A road cycling odyssey through a less-explored region of Southeast Asia, offering ample contrast and the best of both. Ride from beaches to mountains. Stay remote, then explore the city. Experience colonial charm and hyper-modernity. Having it all isn't a stretch on this ride from coastal Thailand to bustling Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, with fantastic natural scenery, amazing food, and achievable distances that tell the full story one country to the next! This tour runs from Krabi, Thailand to Kuala Lumpur.
SpiceRoads CyclingFew people can say they have covered 1,036 kilometers (645 mi) and basked in the heady delights of Thailand and Malaysia on two wheels, but this cycling adventure achieves exactly that. Embrace the beaches and nature of Thailand, frolic in Malaysia’s exquisite culture.
This ride squeezes in everything you could ever want from a Southeast Asian odyssey. Supported by local and knowledgeable guides along the way you can glean as much as possible from this trip.
First, spin along the beautiful Andaman Coast, which takes you winding through lush mangroves and plantations. Hot springs provide relief for aching muscles, while the back roads are a delight as you pedal through quaint villages, and have a taste of the local cuisine.
Spend the night on an island resort before changing gears and heading for the next leg of your adventure in Malaysia. The ride will hug the coastline again and it’ll keep you at peace as you reach the fascinating island of Penang. Here the Colonial influences shine through in Georgetown and you earn a day off to explore the sights, sounds, and tastes here. There is plenty to take in.
Pedaling onward, you can marvel at Malaysia’s rugged nature as mountains provide a stunning backdrop, and you can go underground to explore the Batu caves. On the more rural stretches there are great opportunities to chat with the locals before you reach the bright lights of Kuala Lumpur.
This tour takes on over 1,000 kilometres (621 miles) in 9 cycling days, with variety in terrain and ride profiles. In Coastal South Thailand, the riding is primarily flat to gently undulating, while there are a couple of substantial climbs at the end of the tour in Central Malaysia. But don't worry, the route will prepare you for the big days, and the support vehicle is always close by should you need it! You can expect a full day of cycling each day, with most daily distances over 100 kilometres (62 miles). The ride into Cameron Highlands involves substantial elevation gain on a single climb, so experience climbing is recommended. This tour is perfect for recreational cyclists who are comfortable riding over 100 kilometres (62 miles) on back to back days, but are looking for something interesting, and possibly more of a challenge!