Ayutthaya - Eastern Bicycle Track (The Ayodhya Loop)

This bicycle tour is designed to bring you beside some of the most important historical sites east of Ayutthaya’s city island. There is a high concentration of old ruins, foreign settlements, and active temples in this area, which makes this tour pleasant and of full of surprises.

The full-day tour will take 6 to 8 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 highlights on this itinerary have been listed more for the sake of smoother navigation and referencing, although they may also appeal to many bicyclists as points of interest. Individual cyclists can choose where to stop according to their own tastes and time constraints.

This area east of the city island possibly existed prior to King U-Thong’s foundation of the Ayutthaya kingdom in 1351. Evidence suggests that it may have been populated as early as the Dvaravati era (6th to the 11th centuries); and that the Khmers latter set up an outpost here as early as 850-1100 AD. This Khmer city was named ‘Ayodhya’ after one of the holiest Hindu cities of India.

The area was later invaded by Anawrahta, the King of Pagan (r.1044-1077) and controlled by the "Burmese" for about a hundred years. After the Burmese influence waned, it was conquered once again by the Khmer and held until the mid 13th century. The Tai seized political power shortly afterward by combining the Lavo and Suphannaphum Kingdoms. When King U-Thong arrived at Wiang Lek in 1347, a number of these architectural structures still existed.

Evidence also suggests that Chinese merchants set up in this area as an important stopping point for conducting trade with the Sukhothai kingdom. These ancient Ayodhya communities were situated on the stretch of land formed by Khlong Hantra, Khlong Ban Bat (Kamang), Khlong Khao San, and Khlong Suan Phlu. This area was originally connected to the city island, since the Pa Sak River had yet to be dug for defensive and navigational purposes. However, the boundaries of the ancient city are still subject of debate.

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.

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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