Motorbike Rental in Chiang Mai: A Comprehensive Guide for Foreign Tourists

Motorbikes are a popular way for tourists to explore Chiang Mai, offering flexibility to navigate both city streets and mountain roads. Foreign visitors often choose motorbike rentals to enjoy Chiang Mai’s temples, markets, and surrounding countryside at their own pace. However, it’s important to understand the local requirements, costs, and safety precautions before hitting the road. This guide covers everything you need to know – from licenses and rental prices to traffic rules, safety tips, and recommended bike routes – so you can ride with confidence.

Contents show

Rental Requirements for Foreigners

Driver’s License & Age: To legally rent and ride a motorbike in Chiang Mai, you must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid motorcycle license. Thai law requires an International Driving Permit (IDP) with a motorcycle endorsement (or a Thai motorbike license) in addition to your home country license. While many rental shops may not ask to see your IDP, police in Chiang Mai do conduct spot checks – riding without the proper license can lead to fines (often around 500–1,000 THB) and issues with insurance coverage. In short, get an IDP before your trip to avoid legal trouble.

Passport & Deposit: Rental agencies will require your passport (or a copy) and a security deposit when signing the contract. Never leave your actual passport if possible – instead, offer a photocopy and a cash deposit. Most shops ask for a deposit in the range of 1,000–5,000 THB (approximately $30–$150), depending on the bike model. For example, one reputable shop requires a 1,000 THB deposit for a 125cc scooter and 2,000 THB for a 150cc scooter. This deposit is fully refunded when you return the bike in good condition. Always get a receipt for any deposit and ensure the terms (damage, theft, etc.) are clear in the rental agreement.

Insurance: Travel insurance that covers motorcycle/scooter use is highly recommended. Standard travel insurance may exclude accidents on motorbikes above 50cc or if you lack a proper license. Some rental companies include basic medical or accident insurance in the rental fee (e.g. coverage up to 300,000 THB for injuries). Regardless, carry your own insurance that covers riding a bike and make sure you are properly licensed; if you violate license requirements, insurance claims can be invalidated. Also, note that a helmet is mandatory by law – riding without one might void insurance and will certainly incur a fine.

Other Requirements: By law, you and any passenger must wear helmets at all times. The rental shop will provide helmets (usually included for free) – choose one that fits well and is in good condition. You’ll need to sign a rental contract; read it for clauses on damage, theft, and liability. Most rentals are manual payment (cash) only, and fuel is usually not included (you’re expected to return the bike with the same amount of gas it had). Be prepared to show your passport/IDP at police checkpoints and carry the rental paperwork with you. As long as you meet these requirements and carry the proper documents, renting a motorbike in Chiang Mai is a straightforward process.

Rental Prices and Options

Motorbike rental in Chiang Mai is very affordable compared to western countries. Prices depend on the bike’s engine size, model, and rental duration.

Daily Rates: For a basic 110–125cc automatic scooter (e.g. Honda Click or Scoopy), expect around 150–300 THB per day (about $5–$10 USD). This typically includes a helmet and sometimes basic insurance. Newer or more powerful models (150cc and above) cost more – roughly 700–1,200 THB per day for big bikes or premium scooters. These are rough averages; popular tourist areas in the Old City may quote ~250 THB/day for a Honda Click.
Weekly Rates: Many shops offer a discount for multi-day rentals. A common deal is 6–7 days for the price of 5, or about 1,000–1,500 THB per week for a 125cc scooter. In other words, weekly rentals often bring the daily rate down to ~150 THB or less per day. Always ask the shop about weekly discounts – they might not advertise it, but in Chiang Mai’s competitive market you can often negotiate a better rate for a longer hire.
Monthly/Long-Term: Monthly rentals typically range from 3,000 to 5,000 THB ($90–$150 USD) for a standard scooter. That’s great value if you’re staying a while – roughly 100–170 THB per day. Long-term rentals sometimes include free maintenance checks (e.g. oil change every two weeks). Make sure to clarify if the monthly price includes insurance or any services. Some shops may require a higher deposit for long-term rental or ask for partial payment up front.
Scooter Models: The most common rentals are automatic scooters which are easy to ride (no gear shifting). Popular models include the Honda Click 125i, Yamaha Mio 125, and Honda Scoopy 110 – all are suitable for city riding. For two people or mountain roads, you might prefer a slightly more powerful scooter like a Honda PCX 150 or Yamaha NMAX (these cost more to rent). Manual motorcycles and larger bikes (250cc, 500cc) are available for experienced riders, at higher prices. Always choose a bike size you are comfortable handling.
What’s Included: Helmet(s) are usually included – by law the shop must provide them. Insurance varies: some top-rated rentals include basic medical insurance in the price, but many just rely on your personal insurance. Locks – an anti-theft lock for the wheel – may be provided (ask for one if not). Fuel is not included; you’ll get the bike with a little fuel (enough to reach a gas station). You are expected to refill as needed and there’s no requirement to return it full (fuel is cheap in Thailand, ~35 THB/Liter). If you need extras like a phone holder or rain poncho, ask the rental shop – sometimes they’ll lend these.

