Best Roads to Ride a Scooter in Chiang Mai 2026

One of the best things about exploring Chiang Mai on a scooter is the variety of roads available — from busy city streets and winding mountain passes to quiet countryside lanes and scenic riverside routes. Whether you're a confident rider looking for adventure or a first-timer sticking to the city, Chiang Mai has a road for you.

This guide covers the best roads and routes to ride in Chiang Mai in 2026 — from beginner-friendly city loops to the legendary mountain roads that draw riders from all over the world.


1. Doi Suthep Road — The Classic Chiang Mai Ride

Difficulty: Moderate
 Distance: 15km from Old City
 Best bike: Honda Click 160, PCX 150, ADV 160
 Best time: Early morning (7AM-9AM) before traffic builds

No list of Chiang Mai riding routes is complete without Doi Suthep Road. This winding mountain road climbs from the city up to Doi Suthep Temple at 1,073 metres above sea level — one of the most sacred Buddhist temples in northern Thailand and one of the most spectacular viewpoints over the city.

The road itself is a joy to ride — smooth tarmac, sweeping bends and increasingly dramatic views as you climb higher. At the top you'll find the temple, several viewpoints, restaurants and coffee shops with panoramic views over Chiang Mai.

Tips:


2. The Moat Loop — Perfect for Beginners

Difficulty: Easy
 Distance: 7km loop
 Best bike: Honda Scoopy, Honda Click
 Best time: Morning or evening

The road that runs around Chiang Mai's ancient moat is the perfect introduction to riding in the city. It's a flat, wide, well-maintained road with relatively gentle traffic — ideal for riders who are new to Chiang Mai or getting comfortable on a scooter after a long break.

The moat itself is beautiful — particularly at sunrise and sunset when the light reflects off the water and the ancient city walls glow gold. Ride slowly, stop whenever you want, and take it all in.

Along the way:


3. Canal Road — The Digital Nomad Highway

Difficulty: Easy
 Distance: Runs north-south through the city
 Best bike: Any bike in our fleet
 Best time: Anytime

Canal Road (also known as Nimmanhaemin Road extension) runs along one of Chiang Mai's irrigation canals and connects Nimman — the digital nomad and expat hub — with the southern parts of the city. It's wide, straight, well-lit and lined with cafés, co-working spaces, restaurants and shops.

This is the road most long stay visitors end up riding every single day — and for good reason. It's practical, pleasant and gives you access to everything you need for a comfortable life in Chiang Mai.


4. Samoeng Loop — The Full Day Adventure

Difficulty: Challenging
 Distance: 100km loop
 Best bike: Honda ADV 160, Honda Forza 350
 Best time: Full day — start by 8AM

The Samoeng Loop is one of the most celebrated motorcycle routes in northern Thailand. This 100km circular route takes you through mountain villages, national park land, dense jungle, waterfalls and some of the most spectacular scenery in the region.

The road varies from smooth mountain tarmac to rougher rural sections — an adventure bike like the Honda ADV 160 is the ideal choice. The full loop takes around 4-5 hours of riding time — allow a full day to stop, explore and enjoy.

Highlights along the way:

Important: This route involves extended mountain riding. Only attempt it if you are a confident rider on a suitable bike. Wet season rain can make some sections challenging — check the weather before you go.


5. Chiang Dao Road — Into the Mountains

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
 Distance: 70km north of Chiang Mai
 Best bike: Honda Click 160, ADV 160, Forza 350
 Best time: Full day

Head north out of Chiang Mai on Route 107 and the city quickly gives way to rice fields, mountain villages and eventually the dramatic limestone peaks of Chiang Dao. The road is smooth and well-maintained all the way to Chiang Dao town — making it an accessible day trip even for moderate riders.

At Chiang Dao you'll find the famous Chiang Dao Cave — a vast cave system used as a place of meditation and worship for centuries — as well as trekking, bird watching and some of the best mountain scenery in northern Thailand.

Tips:


6. Hang Dong to San Patong — The Local Route

Difficulty: Easy
 Distance: 20km south of the city
 Best bike: Honda Scoopy, Honda Click
 Best time: Weekend morning

Most tourists never venture south of the city — which is exactly why this route is worth riding. The road from Hang Dong to San Patong takes you through authentic Thai villages, local markets, rice paddies and small temples that see almost no foreign visitors.

This is Chiang Mai as the locals experience it — unhurried, genuine and completely off the tourist circuit. Stop at a local market for breakfast, ride through the villages at a gentle pace and return to the city feeling like you've actually discovered something.


Safety Tips for Riding in Chiang Mai

Before you head out on any of these routes — a few important reminders:

Always wear your helmet
 It's the law and it saves lives. All Papaya Rentals bikes come with two helmets included.

Check the weather
 Chiang Mai's wet season runs from June to October. Rain can arrive suddenly and make roads extremely slippery — especially on mountain routes. If rain is forecast, adjust your plans accordingly.

Watch for local drivers
 Thai drivers don't always use indicators. Expect sudden lane changes and turns without warning — especially at junctions. Ride with full awareness of your surroundings at all times.

Fuel up before mountain routes
 Petrol stations can be scarce on mountain roads. Always start a long ride with a full tank. Thailand has 91 and 95 octane — both work fine in our bikes.

Ride at a comfortable pace
 There's no rush. The scenery is the point — not the speed. Ride within your ability and enjoy every kilometre.


Ready to Explore Chiang Mai by Scooter?

WhatsApp us today and we'll help you choose the right bike for where you want to go. 🙏

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