Beauty, Challenges, and a Crash
It was back in 2019 that this Cycling Chiang Mai outing occured. At that time, I was living in Hanoi. Hanoi is an excellent location as a hub for traveling around Southeast Asia. I boarded a VietJet plane, and in just one hour, I was in Thailand in none other than Chiang Mai.
Chiang Mai is a popular destination for travelers from around the world because of its natural beauty and affordable lifestyle. Nearby, there are hills that attract cyclists from all over the globe.
My plan was to ride down from Doi Suthep to the lake at the foot of the mountain. Most cyclists take the paved road all the way to the top. But I figured since I was already there why not go for a real adventure? So I decided to take a mountain bike and go off-road, through the forest, down the hillside, following trails and single tracks, far away from the comfort of the asphalt road.
I rented a mountain bike, arranged transport to the top of the mountain above the Doi Suthep temple, and booked a guide. We hopped into one of those small, iconic red pickup trucks “songthaews” you see everywhere in Chiang Mai, loaded up the bikes, and before long, we were at the top 1,600 meters above sea level.
Cycling Chiang Mai Was Technically Challenging
The ride was technically challenging. The trail was dry, crisscrossed with many leaf-covered ruts, steep sections, and overgrown areas. In addition to the technical difficulty of the trail, it also required solid physical fitness.
I learned how important it is to have a bike in good condition especially with brakes you can trust during this ride. About halfway down, I hit a dry ditch formed by water during the rainy season. It was covered with dry leaves, which made me react too late, and in a second, I flew through the air and hit my right arm hard on a piece of broken rock. Blood started coming out fast. I thought the ride was over.
My cycling buddy took out a first aid kit and some water. We cleaned the wound, wrapped it, and stopped the bleeding.
I managed to finish the ride, but instead of relaxing by the lake, I ended up at a clinic, where I got a few stitches on my forearm a souvenir from my ride in Chiang Mai.
This incident didn’t ruin my biking experience in Chiang Mai. The nature is beautiful, the city is charming and interesting, and the atmosphere with travelers from all over the world is absolutely irresistible. The food is delicious and affordable, and cafés are the places where people spend most of their time.
Because of my injuries, I had to change my plans. The next day, with bandages on my arm and leg, I rode a bike around the city first around the old walls, then to other interesting places.
Cycling Chiang Mai Experience
Riding in Chiang Mai was a great experience. Even with the fall and a few stitches, I don’t regret a thing. The adventure, the nature, the friendly people, and the unique atmosphere made it all worth it. It reminded me that travel isn’t always perfect but those unexpected moments often become the best stories. It’s a trip I’ll always remember and I’d love to go back one day.
Also, whenever possible, it’s better to bring your own bike one you know and that’s well-maintained instead of renting, because the risk is higher. Rental bikes are often not in the best condition, and in my case, worn-out brake pads were partly the reason for the crash.
Unfortunately, direct flights from Hanoi to Chiang Mai didn’t allow bike transport at the time, which is why I had to rent one there.
Cycling Chiang Mai Details
Distance
20.9 km
Track Time
2:20
Elevation Gain
202m
Elevation Drop
-1426m
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