Ayutthaya - Northern Bicycle Track (The War Loop)

This bicycle tour highlights important historical sites related to warfare between the Siamese and the Burmese. The route focuses on the northern rim of Ayutthaya’s city island, and much effort has also been made to showcase the city’s beautiful scenery, including canals, rivers, rice fields, and other countryside views.

The tour will take 5 to 6 hours, depending on the time spent at each location. Riders may not want to stop at every highlight listed on this tour itinerary. A few sites have been listed primarily for smoother navigation and referencing. Individual cyclists can choose where to stop based on their own preferences and time constraints.

This route has been designed with specific historic sites in mind where important battles took place. For example, in 1549, Burmese troops fought the Siamese, who had been greatly weakened by dynastic disputes. This conflict resulted in the heroic death of Queen Suriyothai, an event that has been much popularised in Thai folklore and film. In 1563/64 there was another Burmese invasion known as the “White Elephant War”. This conflict arose when the Siamese king refused the Burmese king’s request to present some white elephants as a gift. In 1568/69, the Burmese attacked again, leading to the first fall of Ayutthaya and making Siam a Burmese vassal state.

In 1759/60, the Burmese besieged Ayutthaya yet another time; however, the Burmese King died in an accident, and Burmese troops were forced to withdraw. Finally, in 1766/67, the Burmese sacked Ayutthaya for the second and last time. The city was destroyed, the inhabitants mostly killed or taken away as war captives, and the numerous temples deserted. The capital then moved shortly to Thonburi and was ultimately set up in Bangkok.

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

Tips and Warnings

Bicycles can be rented at various locations along Soi 2 Naresuan Rd, the starting point of this tour. Bike rentals cost 60 baht (about $2) per day on average, making 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 a map to simplify navigation.

Be cautious, as traffic in and around Ayutthaya can be chaotic. Motor vehicles often fail to see cyclists and pedestrians, so you must exercise caution when sharing the road with them. Motorcycles are a particularly dangerous cause of local accidents. Dogs and potholes can also be dangerous, especially in remote areas. The weather can be very hot, so make sure to drink plenty of fluids and wear sunblock. It is not advisable to drive at night due to the lack of city lighting.

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

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 case of 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 user's responsibility to take the necessary precautions to avoid any physical injury, traffic incidents, animal attacks, theft, or 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.

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