Tip: Stick with reputable rental companies even if a few baht more. Established shops maintain their fleet better and have transparent pricing. Be wary of extremely cheap offers (under 150 THB/day) from sketchy places or individuals on the street, as the bike condition or terms might be poor. Overall, Chiang Mai offers great value for motorbike rentals, whether you need a bike for a day of temple-hopping or a month of remote work commuting.

Traffic Rules and Common Fines

Driving in Chiang Mai means adapting to Thai traffic rules and patterns. Here are key rules and potential fines that foreign riders should know.

Drive on the Left: Thailand drives on the left side of the road. This is crucial for foreigners from right-driving countries – always remind yourself to stay left, especially when turning at intersections.
Helmet Law: Helmets are mandatory for both driver and passenger. Police enforce this; being caught without a helmet can result in a fine (officially up to 1,000–2,000 THB). In practice, tourists often pay around 500 THB on the spot for not wearing a helmet or other minor violations. Always buckle your helmet – an unfastened helmet can be treated as “not wearing” it.
Licensing and Checkpoints: Carry your home country license + IDP at all times when riding. Chiang Mai has frequent police checkpoints (often on major roads and near tourist areas) where officers specifically check for helmets and proper licenses. If you cannot produce an IDP or Thai license with motorcycle endorsement, you will be fined (typically 500 THB per infraction, such as no license, no IDP, or no helmet). The fine must usually be paid at the nearest police station or sometimes on the spot; you’ll receive a ticket/receipt. After paying, you’re free to go (and usually they give you a slip to show if you get stopped again the same day, so you won’t be fined twice that day for the same issue).
Speed Limits & Signs: Urban speed limits are around 40–60 km/h in the city and 80–90 km/h on highways, unless posted otherwise. However, speed signs are rare. Drive at a safe speed for conditions – traffic in Chiang Mai can be unpredictable. Running a red light or speeding can incur heavy fines (up to 4,000 THB in serious cases), though enforcement for speeding is less common than in Western countries. Treat traffic lights seriously (some have countdown timers); a red-light camera ticket could be mailed to the rental shop, who will pass the fine to you.
One-Way Streets: Chiang Mai’s Old City is surrounded by a moat road that is one-way in each direction (forming a square loop). Pay attention to one-way signs and do not ride the wrong way down these streets. It’s easy to get confused; watch other vehicles and arrows on the road. Driving against traffic (wrong way) can lead to a fine up to 2,000 THB and is very dangerous given Chiang Mai’s traffic flow.
Lane Discipline: Motorbikes often use the left-most lane or shoulder. Cars and bikes share the road, but avoid lingering in vehicle blind spots. At intersections, motorbikes may filter to the front when traffic is stopped – this is normal practice, but do so cautiously. Use your indicator when merging or turning (many locals don’t signal, but you should). Be extra careful at roundabouts and always yield to larger vehicles if there’s any doubt – the unofficial rule in Thailand is “bigger vehicle has right of way”.
Overtaking and Turns: You can overtake slower vehicles on the right side (since you’re driving left-side), but it’s common for bikes to also pass cars on the left in traffic jams. Do so carefully and watch for pedestrians or cars suddenly turning left. When turning left at a red light, unless there’s a sign prohibiting it, you can often turn left on red after stopping to check it’s clear (similar to turning right on red in the US). Still, be cautious – not all intersections allow it, and signs will indicate if not allowed (“*No Left Turn on Red*”).
Parking: Bikes can park in designated motorbike parking areas. In tourist spots, attendants might collect a 10 THB fee for parking. Do not park where there are red-white curb markings (no parking zone) or in front of gates/driveways. Illegally parked motorbikes can be clamped or occasionally towed, with fines around 500 THB.
Common Fines Summary: The most common fines tourists encounter are for not wearing a helmet and not having a proper license/IDP. Each of these can cost a few hundred baht (roughly $15). More serious violations (reckless driving, DUI, accidents) carry higher penalties – for instance, drunk driving can lead to arrest and a fine up to 20,000 THB or jail. Keep in mind that Thai traffic law changed in 2022 to increase penalties for many offenses, so obey the rules even if you see locals breaking them. As a foreigner, you’ll be held accountable and fines are usually not negotiable. Always drive defensively and within the law to avoid any run-ins with the police.

