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One-day cycling tour south of Chiang Mai

Code: CNX-CLFS

Departure at 09:00 am

Overview

The cycling is on carefully planned routes down quiet roads and lanes, chosen for the interest and contact with the Thai countryside and Thai way of life. The tour is ideal for the majority people, who have an average level of fitness and an interest in cycling, history, culture, local handicrafts, rural life and scenery.

Itinerary

After a short safety briefing, we leave the hotel for the streets of downtown Chiang Mai. Traffic is light around that time as we begin our journey south, following the Ping River downstream. The ride is pleasant and green due to the proximity of the river. First we make a stop at a Chinese temple well known for its somewhat quirky architecture. Set in tranquil woodland surroundings, our next stop, a former leper colony, will take us back to scenes reminiscent of yesteryear. The institute now operates as a rehabilitation centre. Continuing to the south, we ride past various fruit orchards and encounter the Thai way of life as we weave our way through villages and farmland on the outskirts of Chiang Mai. Small country roads lead us to Ban Tawai village, famous for its woodcarving artisans. There is time to wander and take a closer look at the craftsmanship exhibited in the workshops, while lunch is prepared at a local restaurant. Refuelled and ready for the return journey, we take a scenic route back. Along the way we explore the temple ruins of Wiang Kum Kam, the former site of Chiang Mai. Entering the city on bicycles ensures that we are part of the solution to pollution!    

Facts

Approximate duration:  around 7 hours with frequent stops
Distance: around 45 km flat with 2.5 km unsealed road
Group size: 2- 12 people
Category: leisure cycling, everyone in average condition
Key features: Chinese temple, rural life and scenery, former leper colony, orchards, woodcarving village and ruins
Included: English speaking cycling guide, modified mountain bike with 24 gears and front suspension, helmet (mandatory), insurance, lunch, snacks and bottled water
Grading:

General information

Bicycles: adapted mountain bikes, also know as comfort bikes, with 24 gears and front suspension are used for their versatility and comfort. The bikes come equipped with water bottle carriers but without racks. The bikes are sized for the individual so we require prior notification of your approximate height and weight. Both men and lady frames are available.    
Clothes: suitable clothes are shorts and firm footwear. Please no loose fitting dresses that can get caught up in wheels, and no flip-flops. Your safety is a major concern to us. We provide a light poncho during the rainy season.
Packing list: sunglasses, sun block, insect repellent, pocket money, a small camera and if necessary a small rucksack. That’s all.
Support: this environmentally friendly tour does not need a support vehicle however back up is provided when necessary.

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