Chiang Mai: 24 km Leisure Cycling & swim Lake Huay Tueng Tao

Imagine pedaling through lush countryside just outside Chiang Mai, with a professional guide leading you on a relaxed route toward a peaceful lake at the foot of Mt. Suthep. For around $50 per person, this half-day biking experience lasts about four hours, offering a wonderful blend of scenic views, cultural insights, and leisure moments like swimming and enjoying a tasty meal. It’s a great way to combine gentle exercise with authentic natural beauty, especially if you’re craving a break from temple-hopping or busy markets.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances outdoor adventure with comfort and safety — from high-quality bikes and gear to a well-organized itinerary. The inclusion of lunch with vegetarian and vegan options ensures you’ll stay energized, while the hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics one less thing to worry about.

However, a possible consideration is that the tour covers around 24 kilometers in roughly three hours of cycling, which may be a bit ambitious if you’re not used to biking or have limited fitness. Also, the lake fee (150 baht) and insurance require passport details at check-in, so travelers should plan accordingly.

This tour suits travelers seeking an active, relaxed day outdoors, especially those eager to see the countryside, enjoy some lakeside fun, and learn about Chiang Mai’s natural surroundings without feeling rushed. It’s ideal for small groups looking for a personalized experience with a local guide.

Key Points

• Comfortable cycling experience with high-quality hybrid bikes and safety gear.
• Beautiful scenery including Lake Huay Tueng Tao and views at the base of Mt. Suthep.
• Leisure activities like swimming or riding a swan boat, perfect for cooling off.
• Well-organized logistics with hotel pickup, drop-off, and included lunch.
• Authentic local experience that mixes nature, culture, and leisure.
• Suitable for all fitness levels, with a basic level of fitness recommended.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Out: The Convenience of Pickup and a Clear Outline

From the moment we book this tour, the promise of hotel pickup and a small group setting—limited to just 10 participants—sounds promising. The tour begins in Chiang Mai proper and quickly moves to the scenic countryside, with a 15-minute drive to the starting point. This transfer ensures you’re not fussing with transport and can focus on enjoying the day.

Once there, a brief safety briefing prepares you for the ride, emphasizing safety gear and riding tips, especially if you’re not an experienced cyclist. The professional guides, who are certified in First Aid and CPR, make sure everyone feels secure before setting off.

The Route: A Gentle Ride Through Picturesque Landscapes

Expect approximately 24 kilometers of cycling over about three hours, which shouldn’t be daunting for most travelers with a basic level of fitness. The route is designed to be leisurely, with a focus on enjoying the scenery rather than rushing.

The ride takes you through areas dotted with beautiful flowers and lush greenery. We loved the way the guide pointed out local plants and shared insights into the region’s flora—adding a layer of cultural context to the ride. The bike path is well-maintained and designated, providing a safe environment away from traffic, which makes the experience more relaxed.

Highlights of the Cycling Portion

• Passing through local villages and rice paddies gives you a glimpse of everyday life in northern Thailand.
• The hybrid bikes are comfortable and suitable for slightly uneven terrain, which adds to the fun without feeling strenuous.
• The Google Earth orientation provided at the pro-shop adds a helpful visual context, helping us understand the landscape we’d be exploring.

Lake Huay Tueng Tao: The Heart of the Experience

Arriving at the lake, you’re greeted with a tranquil scene—calm waters at the base of Mt. Suthep, framed by mountains and green hills. This is where the tour truly shines, offering options for leisure and relaxation.

You can swim at the lake to cool off after the ride or opt for a swan boat ride—a fun, leisurely way to take in the surroundings from the water. The reviews highlight how beautiful this spot is, with one traveler noting, “Super. Mooie route en een hele mooie lunchplaats aan het meer,” which translates to “Beautiful route and a very nice lunch spot by the lake.”

The free time here is ideal for photography, fishing, or simply soaking in the views. The lunch served nearby is at a lakeside restaurant, with vegetarian and vegan options available—an appreciated touch that caters to different dietary needs.