Safety Considerations for Riding in Chiang Mai

Riding a bike in Chiang Mai can be exhilarating, but it comes with risks. Thailand has one of the highest motorcycle accident rates in the world, so safety should be your top priority. Here are essential safety tips and considerations

Accident Risk & Statistics: Don’t underestimate the risks – even experienced riders need to be cautious. Thailand consistently ranks among the worst for road safety, and about 74% of road fatalities involve motorbikes. In 2022 alone, over 7,000 motorbike accidents involved foreign visitors in Thailand. Chiang Mai’s roads can be chaotic: traffic congestion, unpredictable drivers, and numerous bikes vying for space. Treat every ride as potentially hazardous and stay vigilant.

Protective Gear: Always wear your helmet – not only to avoid fines, but because it can save your life. Ideally, use a full-face or quality helmet; if the rental helmet is flimsy or damaged, consider buying an inexpensive one from a local shop for better protection. Wear appropriate clothing when riding. Many tourists ride in T-shirts, shorts, and flip-flops, but this offers no protection if you fall. At minimum, wear closed-toe shoes and avoid shorts. If you can, wear long pants and a light jacket to protect against scrapes (road rash). Riding gloves are also helpful for grip and protection. Remember, the asphalt is unforgiving – dress for the slide, not just for the ride.

Defensive Driving: Drive defensively and assume other drivers may not see you. Use your horn sparingly to alert others (Thai drivers do not honk often, except maybe a gentle tap to signal “I’m here”). Always check your mirrors and over your shoulder before changing lanes – scooters come out of nowhere. Expect that cars might stop suddenly or cut across lanes to make a turn or avoid a pothole. Keep a safe following distance, as braking suddenly on a scooter can send you skidding. Approach intersections with caution even if you have a green light, as some drivers run reds. Basically, stay alert and anticipate potential hazards 360° around you.

Road Conditions: Chiang Mai’s city roads are generally paved, but you’ll encounter obstacles: potholes, rough patches, spilled sand or gravel, and even the occasional stray dog or chicken. In rural areas and mountain roads, watch for gravel and fallen leaves (which can be slippery). Slow down for speed bumps (common near schools and neighborhoods). During the rainy season (monsoon), roads get slick and visibility drops. If it starts raining heavily, it’s wise to pull over and wait it out under shelter – tropical downpours can flood streets quickly, making scooters difficult to control. If you must ride in rain, go very slowly, avoid sudden braking (use engine braking and gentle brake taps), and give yourself extra distance to stop.

