Cycling Luang Prabang to Chiang Mai 11 Days

Start with a morning ride through UNESCO-listed Luang Prabang, visiting historic temples like Wat Xieng Thong. Warm up your legs on the paved southbound road toward Kuang Si Waterfall. Enjoy a rewarding climb through lush foliage, swim in the turquoise jungle pools, and cruise downhill back to town for a relaxing evening.

Pedal north out of town along Route 13 North, taking in views of the Nam Ou River framed by dramatic limestone karst mountains. Take a short boat ferry across the river to explore the sacred Pak Ou Caves. Afterward, complete a short, picturesque ride to your riverside resort to relax by the water.

Embark on an adventurous mountain leg into Oudomxay Province. Ride off the main artery onto winding rural roads that hug the Nam Ou basin and climb scenic mountain passes. Pass remote Khmu and Hmong settlements before descending into the tranquil, river-bound valley town of Muang Nga for an authentic local stay.

Challenge your legs on a steady climb out of Muang Nga, surrounded by deep green jungle canopy and mountain vistas. Cruise into Muang Xay before turning off toward the protected bio-reserve of Nam Kat Yor la Pa. End the day at this eco-resort nestled deep within the rainforest.

Depart the resort and tackle the rolling hills of Route 2W west toward the Mekong River. The route winds through quiet farming communities and teak forests. Enjoy a mix of rewarding climbs and sweeping downhill stretches as you head down to Pakbeng, a famous Mekong stopover town overlooking the river.

Finish your expedition with an energizing Transfer through the western hills toward Thailand. Pedal along quiet provincial roads passing agricultural fields and quiet border communities. Cross the finish line at the Muang Ngeun / Huai Kon international border post, completing an unforgettable traverse across Northern Laos.

Begin your Thai journey at the Huai Kon border crossing, riding south along scenic Highway 1080 through the lush Nan River basin. Pass through the charming agricultural hub of Pua, taking in views of rolling rice fields and mountain backdrops. Conclude the ride in historic Nan City, exploring iconically painted Lanna temples like Wat Phumin and the old town district.

Pedal west onto the celebrated Route 1091, tackling continuous winding mountain ridges and sweeping elevated passes. Ride past rural teak forests, remote hill-tribe settlements, and the agricultural valley of Chiang Muan. Descend smoothly into Phayao town, ending the challenging day along the peaceful, palm-lined promenade of Kwan Phayao (Phayao Lake).

Leave Phayao Lake behind and cycle north through gentle valley terrain and rolling rubber tree plantations. The route follows smooth provincial roads through quiet rural communities and agricultural plains toward Chiang Rai Province. Arrive early in Chiang Rai to visit the famous ornate Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) before heading into the city center.

Ride south along Highway 118 as the landscape transitions into dense tropical forest and mountain foothills. Skirt past the scenic Mae Suai Reservoir and cycle along undulating, well-paved valley roads. Finish the day in the peaceful district of Wiang Pa Pao, unwinding at the local natural hot springs to recharge your legs for the mountain pass ahead.

Tackle the final, invigorating leg crossing the Doi Saket mountain range between Lampang and Chiang Mai. Work through steady mountain climbs before enjoying a thrilling, long downhill descent toward the Chiang Mai valley floor. Finish your cross-northern expedition rolling into the historic moat-lined walls of Chiang Mai Old City for a triumphant celebration.