Categories > Guides and Tips
Cycling in Thailand: Explore the Best Routes and Destinations on Two Wheels!
Well, you can’t find a country more suitable than Thailand when it comes to cycling. Quite simply, it ticks all the boxes, from natural wonders that leave you speechless, to historic Buddhist temples of old that stun you, and yes to super-friendly locals.
But of course, whenever you’re itching for a cycling trip, you simply can’t have enough, especially if you’re short on time. Nothing beats scenic mountain roads, and forested trails to get away from it all and scoop boatloads of high-intensity fun.
So which trails and routes should you prioritize to have a blast when cycling in Thailand? Don’t look now but here’s the country’s top cycling destinations and routes so you can start making your beautiful memories on two wheels! Read on.
What are the top cycling destinations in Thailand?
Chiang Mai
Media credit: chiangmaicyclingbuddy
Address: Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is arguably one of the best places for cycling in Thailand. The province is known for its historic walled city filled with ancient Buddhist temples, local shops, restaurants, and cafes which are great to explore on a two-wheeler.
However, the areas outside the old city are its most notable cycling spots. This includes the nearby Doi Suthep Loop, Samoeng Loop, Ban Plaidoi Cycle Loop, Crazy Dust Trail, and more.
You can also bike around urban landmarks and public parks like Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai Chaloem Phrakiat Park, Buak Hard Public Park, and Royal Park Rajapruek. Plus, cycling is a great way to get around and visit the city’s numerous night markets.
Pro Tip:
We recommend downloading the Anywheel app on your mobile phone to access the numerous rental bikes scattered around Chiang Mai so you can start cycling without booking a bike tour.
Otherwise, you should book your bike tour using reputable travel services like Klook, GetYourGuide, and Viator. Their tours also include guides which is a plus.
Ayutthaya
Media credit: spiceroads
Address: Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya is an unmissable cycling destination in Thailand for fans of ancient temples. It’s best known for the massive Ayutthaya Historical Park which boasts over 40 Buddhist temples, numerous religious art, and sacred artifacts.
This popular UNESCO World Heritage Site is also 289 hectares in size so expect at least 4 hours of cycling action. The affordable bike rental offered at the park’s entrance is also a big plus.
Must-see temple ruins include Wat Chaiwatthanaram, Wat Lokayasutharam, Wat Mahathat, and Wat Phra Si Sanphet. It’s also worth noting that the historical park is an important religious site, so be sure to wear temple-appropriate or modest clothes.
Pro Tip:
To make the most of your cycling tour of Ayutthaya Historical Park, we recommend paying for a multi-temple ticket which costs 220 baht instead of paying the 50 baht entry for each temple.
Bangkok
Media credit: betterthanwalkthailand
Address: Bangkok
Bangkok is a solid option for urban cycling trips in Thailand. Cycling in the capital city gives you the best chance to explore numerous shops and attractions, from local eateries to fancy restaurants, ancient temples, shopping malls, and more.
The city also has hidden alleyways and side streets packed with local haunts like old-school artisan coffee shops, street art, thrift stores, street kitchens, etc. You can also cycle along the Chao Phraya River to enjoy Bangkok’s iconic river view and sunset.
It also has green spaces where you can cycle like Bang Kachao and Lumpini Park. These spots also have designated bike lanes which makes them a safe option for cycling around the capital city.
Pro Tip:
For the best experience, we recommend booking a bike tour in Bangkok so you can explore the city’s hidden gems. Bangkok Bike Adventure is a top pick because they have guided bike tours of the Green Lung and other unfrequented spots in the city.
They also offer night bike tours which will take you to secret food spots, popular rooftop bars, and flower markets.
Phuket
Media credit: feelphuketthailand
Address: Phuket
Phuket is one of the more attractive coastal cycling spots in Thailand. The province is filled with pristine beaches, so cycling on its coastal routes is ideal if you like to soak in the cool ocean breeze and stunning view of the Andaman Sea.
There’s also the charming Phuket Old Town which is known for streets lined with colorful Sino-Portuguese buildings and vintage artisan coffee shops. It also has cycling routes to popular attractions like the Big Buddha, Wat Chalong, Karon Viewpoint, and more.
Moreover, Phuket’s countryside offers a unique biking experience. There, you can cycle through farmland trails leading to rainforests and plantations which lets you admire the island’s natural scenery and wildlife while snacking on fresh tropical fruits as well.
Pro Tip:
If you’re looking for a guided cycling tour, FeelPhuket is a solid pick. They offer bike tours in northern Phuket’s farmland trails and the nearby Koh Yao Noi.
But if you only want to cycle along Phuket’s coastal roads, Siam Bike Tours & Road Bike Rentals is ideal. They also have 4-day round-trip cycling tours from Phuket to Khao Sok which is great for skilled cyclists.