Night Riding: Avoid riding at night if possible. Many streets are poorly lit, and some drivers (or riders) may be under the influence in the late hours. Depth perception and spotting potholes or debris is much harder in the dark. If you do ride at night, reduce your speed, use high-beam lights when appropriate, and be extra cautious at intersections. Also be aware that some motorbikes or even cars drive with no lights – it’s startlingly common – so don’t assume you’ll see every vehicle.

Stay Sober & Rested: It should go without saying, but do not drink and drive. Thailand has strict DUI laws and more importantly, riding a bike even slightly buzzed is a recipe for disaster on these roads. Also, avoid riding when overly tired. If you’ve had a long day trekking or exploring, your reflexes might be slow – consider a taxi or tuk-tuk instead of riding back exhausted.

Emergency Preparedness: Carry a mobile phone with a local SIM or eSIM so you can call for help if needed. Save important numbers like the Tourist Police (1155) and emergency medical services (1669 for an ambulance). If an accident occurs, remain calm and call for assistance. Do not move an injured person unless they are in immediate danger. Having travel insurance contact info handy is useful in such situations. Many locals will help a foreigner in an accident, but you might face a language barrier – Tourist Police can assist with translation and procedures if needed.

By taking these precautions – wearing proper gear, riding defensively, and respecting the road conditions – you greatly increase your chances of having a safe and enjoyable motorbike adventure in Chiang Mai. Thousands of tourists ride here every year without incident, but it’s largely due to riding smart. As long as you stay within your limits and remain alert, you can navigate the roads of Chiang Mai safely and confidently.

Chiang Mai’s mountainous roads (like the route to Doi Suthep or the Samoeng Loop) are full of curves and require cautious riding, especially for beginners. Always control your speed when cornering on mountain roads – it’s easy to misjudge a tight bend. Use both brakes smoothly (rear brake to stabilize, front brake gently to slow down) and lean with the bike. If you’re not experienced on curvy mountain roads, take it slow and let locals pass you. Remember, there’s no rush; it’s more important to arrive safe than to ride fast. With proper care, even challenging roads can be tackled without problems.

Tips for Choosing a Rental Scooter and Avoiding Scams

Follow these practical tips to ensure you get a good scooter and avoid common rental scams in Chiang Mai

Choose a Reputable Rental Shop: Do some homework before renting. Check online reviews on Google, TripAdvisor, or travel forums for rental shops in Chiang Mai. Look for recent reviews from other foreigners – are the bikes in good condition? Was the service honest and helpful? Popular and well-reviewed rentals include Cat Motors, POP Bike Rental, Tony’s Big Bikes, etc. You don’t necessarily need a big company, but avoid places with multiple reports of scammy behavior (e.g. blaming customers for old damage). Ask fellow travelers or your hotel/hostel staff for recommendations as well.
Inspect the Scooter Thoroughly: Never ride away without checking the scooter’s condition. Before you sign the contract (or before you leave the shop), inspect the bike in front of the rental staff and take photos/videos of it. Important things to check:

Exterior damage: Walk around and photograph any scratches, dents, or cracks in the body. Don’t forget the underside and the exhaust pipe area.
Tires: Ensure the tires have sufficient tread and are properly inflated. Worn or underinflated tires are dangerous, especially on wet roads.
Brakes: Test both front and rear brakes in the parking area. They should feel firm and responsive. Brake pads shouldn’t be too thin – if you hear squeaking or metal-on-metal sounds, request another bike.
Lights and Signals: Turn on the headlight, tail light, brake light, and both turn indicators to confirm all bulbs work. Also test the horn.
Mirrors: Adjust the mirrors to ensure you have good rear visibility. If a mirror is loose or cracked, ask for it to be fixed or the bike changed.
Engine & Handling: Start the engine – it should idle smoothly without stalling. If possible, do a short test ride on the street in front of the shop to feel the throttle and brakes. Any wobbling or strange noises? Better to swap now than be stuck later.
License Plate & Registration: Verify the bike has a valid license plate. Do not rent any scooter without a plate or with an obviously expired tax sticker – it could mean the bike isn’t street-legal.

