Samoeng is a tiny rural town to the northwest of Chiang Mai, and while there’s nothing much of interest in the town itself, as the only settlement of any size along this route it gives its name to one of the most enjoyable activities in the north - driving through rural landscapes.
It makes a great focus for a day trip to rent a car or motorbike in Chiang Mai and drive round the loop, a popular and easy cruise that runs around Doi Suthep mountain with Samoeng at around the half-way point.
The beginning and end of the route is along boring, straight highways, but these stretches are only about 10km long, and the rest of the journey passes through lovely mountain scenery. After heading north through Mae Rim, the route turns left on H1096 through the Mae Sa Valley, which is packed with attractions.
Just before the road reaches Samoeng, a left branch leads southward, passing the western flank of Doi Suthep mountain. Along this stretch of road are several fancy resorts that give the area an almost Alpine feel. Finally, the road links up with H108 near Hang Dong, from where there is a short drive northward back into Chiang Mai.
Getting There
Head north out of Chiang Mai on H107, then turn left after Mae Rim into the Mae Sa Valley. Branch left before Samoeng, following this remote road round the back of Doi Suthep until it joins up with H108 about 10km south of Chiang Mai. The nearest airport is found in Chiang Mai.
Need to Know
- Worth it? Yes; it’s one of the best ways to get a feel of northern landscapes without straying too far from Chiang Mai.
- What to do: Visit tourist attractions in the Mae Sa Valley, stop for refreshment in a picturesque spot, enjoy views of the western slopes of Doi Suthep.
- When to go: the dry season from November to March provides the best weather for driving.
- How long? Depending how many stops you make along the way, this journey takes between half a day and a full day.