Koh Samui
Media credit: samuibicycletours
Address: Koh Samui District, Surat Thani
Cycling is one of the best ways to get around Koh Samui so it’s a great place for tourists who enjoy exploration on two wheels. This island is also known for its scenic coastal roads featuring stunning beaches like Lipa Noi, Chaweng, and Bang Makham Beach.
Aside from that, Koh Samui offers a unique cycling experience because it has sandbanks you can cycle on during the low tide. Furthermore, it’s possible to circumnavigate the island which hardcore cyclists will definitely appreciate.
This also gives you the best chance to witness the lifestyle in Koh Samui’s fishing villages. It also has cycling routes passing through popular attractions like Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks, Tarnim Magic Garden, and Paradise Park Farm.
Pro Tip:
If you plan to circumnavigate Koh Samui, we recommend booking a guided bike tour because you must use a terrain-appropriate bike and know the exact local routes. Your best options are Samui Cycle Hire and Easy Day Samui.
Chiang Rai
Media credit: chiangrai_bicycle_tour
Address: Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai is a popular cycling destination in Thailand with its wide range of cycling routes and trails, from Ban Huai Luek Cycle Route to Chiang Saen Northwest Loop. Its capital city is also great for cycling because of its numerous iconic attractions.
This includes the White Temple, Wat Rong Suea Ten, Chiang Rai Clock Tower, King Mangrai Monument, and more. Singha Park is also a solid option if you want to escape the city’s bustling atmosphere.
Plus, the park’s rental bicycles are convenient if you like to cycle through its vast farm-like green space with a swan lake, petting zoo, golden lion statue, and tea fields. There’s also a restaurant, pizzeria, tea factory, tent area, and more.
Pro Tip:
We recommend the Chiang Rai Bicycle Tour if you’re looking for a flexible guided cycling tour. They offer half-day to 5-day bike tours of Chiang Rai’s city center and countryside.
Sukhothai
Media from littlewanderingwren
Address: Sukhothai
Sukhothai is a cycling paradise for historical buffs. After all, this popular cycling spot in Thailand boasts 2 must-see historical sites: Sukhothai Historical Park and Si Satchanalai Historical Park.
There, you can cycle around to check out iconic temple ruins like Wat Mahathat, Wat Nang Phaya, Wat Chedi Chet Thaew, Wat Si Sawai, and more. Rental bicycles are also available on both historical sites so you don’t need to book a guided bike tour.
But, if you’re looking for a more challenging cycling experience, we recommend the 27.8-kilometer West Sukhothai Route which is great for birding and road biking. It’s a tranquil cycling route via Soi Thepmongkol connecting the old and new Sukhothai cities.
Pro Tip:
Sukhothai Bicycle Tour and Cycling Sukhothai are arguably the best picks for bike tours in Sukhothai. These travel agencies offer half-day to 4-day cycling tours of the 2 historical sites so your options are flexible.
Their tailor-made tours that let you customize the itinerary to your liking are also a plus.
Koh Yao Noi
Media credit: juulies.world_
Address: Koh Yao District, Phang Nga
Koh Yao Noi is a charming island cycling destination in Thailand. It has breathtaking coastal roads but it’s best known for its more relaxed cycling routes through local fishing villages, rubber plantations, traditional markets, and vast rice paddies.
Plus, you’ll still pass through the island’s pristine beaches where you can enjoy a quick and refreshing dip or admire the breathtaking scenery. The island’s most notable beaches include Klong Jark, Pasai, and Tha KhaoBeach.
The island also has a 21.2-kilometer cycle loop along its middle portion and south end. It’s also worth noting that this loop passes through numerous local restaurants and cafes so it’s a great option for foodie adventures on 2 wheels.
Pro Tip:
For a convenient cycling experience in Koh Yao Noi, we suggest booking a guided tour with Action Holidays Phuket. Their tour includes a speedboat ride starting from Phuket.
Or you can book their signature 8-day bike tours from Phuket to Krabi and Phang Nga for the ultimate cycling experience.
Top Cycling Routes and Trails
Chiang Mai-Chiang Rai Cycling Route
Media credit: cyclingchiangmai
Address: Chiang Mai-Chiang Rai Route
Distance: 156 kilometers
Time to cycle: 4 cycling days
The Chiang Mai-Chiang Rai Cycling Route is one of the more popular cycling spots in Thailand. There, you can cycle through hilly and lush mountain roads with mild gains which makes it suitable for cyclists of all skill and fitness levels.
Plus, this 80% paved route passes through Buddhist temples, local markets, and hill tribe villages which lets you enjoy the rich culture of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Its paved portions also feature smooth tarmac surfaces suitable for road bikes.
