Ayutthaya - Southern Bicycle Track (The Foreign Settlements loop)

This bicycle tour highlights old foreign settlements and important historical sites south of Ayutthya’s main city island. This culturally diverse area will introduce you to a potpourri of churches, mosques and monasteries. The route tends to be peaceful and quiet with limited traffic, making it ideal for those wanting to get off-the-beaten track for some natural scenery as well. This southern area is shaped by the borders of Khlong Takhian and the Chao Phraya River and split into two parts by Khlong Khu Cham.

The western section was inhabited by the Cochin Chinese - mostly Christian communities of Tonkinese, Annamese and Cochin Chinese. This is where the French made their quarters in the 17th century. The French referred to Khlong Takhian as “Canal du Grand Cochon”, and they established a church at its upper mouth. The French settlement was dominated by priests and thus focused more on religion than trade. Mon refugees settled in the area on the opposite side of the canal.

The eastern section was populated by the Chinese (around Bang Kaja) and the trading community of the “Portugals”, which included three neighborhoods with churches along the west bank of the Chao Phraya. In addition, the eastern section included Buddhist temples pre-dating the foundation of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, which have yielded relics dating to the late-Dvaravati period.

Muslims had foreign settlements throughout the area. The southern part was occupied by the Malay and Pattani Muslims, who also had neighborhoods and markets in the north along the Chao Phraya River. Opposite Khlong Takhian, on its south bank, was the location of the Makassarese refugees before they were killed for uprising against the throne. Cham Muslims from Cambodia and Vietnam lived beside Khlong Khu Cham (known as “Le Canal du Petit Cochon” by the French). In addition, Muslims from Persia and India settled in this area as well. These Muslims communities were sometimes collectively labeled as Moors by early Westerners.

The tour will take 4-5 hours depending on the time spent at each location point. Riders may not want to stop at every highlight listed on this tour itinerary. A few sites have been listed more for the sake of smoother navigation. Individual cyclists can choose where to stop according to their own tastes and time constraints.

If you are interested in viewing photographs of the temples in advance or would like additional historic information about these ruins, visit our website at www.ayutthaya-history.com.

Tips and Warnings

Bicycles can be rented in different locations on Soi 2 Naresuan Rd, which is the starting point of this tour. It is also possible to rent bikes near the train station, which is closer to the area of this tour. Bike rental costs 40-50 baht (about $1.5) per day on average, which makes bike touring an inexpensive way to see the city. Ayutthaya’s terrain is mostly flat and easy to ride, but many streets and side roads are poorly marked, so use the map to simplify navigation.

Be cautious as traffic in and around Ayutthaya is sometimes chaotic. Motor vehicles often fail to see cyclists and pedestrians, so you must closely watch out for them. Motorcycles are a common cause of local accidents. Dogs and potholes can also be dangerous, especially in remote areas. Weather can be very hot, so make sure to drink plenty of fluids and wear sun block. It is inadvisable to drive at night due to the lack of lighting.

The theft of bicycles is uncommon in Ayutthaya, but backpacks and cameras have been stolen on rare occasions. It is best to keep valuables with you when visiting the temples on route.

If you would like some information about lodging and restaurant options, please visit: www.ayutthaya-info.com.

Who are we?

Ayutthaya Historical Research [AHR] consists of a small group of researchers/writers with the aim to promote Ayutthaya’s cultural heritage. We are local expatriates who have been living in Ayutthaya for many years and would like to share our knowledge with future visitors. Therefore, we have personally tested each of these suggested routes by cycling and/or walking. More information on the authors can be found at: http://www.ayutthaya-history.com/Authors.html

In emergency or accident:

Contact the Ayutthaya Tourist Police Station: (035) 241-446; (035) 242-352 or 1155.

Disclaimer

AHR will not be held liable for any loss or damage whatsoever for any suggestions made in relation to the site’s promotion of ecotourism. It is the responsibility of the user of the site to take the necessary precautions to avoid any physical injury, traffic incident, animal attack, theft, and damage to equipment. Any reliance on the site’s information is therefore strictly at your own risk. Read our full disclaimer at website www.ayutthaya-history.com.

POI Markings:
Historical signboard in situ is marked as (*)
Entry fee required is marked as ($)

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