Ride through fascinating countries on an incredible road cycling tour
Cross borders with like-minded cycling enthusiasts
Take time out to bum around and enjoy the beach
Never get tired of the scenery which varies from tranquil beaches to lush green forests
Make sure you snap some photos. This is just an amazing view!
Enjoy the many sights to see along the way. This old bridge tells a thousand tales
One of the breathtaking views of the tour. You'll be passing through lush green  tropical forests en route

Thailand to Malaysia by Road Bike

Duration
12 days
Site savings
$117
From
$3,783 USD

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.

  • Category
    Road Cycling
  • Type
    Fully Guided
  • Duration
    12 days
  • Culture Level
    Adventurous
  • Skill Level
    3 - Intermediate
  • Activity Level
    4 - Challenging
  • Elevation
    3 - Intermediate
  • Terrain
    Mixed
  • Distance
    643.7 miles
  • Avg. Daily Distance
    71.5 miles
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SpiceRoads Cycling
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Quick Stats

  • Duration
    12 days
  • Main Destination
    Thailand
  • Distance
    643.7 miles
  • Avg. Daily Distance
    71.5 miles
  • Elevation
    3 - Intermediate
  • Terrain
    Mixed

Route Map (click to view larger image)

Itinerary Details

  1. Day 1Meet in Krabi

    Welcome to Krabi Town! Upon arrival at the tour hotel in the late afternoon, attend a trip briefing followed by a welcome dinner. If assistance is needed with airport transfers or pre-tour hotel bookings, arrangements can be made in advance. For first-time visitors, consider arriving a few days early to explore Krabi’s stunning beaches or take a boat trip into the karst-studded seascape of Phang Nga Bay.

    • Krabi Seabass Hotel
    • Dinner
  2. Day 2Krabi - Pak Meng Beach

    Leaving lively Krabi Town behind, navigate onto quiet secondary roads within 10 km. These tranquil paths wind through expansive rubber and oil palm plantations, offering a glimpse into the agrarian landscapes that dominate the Malay Peninsula. Passing near Krabi airport, the road briefly widens, bringing a slight increase in traffic, before returning to peaceful stretches.  

    At around the 30 km mark, pause at a local Buddhist temple for a short break. Shortly after, merge onto the main provincial throughway, cruising along a smooth shoulder for an invigourating 40 km stretch. By the 80 km point, transition back to secondary roads, cycling through endless plantations and the communities that thrive around them.  

    The final 5 km along Pak Meng Beach’s coastal road reveal stunning views of the Andaman Sea, leading to an eco-resort dedicated to conserving dugongs, the beloved yet endangered sea mammals that graze in the seagrass beds of nearby islands.

    • 72.7 miles

    • 1,496.1 ft
      1,496.1 ft
    • Dugong Village
    • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  3. Day 3Pak Meng Beach - Pak Bara

    The day begins with a refreshing 5 km ride along the coast, gliding under the shade of sea oaks. From there, head inland to explore the serene backwaters of Trang Province. At 27 km, reach a wide river and board a boat to cross into Kantang, a charming vintage town renowned for its historic train station, one of the oldest and most picturesque in Thailand.  

    Continue the journey along a mix of minor and occasional major provincial roads, entering Satun Province. While Buddhist temples remain a common sight, mosques begin to appear more frequently, marking the transition into Thailand’s Muslim-majority deep south.  

    At the 90 km mark, cycle through striking limestone massifs before descending into the estuarine landscapes of Pak Bara. The day concludes in this harbour town along the Andaman coast, a gateway to the region’s natural beauty.

    • 84.5 miles
    • 3.3 ft
      2,424.5 ft
      2,421.3 ft
    • Bara Bara
    • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  4. Day 4Pak Bara - Satun

    This morning offers an optional adventure to Prasat Hin Pan Yod, the "Thousand Spire Stone Castle." Part of the Satun UNESCO Global Geopark, this breathtaking natural formation consists of jagged stone pillars encircling a tranquil lagoon. Accessing this hidden gem requires a kayak journey through narrow waterways, winding between the towering spires, and perhaps uncovering a fossil or two along the way. Simply inform the guide in advance if you’d like to join, or choose to enjoy a relaxed morning at the hotel instead.  

