Ayutthaya - Western Bicycle Track (The Thung Prachet and Thung Pak Kran Loop)

This bicycle tour has been designed for the exploration of some of the most important historical sites along the western rim of Ayutthaya (just off the main city island). Many ruins in this western section are historically linked to warfare against the Burmese, and some of them distinctively mark sites of important battle. This off-the-beaten-track route will lead you to many magnificent ruins and some seldom seen by tourists.

These western Ayutthaya neighborhoods are bordered in the north by the Chao Phraya River and in the east by Khlong Takhian - called “Canal du Grand Cochon” by early French visitors. Highway #3060 loosely frames its western boundary. Geographically, the nearly defunct Khlong Klaeb, running north of Wat Chai Wathanaram, more or less indicates the border between two important fields - Thung Prachet and Thung Pak Kran. The Thung Prachet field is in the north, and the Thung Pak Kran field is in the south.

This section of the city was the least populated area during the Ayutthayan period. One reason for this may be the local belief that the West is considered inauspicious and represents death, impurity and the setting sun. Ghosts are said to gravitate toward the west, and a number of the sites on this route are still considered haunted by locals. Burma caused much destruction in this area during numerous military invasions of the past. Therefore, it is perhaps appropriate to associate the west side of Ayutthaya with death, ghosts, and war atrocities. Much of this land in the west is still undeveloped. Rice fields, small forests, and jungles of wild vegetation are typical views. Nevertheless, a modern population has grown here during recent times. There are now large Buddhist and Muslim communities especially along the Chao Phraya River.

The tour will take 4 to 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. 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 particularly hazardous 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 and occasional recklessness of motor traffic.

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 historic sites on route.

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 www.ayutthaya-history.com.

POI Markings:

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

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