Document any pre-existing damage in the rental form or have the staff write it down. Taking a quick video circling the bike while pointing out scratches (with date/time on your phone) is the best defense if they claim you caused some scratch later. A reputable shop won’t mind you doing this; in fact, they’ll often point out existing damages themselves.

Helmet and Safety Gear: Ensure the rental includes at least one helmet (or two if you have a passenger). Check the helmet’s condition – the straps should not be frayed or broken, and the shell shouldn’t have major cracks. If the helmets provided are poor, consider buying your own (decent helmets can be found for ~500-1000 THB at shops in Chiang Mai). It’s your head – protect it. Also ask if they have other gear: some places might lend you a bike lock, and a few might offer reflective vests or rain ponchos. At minimum, get the lock to secure the scooter when parked, as theft can happen.
Payment, Deposit and Documents: As mentioned, avoid leaving your passport. Opt for a cash deposit. Get a receipt that clearly states the amount of deposit and the conditions for its return. Clarify what happens in case of damage or theft – what is your liability? Some shops have a price list for parts (e.g. scratched panel = 500 THB, broken mirror = 200 THB, lost helmet = 300 THB, etc.). It’s good to know these in advance. Pay for the rental up front as required (daily or total), and ensure the contract has your correct return date and time. Keep their contact number and location card – useful if you need to extend the rental or if you have any trouble.
Be Wary of Scams: While most Chiang Mai rental operators are honest, a few scams have been known:

Damage Scams: The shop claims you caused damage that you actually didn’t. This is why documenting the bike’s condition is vital. If they try this, show your time-stamped photos/videos as proof. To avoid this scenario altogether, rent from well-reviewed places (they rely on good reputation and won’t pull this trick).
Passport Hostage: If you left your passport and a dispute arises (damage or theft), some unscrupulous places might threaten to withhold your passport until you pay an exorbitant fee. Never let yourself be in this situation – always do the cash deposit instead. If for some reason you must leave your passport, ensure it’s a reputable shop and get a signed acknowledgment that the passport will be returned upon bike return. But again, cash deposit is safer.
Mechanical Issues: In rare cases, a bike might break down due to poor maintenance, and the shop blames you. Before leaving, ask “What if the bike has a problem?” A good shop will either provide a replacement or have on-call assistance. If something like a flat tire or engine issue happens, call the shop immediately. Don’t attempt major repairs yourself unless instructed – they might have preferred mechanics.
Fuel Scam: Not common in Chiang Mai, but ensure they note the fuel level. A full-to-empty policy isn’t typical; usually you return roughly with the same fuel. Some might give you a bike on empty and expect it back empty (so you essentially donate any extra fuel). It’s a small thing – just don’t overfill the tank on return day if that’s the case.

During Rental – Keep It Safe: Always lock the scooter when parked. Use the steering lock (turn handlebar fully and turn the key to lock position) and the additional chain lock on the wheel if provided. Petty theft of scooters can occur (they are then sold for parts). Don’t leave valuables in the scooter’s seat compartment or basket when parked. If your scooter got stolen, you would likely have to pay the replacement cost (which can be 40,000+ THB for a newer model). Parking in busy, visible areas or official parking lots reduces risk. Also, keep the rental shop’s number saved; if you have an accident or the bike won’t start, inform them.
Return Process: On return day, bring the bike back on time (shops can charge extra for late returns). Ideally, have the same staff inspect the bike with you. If you’ve kept it in good shape, there should be no issues – they’ll refund your deposit. To be safe, arrive a bit early, so if they claim something minor like “missing fuel” or a tiny scratch, you have time to discuss or go fill the tank. Show them the photos you took at pickup if any questions arise about prior damage. Once all is good, hand over the keys and collect your deposit and passport (if they held it). Tip: Many shops appreciate if you leave a honest review after a good experience – it helps fellow travelers find the reliable places.

