Day 1: Arrival in Bangkok
Your cycling holiday begins in the bustling city of Bangkok, the capital of Thailand. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the vibrant sights and sounds of this vibrant metropolis. After settling into your accommodation, take some time to explore the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, and the serene Wat Pho. Indulge in the city’s renowned street food scene, sampling delectable Thai dishes like pad thai, Tom Yum Goong, and mango sticky rice. In the evening, get a good night’s rest in preparation for the cycling adventure ahead.
Day 2: Bangkok to Ayutthaya (approximately 80 km)
After a hearty breakfast, you’ll begin your cycling journey, heading north towards the historic city of Ayutthaya. As you leave the bustling streets of Bangkok, you’ll be greeted by lush, verdant landscapes, dotted with rice paddies and small villages. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to stop and explore local markets, interact with friendly locals, and soak in the rural charm of the Thai countryside.
Upon reaching Ayutthaya, you’ll have the chance to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site, which was once the capital of the Siamese Kingdom. Admire the impressive ruins of ancient temples, wander through the atmospheric streets, and visit the famous Wat Phra Si Sanphet, known for its stunning, serene Buddha statues.
Day 3: Ayutthaya to Sukhothai (approximately 150 km)
After a morning spent exploring Ayutthaya, you’ll continue your cycling adventure, heading north towards the ancient city of Sukhothai. The ride will take you through scenic countryside, with opportunities to stop and take in the breathtaking views.
Sukhothai, a former capital of the Siamese Kingdom, is renowned for its well-preserved historical park, which showcases the architectural and artistic achievements of the Sukhothai era. Explore the UNESCO-listed ruins, marvel at the ornate temples, and gain insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Day 4: Sukhothai to Lampang (approximately 120 km)
Departing Sukhothai, you’ll continue your cycling journey, this time heading towards the picturesque city of Lampang. Along the way, you’ll encounter rolling hills, lush forests, and charming villages, where you can stop to interact with locals and learn about their way of life.
Lampang is known for its well-preserved historical architecture, including the distinctive Thai-style wooden houses and the impressive Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, a stunning temple complex that dates back to the 13th century. Spend the afternoon exploring the city’s sights and indulging in the local cuisine.
Day 5: Lampang to Chiang Mai (approximately 150 km)
Today’s cycling leg will take you from Lampang to the vibrant city of Chiang Mai, often referred to as the “Rose of the North.” As you pedal through the scenic countryside, you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring views of the surrounding mountains and lush, verdant landscapes.
Upon reaching Chiang Mai, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage. Explore the historic Old City, visit the renowned Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang, and browse the bustling night markets, where you can sample delectable local delicacies and shop for unique handicrafts.
Day 6: Chiang Mai – Rest Day
After four days of cycling, you’ll have a well-deserved rest day in Chiang Mai. Use this time to recharge your batteries, explore the city’s vibrant arts and crafts scene, or venture out to nearby elephant sanctuaries or hill tribe villages. Alternatively, you can opt to join a cooking class or take a yoga or meditation session to deepen your connection with Thai culture.
Day 7: Chiang Mai to Pai (approximately 110 km)
Refreshed and rejuvenated, you’ll continue your cycling journey, heading towards the charming town of Pai. The ride will take you through winding mountain roads, with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Along the way, you may encounter some challenging climbs, but the stunning scenery will make every pedal stroke worthwhile.
Pai is a popular destination among travelers, known for its laid-back atmosphere, vibrant street art, and stunning natural beauty. Spend the afternoon exploring the town’s quaint streets, visiting the iconic Pai Canyon, and indulging in the region’s renowned local cuisine.
Day 8: Pai to Khao Sok National Park (approximately 160 km)
Bidding farewell to Pai, you’ll embark on a longer cycling leg, heading south towards the lush Khao Sok National Park. The ride will take you through diverse landscapes, from rolling hills and winding roads to dense forests and tranquil rivers.
Upon reaching Khao Sok, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the park’s stunning natural environment. Take a guided hike through the ancient rainforest, home to a vast array of plant and animal species, or explore the serene Cheow Lan Lake, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.
Day 9: Khao Sok National Park to Krabi (approximately 120 km)
Leaving the tranquility of Khao Sok behind, you’ll continue your cycling journey towards the coastal town of Krabi. As you pedal, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the turquoise waters and dramatic limestone cliffs that have become synonymous with this region of Thailand cycling.
Krabi is a gateway to some of Thailand’s most beautiful islands and beaches. Upon arrival, you can spend the afternoon relaxing on the pristine shores, exploring the town’s vibrant markets, or visiting the iconic Wat Tham Suea, also known as the “Tiger Cave Temple.”
Day 10: Krabi to Phuket (approximately 90 km)
The final leg of your cycling adventure will take you from Krabi to the renowned island of Phuket. As you ride, you’ll witness the gradual transition from the rugged, mountainous landscapes to the picturesque beaches and resorts that Phuket is famous for.
Upon reaching Phuket, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the island’s diverse attractions, from the lively Patong Beach to the charming Old Town, with its well-preserved Sino-Portuguese architecture. Indulge in the local cuisine, relax on the sun-drenched beaches, or embark on a boat tour to nearby islands and snorkeling spots.
Day 11: Phuket – Rest Day
Your final day in Phuket will be a well-deserved rest day, allowing you to unwind and reflect on the incredible journey you’ve just completed. Spend the day soaking up the sun, indulging in water sports, or exploring the island’s rich cultural heritage. You can also opt to join a day trip to the stunning Phi Phi Islands or the iconic James Bond Island.
Day 12: Departure from Phuket
As your 12-day cycling adventure comes to an end, it’s time to bid farewell of our Thailand Cycling and the memories you’ve created. Depending on your travel plans, you can either depart from Phuket or extend your stay to explore more of this captivating country.