From Chiang Mai: Mae Taeng Valley and Waterfalls Cycle Tour

This cycle tour from Chiang Mai offers an immersive experience in Northern Thailand’s rural landscapes. Participants can explore the Mae Taeng Valley, discover the ornate Wat Ban Den Temple, and unwind at the unique Bua Thong Waterfalls. The 20-25 km guided bike ride covers mostly flat terrain, making it suitable for those with good fitness and cycling experience. While the tour provides a well-rounded introduction to the region’s charms, there’s more to unveil about the unique perspectives and insights this adventure can offer.

Key Points

• A 7-hour small-group tour from Chiang Mai exploring the scenic Mae Ngat Valley, including cycling, visiting Wat Ban Den Temple, and relaxing at Bua Thong Waterfalls.

• The tour covers 20-25 km of mostly flat terrain through the countryside, providing a well-rounded introduction to the charms of Northern Thailand.

• Participants will learn about rice farming and local life, admire the verdant landscapes, and visit the ornate and culturally significant Wat Ban Den Temple.

• A delicious Thai lunch at a local restaurant is included, offering a chance to savor the flavors of the countryside.

• The tour requires good fitness and previous cycling experience, as it involves a 2.5-hour guided mountain bike ride and exploring the unique Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls.

Tour Overview

The Mae Taeng Valley and Waterfalls Cycle Tour is a guided mountain bike adventure that takes participants through the scenic Mae Ngat Valley, located about an hour’s drive from Chiang Mai.

This 7-hour small-group tour, limited to 12 people, offers the chance to explore the picturesque countryside and rural villages at a comfortable pace.

Cyclists will learn about local rice farming and life, visit the Wat Ban Den Temple, and enjoy a delicious Thai lunch.

The tour also includes a visit to the famous Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls, where visitors can relax and take in the natural beauty.

Suitable for those with good fitness and cycling experience, this tour provides a well-rounded introduction to the charms of Northern Thailand.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with pickup from participants’ hotels in Chiang Mai, followed by a 1-hour transfer to the starting point in Mae Ngat Valley.

Once there, cyclists embark on a 2.5-hour guided mountain bike ride through the scenic countryside, exploring rural villages and learning about local rice farming along the way.

After the bike ride, the group visits the Wat Ban Den Temple before enjoying a 1-hour lunch at a local restaurant.

The tour then continues to the Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls, where participants can relax and explore the unique natural formation for an hour.

Scenic Countryside Cycling

Participants embark on a 2.5-hour guided mountain bike ride through the scenic Mae Ngat Valley, exploring picturesque countryside and rural villages along the way.

The cycling route is mostly flat, covering 20-25 km, making it accessible for participants with a good fitness level and previous cycling experience.

Along the way, riders will:

1. Learn about rice farming and local life from the knowledgeable guide.
2. Admire the verdant landscapes and catch glimpses of traditional Thai houses and communities.
3. Stop to visit the Wat Ban Den Temple, a highlight of the tour.

The scenic cycling segment offers a delightful chance to take in the tranquil rural setting of northern Thailand.

Exploring Wat Ban Den

During the cycling tour, visitors make a stop at the Wat Ban Den Temple, a picturesque Buddhist monastery nestled amidst the lush countryside. Here, they can explore the temple’s intricate architecture, learn about its historical significance, and witness the serene atmosphere of monastic life. The temple’s main highlights include:

Feature	Description
Main Shrine	An ornate, golden-roofed structure housing a revered Buddha statue
Mural Paintings	Vibrant, intricate wall murals depicting Buddhist teachings and Thai culture
Monks’ Quarters	Peaceful living spaces where the resident monks reside and meditate
Surrounding Gardens	Beautifully landscaped gardens offering a tranquil escape from the outside world

Visitors gain a deeper appreciation for Thai Buddhist traditions and the region’s rich cultural heritage during this insightful stop.

Delicious Thai Lunch

After the cycling portion, participants tuck into a delicious Thai set lunch at a local restaurant, savoring a spread of authentic regional dishes and fresh seasonal fruits.

The meal features:

1. An array of aromatic curries, from fiery red to creamy green, each bursting with complex flavors.
2. Fragrant jasmine rice, perfectly steamed and fluffy, serves as the foundation for the meal.
3. A selection of fresh, crisp vegetables and herbs, picked locally and adding a vibrant touch to the experience.

Sipping on refreshing Thai iced tea, guests savor the flavors of the countryside, refueling and recharging for the next part of their adventure.

Bua Thong Waterfalls

From the local restaurant, the tour now heads to the famous Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls, where visitors can spend an hour exploring the unique natural wonder.

The waterfalls are known for their unusual texture, which makes them appear sticky or soapy to the touch. Visitors can walk up the cascading tiers of the falls, which are made of calcium carbonate deposits. This allows them to safely climb the slippery rocks without fear of falling.

At the top, they’ll be rewarded with stunning views over the lush, green valley below. The Bua Thong Waterfalls are a must-see stop on this cycling adventure, offering a chance to experience a truly one-of-a-kind natural phenomenon.

Fitness and Experience

This tour requires a good fitness level and previous cycling experience. Participants should be comfortable riding a mountain bike for extended periods on mostly flat terrain, covering a distance of 20-25 km. While the route isn’t overly challenging, a certain level of endurance is necessary to fully enjoy the experience.

The cycling tour is suitable for those who:

1. Can comfortably bike for 2.5 hours with occasional breaks.
2. Have experience riding a mountain bike on various surfaces.
3. Possess the physical stamina to explore the countryside at a moderate pace.

Fitness and cycling expertise are essential to make the most of this scenic adventure through Mae Taeng Valley and its picturesque surroundings.

Cancellation Policy

The tour provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for participants’ plans.

This policy allows travelers to book the tour with confidence, knowing they can make last-minute changes if needed.

Whether it’s due to an unexpected schedule conflict or a change in travel plans, the free cancellation option ensures customers can easily adjust their arrangements without penalty.

This considerate policy demonstrates the tour operator’s commitment to customer satisfaction and their understanding of the unpredictable nature of travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Bike for the Tour?

Participants can bring their own bikes for the tour, but the tour operator will provide mountain bikes and helmets as part of the package. Using the provided equipment is recommended for the best experience and safety on the cycling route.

Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?

Yes, there are group discounts available for this tour. The more people in the group, the larger the discount. Customers can inquire about group pricing when booking to get the best rate for their party.

Can I Book the Tour for a Different Date?

Yes, you can book the tour for a different date. The tour operator offers flexibility in scheduling, allowing customers to select their preferred date, subject to availability. Contact the operator to inquire about booking the tour on an alternative date.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Lunch?

The tour provider accommodates various dietary needs for the included lunch. Guests should inform the company of any dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, or allergies, at the time of booking to ensure proper meal arrangements.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour has a small group size, limited to 12 participants. This allows for a more personalized experience as you explore the scenic Mae Ngat Valley on your guided mountain bike adventure.

Recap

This cycling tour through the Mae Ngat Valley offers a well-rounded experience, allowing participants to explore the scenic countryside, visit a historic temple, and relax at the unique Bua Thong Waterfalls.

The 2.5-hour guided bike ride covers mostly flat terrain, making it suitable for those with good fitness and cycling experience.

A delicious Thai lunch is included, providing a satisfying end to the day’s activities.