7. Chiang Saen - Chiang Khong Bicycle Track

Road conditions: Cycling from Chiang Saen to Chiang Khong along Road No. 1290 is one of the most picturesque rides in northern Thailand. Often referred to by local cyclists as the “Paradise Road,” this route hugs the Mekong River, offering sweeping views, quiet villages, and a tranquil rhythm that’s hard to beat.

The road is fully paved and generally in good condition. Most of the surface is smooth asphalt, with only occasional rough patches near village turnoffs or minor construction zones. It’s easily navigable for road bikes and touring setups, and there’s no need to worry about gravel or unpaved sections.

Traffic along Road 1290 is light, especially outside of market hours. You’ll mostly encounter motorbikes, local pickups, and the occasional tour van. The atmosphere is relaxed, and drivers tend to be courteous—many will slow down or wave as you pass. As you approach Chiang Khong, traffic picks up slightly, but it remains manageable and far less intense than on major highways.

In terms of safety, the route is very cyclist-friendly. The terrain is gently rolling, with a few short climbs that add variety without being overly demanding. One hill near Ban Had Mai is a bit steeper than it looks, but it’s short and well worth the effort for the views that follow. Visibility is excellent throughout, and the road meanders through open countryside with no blind curves or technical descents.

Early morning is the best time to ride—cool air, soft light, and mist rising off the Mekong create a serene backdrop. Along the way, you’ll find small cafés and rest stops, including cyclist favorites like Mekong Pizza and Chill Du View, perfect for a break with a view.

Destination: Chiang Khong is a tranquil riverside town in Chiang Rai Province, nestled along the Mekong River directly opposite Huay Xai in Laos. The city is connected to Laos via the Fourth Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge, a key gateway for travellers heading to Luang Prabang. It is surrounded by the Phi Pan Nam mountain range, with scenic views and fertile valleys. Chiang Khong played a significant role in regional conflicts during the early 20th century, particularly during the Ngiao Rebellion and the shifting balance of power between Siam and French Indochina. It was briefly under Shan influence before Siamese forces reclaimed it in 1904 CE. Interesting sites include Wat Phra Kaeo, the town’s oldest temple, which is home to an emerald Buddha statue, as well as the Huay Tung Waterfalls & Hmong Village.

Chiang Khong is renowned as the place where Pla Buk, the giant catfish, are caught. The fishing season runs from mid-January to May. The Chiang Khong Fishery Station can inseminate and breed the largest freshwater fish in the world. Fingerlings bred here have been released into several rivers. Sightseeing trips by boat are available to enjoy the scenery and observe life along the Mae Khong.