Aside from that, it’s also not the main route vehicles use when traveling between the two provinces, so expect a more relaxed atmosphere with minimal traffic. The route covers the Mae Taeng, Chiang Dao, Mae Ai, and Fang districts.
Pro Tip:
The best bike tour for this cycling route is SpiceRoad because of its leisurely pace with plenty of refreshment stops along the way. Moreover, they have a dedicated support vehicle in case a cyclist can’t continue due to fatigue.
Their fluent and knowledgeable English-speaking guides are also a plus.
Doi Suthep-Tiger Ted Cafe Loop
Media credit: ralph_in_cnx
Address: Doi Suthep
Distance: 40 kilometers
Time to cycle: 2 hours
The Doi Suthep-Tiger Ted Cafe Loop is a beginner-friendly and accessible cycling trail from Chiang Mai Old City. In fact, this trail is on the shorter side, so it’s suitable for quick self-guided cycling trips in the morning or afternoon.
It also features well-paved surfaces so expect an easy ride for most of this cycling loop. Plus, this passes through the popular Wat Pha Lat and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temples so you can admire ancient pagodas, relics, and Buddha images.
This cycling trail also ends with 4 lovely cafes and restaurants so you’re covered for food and drinks afterward. These are Tiger Ted Cafe, Imjai Vegan, Ristr8to Original, and Goodsouls Kitchen.
Pro Tip:
Keep in mind that along Imjai Vega is a non-cycling part trail so you must temporarily dismount and push your bike for at least 58.5 meters. Also, don’t forget to bring something to wear on top of your tight cycling pants if you plan to visit the 2 temples.
You may also need to wear it while cycling through the Monk’s Trail to get to both temples.
Mae Hong Son Loop
Media credit: nynkecuperus
Address: Chiang Mai-Mae Hong Son Route
Distance: 651.7 kilometers
Time to cycle: 7 cycling days
Mae Hong Son is one of the more well-known cycling routes in Thailand for advanced cyclists. It’s a lengthy route that covers numerous districts, from Chom Thong to Mae Sariang, Khun Yuam, Pai, and more.
Also, most of the loop is paved with tight asphalt which makes it ideal for road bikes with at least 25mm tires. It’s also perfect for multi-day cycling trips because you’ll find numerous hotels, restaurants, and cafes along the way.
Not to mention the traditional markets, quaint mountain villages, gilded Buddhist temples, and Huai Nam Dang National Park. Plus, the mountain road lets you overlook breathtaking rivers, tropical forests, rice paddies, and valley views.
Pro Tip:
There’s a non-cycling portion at the Doi Kiew Lom Viewpoint so be prepared to push your road bike to watch the stunning view at its summit. If you like challenges, modify this cycling route to include a steep ride to Doi Inthanon’s summit.
Samoeng Loop
Media credit: chiangmaicyclingbuddy
Address: Highway 1096, Samoeng Nuea, Samoeng District, Chiang Mai
Distance: 85 kilometers
Time to cycle: 3 to 4 hours
Samoeng Loop is a popular spot for motorbike and bicycle tours among tourists who frequent Chiang Mai. This mountainous loop has a 1,100-meter elevation so be ready for some challenging climbs, especially its iconic 7 hairpins with up to 17% grade.
It’s also worth mentioning that while the loop’s road conditions are great for road bikes, you must stay alert because of the steep descents after reaching its high points. Also, don’t forget to make the most of the roadside cafes and fruit shops along this loop.
In fact, the loop is great for cycling in specific months if you plan to get seasonal fruits. You’ll also come across numerous popular attractions like the Royal Rose Garden, Samoeng Forest Viewpoint, Mae Sa Waterfall, and Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden.
Pro Tip:
It’s best to avoid the Samoeng Loop from May to September because of the slightly unpredictable weather conditions. Also, we recommend starting the loop west of PTT Station Mae Rim.
Green Lung Bangkok
Media credit: lalahorosz
Address: Bang Kachao, Phra Pradaeng District, Samut Prakan
Distance: 20 kilometers
Time to cycle: 1 to 2 hours
Bang Kachao, also known as Green Lung Bangkok, is the top pick for Bangkokian urban cyclists who like to avoid the city’s hustle and bustle. It’s an idyllic green space filled with lush tropical gardens, stilt houses, coffee shops, and markets.
In fact, it’s home to Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park and Botanical Garden, so expect ponds and lakes filled with a diverse variety of wildlife. This includes a wide range of aquatic birds, mammals, snakes, lizards, and more.
It’s also worth noting that bicycle rentals are widely available at Green Lung Bangkok which is a plus when it comes to convenience.
Pro Tip:
The stilted bike paths in Green Lung Bangkok are narrow, so be sure to ride carefully to avoid falling by accident. Also, not all parts of the cycling route have handrails so you must be extra careful at those spots.
