Chiang Mai Evening Bike Tour

Discover Chiang Mai as dusk settles

Take in sacred temples and bustling markets illuminated by twinkling lights as dusk settles over the city and you cycle pleasantly in the cooler evening air. This city tour stops at Thapae Gate, Three Kings Monument, Wat Inthakin, Wat Lok Molee, Wat Chedi Luang, and rounds off by sampling some street food at Chiang Mai Gate Market.

Begin your bike tour by meandering towards Chiang Mai's eastern gate, one of the entrances through which buyers and sellers would arrive at this trading hub centuries ago. Your guide will share with you an overview of this walled city's long and lively history, from its foundation in 1292 to its rapid development as a center for the teak trade in the early 19th century.

Pedal on to the next stop on this day tour: the Three Kings Monument. This stately bronze statue is located in the center of Chiang Mai and depicts the three kings who played a significant role in developing Chiang Mai as a city. Just a short cycle away, you'll stop at Wat Inthakin, a temple that houses the city's sacred pillar. The temple is revered by locals and visitors alike and is believed to bring protection and good fortune to the city. Your guide will take this opportunity to introduce you to the spiritual traditions of Chiang Mai’s Buddhist population as you bask in the temple’s illuminated beauty.

Ride towards Wat Lok Molee, whose large stupa, known as ‘Chedi’ in Thai, is a prominent landmark in the city. Built in the 14th century, the temple is known for its beautiful Lanna-style architecture, featuring intricate carvings and ornate decorative elements. Learn about the Lanna Kingdom, which fought valiantly for its independence against various powers, including the Mongol Empire, until it fell under Burmese control in the 16th century.

Continue cycling towards the next stop on your bicycle tour: Wat Chedi Luang. This temple was built in 1391 and was the original home of the revered Emerald Buddha statue, which is now located in Bangkok. As you explore the grounds and marvel at the ancient ruins, your guide will introduce you to the role this temple plays in the lives of Chiang Mai's residents as an active place of worship and testament to the city's deep-rooted Buddhist traditions.

The final stop on this family-friendly guided tour is at Chiang Mai Gate Market, where you'll sample some traditional Thai street food. Whether you try stir-fried pork or papaya salad, you'll be eating as the locals do in this vibrant hub of sounds, sights, and smells. Ride back to where the tour began, feeling enlightened by Chiang Mai's deep spiritual heritage and satiated by a taste of its culinary delights. For a perspective on the broader region, discover the largest province in Thailand, on the Lamphun & Countryside Bike Tour Chiang Mai.