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Learning About the Region: Mt. Suthep and Beyond

After relaxing at the lake, the tour continues with a visit to the base of Mt. Suthep. Here, travelers can admire panoramic views and learn tidbits about the area’s cultural significance. The guides are keen to share insights, making this part of the trip both scenic and educational.

Additional Activities and Safety

The tour includes first aid and safety equipment, which reassures travelers unfamiliar with cycling or outdoor activities. Hydration is well-catered for, with water available throughout the trip, and a hydration backpack is provided—ideal for staying refreshed.

The lake fee (150 baht) and insurance are separate costs, and passport details are required at check-in, so travelers should remember to bring theirs. Lite hiking shoes, padded shorts, and jerseys are available at the pro-shop if needed, but most will find their own comfortable clothing sufficient.

Returning to Chiang Mai: A Satisfying Wrap-up

After enjoying the lakeside and Mt. Suthep, the group bikes back along the designated path, heading for the final arrival point in Chiang Mai. The entire experience feels well-paced, with enough time to savor the scenery without feeling rushed.

The tour concludes with hotel drop-off, returning you to the comfort of your accommodation—perfect for resting after a morning of active exploration.

What Do the Reviews Say?

Travelers consistently praise the beautiful scenery and professional guides. One reviewer called the experience “super,” mentioning the nice route and a beautiful lunch spot. Another appreciated the tour guide’s friendliness and the delicious lunch. Interestingly, one traveler noted that their bike tour was longer (45 km), which suggests some variability based on the specific guide or group pace, but overall, the feedback is very positive.

This trip is ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed outdoor activity that combines gentle cycling, scenic views, and lakeside leisure. It suits those who enjoy nature and local culture but prefer to keep things light and comfortable. Families with children (who meet the basic fitness level) or solo travelers wanting a small group experience will find this especially enjoyable. It’s also perfect for anyone curious about the countryside around Chiang Mai without committing to a full-day adventure.

Spending a few hours cycling from Chiang Mai to Lake Huay Tueng Tao offers more than just exercise; it delivers a chance to slow down and appreciate Thailand’s natural beauty. With high-quality bikes, a professional guide, and a delicious lakeside lunch, this tour provides a well-rounded experience for a modest price.

The opportunity to swim or relax by the water, combined with learning about local landscapes, makes it a memorable outing. It’s especially suited for those seeking an authentic, outdoor escape that balances activity with leisure, and that leaves you feeling refreshed rather than exhausted.

While the ride covers a reasonable distance, it’s designed to be accessible, ensuring most travelers can enjoy the scenery and the experience. If you’re eager to see a different side of Chiang Mai—beyond temples and markets—this bike trip to Lake Huay Tueng Tao is a delightful option.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with limited fitness?
Yes, a basic fitness level is recommended but not strenuous. The route is designed to be leisurely, with plenty of breaks, and the bikes are comfortable and hybrid for easy riding.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes suitable for biking, a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses. The tour provides hydration packs, but bringing your own water bottle is also a good idea.

Can I swim in Lake Huay Tueng Tao?
Yes, swimming is one of the activities available during the stop at the lake, and many travelers enjoy cooling off there.

Are vegetarian or vegan meals available?
Absolutely. The lakeside restaurant offers vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring everyone can enjoy the included lunch.

What is the price and what does it include?
The tour costs $50 per person, including high-quality bikes, safety gear, professional guides, lunch, hotel pickup and drop-off, and hydration.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup from your hotel in Chiang Mai is included, making logistics simple.

What is the duration of the bike ride?
The biking portion lasts about 3 hours, covering around 24 kilometers, with additional time for stops and leisure activities.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the lake fee (150 baht) and insurance require passport details at check-in. There are also gear options available at the pro-shop.

What if it rains?
The tour runs rain or shine, so dress appropriately to stay dry and comfortable in case of sudden showers.

This cycling tour to Lake Huay Tueng Tao offers a balanced taste of Thailand’s natural beauty, local culture, and outdoor leisure. Whether you’re looking for a gentle adventure or a chance to relax by the water, it delivers a memorable slice of Chiang Mai’s countryside.

You can check availability for your dates here: