Embark on a captivating journey through Thailand’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Our heritage-focused cycling tour invites you to pedal through time, from the fertile plains surrounding the Chao Phraya, the “River of Kings,” to the majestic mountains of the north. Prepare to be immersed in the authentic heart of Thailand, far from the bustling tourist crowds.
Our adventure begins as we leave behind the modern skyline of Bangkok and journey north, entering Thailand’s “rice bowl.” For two days, we’ll cycle along quiet country roads, weaving through emerald rice paddies and past traditional villages, experiencing the rhythm of rural life. A highlight of this section is our exploration of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once a glorious capital of pre-modern Siam, its captivating ruins whisper tales of a powerful kingdom.
Continuing our journey, we’ll travel to Sukhothai, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the remarkably preserved vestiges of Thailand’s first kingdom await. Here, we’ll delve deeper into history, exploring these hallowed grounds by bicycle and uncovering the stories of a nascent nation.
From the ancient capitals, we transition to the mountainous north, where a night in Phrae, once a hub of Thailand’s lucrative teak trade, awaits us. Now entering the cultural sphere of Lanna – the local name for northern Thailand – we’ll spend two days cycling through an agrarian world shaped by a unique blend of Buddhist and animist beliefs. Experience the serenity of rural life, the warmth of local hospitality, and the beauty of the northern landscapes.
Our journey culminates in Chiang Mai, the vibrant cultural capital of northern Thailand. Here, we’ll trade our bikes for time to explore the city’s ancient temples, bustling markets, and thriving arts scene. Immerse yourself in the unique charm of Chiang Mai, savor its distinctive cuisine, and experience its vibrant energy.
This leisurely-paced tour is designed for those who seek a deeper connection with Thailand. It’s an opportunity to not just see the sights, but to truly experience the soul of the country – its history, its culture, and its people. Join us on this unforgettable cycling adventure and discover the magic of Thailand for yourself.
Tour Meets: Bangkok
Fly in to: Suvarnnabhumi Airport (BKK)
Tour Ends: Chiang Mai
Fly Out of: Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)
3 Hours Before Flight Time
Over six cycling days, we’ll cover 278 km, designed for leisure cyclists seeking a mix of Thailand’s iconic landmarks and off-the-beaten-path experiences. The terrain is mostly flat, with some gentle inclines in the northern regions. With a few vehicle transfers, we avoid busy roads and focus on scenic, enjoyable routes. Major highlights include the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, where you’ll explore ancient temples both by bike and on foot. Beyond historical monuments, the tour offers an authentic glimpse into Thailand’s living culture through visits to local markets, villages, and traditional industries. Along the way, you’ll meet the incredibly friendly locals, always eager to offer a warm wave or cheer.
Accommodation throughout the tour features charming and cozy hotels.
This trip is fully supported, with expert local guides providing valuable insights on the area and terrain. Constant access to refreshments ensures you stay hydrated and energized.
We’ll pick you up from your Bangkok hotel in the morning and head north for about 1.5 hours to Bang Pa-In Palace. This royal retreat, once a summer haven for Siam’s kings, combines traditional Thai design with Chinese and European influences—an ideal start to our heritage tour! After exploring the palace, we hop on bikes and cross the Chao Phraya River by ferry, pedaling through riverside villages where Buddhist and Muslim communities coexist. After 20 km, we reach the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Siam, almost obliterated by the Burmese in the 18th century. We cycle through the ruins, visiting iconic monuments like Wat Mahathat with its Buddha head wrapped in tree roots, the grand stupas of Wat Si Sanphet, and the Hindu-Khmer styled Wat Chaiwatthanaram. The day ends at a charming Thai-style resort set among rice paddies.
We begin with a 10 km ride out of Ayutthaya, skirting the Chao Phraya River as we cycle through serene rice fields, local villages, and temples. After 20 km on peaceful roads, we reach the town of Ang Thong, then follow a narrow path beside the river for another 20 km, immersing ourselves in the local waterborne lifestyle. Our journey concludes at Wat Chaiyo, home to a massive gilded Buddha. Afterward, we take a 1.5-hour transfer to a lakeside resort in Uthai Thani, where you can unwind before dinner.
We start the day by cycling 5 km to Uthai Thani’s bustling market, where we’ll explore the vibrant stalls selling fresh fish, fruits, and local goods. Back on the bikes, we ride along the Chao Phraya River and stop by a knife-making workshop before continuing through scenic countryside. After 45 km, we’ll hop into a van and drive to Kamphaeng Phet, a historical site with ancient ruins. From there, we continue to Sukhothai, the birthplace of Thailand’s first kingdom, arriving in the late afternoon.
We’ll dive into the UNESCO-listed Sukhothai Historical Park, cycling through its vast grounds to visit stunning temple ruins, including Wat Si Chum and Wat Mahathat. After soaking in the historical splendor, we transfer 2.5 hours to Phrae, a northern town with a rich teak history. If time permits, we’ll visit a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion. Tonight, enjoy free time to explore Phrae’s vibrant night market.
We start the day with a 1.5-hour transfer to Lampang, where the landscape shifts to lush mountains and rolling hills. The region’s traditional architecture and agricultural practices are on full display, with rice paddies and fruit orchards dotting the route. After a visit to the 13th-century Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, we cycle through rural roads, following the Wang River to our northern Thai-style resort.
We kick off the day with a 1.5-hour transfer into Lamphun, Thailand’s longan fruit capital. After cycling through the province’s famous orchards, we stop at Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, a revered temple with centuries of history. Our route takes us along the Ping River to Wiang Kum Kam, an ancient site that predates Chiang Mai. After a final push, we reach our hotel just outside Chiang Mai, where you’ll enjoy an evening exploring the city’s lively streets.
On our last morning, we head up to Wat Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai’s most sacred temple, offering breathtaking views of the city below. After visiting the temple, we make our way to Wat Umong, a unique 700-year-old temple with hidden tunnels. We’ll wrap up the day with a farewell lunch before transferring you to your post-tour hotel or the airport. Let us know if you need any assistance with arrangements!
