Ayutthaya - Tha Ruea Bicycle Track

This bicycle tour has been designed for a 90 Km bike ride to Tha Ruea district of Ayutthaya province. Main objective is the former location of the Royal Pavilion of King Songtham (r. 1610/1611-1628). Wat Tamnak Phra Jao Songtham is located on the east bank of the Pa Sak River in Tha Ruea district of Ayutthaya province. It is presumed to be the place were the Ayutthayan Kings resided on their way to the Phra Bat. The Tha Rua - Ayutthaya route was an annual ritual boat-outing from the Ayutthayan Kings since, in the reign of King Songtham, the Footstep of the Buddha was discovered on the Satchaphantkakiri Hill by a hunter. The Ayutthayan Kings made a stopover at Nakhon Luang (present Prasat Nakhon Luang on the east bank of the Pa Sak River) and at Tha Rua. From Tha Rua to the Phra Phutthabat, a road ran over 20 Km straight to the Phra Phutthabat, linking the landing with the religious site. The construction of this road, called "Thanon Farang Song Klong" or "The Road of the Foreigner with the telescope" was ordered by King Songtham and - following Prince Damrong Rajanubhab - constructed by a Dutchman.

If you are interested in viewing photographs of the temples and sites or would like additional historic information about some Points of Interest, visit our website at www.ayutthaya-history.com. As this is a bicycle training track, not all Points of Interest are posted. They are mainly for reference.

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 and dangerous. 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 Biking Adventure, hereafter called ABA, consists of a small group of bikers with the aim to keep up the overall physical condition in an healthy environment.

Disclaimer

ABA will not be held liable for any loss or damage whatsoever regarding the suggested tracks. It is the responsibility of the user to take the necessary precautions to avoid any physical injury, traffic incident, animal attack, theft, and damage to equipment. Any reliance on the ABA's information is therefore strictly at own risk. Read our full disclaimer on the website.

In emergency or accident:

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

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