comfortable high mid-range hotels and resorts (often boutique style with pool) whenever possible. Charming guesthouse stays in more rural stages of the journey |
01.02. – 11.02.2026 01.11. – 11.11.2026 |
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11 days / 10 nights / 9 riding days | |||||||||
Overnight stays in comfortable high mid-range hotels and resorts (often boutique style with pool) whenever possible. Charming guesthouse stays in more rural stages of the journey |
Date 02.11. – 12.11.2025 |
Price Honda CB 500 X: 2.990€ Honda NX 500: 2.990€ Royal Enfield Interceptor 650: 2.990€ Suzuki V-Strom 650: 3.190€ Pillion: 2.490€ Single Room: +490€ |
Duration 11 days / 10 nights / 9 riding days |
Accomodation Overnight stays in comfortable high mid-range hotels and resorts (often boutique style with pool) whenever possible. Charming guesthouse stays in more rural stages of the journey |
Date 01.02. – 11.02.2026 01.11. – 11.11.2026 |
Price Honda CB 500 X: 2.990€ Honda NX 500: 2.990€ Royal Enfield Interceptor 650: 2.990€ Suzuki V-Strom 650: 3.190€ Pillion: 2.490€ Single Room: +490€ |
Duration 11 days / 10 nights / 9 riding days |
Accomodation Overnight stays in comfortable high mid-range hotels and resorts (often boutique style with pool) whenever possible. Charming guesthouse stays in more rural stages of the journey |
Northern Thailand Motorcycle Tour Highlights
- Ride Like a Local: Travel through Northern Thailand on two wheels, experiencing the region as locals do, on thrilling and scenic mountain roads.
- Doi Inthanon: Reach the highest peak in Thailand and explore the stunning Doi Inthanon National Park, a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
- Mae Hong Son: Discover the peaceful town of Mae Hong Son, surrounded by mountains and known for its rich cultural diversity and Burmese-style temples.
- Pai: Immerse yourself in the artsy and relaxed atmosphere of Pai, a cultural hub with a lively night market, live music, and local art.
- Historic Temples and Villages: Visit ancient temples, explore traditional villages, and experience the local way of life in places like Doi Mae Salong, Nan, and Khun Yuam.
- Cultural Immersion: Interact with the friendly local communities, including the Hmong and Karen tribes, and learn about their unique traditions and lifestyles.
- The Golden Triangle: Ride to the iconic Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet, and enjoy a boat trip along the Mekong River.
- Sukhothai Historical Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site): Visit the ancient ruins of Sukhothai, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore one of the most significant historical parks in Thailand, showcasing the birth of Thai civilization.
- Breathtaking Scenery: Ride through spectacular landscapes, including rolling hills, rice fields, and dense forests, all while taking in some of the most stunning views in Thailand.
- Thrilling Roads: Experience the excitement of Route 1148, one of Thailand’s best motorcycle roads, known for its sharp curves and panoramic views.
- Authentic Thai Cuisine: Enjoy delicious local meals at authentic restaurants and experience the diverse flavors of northern Thai cuisine.
The route is mostly well-maintained and paved. Two-lane roads alternate with small, sometimes single-lane mountain roads. Drivers should be accustomed to safely navigating hairpin turns and narrow, quickly changing curves. Highways are not taken.
No off-road sections. Gravel roads are only taken in exceptional situations or due to road construction. Occasional potholes, dirt on the road and in curves cannot be ruled out.
Including breaks, photo stops, and sightseeing, but excluding a lunch break, which lasts about one hour. On regular days, we start in between 8-9am and arrive at the tour hotel in the afternoon. Average times: Approximately 6-7 hours per day
Northern Thailand Motorcycle Tour – Itinerary
Day 1: Chiang Mai Arrival Day
Arriving at Chiang Mai International Airport, you will be greeted by our guide, who will take you on a 30-minute transfer to your hotel on the northern outskirts of the city. This is your introduction to the northern part of Thailand, where life moves at a slower pace. After checking in and settling into your room, you will meet with the group at 5:00 PM in the hotel lobby for an introductory meeting, where you will learn everything you need to know for the upcoming adventure packed days. After the meeting, enjoy a delicious dinner at the Imperial Chiang Mai Resort & Sport Club, where you’ll get your first taste of local cuisine. This will be the perfect start to your adventure, where you can unwind and get ready for the upcoming journey.
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Chiang Mai – Doi Mae Salong
The adventure begins in earnest today as we leave Chiang Mai early in the morning. We’ll start by riding along a well-traveled main road, but soon we veer off onto quiet country lanes, passing through beautiful forests and picturesque villages. As we ride, we’ll pass small markets where the hill tribes sell their goods, giving you a real taste of northern Thai life. Our first destination is Phrao, a charming little town that seems almost unchanged from 20 years ago, with its sleepy streets and traditional atmosphere. From here, we continue toward Thaton, a town near the Burmese border, where we’ll stop to visit a temple perched above the town, offering a stunning view of the valley below.
