Join me on my adventure on the Bikepacking Mae Hong Son Loop in Thailand. Discover the route, scenic views, local villages, and all the highlights of my trip!
The Mae Hong Son loop in Thailand is a bikepacking adventure that pushes your limits and rewards you with incredible views, unforgettable experiences, and heartwarming encounters with locals.
In this article, I’m sharing the exact route I took, complete with elevation gain, distances, and links to all the hotels I stayed at, the viewpoints I stopped at, and the restaurants where I refueled.
This trip was no easy ride—steep climbs, long days in the sun, and challenging stretches pushed me to my limits. But the journey was absolutely worth it.
The breathtaking landscapes, the kindness of locals who offered water and support, and the chance to explore remote villages that most travelers never see made this an experience of a lifetime.
Whether you’ve seen the highlights in my YouTube video or are planning your bikepacking adventure, this guide provides everything you need to retrace my steps. From cozy accommodations to scenic stops, it’s all here to help you plan an epic trip on the Mae Hong Song loop.
If you’re up for a challenge, I wholeheartedly recommend this route. It’s tough, but the rewards are unforgettable.
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This YouTube video showcases my bikepacking adventure on the Mae Hong Son Loop. It features the route, stunning views, and highlights of my journey.
Bikepacking Mae Hong Son Loop Itinerary
| Day | Start | End | Distance | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Chiang Mai | Pai | 130km | 2.200m |
| Day 2 | Pai | Ban Tham Lot | 49,3km | 1.270m |
| Day 3 | Ban Tham Lot | Mae Hong Son | 81,6km | 1.830m |
| Day 4 | Mae Hong Son | Khun Yuam | 67km | 1.240m |
| Day 5 | Khun Yuam | Mae Sariang | 96.6km | 1.280m |
| Day 6 | Mae Sariang | Ban Sam Lang | 62,9km | 2.000m |
| Day 7 | Ban Sam Lang | Ban Pa Daet | 63km | 1.140m |
| Day 8 | Ban Pa Daet | Chiang Mai | 131km | 1.180m |
Day 1: Chiang Mai to Pai
The journey begins! Leaving Chiang Mai, the goal for Day 1 was to reach Pai, covering over 2,200 meters in elevation gain.
Starting early, I made my way through bustling streets and quieter rural roads, eventually tackling the steep ascents leading to Pai. Along the way, I stopped for a hearty meal of rice and chicken, fueling up for what lay ahead.
The winding roads offered stunning views, and I even stumbled upon a random airplane displayed on the roadside—definitely worth revisiting later.
After conquering the serpentine climbs, I finally arrived in Pai, exhausted but thrilled. The day ended with a relaxing Thai massage.
Accommodation: Payi Resort
Day 2: Pai to Ban Tham Lot
With just 50 km ahead and 1,270 meters of elevation, this was a lighter day, but it had its challenges.
Starting early to beat the heat, I climbed through scenic landscapes and enjoyed a long descent toward the destination. A surprise highlight awaited: Nam Lod Cave.
I checked into a quaint riverside bungalow just a short walk from the cave. Exploring the cave on a bamboo raft was nothing short of magical, with its ancient teakwood coffins and towering stalactites adding a sense of awe.
Discover Nam Lod Cave: A Hidden Gem on Your Mae Hong Son Loop Adventure
If you’re tackling the Mae Hong Son Loop, a visit to Nam Lod Cave is an absolute must. Trust me, it’s one of those places that makes all the steep climbs and long days on the bike totally worth it.
Why You’ll Love Nam Lod Cave
- Jaw-Dropping Formations: As you step inside, you’ll be amazed by the giant limestone stalactites and stalagmites that feel straight out of an adventure movie.
- A Ride Through an Underground River: Picture this: you’re gliding through the cave on a bamboo raft, guided by a local expert who lights the way with a lantern. It’s peaceful, otherworldly, and just the kind of break you’ll appreciate on your journey.
- A Peek into Ancient History: Nam Lod Cave has centuries-old teakwood coffins tucked deep inside its chambers. Standing there, you’ll feel a connection to the past that’s hard to put into words.
- Wildlife Encounters: Keep an eye out for bats and swifts that call the cave home. They add to the sense that you’re exploring a truly wild, untouched place.
What to Expect When You Visit
You’ll spend about 2-3 hours exploring Nam Lod Cave, and it’s worth every second. A local guide will take you through its three main chambers:
- Big Column Cave: Where you’ll be surrounded by towering limestone formations.
- Doll Cave: Named for the oddly-shaped formations that spark your imagination.
- Coffin Cave: Home to ancient teakwood coffins, a fascinating glimpse into history.
The experience includes a peaceful bamboo raft ride on the underground river, which is just magical. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to another world.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
- Entry Fee: A small fee covers the guide and the bamboo raft—totally worth it for what you’ll experience.