    After lunch, set out on an afternoon ride to Satun’s provincial capital. The route follows a mix of major and minor roads, weaving through the familiar tropical, rural backwaters of southern Thailand. The day concludes at a charming boutique hotel that beautifully reflects Satun’s rich Malay-Muslim heritage, offering a memorable final night in the Kingdom.

    • 43.5 miles
    • 29.5 ft
      1,528.9 ft
      1,499.3 ft
    • Navakiri Boutique Resort
    • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  5. Day 5Satun - Alor Setar

    Starting from Satun, cycle 30 km to the Thai-Malay border crossing at Wang Prachan. The route winds through a vast stretch of protected rainforest, a haven for tigers, sun bears, and king cobras, creating a wild and dramatic backdrop for the morning ride. At the border, complete immigration formalities to officially enter Malaysia. Both your bike and Thai cycling guide continue the journey, now joined by a Malaysian support team.  

    Just a few kilometers in, the ride offers a spirited challenge: a steep but short climb up Wang Kelian Pass. At the summit, take in panoramic views before enjoying a thrilling descent. From there, the terrain flattens, leading through the rice-growing plains of northern Peninsular Malaysia. As you ride, soak in the transition between countries, with glimpses of daily life unfolding in the surrounding villages.  

    After a long day, finish the ride in Alor Setar, the state capital of Kedah. For those with energy to spare, visit the observation deck of the iconic Alor Setar Tower, located at the heart of the town, for a sweeping view of the area.

    • 79.5 miles
    • -65.6 ft
      1,548.6 ft
      1,614.2 ft
    • Grand Alora Hotel
    • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  6. Day 6Alor Setar - George Town

    Today introduces you to the charm of peninsular Malaysia’s west coast. Departing from Alor Setar, pedal along quiet secondary roads that slice through vast expanses of rice paddies. Around the 45 km mark, arrive at Pantai Murni Beach, where the foaming waves of the Straits of Malacca greet the shoreline.  

    The route then ascends a headland before transitioning to a ferry crossing over the wide mouth of the Merbok River. Once across, continue on tranquil rural roads until reaching a bridge over the Muda River at around 80 km, marking entry into the state of Penang. The surroundings gradually shift as the route winds through increasingly urbanized areas, eventually leading into Butterworth.  

    From there, board a ferry to Penang Island and ride into the vibrant city of George Town. A short cycle from the pier takes you to a hotel conveniently located near George Town’s UNESCO-listed historic core. In the evening, immerse yourself in the city’s lively atmosphere and discover why it’s celebrated as Malaysia’s food capital.

    • 70.2 miles
    • 32.8 ft
      810.4 ft
      777.6 ft
    • Hotel Neo+
    • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  7. Day 7George Town Rest Day

    After five days of cycling, a rest day is well-deserved, and there’s no better place to unwind than George Town, the cultural heart of Penang. Once a vital trading hub between East and West in the Straits of Malacca, this historic port city boasts a rich multicultural heritage that remains vibrant today.  

    A stroll through the old quarter reveals a fascinating mix of British colonial architecture, Chinese clan houses, Hindu temples, and mosques, all coexisting along its streets. Some must-visit landmarks include the iconic Khoo Kongsi clan house, the elegant Kapitan Keling Mosque, Fort Cornwallis, the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, and the floating Clan Jetties. Don’t forget to explore the famous street art scattered throughout the city.  

    Of course, George Town is also celebrated as Malaysia’s food capital. With culinary influences from Malay, Chinese, and Indian traditions, you’ll find an array of mouthwatering dishes to try. Treat yourself to Char Kway Teow (stir-fried rice noodles), nasi kandar (rice with curry), and the refreshing dessert cendol, made with shaved ice and coconut milk. Lunch and dinner are yours to decide, offering the perfect opportunity to explore Penang’s legendary cuisine at your leisure.

    • Hotel Neo+,
    • Breakfast
  8. Day 8George Town - Ipoh

    The day begins with a 1.5-hour transfer to the state of Perak, where the cycling route kicks off. The journey starts with stretches through expansive rubber and oil palm plantations, gradually transitioning into the vibrant city of Taiping. Here, enjoy a ride through parts of the picturesque Lake Gardens, a serene park transformed from former mining pools.  

