SpiceRoads Launches Sunset Bicycle Rides in Bangkok

SpiceRoads Cycle Tours, a Bangkok-based specialist bicycle tour operator, has launched a Bangkok Sunset Ride that takes in the highlights of Old Rattanakosin at dusk.

Taking advantage of cooler temperatures when the sun goes down, this half day tour shows off Bangkok's many illuminated temples that sparkle in the night as well as taking in the flower market and the river breezes.

This tour departs daily, starting at 16:30, with a hotel transfer to and from a Bangkok hotel, at Wat Saket, also known as the Golden Mount. After a climb up 318 steps to a golden chedi atop a hill and panoramic views of the city, the cycling starts through the temple grounds. The first stop is at a small community where alm bowls were once made. The tour also visits Bangkok's old prison grounds, looking into former cells and learning about punishments that were once meted out.

The next stop is Wat Suthat, or Temple of the Giant swing, which is one of the oldest and largest in Bangkok. After a short tour of the temple, the riding continues down alleys, along a canal to an old drawbridge that eventually leads to the Phat Khlong flower and vegetable market. Open 24 hours, this market is a hive of activity.

The tour continues to Santi Chai Prakarn Park in time to watch the sunset over Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn. Now the lights come on and the Grand Palace and the other temples of Bangkok are truly magical when lit up. A short cycle along the Chao Phraya River and it's time for a drink break at the Phra Sumera Fortress. The next highlight is the splendid 30-metre high Buddha at Wat Indra Viharn. Enjoying the cooler temperatures the ride continues to Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall and past the Marble Temple on the way to Government House. The tour ends at Wat Ratchanada and Loha Prasat, both spired temples which represent the virtues toward enlightenment.

In total, the Bangkok Sunset Ride is around 15 km and lasts about 3-4 hours in duration, depending on group size and time spent exploring the sites. The riding is flat and easy and is recommended for all ages and biking abilities, with SpiceRoads giving in a '1 Chili' difficulty rating.

The price is THB1,650 per person (US$53) (Children 50% discount for 5-11, 25% discount for 12-17) with bike rental, helmet, lights and accident insurance included. Snacks and refreshments are also included and are complimentary during the ride.

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