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HISTORIC AYUTTHAYA
Towering chedis amidst crumbling ruins create the ancient city of Ayutthaya. Situated just north of Bangkok, Ayutthaya once claimed Thailand's capital, but that governance ended abruptly in 1767 when the city was sacked by Burmese invaders. Despite destruction, the ruins emanate the city's prior dominance, beauty, and rich history.
An easy day ride, this tour reveals the historic treasures of Thailand. From the impressive ruins of Ayutthaya to the grandiose summer palace of the kings, this bike trip takes you off the beaten path and onto the local trails through authentic Thailand.
What do we see? After a short transfer from your Bangkok hotel, we'll take to bikes to explore the ruins of the impressive Ayutthaya Historical Park, featured on the UNESCO list of World Heritage sites since 1991. Its distinct reputation is well earned--weathered layers of burnt bricks compose the stately stupas and chedis that guard these grounds. First, we'll see Wat Yai Chaimongkol and its towering chedi, one so large that it presently is sinking. Then, biking through the ancient city's walls, we'll visit Wat Phra Mahatat, the symbolic heart of the old city now famed for the picturesque tree roots that ensnarl its imbedded Buddha relic. Fruitful jujube trees still surround the Old Royal Palace, our next stop. From there we'll have time to continue exploring these precarious, precious structures, including the prominent Wat Chaiwattanaram.
Continuing our tour, we escape into the Thai countryside on back roads that parallel the Chao Phraya River. We'll ride through quaint villages until our trail meets a river ferry. After crossing, we lunch at the riverside restaurant there.
It's back on the bikes then for a visit to Wat Niwet Thamapra, a unique gothic-style temple erected on a river island. From there, it's a short walk to the Thai kings' grandiose summer palace.
A pleasant ride with rich cultural interest, this tour is great for the sightseer, as well as families.
What is the riding like? An easy day trip, the trail's 25 km is suitable for any riding level. Of course, water, soft drinks, and snacks are all included while riding, and SpiceRoads supplies a quality mountain bike and helmet.
| FACTS & FIGURES | |
|---|---|
| Tour Cost | THB 2,500 per person |
| Number of Days | 1 day |
| Pick up Time | 06:45 to 07:30 at your hotel. |
| Drop Off | Usually around 17:00 at your hotel. |
| Departure Days | Every Mon., Wed., Thurs. & Sat. with a minimum group of 2 adults. |
| Children | Children aged 12-16 years are welcome on this trip and receive a 25% discount. |
| Bike Hire | A quality mountain bike and helmet are included in the tour price. |
| Total Distance | 25 km |
| Support | Fully supported by a SpiceRoads air conditioned mini van. |
| Insurance | Accident insurance is provided by SpiceRoads. Click here for information. |
| Group Size | Minimum 2; maximum 12. |
| Biking Grade |
(out of five)
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A very nice way to see the areas around Bangkok that you might not get to see otherwise.
Read more about Johann & Sandra's experience on their review.
~Johann & Sandra
Historic Ayutthaya Tour, October 2009
Bottle, our guide, was fantastic - warm and informative. Hopefully I will be back for the 10 day bike trip some time in the future!
Thanks again!
~Kenneth Pietrobono
Historic Ayutthaya Tour, July 2009
At each stop, Nee stepped out of the role of cycling guide extraordinaire into the role of Thailand history expert. It enriched our experience to have someone with us with such passion and knowledge of the places we visited. We wouldn’t have learned even one percent as much without taking the SpiceRoads tour. Nee’s love of Thailand, and her job with SpiceRoads, was contagious.
~Leslie Welshimer
Read more about Leslie's tour on her blog.
Historic Ayutthaya Tour, April 2009
Read more reviews in our Guestbook.