    As the terrain shifts, gentle hills to the east signal the start of a climb into the valley of the Perak River, Malaysia’s second-longest waterway. For about 40 km, the route follows the river’s meandering course, passing dense forests and sprawling estates. A break for lunch in the riverside town of Parit offers a moment to relax and recharge.  

    In the afternoon, the ride continues into the Kinta Valley, culminating in a scenic approach to Ipoh, Perak’s state capital. Pedal through Ipoh’s charming streets, keeping an eye out for the vibrant street murals that dot the city. Once checked into the hotel, unwind with a refreshing dip in the rooftop pool while taking in the breathtaking mountain views surrounding the city.

    • 89.5 miles
    • 219.8 ft
      3,120.1 ft
      2,900.3 ft
    • M Roof Hotel
    • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  9. Day 9Ipoh to Cameron Highlands

    Brace yourself for the tour’s most challenging ride: a climb of over 2,000 meters into the Cameron Highlands! The journey begins in Ipoh, navigating city streets and major roads before joining Route 185, the gateway into the Titiwangsa Mountains—the rugged backbone of Peninsular Malaysia.  

    The ascent kicks off around the 20 km mark, taking you on a steady, winding climb through lush jungle and stunning mountain vistas. Gradients remain manageable, allowing for a comfortable pace and breaks whenever needed. After about 60 km and reaching an elevation of 1,400 meters, the route eases into quieter back roads flanked by rolling tea plantations and vibrant vegetable farms.  

    Following a well-earned lunch, the final 10 km climb brings you into the heart of the Cameron Highlands, a hill station steeped in colonial charm and celebrated for its cool climate and breathtaking scenery. Wrap up the day by relaxing at a heritage-themed hotel, soaking in the views, and savouring a freshly brewed cup of locally grown tea.

    • 56.5 miles
    • 4,642.4 ft
      7,775.6 ft
      3,133.2 ft
    • Heritage Hotel Cameron Highlands
    • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  10. Day 10Cameron Highlands - Slim River

    After yesterday’s challenging climb, today offers a rewarding 50 km descent! Starting at nearly 1,500 meters above sea level in the Cameron Highlands, the route winds down into the river plains of Perak state. Set a relaxed pace as the landscape transforms from tea estates and greenhouse farms to diverse forests, eventually giving way to villages, towns, and sprawling fields of the lowlands.  

    Once the descent is complete, the journey continues along the shoulder of a provincial throughway before transitioning to nearly 30 km of secondary roads. Here, the scenery is dominated by endless rubber and oil palm plantations stretching to the horizon. The day’s ride concludes in the quiet town of Slim River, where the evening is yours to unwind and recharge.

    • 79.5 miles
    • -4,629.3 ft
      4,334 ft
      8,963.3 ft
    • Summit Signature Hotel
    • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  11. Day 11Slim River - Batu Caves - Kuala Lumpur

    It’s the home stretch! Leaving Slim River behind, the route takes you toward Kuala Lumpur (commonly referred to as “KL” by locals), Malaysia’s bustling capital city. Much of today’s ride takes place on main roads, though there are still quiet sections through oil palm and rubber plantations. At the 65 km mark, you’ll face one final challenge: a nearly 10 km climb through the dense forested hills of Selangor State Park, ending with a steep ascent to the top.  

    After conquering the climb, enjoy a thrilling descent as you make your way into KL’s northern district. The day concludes at Batu Caves, famous for their massive limestone caves, colorful Hindu temples, and the iconic Lord Murugan statue. The climb up the 272 steps will be no trouble for your road-cycling legs!  

    After exploring the caves, transfer around 30 minutes to your hotel in downtown Kuala Lumpur, where we’ll gather for a celebratory farewell dinner to cap off the journey.

    • 58.4 miles
    • 62.3 ft
      3,320.2 ft
      3,257.9 ft
    • The Kuala Lumpur Journal Hotel
    • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  12. Day 12 Departure

    The tour has ended but feel free to extend your stay in Kuala Lumpur and discover what this world-class city has to offer.

    • Breakfast