Thailand Coast to Coast: Bangkok to Phuket

Probably South East Asia’s most energetic city, the lively streets of Bangkok is a world where the modern and ancient collide. Grand gold spired temples are nestled between towering sky scrapers and bustling markets. The River Chao Phraya and it’s expansive network of canals is a superb and relaxing way to explore the city. You can easily hop onto one of the many tourist long tail river boats to visit the Grand Palace, Wat Arun and the Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho). In the evening, discover authentic Thai food and dine on fresh bowls of Thai noodles or a spicy coconut curry.

Today, depart the bustle of Bangkok and travel by train the charming seaside town of Hua Hin (approx 3.5hrs journey). Here you will collect you bike and take a warm-up ride along the lanes and coastal roads of the Gulf of Thailand.

After a beachside breakfast, saddle up for an easy, introductory ride along the coast to Pranburi. Following a series of backroads into the countryside and along the waterfront you’ll soon arrive at the small town of Pranburi, where you spend the afternoon on a palm-fringed beach.

An easy stretch of flat coastal cycling eases you gently into today’s ride. Cycle with sandy beaches on your left and impressive limestone karst formations to your right. Finishing at Khiri Khan, you can visit ‘Wat Thammikaram’ (the monkey temple), where you can watch playful Langur Monkeys and enjoy far reaching views across the bay and countryside.

After a relaxing breakfast, you can take a short ride to the Waghor Aquarium which showcases the vast array of marine life found in this region. Riding onto Ban Krut you will weave through farmland, coastlines to reach the serene beaches of Ban Krut.

You route today heads through coconut groves, forests of rubber plantations and palm fringed beaches. With the coast on your left, you will now be cycling in the narrowest part of Thailand (neighbouring Myanmar is less than 20km away). Your destination today is the sensational coastal town of Chumpon, gateway to the south of Thailand, where you will spend the next 2 nights.

A perfectly timed rest day! Only a few steps from the pool of your hotel, spend the day relaxing on golden sands and cool off in the crystal blue waters in the Gulf of Thailand.

Leaving behind the Gulf of Thailand your journey begins with a transfer south to Surat Thani where it’s back on the bikes and the route heads inland and south west through limestone karsts and palm plantations towards the jungle and forests of Khao Sak National Park.

Cycle into the lush Khao Sok National Park where Limestone crags dominate the skyline. The park is home to over 155 bird species, Gaurs, Leopard Cats and the sounds of hooting Gibbons! Here you’ll spend the night in a community lodge on the fringes of the park, where your hosts will be happy to tell you more about park life.

Continuing south, cycle a rolling route through dense forest clad valleys towards the beaches of Khao Lak and clear blue waters of the Andaman Sea. Having successfully cycled across southern Thailand, end the day at a beachfront hotel with a local Tiger beer.

An exciting last day of cycling takes you onto the rich and diverse island of Phuket. Beginning with a series of short hills, ride along the Andaman coastline. As the route begins to flatten, youll soon reach the bridge which links Phuket Island with the mainland. Crossing the bridge you’re not far from your hotel and the welcoming warm waters of Phuket Island. 

You may like to stay for a few extra days in Phuket. From the cultural capital, Phuket, to upmarket resorts and an extensive variety of beaches, it’s worth taking an extra day or two to unwind. Extra nights in a variety of locations can be easily added to your journey.

Alternatively, Phuket’s nearby airport provides regular services to Bangkok and other regional airports in South East Asia. From Bangkok Airport, you can easily connect with most international destinations.