Motorbike routes
Elephants and Temple Trip
A flexible ride from Chiang Mai through Hang Dong toward Samoeng, with a local market, Doi Kham temple, mountain scenery, elephants, and craft stops.
Updated 19 October 2026
This route takes you from Chiang Mai through Hang Dong toward Samoeng, combining a local market, Wat Phra That Doi Kham, mountain views, and a stop to see elephants. You can ride or drive a shorter half-day version, or spend a full day exploring more of the places along the road. Each stop below links straight to its location, so you can put together the trip that interests you.
From the city into the hills
Ton Phayom Fresh Market, near Chiang Mai University, is one option for fruit, snacks, or a local breakfast. Southwest of the city in Hang Dong, Wat Phra That Doi Kham has a large reclining Buddha, other shrines, and views over the city and surrounding countryside.
From Doi Kham, follow the roads farther into the hills. The scenery changes quickly from the city edge to greener, winding roads, viewpoints, and places to pause for food or coffee.
Elephants and a mountain cafe
Elefin Farm and Cafe is a place in the hills for an elephant visit, a drink, and views from the cafe. Elephants may also be visible at other places along this route, but Elefin is a named location you can find on the map.
Elephant Rescue Park
If you want a dedicated elephant programme rather than a short cafe stop, see Elephant Rescue Park. Its half-day, full-day, and overnight visits include transport from Chiang Mai. That is a separate organised activity, not a required stop on this self-drive route.
Return to Chiang Mai or continue to Samoeng
On the way back toward Chiang Mai, Baan Kang Wat is a pleasant stop for craft shops, small galleries, coffee, and food. If you have more time, continue west to Samoeng and turn this into a longer mountain drive. Our Samoeng Loop guide shows how to continue around the full circuit and return to the city by another road.
