A Fun and Adventurous Discovery of Bangkok
Indeed, the oldest parts of the city are perfect for exploring by bike and boat.
The narrow alleyways of Chinatown’s labyrinth and the canals of Thonburi offer a unique perspective on this multifaceted city.
Though now at the heart of the city, Thonburi still retains the atmosphere of a riverside village.
The entire district is interlaced with canals of varying sizes and was originally inhabited by a diverse mix of people.
Christians, Muslims, and Buddhists lived here in harmony.
Bangkok, the sprawling capital of Thailand, originated on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Until the 18th century, there was little activity here, with a few people living in the marshes around the river. Life largely took place on the water, which is still very visible today.
The Oldest Districts of Bangkok
This bike tour takes you through the oldest districts of Bangkok, all located near the river, which is why your bike tour starts there.
Soon, you will see the Old Customs House, beautifully situated by the river.
Here, we take a moment to appreciate what was once the first stop for travelers and merchants entering Bangkok from abroad.
Chinatown
Next, we weave through the maze of vibrant and bustling streets of Bangkok’s Chinatown to discover the diverse cultures that make up this densely populated part of the capital.
Chinatown in Bangkok is home to one of the largest Chinese communities outside of China.
The district has its own character and is unlike any other area in Bangkok.
Thonburi
We take the ferry to the Thonburi side of the river.
In this historic district, the splendid Wat Kalayanamitr temple stands out, built in the 19th century by a Chinese-Thai merchant family and offered to King Rama III.
The main building of the temple houses a 14-meter-high Buddha statue.
Before boarding the boat, we visit Wat Prayoon, a nearly 200-year-old temple with a large, dazzling white stupa.
Near the temple is a pond with rocks on which small altars are arranged in memory of the deceased.
The pond is filled with turtles (which Buddhists consider to have a sacred status) that love to be fed fresh fruit.
Boat Cruise
In a long-tail boat, we then navigate about 7 kilometers to the Teak Thai Artist House, where lunch is served.
Along the way, you’ll be amazed by the rural character of this place, far from the crowds, with just a few houses here and there and a boat with a merchant.
After that, we continue by boat to another equally beautiful part of this canal area.
The ride ends on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, where we dock near a market. As we return to the starting point, this multifaceted excursion comes to an end, and you will have discovered a multitude of things.
Price per person
- Shared tour: 1800 bahts/p.
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