Exploring the Back Roads of Doi Inthanon on a Classic Honda Dream

If you love adventure, the rough back roads of Doi Inthanon make for an exciting ride through some of Thailand’s most beautiful scenery. Picture yourself riding a small but reliable 100cc Honda Dream. You’re traveling on dusty tracks, curvy mountain roads, and passing through quiet Karen villages. This journey isn’t about the destination—it’s about the experience, the solitude, and the challenge of the ride itself.

A Solo Ride into the Mountains

The morning started with an ambitious plan: to explore a lesser-known back road leading up to Doi Inthanon. This winding road skirts the edge of our village. It runs alongside the Doi Inthanon National Park, and disappears into a remote valley. My goal was to see if this  road was sealed all the way and could connect with Highway 1009, the main route up the mountain.

Before setting off, a quick visit to the local mechanic was in order. A simple oil check turned into a full inspection—brakes checked, chain oiled, tire pressure adjusted. With the bike in top shape, the adventure began.

The first stretch of the ride was familiar—paved roads, gentle curves, and occasional glimpses of distant peaks. But as the journey continued, the road narrowed, the pavement gave way to dirt, and civilization faded into the background.

Navigating the Unknown

This region is home to a few small Karen villages, but traffic was minimal. The ride required full concentration. Keeping an eye on loose gravel, avoiding deep ruts, and handling steep inclines with a bike that wasn’t exactly built for the back roads of Doi Inthanon. At times, the little Honda Dream strained in first gear, its engine humming steadily as it climbed higher into the mountains.

A notable landmark along the way was the “Head of the Tiger,” a striking rock formation visible from far away. This natural monument served as both a waypoint and a reminder of the wild beauty of the area.

As the road deteriorated further, a decision loomed: press on or turn back? The uncertainty of the path ahead was compounded by the increasing difficulty of the terrain. Dust and silt coated the road, making traction tricky. As I continued on my way, another rider appeared, descending from the opposite direction. His shirt bore a simple but powerful message: “Don’t Quit.”

Taking this as a sign, the journey continued.

The Challenges and Rewards of the Ride

The Honda Dream, though not designed for rough terrain, proved to be a capable companion. Despite minor mishaps—like getting stuck in a rut or losing grip on loose gravel—the bike held up well. However, thoughts of the return journey lingered. Riding up the back roads of Doi Inthanon was one thing, but descending the same dusty, unstable road could be far more treacherous.

The higher the climb, the more stunning the scenery became. Forested slopes replaced farmland and the air grew cooler.  The only sounds were the hum of the engine and the occasional rustling of the wind through the trees. Stopping to fly my drone offered a chance to capture the sheer vastness of the landscape. Capturing an aerial perspective of the twisting road and the sprawling greenery below.

Reaching the Paved Road and the Final Stretch

After several kilometers of grueling dirt trails, the sight of a sealed concrete road was a relief. The real test of endurance had ended, and now the ride could transition from cautious maneuvering to pure enjoyment. The road ahead, though still winding and steep, was smooth and well-maintained, making for a far easier descent.

By the time I reached the main road (Highway 1009), I’d made the decision to take the paved route back home was an easy one. I was not prepared to risk a descent on the rutted, dusty road I’d ascended. My ride back home was pleasant and uneventful. A perfect end to an interesting ride.

Interesting Facts About Doi Inthanon

• Thailand’s Highest Peak: At 2,565 meters above sea level, Doi Inthanon is the highest mountain in Thailand and is often called “The Roof of Thailand.”

• Diverse Climate: Due to its elevation, the temperature on the summit can drop to near freezing in the winter months. This is a stark contrast to the tropical heat in the lowlands.

• Hmong and Karen Villages: The mountain is home to several hill tribe communities, including the Hmong and Karen. These peoples have lived in the area for generations and contribute to local agricultural projects.

• Royal Project Initiative: The Royal Project near Doi Inthanon was established to promote sustainable farming and reduce opium cultivation in the region.

• Waterfalls and Wildlife: The national park boasts many waterfalls, including Wachirathan and Siriphum Falls. There’s also diverse wildlife, from gibbons to exotic bird species.

Riding a Honda Dream – More Than Just Transportation

For many in Thailand, the Honda Dream is more than just a motorbike—it’s a cultural icon. Known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, it has been a staple mode of transport for decades. While not designed for off-road adventures, it embodies the spirit of Thai travel:

• practical,
• enduring,
• and capable of handling whatever the road throws its way.

Riding a small 100cc bike on unpredictable mountain roads may not be the easiest way to explore. But it does add an element of adventure that larger, more powerful motorcycles can’t provide. The sense of connection with the road, the surroundings, and the machine itself is heightened. This makes each journey a personal challenge and an unforgettable experience.

Watch the Full Journey in Our Video

This ride up the back roads of Doi Inthanon was an unforgettable adventure. It’s full of unexpected challenges and breathtaking views. Watch the full journey in our video. Here you can see every twist and turn, every scenic overlook, and the true experience of tackling these mountain roads on a humble Honda Dream.

There are two versions of the video.

This shorter version has my commentary on the ride and includes maps of the road.