Chiang Mai to Pai by Motorbike: Route 1095 Guide (762 Curves)

The ride from Chiang Mai to Pai on Route 1095 is one of the most famous motorbike trips in Thailand: about 135 km of mountain road, forests, viewpoints and, famously, 762 bends. It is a beautiful day on the bike, but it is a mountain ride, not a city cruise. Here is how to do it safely.

Is the Pai road right for you?

Route 1095 is paved and well maintained, with guardrails on most of the steep sections. The challenge is the sheer number of tight bends, long climbs and descents, and sharing the road with minivans that cut corners. If you have only ridden a scooter around town for a day or two, ride shorter mountain roads first, for example our Mae Rim route, and come back for Pai when you feel at home on the bike. The minivan to Pai is always an option.

The route

1. Chiang Mai to Mae Malai (about 35 km): head north on Route 107. It is a busy, straight road; stay left and ride calmly.
2. Turn left onto Route 1095 at Mae Malai. This is where the mountains start. Fill up here if your tank is not full.
3. The climb: the road winds up through forest with regular viewpoints and roadside cafés. Take a break every hour.
4. Over the top and down to Pai: the final part descends into the Pai valley. Descents are where most accidents happen, so keep your speed down and use both brakes gently.

Stops worth making

• Mok Fa Waterfall: a tall waterfall a short walk from the road, early on the route. It is in a national park, so an entrance fee applies.
• Pong Duet hot springs and Huai Nam Dang: a detour to steaming hot springs and one of the best viewpoints in the area, both inside Huai Nam Dang National Park.
• Coffee with a view: the route is lined with small cafés and noodle stops. They are the perfect excuse to rest your hands and back.

In Pai

• Pai Canyon: narrow sandstone ridges a few kilometers outside town, famous at sunset. The paths are steep and have no railings, so wear proper shoes.
• Walking Street: the evening market in the center, with street food and small shops.
• Memorial Bridge: an old steel bridge over the Pai River, a popular photo stop on Route 1095 just before you reach town.

Which bike to rent

You want power for the climbs and good brakes for the descents. A Honda Click 160 or Yamaha NMax 155 is the classic choice for one rider. Riding with a passenger or luggage? The Honda ADV350 makes the trip far more comfortable. We do not recommend small 110–125 cc scooters for two people on this road.

Safety checklist

• Carry your license and International Driving Permit; see our guide to riding legally in Thailand.
• Helmets on for rider and passenger (fines are up to 2,000 THB, and your head is worth more).
• Never overtake before a blind bend, and expect vehicles in the middle of the road.
• Ride in daylight only, and give yourself spare time for stops and rain.
• In the rainy season (May–October) the road can be slippery and foggy; consider waiting for a dry day.
• Pack a rain jacket, water, sunscreen and a phone mount for navigation (a phone holder comes with every Fleet rental).

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to ride from Chiang Mai to Pai?

About 3–4 hours of riding. With breaks, viewpoints and a coffee stop, most riders take 5–7 hours.

Can a beginner ride to Pai?

We do not recommend it. Get comfortable on shorter mountain roads first, or take the minivan and rent locally for day trips.

Do I need a bigger bike for Pai?

For one rider a 150–160 cc scooter is ideal. For two people or luggage, choose a larger bike such as the ADV350.

Last reviewed: September 2026. Roads, opening hours and fees change; check before you go. Cover photo: Christophe95, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.