River of Kings Ride

The River of Kings Ride through Thailand exposes you to the kingdom’s ancient history and colorful culture. From Chiang Mai, the capital of north Thailand, we cycle through the Chao Phraya river valley where Thai civilization began and visit the ancient cities of Lampang, Sukhothai, Khampeng Phetand Ayutthaya. The route follows quiet back roads where you will be amazed at how little traffic is encountered. Cycling takes you off the beaten track to the lesser known towns of Pa Mok and Uthai Thani, where you will definitely find the “land of smiles." The scenery is ever changing as it starts in the mountainous north, then continues through the emerald paddy fields of the central rice belt and then to the rugged jungles of Kanchanaburi before arriving in the vibrant metropolis of Bangkok.

Tour Cost	US$2100	Single Supplement	US$450
Bike Hire	US$150	Total Cycling Distance	530 kilometres
Tour Grade	out of 5	Number of Days	14 days / 13 nights
Number of Cycling Days	8 full days, 3 half days.	Tour Meets	Chiang Mai
Tour Ends	Bangkok	Group Size	Minimum 2. Maximum 16.

Day 1

Arrive in Chiang Mai and meet for welcome dinner at a restaurant overlooking the Ping River.

Day 2

Explore the ancient and modern city of Chiang Mai, drive up Doi Suthep to Wat Phra Thad Doi Suthep (AD 1384), the most sacred temple in North Thailand, and take in a panoramic view of the city.

Day 3

We leave Chiang Mai on the old highway and stop to visit an elephant camp and one of the oldest and most religious Chedis in Thailand, before a transfer to Lampang -- the cowboy town.

Day 4

Ride on country roads through local villages, with time to stroll through markets or stop at one of the many temples we pass. We climb a few hills before we reach the Mysterious Rock Garden and our overnight at Uttaradit.

Day 5

We head off the beaten track as we wind towards Sri Satchanali Historical Park and then transfer to our hotel at the first capital of Thailand, Sukhothai.

Day 6

A day to ride around the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sukhothai to see some of the 193 ruins. Cycle at a leisurely pace so you can capture some of the stunning Buddha statues.

Day 7

Cycle on pleasant country roads to Khampeng Phet, a military fortress used to help defend Sukhothai from invading armies.

Day 8

During our ride you’ll quickly understand why Thailand is the top exporter of rice when you see the many paddies on your route to Uthai Thani. Lunch on board a charming restored rice barge while you cruise on the Sakaekrang River.

Day 9

Ride on the forested island of Thepho, where the Chao Phraya River and Sakaekrung rivers meet, cycle to Chai Nat in time for lunch and then visit the Wat Pa Mok’s reclining Buddha before arriving in Ayutthaya.

Day 10

Cycle south to Bang Pa In to visit the summer palace of King Rama V and then transfer to Kanchanaburi, stopping to visit the bridge over the River Kwai before heading to our jungle resort on the river.

Day 11

Follow the River Kwai as we ride through the jungle, between farmer’s fields, along a mixture of jeep trails, tarmac and quiet back roads to the town of Kanchanaburi.

Day 12

In the morning we visit the famous floating market and then start our bicycle ride following canal paths and small back roads

Day 13

We transfer to Bangkok and take a ride in the green part of Bangkok called Ban Kra Jao. Our farewell dinner will be a river cruise on a converted rice barge on the Chao Praya River.

Day 14

Free day to enjoy Bangkok until your onward flight.

Date	Availability	Price	Single Supplement	Bike Hire	Book
March 11, 2012	Available	USD 2,100.00	USD 450.00	USD 150.00
June 3, 2012	Available	USD 2,100.00	USD 450.00	USD 150.00
July 22, 2012	Available	USD 2,100.00	USD 450.00	USD 150.00
November 4, 2012	Available	USD 2,100.00	USD 450.00	USD 150.00
December 9, 2012	Available	USD 2,100.00	USD 450.00	USD 150.00

• A good blend of long trips and short trips, its entirely up to the individual or group, if you want to cycle more or less we could ask our tour guide/leader 'Bottle' and he would find out the best route to go.

  The guide Mr.Chanwit Seeploy and driver were exceptional. A credit to Spiceroads. Keen, enthusiastic, accomodating, considerate and with a fantastic sense of humour he keep us on our toes and gave us the real Thailand. His noteable quote, " this place is famous for" which would preceed eating the most fantastic culinary delights that Thailand offered.

  All the accomodation,food and soft drinks, snacks and fruit to be included it was amazing value for money.

  The booking service was excellent. Suwalee, in particular paid good attention to our needs.

  Thank you so much to Suwalee and Chanwit for giving me a Christmas holiday to remember.

  Nicola Wallis - December 2011

• Thanks Jum & Rin for the best cycling holiday.I have never been on a tour that looked after you so well, Very organized.
  Food great accommodation great.

  I would recommend River of Kings to any medium riders.
  Korp kun.

  Judi Puru - January 2010

• Jum and Rin were outstanding! I enjoyed learning from them and appreciated their outstanding efforts in keeping us happy and hydrated.

  I learned a lot about Thailand - its people, food and culture through Jum and Rin.

  An excellent adventure. Rin and Jum made this trip a wonderful experience!

  Stephanie Busque - January 2010

• The tour guide couldn't have provided a better service. They were very professional, organised, always friendly, and helpful. We felt we were in good safe hands with both the driver and the tour guide.

  Anthony Wilkinson - November 2009

• The tour was excellent. The guide and driver were fun and engaging. The service was perfect!

  Robert Moore - July 2009

• A great experience for someone looking for exercise, good company, and emersion into another culture. Wish I had discovered you when I was a young man!!

  Jeffrey Moore - November 2008

• I was really pleased with this trip, the guides and drivers were very friendly and helpful. I thank them all for making this trip very beautiful memorable!

  Brigitte Dewitte - November 2008

• We have done several rides in various countries, and our guide Tee and Driver Suwat were by far the best ever. They worked very well as a team and made the trip one to recommend!

  Richard Reenan - July 2008