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After lunch at the Chom Chan Restaurant, we head up to Doi Mae Salong, a mountain village that was once home to the Kuomintang Army after their retreat from China. Today, it’s known for its exceptional tea, grown in the fertile highlands. At the top of the mountain, we’ll visit the golden pagoda, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. After a scenic day of riding, we’ll have dinner at a local restaurant specializing in Yunnanese cuisine, followed by a cozy overnight stay at Little Home Guest House on Doi Mae Salong, a place that perfectly captures the essence of rural life in northern Thailand.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Daily distance: approx. 265 km
Day 3: Doi Tung & The Golden Triangle Loop Tour
Today’s ride takes us to the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet along the Mekong River. Along the way, we’ll pass through areas once controlled by Khun Sa, a notorious figure who funded his independence movement through the opium trade. We’ll visit his former military base, now a small museum, and learn about the region’s turbulent history. We continue our journey to Doi Tung, famous for its beautiful Mae Fah Luang Garden, which was initiated by the late king’s mother to help eliminate opium production and promote sustainable agriculture. The garden is an oasis of peace and beauty, giving you a glimpse into the region’s transformation.
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In the afternoon, we’ll ride along the Mekong River to Chiang Khong, a small town on the Thai-Laos border. The views along the river are simply stunning, and we’ll enjoy a relaxing dinner at the Chiang Khong Teak Garden Riverfront Hotel, which overlooks Laos, before settling in for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Daily distance: approx. 220 km
Day 4: Chiang Khong – Phu Chi Fah – Nan
Today’s journey takes us to Phu Chi Fah, one of the most stunning viewpoints in northern Thailand. The winding road to the top offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, providing a breathtaking panorama of Laos. After soaking in the view, we continue our ride along one of the most famous motorcycle roads in Thailand, Route 1148. This legendary stretch of road is often regarded as one of the best for motorcycle enthusiasts, thanks to its twisty turns, scenic beauty, and exhilarating ride through remote landscapes. Riding on Route 1148 is a highlight for any motorcyclist, with its combination of mountain passes, rice fields, and small villages along the way. As we make our way towards Nan, a peaceful town known for its temples and local culture, we’ll experience the true essence of northern Thailand’s natural beauty. Once in Nan, we’ll explore the historic temples and enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant. Nan offers a relaxed atmosphere, where you can immerse yourself in the local way of life before heading back to the hotel for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Daily distance: approx. 310 km
Day 5: Nan – Bo Klua – Phrae
Today, we venture into the wild, exploring the Doi Phu Kha National Park and the traditional salt mines of Bo Klua. These salt mines have been in operation for centuries, and it’s fascinating to see how salt is still extracted the old-fashioned way. After a hearty lunch in Nan, we’ll continue our ride through the hills to Phrae, a quieter town with a relaxed vibe. Take a stroll through the streets to unwind after the day’s ride.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Daily distance: approx. 320 km
Day 6: Phrae – Sukhothai
Get ready for a ride through beautiful, hilly terrain as we make our way to Sukhothai, the ancient capital of Thailand. This place is full of history, and the Sukhothai Historical Park is a must-see. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with stunning ruins and temples that tell the story of Thailand’s early days. The ride here is a great mix of open roads and countryside views. After lunch, we’ll explore the historical park, visiting iconic temples like Wat Mahathat and Wat Sri Chum. We end the day with dinner at Chopper Bar on the rooftop, where you can unwind with a drink and some live music
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Daily distance: approx. 175 km
Day 7: Sukhothai – Mae Klang Luang
We’re off to Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s highest mountain! But first, we ride through endless rice fields and winding roads, heading towards the highlands. As we climb, the air gets cooler, and the landscapes turn even more dramatic. At the top, we’ll visit a Hmong village, Mae Klang Luang, where we’ll spend the night. The Hmong people here live a traditional lifestyle, and you’ll get a glimpse into their unique culture. Dinner at Pa Kaew Restaurant. Overnight at Mae Klang View Guest House.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Daily distance: approx. 280 km
Day 8: Mae Klang Luang – Mae Hong Son
After breakfast, we head to the top of Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s highest peak. The national park at the summit is a paradise and home to an incredibly diverse range of wildlife and plant species. After taking in the view from the top, we descend towards Mae Chaem on a quiet, less-traveled road that winds back into the mountains. We pass through small Hmong villages before reaching Khun Yuam, a town with a fascinating WWII history. Here, we’ll stop for a simple lunch at Katin’s Kitchen and visit the small museum dedicated to the role the town played during the war. In the afternoon, we continue our ride through beautiful mountain landscapes to Mae Hong Son, a peaceful town nestled in a picturesque valley.
