Culture Cycling, Muang Sing

Saddle up on a mountain bike, and visit a variety of ethnic minorities in villages around Sing Town on an easy two-day cycling tour over flat roads, trails, and footpaths, with an overnight stay in a Yao lodge. The 30-km first leg visits some nine different ethnic groups, the first being the Lolo, the smallest minority in the district. The paved road continues east of town to Ban Nong Boua where you can inspect Tai Dam architecture and watch weavers at work. Further along at Ban Koum, you’ll watch Tai Nuea villagers distil lao khao rice alcohol before a 20-minute uphill walk to That Xieng Tung Stupa. The cycling continues to a Hmong village and then a stop at a Tai Nuea village for noodle soup and picnic lunch. The afternoon begins with ride back to Sing District’s Museum, before pedaling towards the Chinese border, pausing at Ban Done Chai (Tai Lue), Ban Pha Kha (Akha), and finally Ban Nam Sai Lek (Yao), where you’ll sleep in the village lodge. You’ll have plenty of time before dinner to walk around the village, meet the people, and learn about traditional Yao architecture. Before bed, a villager will massage your muscles, a tradition for overnight guests. The 35-km second day starts with a cycle to three Yao villages and six Akha communities including Ban Pha Bath Noy, where you’ll enjoy lunch. Then it’s back on the road to Ban Pha Xang (Akha), Ban Xieng Mon (Tai Lue), and a Lolo village, before returning to Sing Town.