Northern Thailand · riding guide
Riding Northern Thailand
Six regions, one dry season, and thousands of kilometres of dirt. Here's when to go, what to pack, and where to ride.
When to ride
Average rainfall & daily high/low across the three seasonsHover or tab a month for its numbers
Rainfall · mm
0125250
Temperature · °C
10°25°40°
37°16°
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Winter
Nov–Feb
Burning
Mar–May
Rainy
Jun–Oct
Winter
Nov–Feb
RainfallDaily highDaily lowShaded band = daily swing
Show data table
| Month | Season | Rain (mm) | High (°C) | Low (°C) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | Winter | 14 | 30 | 16 |
| Feb | Winter | 12 | 33 | 17 |
| Mar | Burning | 26 | 36 | 20 |
| Apr | Burning | 65 | 37 | 23 |
| May | Burning | 171 | 35 | 24 |
| Jun | Rainy | 137 | 33 | 24 |
| Jul | Rainy | 154 | 32 | 24 |
| Aug | Rainy | 226 | 32 | 24 |
| Sep | Rainy | 235 | 32 | 24 |
| Oct | Rainy | 132 | 32 | 23 |
| Nov | Winter | 46 | 31 | 20 |
| Dec | Winter | 16 | 29 | 17 |
Before you ride
- ✓Valid licence + travel insurance that covers motorbikes
- ✓Helmet, gloves, boots and armour — trails bite
- ✓Know your fuel range; stations thin out in the hills
- ✓Tell someone your route and expected return time
- ✓Download the GPX and an offline map before you leave signal
Burning season · Mar–Apr
Air quality drops hard
Agricultural burning blankets the north in smoke through March and April. Check air quality and plan around it.
Check the season guide →Riding Regions
Pick a region for routes, parks and local intel
Chiang Mai
All levelsNovember to February (cool and dry)
The heart of Northern Thailand's dirt bike scene. Chiang Mai offers incredible diversity with jungle trails, mountain passes, and valley roads. From beginner-friendly loops to challenging single-track, this region has it all. The area surrounding Doi Suthep-Pui National Park provides endless exploration opportunities with stunning temples and viewpoints along the way.
Mae Hong Son
Intermediate to AdvancedNovember to March (dry season essential)
Known as the 'Land of Three Mists', Mae Hong Son is the ultimate destination for adventure riders. The famous Mae Hong Son Loop offers 600km of twisting mountain roads with over 1,800 curves. Remote villages, misty mountains, and challenging terrain make this region a bucket-list experience. The ride through Pai and beyond offers some of Thailand's most spectacular scenery.
Chiang Rai
Beginner to IntermediateNovember to February (best weather)
The northernmost province offers a perfect blend of culture and adventure. Chiang Rai features less crowded trails with equally stunning scenery. The Golden Triangle area provides unique cross-border views, while the surrounding mountains offer excellent off-road opportunities. Tea plantations and hot springs add to the region's charm.
Lampang
Beginner to IntermediateNovember to February (cool, dry, and clear)
Lampang blends laid-back northern charm with underrated riding. Expect rolling foothills, quiet backroads, and forest tracks that link traditional villages and teakwood temples. The region is ideal for riders who want flowing routes with fewer crowds and a strong cultural vibe.
Nan
Intermediate to AdvancedNovember to March (dry and cool)
Often overlooked, Nan is a hidden gem for dirt bike enthusiasts. This mountainous province offers pristine nature, authentic Thai culture, and challenging trails away from tourist crowds. The landscape features dramatic limestone cliffs, dense forests, and remote valleys. Perfect for riders seeking solitude and adventure.
Tak
Intermediate to AdvancedNovember to February (avoid rainy season)
Bordering Myanmar, Tak offers frontier adventure riding with dramatic scenery along the Moei River. The province features Thailand's longest cable-stayed bridge and access to some of the most remote trails in the north. Mae Sot serves as a gateway to border adventures and the famous Death Railway route from WWII history.
Plan your trip
Riding with family?
Gentler loops, safety tips and kid-friendly stops.