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Mae Hong Son is a cultural melting pot, home to Thai Yai (Shan), Chinese, Akha, Lisu, Hmong, Muslim, and Karen people, all living together in harmony. Later in the day, we visit the Burmese-style temples Wat Nong Jong Kam and Wat Jong Klang, both located on a serene lake in the heart of the town. The streets of Mae Hong Son are perfect for a relaxing stroll, with a lively night market where you can soak in the local atmosphere.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Daily stage: approx. 220km
Day 9: Mae Hong Son – Pai
After breakfast, we head out for a boat ride along the Pai River, visiting the Kayan Lahwi village (also known as “Giraffe Women”). These women wear copper rings around their necks, which elongate them over time. It’s a unique cultural experience you won’t find anywhere else. After lunch at our hotel, we gear up for the second part of the day. Get ready for an exciting ride with 1048 curves as we take two mountain passes from Soppong to Pai. Along the way, we stop at the Su Tong Pae Bamboo Bridge and take in stunning views while enjoying a coffee. Pai is a small, vibrant town known for its artsy atmosphere. It’s a mix of different cultures and is the perfect place for art lovers, with live music, a night market, and cocktail bars. We’ll end the day with dinner at Sunset View @ Pai Restaurant and free time to explore the town’s nightlife.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Daily distance: approx. 330 km
Day 10: Pai – Wat Chan – Chiang Mai
After breakfast, we leave Pai and head straight into the mountains. The road is quiet, offering an exhilarating ride as we make our way to the secluded Wat Chan, a peaceful temple high in the mountains, where we’ll take a break. From here, the road winds through a plateau with endless uphill and downhill curves, perfect for some thrilling riding. We’ll stop for a simple lunch at a small elephant camp along the way. As we continue, the winding roads lead us closer to Chiang Mai, and the traffic starts to pick up as we approach the city.
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By the late afternoon, we’ll arrive, leave our bikes, and head to the hotel by minibus. To wrap up the journey, we’ll enjoy a farewell dinner at The Riverfront Restaurant along the Ping River, reflecting on the unforgettable adventure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Daily stage: approx. 170 km
Day 11: Chiang Mai – Departure
After breakfast, you’ll have some free time to explore Chiang Mai before we transfer you to the airport for your departure. Take a final stroll through the city or grab one last coffee at a local café before saying goodbye to an unforgettable adventure.
Meals: Breakfast
Don’t Miss Out On a Wonderful Experience
Book your Tour Now – Guided Northern Thailand Motorcycle Tour
Since our tours get filled up fast, please book our Northern Thailand Motorbike Tour with the Golden Triangle Loop Tour now to avoid disappointment.
Our Next available tours are as follows:
2025
02.02. – 15.02.
- 10 nights in good mid-range hotels and resorts, often in boutique style with pool and in bungalows
- Meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner), dinner very often in selected specialty restaurants or in the hotel resort
- German/English speaking motorcycle tour guide on his own motorcycle
- German-speaking, professional and licensed Thai guide
- Experienced motorcycle mechanic on the whole tour
- Motorcycle of your choice
- Gasoline for your own motorcycle
- All visits and entrance fees as described in the detailed tour program
- Private A/C minibus for passengers and main luggage transport; guide and driver take care of luggage transport
- Each passenger has a guaranteed seat in the support vehicle
- All fees, taxes, service charges, room taxes and baggage handling fees
- Compulsory liability insurance in Thailand
- Airport Transfer Service with AC
- Snacks and drinks
- Domestic flights and international flights
- Personal expenses such as tips (optional), souvenirs, telephone, laundry, minibar etc.
- Travel insurance package with accident, hospital and repatriation insurance, luggage and liability insurance (it is strongly recommended to take out such a package before the trip)
Questions & Answers
The tour is guaranteed from a minimum number of 6 motorcyclists. The maximum size of the tour is limited to a total of no more than 14 motorcyclists (plus guide).
With the registration for the Thailand motorcycle tour we need a scanned copy of the passport of the participant with the personal details. A condition for participation in the tour is an internationally valid driving license for motorcycles over 500 cc.
The motorcycles are covered by liability insurance according to Thai law, but not fully comprehensive insurance. The participant bears the risk of a maximum of USD (ask us)- in the event of total damage to the motorcycle (current value). He is not liable for technical failure or wear of the machine in the event of engine or gear damage.
The participant has to pay a deposit of € 500 in cash before accepting the motorcycle. The deposit will be refunded after the accident-free journey when the motorcycle is returned. The deposit must also be paid if the participant has opted for limited comprehensive insurance.
American Express, Visa and Master Card are widely used in Thailand. Cash is only accepted in baht (Thai currency). However, it is relatively easy to change euros or US dollars at a exchange point in the larger tourist areas in Thai Baht.
Most European nationalities do not require a visa to visit Thailand and receive a visa-free stay of up to 30 days upon arrival in Thailand.
Tour Concept by RC Hendrik
Discover the Golden Triangle with Road Captain Hendrik and enjoy the endless curve tango on grand mountain roads in the former Lanna Kingdom. On this discovery tour, selected hotels with pools, remote mountain peoples, smallest mountain roads through jungle and highlands and the Thai culture are the highlights. Thailand’s highest mountain Doi Inathon (2,565m) and ancient and half-forgotten temple cities add spectacular views and cultural experiences to the program. Hendrik, who lives alternately in Tibet and Thailand when he is not riding around the world on one of his Overland tours from Germany to Lhasa, guides the tour and shows you his adopted country in all its facets.