Golden Triangle Grand Tour

The scenery transforms into something from a bygone Thai era. This 250km rural run takes us through farmland and villages where the true nature of Thailand shows its face. Lunch in Kamphaeng Phet with fresh mineral water from the Phra Ruang Hot Springs bubbling nearby — soak away the journey in warm inviting pools.

We ride along the Ping River to Bhumibol Dam — a tribute to Thai engineering holding back a vast reservoir set in lush mist-drenched hills. A pristine lake snakes its way north to Chiang Mai, with Thai monuments and oriental bridges along the river's edge.

250km of glorious road — a rider's delight with so much to see it can't be adequately explained in writing. Enthusiasts come back time and time again to relive the sights, sounds, and smells of this unique part of Thailand.

Comfortable boutique accommodation awaits in Chiang Mai with a fantastic pool. Once settled, discover Chiang Mai's amazing old city grounds and lively markets, or join us for a tour of the city highlights. 800km north of Pattaya, everything changes — the traditions of the northern people pride themselves on doing things a little bit better.

A well-earned break from the bikes — our driver takes us into the mountains of Doi Inthanon National Park, known as the roof of Thailand. This stunning 482 square kilometre park features mountain-top strawberry fields, waterfalls, and cliff-edge views. Thailand's highest peak and 264 different types of mammals including the Asiatic golden cat and clouded leopard call this place home. Over 1,000 varieties of birds too.

Our guests love this day for its relaxed atmosphere and epic views.

This is what it's all about — the legendary Chiang Mai to Pai road. 127km of the most picturesque and challenging roads to be found not only in Thailand but the whole world. Sweeping corner after corner reveals Thailand's phenomenal northern scenery in all its glory through thick tropical lush jungle mountains rich in wildlife and historical landmarks.

Pai, nestled close to the Myanmar border beside the crystal-clear Pai River, has magnificent waterfalls and hot springs. The night scene is a spectacle — people from all over the globe creating an atmosphere unlike any other in totally unique bars and entertainment.

Time to leave the tourists and venture out on the most scenic back routes to the Northern Karen Tribe. You'll see life of a kind hardly ever seen — dirt roads and wooden lodges transporting you back to a long-lost time. Spending time with the friendly spirited children of the tribe will leave you with heartfelt memories.

Your choice for the second destination: the Pai Canyon — a viewpoint of outstanding jungle — or one of the area's best waterfalls.

130km of mountainous twisting road leads us to mountain viewpoints over 2,000 metres with clouded peaks stretching into the vast distance. This stretch tests seasoned riders with tight corners on steep descents and inclines.

The highlight is Lod Cave — a magnificent subterranean riverboat ride through a well-managed cave system. From the cave, we climb to one of Thailand's loftiest restaurants perched on rocky cliffs, famous for its delicious Thai specialties and peace and tranquility.

A late breakfast before exploring Thailand's historical connection to Myanmar. We trek to the mountains in search of the Shan people — Myanmar's biggest minority of 4–6 million. Some have made the Northern Thai mountains their home, speaking a unique variation of Thai. The Shan are peace-loving people with strong Buddhist beliefs — their food has a taste all of its own.

We discover Wat Phra That, a Burmese temple famed for the remains of Myanmar's most revered monks, smuggled here in perilous danger by devotees in 1874. The views of Mae Hong Son from this magnificent temple are stunning.

175km through Mae Sot's lush countryside farms and plantations to Thailand's border with Myanmar. A visit to Mae La refugee camp — established in 1984, now home to 45,000–50,000 refugees of mostly Karen or Karenni ethnicities. The beauty and serenity of this hillside camp will fill you with wonder. We always bring gifts for the children.

With thoughtful hearts we continue to Mae Sariang, where a Thai-crafted all-wooden hotel on the banks of a calm river becomes our home for the night.

Before leaving, a slight detour to collect your Mae Hong Son Loop completion certificate from the Thai Government — a reward for completing 2,000+ twists and turns.

370km through a wide variety of terrain to Kamphaeng Phet — "wall of hard diamond". This hard cliff mountain range served as a defence line from Burmese invaders protecting the kingdom of Ayutthaya. Plenty of opportunities to really open up your bike's potential as the roads become straighter and flatter.

Khlong Lan Waterfall in Khlong Lan National Park — impressive rock cliff falls cascading 100 metres to cool refreshing pools. A great place to take a dip in the unusually cold water.

Refreshed and rested, we visit Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park — the ancient ruins of the Sukhothai Kingdom. These national treasures dating back to the 13th–17th centuries are rarely seen by westerners and a fascinating addition to our tour.

380km ride to Khao Yai National Park — touring this park on a powerful touring bike is like Christmas and New Year rolled into one. The scenery is outstanding and the wildlife prolific — elephants, bears, deer, monkeys, thousands of tropical birds, and huge monitor lizards crossing the roads.

The heart of the forest becomes our home for the night. As evening draws in, the night creatures come to life — a walk with a flashlight is an unforgettable experience.

We've travelled the entire north and east borders of Thailand — considered one of the holy grails of riding. Anyone who takes it on has accomplished a once-in-a-lifetime epic tour. As we come back through Bangkok and across Chonburi province, the enormity of your adventure sinks in as the sun sets across the Thai Gulf. We celebrate the spirit of Thailand's northern dreamland with new friends and a strong ice-cold cocktail on the beach.

One for the road!