Mae Hong Son Loop - Thailand look what we did !

Mae Hong Son Loop: Touring on a Tandem

The Mae Hong Son Loop, located in the mountainous north of Thailand, is a dream route for cyclists seeking a mix of challenge, culture, and stunning landscapes. Spanning approximately 650 kilometers, this loop is known for its grueling climbs, sharp descents, and breathtaking views, offering a truly immersive experience for adventurous riders—especially those touring with gear.

We completed the loop cycling for 11 days with 2 touring days (no cycling), calling it “the most challenging tour we’ve ever done.” The relentless climbs, sharp descents, and the need to manage touring loads put our endurance and determination to the ultimate test. The journey also involved making thoughtful decisions about optional challenges, such as the climb to Doi Inthanon, Thailand's highest peak.

Route Overview

  • Distance: ~650 kilometers
  • Elevation Gain: Over 12,000 meters
  • Duration: 9–12 days, depending on fitness, pace, and itinerary
  • Difficulty: Challenging – suitable for experienced cyclists
  • Best Time to Ride: November to February (cooler and drier weather)

Major Towns Along the Route

One of the towns on the route

Mae Hong Son view from Walking Street

  1. Chiang Mai: Start and finish in this vibrant city known for its temples, bustling markets, and laid-back atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to prepare for or recover from the journey.
  2. Pai: A favorite stop for travelers, Pai is surrounded by lush forests, hot springs, and waterfalls. The ride to Pai is a test of endurance with steep climbs and hairpin turns.
  3. Mae Hong Son: The namesake town is a picturesque mountain retreat with misty valleys, steep switchbacks, and the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu temple offering panoramic views.
  4. Khun Yuam: Famous for its sunflower fields in November, this quiet town provides a tranquil stop with friendly locals and scenic backroads.
  5. Mae Sariang: A peaceful riverside town where you can rest and enjoy the serene beauty of the region before tackling the final leg back to Chiang Mai.

The Challenge of the Mae Hong Son Loop

Cyclists climbing a steep hill

Cyclists climbing a steep hill

The Mae Hong Son Loop is not for the faint-hearted. With over 12,000 meters of elevation gain, steep climbs, and technical descents, the route demands physical strength, mental resilience, and careful planning. Carrying touring loads makes the loop even more challenging, as the added weight increases the difficulty of climbs, descents, and bike handling on winding roads. The remote stretches require cyclists to be self-sufficient, while the incredible scenery, cultural immersion, and sense of accomplishment make the effort worthwhile.

Tour of Pai

Pai Canyon at sunset

Pai Canyon at sunset

While staying in Pai, we took the opportunity to explore the area further, including a visit to the Pai Canyon. Watching the sunset at Pai Canyon was a magical experience, with the fiery hues of the sky reflecting off the unique rock formations. We also enjoyed wandering through Pai Walking Street, soaking in its vibrant atmosphere, sampling local foods, and browsing the unique shops and stalls. The tour allowed us to immerse ourselves in the town’s charm, from its bustling markets to its peaceful countryside. This stop added a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation to our journey.

Nong Haeng Hot Spring

Nong Haeng Hot Spring

Nong Haeng Hot Spring

During our journey, we visited the Nong Haeng Hot Spring, a serene and rejuvenating destination nestled amidst the stunning natural landscape. The hot spring offered a peaceful retreat where we could unwind and recharge after long days of cycling. Surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature, it was the perfect place to relax our tired muscles and prepare for the challenges ahead. For cyclists, this stop is a must for its calming ambiance and therapeutic waters, providing both a physical and mental boost during the journey.

Key Highlights

  • Relaxing Stops: We visited Nong Haeng Hot Spring, a peaceful spot to unwind and recharge during the journey.
  • Scenic Roads: Enjoy panoramic views of verdant hills, terraced rice paddies, and remote villages.
  • Challenging Climbs: The route features relentless ascents, including the infamous climb to Mae Hong Son.
  • Local Culture: Immerse yourself in Thai culture, visiting hill tribe villages, exploring ancient temples, and sampling local cuisine.
  • Road Conditions: Roads are generally well-paved, but steep grades and sharp curves require attention, especially during the rainy season.

The Doi Inthanon Experience

Doi Inthanon

Doi Inthanon

Doi Inthanon, standing at 2,565 meters above sea level, is an optional extension for cyclists on the Mae Hong Son Loop. The climb adds an extra 800 meters of elevation gain, making it one of the most demanding segments for those brave enough to tackle it. However, descending Doi Inthanon is regulated by the Thai Parks Authority, and cyclists are required to have a chaperoning vehicle for safety reasons due to the steep and hazardous descent.

We chose to reach the summit of Doi Inthanon by arranging a local taxi at the National Parks Office. While this added to the adventure, it was a bit challenging to arrange on-site. For those considering the climb, arranging a standard Doi Inthanon tour from Chiang Mai is often easier and more convenient. These tours typically include transportation and can help streamline the logistics for this optional extension. After already enduring the physical demands of the loop, this alternative transport option was a welcome relief.

Accommodations Along the Route

Vanilla Residence, Chiang Mai - Includes workshop!

Vanilla Residence, Chiang Mai - Includes workshop!

Throughout our journey on the Mae Hong Son Loop, we stayed at a variety of accommodations that added comfort and character to our adventure. These included:

  • Vanilla Residence, Chiang Mai (notable for its bicycle-friendly facilities and services tailored to cyclists - see image above)
  • 32 Coffee and Hill
  • Atlas Central
  • Jungle Guesthouse
  • Fern Resort, Mae Hong Son
  • PATARAPHAN HOUSE, Khunyuam, Maehongson, Thailand
  • ปฏิภาณบ้านพัก
  • Riverhouse-The Teak House
  • Doi Bo Luang Forest Park Forest
  • Muandcheam House
  • Inthanon Mountain Camp
  • Hotel De Sripoon

The Warmth of Thai Hospitality

One of the most memorable aspects of cycling the Mae Hong Son Loop was the incredible friendliness and hospitality of the Thai people. Everywhere we went, we were met with warm smiles, kind gestures, and genuine interest in our journey. From helpful locals offering directions to small business owners sharing their stories, the Thai people's kindness added a deeply human connection to our adventure. Their generosity, especially in remote areas, made us feel welcome and cared for, making the experience all the more enriching.

Final Thoughts

The Mae Hong Son Loop is a demanding but deeply rewarding cycling adventure. Our 11-day journey is a testament to the physical and mental challenge the loop offers, but also to the immense satisfaction and sense of achievement it delivers. While carrying touring loads makes the route even more challenging, the sense of accomplishment is equally heightened. Whether you choose to ride the full loop or include the optional climb to Doi Inthanon, with proper preparation, a carefully packed setup, and a manageable pace, you’ll enjoy every climb, descent, and breathtaking view this iconic loop has to offer.

Relive Video Ride from Pia

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Relive Video Ride to Doi Inthanon

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Ride with GPS Ride Plan - Collection

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Ride with GPS Ride Record - Collection

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Ride with GPS Ride Plan - Route

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Google Earth

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