By following these tips – renting from a trusted shop, inspecting your scooter, and being mindful of common scams – you can avoid any nasty surprises. Renting a scooter in Chiang Mai is generally easy and problem-free when you take these sensible precautions. This way, you can focus on enjoying the ride and exploring the region, rather than worrying about rental disputes.

Best Motorbike Routes and Attractions in Chiang Mai

One of the joys of renting a motorbike is the freedom to explore beyond the typical tourist trail. Chiang Mai and its surroundings offer some fantastic routes for two-wheeled adventures. Here are some of the best routes and attractions to consider.

Doi Suthep Mountain Road: The ride up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a must-do for many travelers. It’s about 15 km from the city, winding up a forested mountain. The road is paved but steep and curvy – a 125cc scooter can make it with one rider (or two light riders), but take it slow. Along the way, you can stop at the scenic overlook to get a panorama of Chiang Mai. At the top, visit the famous golden temple and enjoy the cooler air. Pro tip: Go early morning or late afternoon to avoid heavy traffic (and tour vans) on the mountain. Note: Wear a jacket, as it’s chillier up there, and be cautious of sharper bends near the top (use low gear and don’t ride your brakes too hard on the way down). If you continue past Doi Suthep, you can also visit Bhubing Palace Gardens and a Hmong hill tribe village further up the road.
Samoeng Loop (Mae Sa Valley Loop): This is a classic Chiang Mai motorbike loop, roughly 100 km round trip through mountains and valleys west of the city. It takes you out past Mae Rim and Mae Sa, through the town of Samoeng, and back down to Hang Dong area before returning to the city. The loop can be done in a day (4–5 hours of riding plus stops). Highlights along the way include:
- Mae Sa Waterfall: A beautiful multi-tiered waterfall about 30 km from town – an ideal spot to relax in nature. There’s a small entry fee, but you can park your bike and walk the trail along numerous cascades.
- Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden: Near Mae Rim on Route 1096, this large botanical garden has lush grounds and canopy walks – a nice detour.
- Viewpoints: After Samoeng, the road has some stunning viewpoints overlooking mountains and strawberry farms. There are a few coffee shops perched on hills where you can take in the scenery.
- Twists and Turns: The second half of the Samoeng Loop has many sharp turns and switchbacks – fun for experienced riders, but beginners should go slow. Watch out for occasional sand or gravel on the road, and even the odd elephant crossing near elephant camps!

The Samoeng Loop is beloved by both tourists and locals for its mix of adventure and scenery. Make sure your brakes are in good shape before attempting it, and plan your route (go clockwise via Mae Rim, and you’ll descend on the less steep side). Pack water and maybe a lunch, as roadside eateries can be sparse in some sections.

Chiang Mai to Pai (Route 1095): This route is only for confident and experienced riders, but it’s famous. Pai is a hippie backpacker town in the mountains about 130 km northwest of Chiang Mai. The road to Pai is legendary: 762 curves as it snakes through the mountains. It offers jaw-dropping views but demands full attention. If you decide to ride to Pai:
- Start early in the day to avoid riding in the dark.
- Take breaks: There are coffee shops at various viewpoints (e.g. the “Coffee We” viewpoint roughly halfway).
- Be ready for hairpin bends and occasional fallen rocks or landslides after rain.

The journey takes 3–4 hours one-way for most riders. Many people who ride to Pai stay there a night or two (to enjoy Pai’s hot springs, canyon, and chill vibe) before coming back. Important: Check your bike – especially tires and brakes – before this trip. And note that if you rented in Chiang Mai, some contracts don’t allow taking the bike to Pai (because of past accidents) – clarify with your rental shop. If you’re not 100% comfortable on mountain roads, it’s safer to take a minivan to Pai and rent a scooter locally there instead.

