Thailand is an epic country for cyclists, and it’s kicking off National Bike Month, which means it’s time to plan a trip and explore this beautiful land by bike! From the rolling plains of the north to the tropical coastline of southern Thailand, there’s a massive variety of landscapes and terrain for cyclists to explore.
The beautiful Thai culture, laidback people, and friendly locals will have you itching to get out on your bike. There are so many places in Thailand that are great for cycling. Here are some of our top tips on how to enjoy your time on two wheels in this epic country:
Riding a Bike in Sukhothai
Sukhothai is one of Thailand’s most iconic places to cycle. The ruins of the ancient capital are dotted across the landscape, and there are plenty of quiet pathways that allow you to explore the sites at your own pace. The central city is the perfect size to explore by bike, and there are plenty of restaurants and roadside cafes to stop off for drinks and snacks.
The area is riddled with Buddhist temples with a heritage that spans many centuries of history. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site perfect for cycling. You can cycle to nearby towns or pack up and drive to other sites in exotic districts like Si Satchanalai or Ban Na.
Bike Riding in Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park
Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park is one of the best places to cycle in Thailand. The park is home to various landscapes, from forested hills to the coast and even the lower plains. If you’re wondering how difficult it is to get here from Bangkok, you’ll be glad to know that it’s just a hop, skip, and a jump away!
If you’re looking for a place with plenty of space for riding a bike, this is it, the park is huge, so there are plenty of routes to explore by bike. Khao Sam Roi Yot is one of the most popular parks in Thailand. This makes sense, as it’s also one of Thailand’s top tourist destinations. The park’s lush forests and beaches create a great combination. The park is also full of wildlife, so you can explore by bike while watching out for Indian nightjars, Himalayan swiftlets, and other creatures.
Lumphini Park
Lumphini Park is a great place to visit by bike. This is a large park in Bangkok that features a breathtaking artificial lake. In addition, the park is located near a plethora of beautiful Buddhist temples, making it a perfect place for exploring by bike. The locals like to call this place the Central Park of Bangkok. As such, you’ll encounter runners and joggers as well as cyclists.
Several cycling routes through the park allow you to explore by bike. The park is also great for people who love wildlife as you will be able to see numerous animals in the heart of the nation’s capital city.
Riding a Bike in Khao Lak
The village of Khao Lak occupies Thailand’s tropical Western shoreline. It has plenty of natural features that make the area perfect for cycling. This gorgeous stretch of land is home to tropical beaches, forests, and mountains. There are many biking routes through Khao Lak, allowing you to explore the many different landscapes. The area is also close to several great beach options to enjoy after your ride.
You can get to Phang Nga from Phuket by bus, taxi, or car. You can even take a shuttle. Phang Nga is a scenic and beautiful area in the South of Thailand. The chief attraction in Phang Nga is Khao Chang, a magnificent mountain shaped like an elephant.
Bike Riding in Bang Krachao
Bang Krachao is an area featuring an artificial island South of Bangkok. The short distance from Bangkok makes for an easy day trip, you can drive here or take a boat ride that takes cyclists directly to Bang Krachao. It’s a great place to explore by bike, as the town is surrounded by forests and rivers. Several bike routes through the town allow you to explore the riverside neighborhoods and forest.
If you’re a lover of nature or want to escape the rat race, there is no better place than Bang Krachao. This small coastal town in Thailand may seem like just another beach town, but its hidden natural treasures will leave you speechless.
Once you visit and ride the trails, you’ll realize that this small riverside town is much more than another village. Bangkok, roughly 40 miles away, gets most of the attention and tourists, so there are not many people who know about this place. Instead, this area is prized for its rich, lush, and gorgeous jungle terrain, which has earned it the nickname, The Green Lung of Bangkok.
It’s not only a lovely place to visit. It’s also a great spot to escape the city and experience a slower, often cheaper life. The views are incredible, the water is warm and crystal clear, the weather is generally warm and sunny, and you’ll be in a far quieter setting than the rest of the country. You can easily spend a few days here and never get bored.
Tips for Biking in Thailand
The most important tip to keep in mind while riding a bike in Thailand is to always stay hydrated. Hydration is key while riding a bike in Thailand. You should also try to keep an eye on the weather and bring appropriate gear if it rains. The Thai climate can be hot and humid; it’s easy to forget that you need water while riding, so you should bring plenty with you. Make sure you keep an eye on how much water you’re drinking so you don’t dehydrate.
Lock Your Bike at Night
Lock your bike at night while you’re in Thailand. This is a savvy way to make sure no one steals your bike while you’re out exploring. It’s also a good idea to lock your bike when not in use, as you don’t want to risk it getting stolen in the middle of the day.
Find a Local Guide & Tip Well
While you can explore Thailand by yourself, it’s wise to look into hiring a guide. They can help you navigate the country, ensure you see the best places, and show you the local culture. When hiring a guide, make sure you tip them reasonably well. You don’t have to tip extravagantly, but make sure you tip your guide reasonably well. It’s easy to be budget-conscious when traveling, but it’s better to tip well than not.
While it’s important to lock up your bike at night while it’s not in use, you should also consider taking a cruise around Bangkok on your bike at night. Many local companies throughout Bangkok offer both evening and sunrise tours via bike. You can ride your bike past Wat Arun for the sunrise .. or through Chinatown at night while passing the grand palace and biking into Wat Pho for a night temple tour
