Mae Hong Son Loop
A loop through the mountains of northern Thailand from Chiang Mai via Route 1095 to Pai and Mae Hong Son, returning south on Route 108. It is famous for its reported 1,864 bends.
The Mae Hong Son Loop is the most classic motorbike and road trip route in northern Thailand. It starts and ends in Chiang Mai and circles the mountainous Mae Hong Son province on the Thai-Myanmar border, covering about 600 to 650 km. It is nicknamed the '1,864 Bends', the figure printed on the official commemorative certificate. The northern route follows Route 1095. After leaving Chiang Mai, it passes Mae Rim and climbs over the mountains to Pai, a backpacker town, where visitors can see Pai Canyon, the WWII Memorial Bridge and the Yun Lai village viewpoint. Continuing west through Ban Mae Pa, visitors can see the Khiu Lom viewpoint and the Lod Cave. In Mae Hong Son city, visit the twin temples of Wat Chong Kham and Wat Chong Klang on Jong Kham Lake and Wat Doi Kong Mu. A side trip leads to Pang Oung Lake and Ban Rak Thai, a village of Yunnanese people also known as Mae Aw. The southern route follows Route 108 through Khun Yuam and Mae Sariang, then Hot, and passes Doi Inthanon National Park on the way back to Chiang Mai. The loop takes 4 to 7 days and can be ridden clockwise or anticlockwise. The mountain roads are steep and winding, so beginners should avoid riding motorbikes on Route 1095. Cars or hired drivers are a better choice. Avoid the roads in the rainy season and at night. In Thailand, you need a valid motorcycle licence and must wear a helmet, or your insurance may not pay out.