Chiang Dao & Northern Countryside: Heading north on Route 107 from Chiang Mai, you can reach Chiang Dao in about 1.5 hours (about 75 km). Chiang Dao is known for its huge limestone mountain (Doi Chiang Dao) and the Chiang Dao Cave. The ride up 107 is pretty straightforward (a highway passing towns and fields), and near Chiang Dao the scenery becomes beautiful with mountains in view. In Chiang Dao, you can visit the cave complex (bring a flashlight or hire a local guide with a lantern to explore the cave safely). There are also some hot springs and nature trails around. On the way back or en route, you could detour to Mae Ngat Dam or Sticky Waterfall (Bua Thong Waterfall) – a unique waterfall about 60 km north of Chiang Mai where mineral deposits make the rocks “sticky” enough to climb up. The Sticky Waterfall is a fun half-day trip on its own (north along Route 1001). It’s off the typical tourist path and definitely memorable. Riding north offers a quieter, less traffic-heavy experience compared to other directions.
Mae Kampong Village: East of Chiang Mai, about 50 km along a winding road, lies Ban Mae Kampong, a charming mountain village famous for its coffee and waterfall. The route (Highway 1317 then rural roads) takes you through scenic rural areas and up into lush hills. Mae Kampong has quaint cafes, a waterfall you can hike to, and zip-lining tours (Flight of the Gibbon). The road is curvy but not too difficult if taken slowly. It’s a great day trip by bike to experience local village life and cool mountain air. Along the way, you might also stop at San Kamphaeng Hot Springs (a slight detour) for a soak or to boil eggs in the natural spring pools.
Hang Dong & Grand Canyon: South of the city about 15–20 km is the Hang Dong district. The ride is easy – more flat roads. Here you can visit the Chiang Mai Grand Canyon, an old quarry filled with water now used as a water park and cliff jumping spot. It’s roughly 15 km south of the city center and easily accessed via Route 108 and 121 (Canal Road). The Grand Canyon Water Park has zip lines and inflatable obstacle courses – a fun cool-off spot on a hot day. Even if you don’t swim, the views of the teal water against red cliffs are nice for photos. Also in this area is Wat Ton Kwen (an old wooden temple with beautiful Lanna architecture) and Baan Tawai wood-carving village if you’re interested in local crafts. Roads in Hang Dong are generally good and not as crazy as city traffic.
Chiang Mai Old City & Nimman by Bike: While not a “route” per se, having a scooter makes exploring within Chiang Mai city very convenient. You can easily zip between the Old City temples, the Night Bazaar, and trendy areas like Nimmanhaemin Road. Just be mindful of the one-way streets in the Old City and heavy traffic during rush hours (7-9 AM and 4-7 PM). Popular spots like Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh, and Tha Phae Gate are all within the Old City walls and accessible with short bike hops (parking near these is usually fine – look for motorbike parking areas near the sites). If you want a break from riding, you can park and walk around the Old City, then continue on the scooter to the riverside or other neighborhoods. Always secure your helmet to the bike or carry it with you when stopping in the city.

Each of these routes offers a different taste of Chiang Mai – from mountain vistas to cultural sights to hidden waterfalls. Before heading out on any long ride, fuel up (gas stations are plentiful around the city; on rural roads they get further apart, but local shops often sell gasoline in bottles if you’re in a pinch). Carry some cash for entry fees or snacks, and have a navigation app or map. Signals can be spotty in remote areas, but generally Google Maps works well for Thailand roads. If you get lost, locals are friendly – mention the place name, and someone will point you in the right direction.

Finally, remember to enjoy the journey. Part of the magic of biking around Chiang Mai is discovering random roadside noodle shops, rice paddies, or viewpoints that weren’t on your itinerary. With a motorbike, you have the freedom to stop anywhere that catches your eye. Just keep safety in mind, and you’re set for an unforgettable adventure on the roads of northern Thailand!

Check out our prices for renting automatic scooters and maxi-scooters, semi-automatic motorbikes, and motorcycles with manual gear. If you prefer to travel by car, be sure to read our guide on how you can save up to half the cost of a rental car in Chiang Mai. For a complete list of our travel guides, see our Northern Thailand Routes and Travel Notes section. If you find inaccuracies in the text or want to add interesting information for our readers, feel free to message us at any time.

Cat Motors Team