- When to Go: The best time to visit is during the dry season (November to February), when the weather is cool and comfortable.
- What to Bring: Wear comfy walking shoes, and if you’re into photography, don’t forget your camera—you’ll want to capture these moments.
Accommodation: Cave Lodge
Stops: Nam Lod Cave
Day 3: Ban Tham Lot to Mae Hong Son
The day started chilly, with more than 1,800 meters of elevation gain across an 82-km route. Early on, I made it to the Ban Jabo Viewpoint, a perfect spot for breakfast while soaking in the spectacular mountain views.
From there, the climbs got steeper, with gradients reaching 20%, making this one of the most physically demanding days.
However, the stunning scenery of rolling mountains and peaceful valleys kept me motivated. Reaching Mae Hong Son was a moment of triumph, and I celebrated with a traditional Thai massage and dinner at the lively night market.
Accommodation: Panorama Hotel
Stops: Ban Jabo Viewpoint, Mae Hong Son Association of the blind health massage
Day 4: Mae Hong Son to Khun Yuam
Legs sore and motivation low, I set out for a 67-km day with 1,200 meters of climbing. The foggy morning and cool weather provided the perfect start.
Early climbs led to breathtaking viewpoints, where I stopped to take in the beauty of northern Thailand. Though tough, the stage felt manageable.
After finding a cozy hotel in Khun Yuam, I enjoyed a quiet evening exploring the small town, its temples, and a bustling local market.
Accommodation: Yoont Hotel
Day 5: Khun Yuam to Mae Sariang
This was a long but rewarding day, covering almost 100 km and 1,200 meters of elevation gain.
Surprisingly, my legs felt strong, and I flew over the first climbs. A mid-morning café stop offered stunning views and a chance to recharge.
The route was a mix of steep ascents and rolling descents, each offering its own challenges. By the time I reached Mae Sariang, I was ready for a shower, a hearty meal, and another well-deserved massage.
Accommodation: P&P Coffee & Resort Maesariang
Stops: Viewpoint
Day 6: Mae Sariang to Ban Sam Lang
This stage turned out to be the toughest yet, with over 2,000 meters of elevation gain packed into 63 km.
Early morning climbs tested my limits, but friendly locals offering water and encouragement kept me going. By mid-afternoon, I reached the remote village of Ban Sam Lang.
I found a nice accommodation on a small farm. Exploring the village, I discovered a bustling market and connected with locals who shared their warmth and stories.
Accommodation: Paak Doi OK Farmstay
Day 7: Ban Sam Lang to Ban Pa Daet
The penultimate day started with a fast descent, followed by challenging climbs. The goal was to position myself for the final push to the highest point of Thailand.
The route took me through scenic farmland and lush mountains, with the cool weather making the climbs more bearable.
Accommodation: โรงแรมอาคารแสงทอง
Day 8: Ban Pa Daet to Chiang Mai
The last day was the ultimate test: a 130-km stage with over 2,400 meters of climbing to the highest point in Thailand at 2,565 meters.
The climb was relentless, with gradients hitting 20%, but the sense of accomplishment at the summit was unmatched.
From there, it was a thrilling descent followed by a flat ride back to Chiang Mai. Arriving in the city felt surreal, knowing I had completed one of the most challenging and rewarding bikepacking adventures of my life.
Accommodation: Kristi House
Stops: Doi Inthanon
Conclusion: An Unforgettable Bike Packing Journey on the Mae Hong Son Loop
The Mae Hong Son Loop is more than just a bikepacking route—it’s an adventure that challenges you physically, rewards you with breathtaking views, and immerses you in the heart of Thai culture.
From grueling climbs and exhilarating descents to peaceful villages and incredible local hospitality, every moment on this loop leaves a lasting impression.
Whether you’re cycling past serene rice fields, exploring hidden gems like Nam Lod Cave, or savoring a meal at a small roadside restaurant, the journey is filled with unique experiences you’ll never forget.
Each day brings a new story, new sights, and an opportunity to connect with the land and its people in a way that few other adventures can offer.
If this guide has inspired you to tackle the Mae Hong Son Loop, I encourage you to take the leap. Use this detailed itinerary to plan your trip, and don’t miss the highlights I’ve shared—it’s a tough ride, but trust me, the rewards are more than worth the effort.
Looking for more cycling inspiration? Check out my other adventure: Bikepacking from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, and get ready to plan your next epic journey!
Tim Kroeger, founder of Universal Traveller, is a Luxury Wellness & Active Travel Specialist with over 15 years of experience exploring the world.
Through his work with leading luxury hotels and travel brands, Tim helps connect premium travelers with exceptional experiences. His expertise spans hospitality trends, digital nomad lifestyles, and luxury bikepacking, combining adventure travel with comfort and style.
