3 Days Thailand Golden Triangle Cycling Tour from Chiang Rai to Chiang Khong

Golden Triangle Explorer Cycle Tour – We start the trip from Chiang Rai and head immediately north to our hotel on the Mekong River. An afternoon ride will take you through the countryside and to the ancient river town of Chiang Saen. The next morning we visit the Opium Museum which documents the history of the opium trade and how one of the most abundant crops in the area has now been replaced by legal produce thanks to various royal projects. On this second day of riding, we follow the Mekong River towards Chiang Khong, taking in expansive views over the Mekong, the natural border that separates Thailand from Laos. On our final day, we head west towards Chiang Rai, experiencing true Thai village life on the way. On the outskirts of Chiang Rai, we’ll visit a unique temple before parting ways.
Itinerary
Day 1 White temple and Art and Cultural Park (45 – 55 km) (L)
After a short safety briefing and personalized bicycle fitting, we begin our cycling through small villages and rice fields and then follow the Lao River downstream. The bicycle ride is pleasant with much greenery due to the proximity of the river. While you are cycling you will discover the real rural Thailand and see the local lifestyle on the outskirts of Chiang Rai. We will cycle past various fruit orchards, rice fields, and see many teak trees. We will stop and visit the amazing white temple (Wat Rong Khun) and then have lunch at a local restaurant near the temple.
In the afternoon we will cycle to visit the Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park It is the region’s largest center and displays a huge collection of art items of Lanna culture or Tai culture. Then we will continue cycling pass rice fields and many pineapple plantations. The overnight stop is at a beautiful resort with a nice swimming pool.

Remark: Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park close every Monday

Day 2 Chiang Saen and Golden Triangle (50 – 67 km) (B,L)
After breakfast we will start cycling pass Chiang Rai Ratjabhat University and then cycling through many rice fields. The bicycle ride is pleasant with much greenery due to the proximity of Maekok river. While you are cycling through this beautiful countryside you will discover the real rural Thailand and see the local lifestyle on the outskirts of Chiang Rai. Along the way we will visit the Chinese Buddhist Temple, where you can see many young Chinese monks in their unique dress and the largest “Happy Buddha” in Thailand. After visit the temple we will cycle past various fruit orchards, rice fields and rubber plantations. We will have lunch at a local restaurant on the way to Chiang Saen the ancient city. The second night is spend at a resort with a swimming pool that is located inside the ancient city.
In the afternoon we will go by car to the Golden Triangle area and spend time visiting the many sights. It is the location where the three countries of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar come together along the Mekong River. We will visit House of Opium (Opium museum) and learn about the history of opium trade that led to the area being called the Golden Triangle. We will take speed boat around the Mekong River to see beautiful view around Golden Triangle area. We can stop for dinner on the way back to the hotel.

Day 3 Chiang Saen–Chiang Khong (50-70 km) (B,L)
After breakfast we will cycle along the Mekong River and experience how farmers growing tobacco, corn, cabbage, garlic and so on. The countryside will consist of rolling hills, some steep hills. The last 13 kilometers are more challenging with some steep but short ascents. The longest hill is 1.2 km long, about 14% up. The road joins the main road just before the entry to Chiang Khong. After relaxing for a while we will drive back to Chiangrai.

Those interested can cross over to Laos, and if prearranged, you can leave the tour here and take the boat up to Luang Prabang. (If you are interested in this option please let us know ahead of time so we can assist you with travel arrangements.)

FACTS
Duration : 3 days, 2 nights
Distance : Total cycling distance is about 185 km
Group size : 2-8 people

Included
– 24 gears mountain bike with front suspension
– Helmet
– Accommodations for 2 nights (Twin share)
– 5 Meals; 2 breakfasts and 3 lunches (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch)
– All activities and admission fee for entrance as mentioned in this program
– Snacks and drinking water during riding
– Local accident insurance
– English speaking cycling guide
– Support car

Excluded
– Personal drink and alcohol
– Dinner
– Tip

Things to be prepare
Small backpack , Sunglasses, sun block, insect repellent, flip-flops,
a small camera, Shoes and Shorts for cycling and personal medicines.