The Cheapest Way to Explore Ayutthaya from Bangkok

by Regin Reyno

One of the tourist spots in Thailand that is near Bangkok is the historic city of Ayutthaya. It was the former capital city of Thailand, and one of the kingdoms during the olden days. The kingdom existed from 1351 to 1767. It was once regarded as the strongest kingdom in the mainland Southeast Asia.

afternoon glow

Whether a history buff or not, you must visit Ayutthaya. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, my main reason of visiting it-and why not? It's near Bangkok.

I encourage visiting Ayutthaya independently thus avoiding those overpriced tour agencies, and your travel will be more meaningful as you control your pace.

Last week, my friends and I visited that historic city and cycled our way to the temples. It was a wonderful experience. It's cheap, more meaningful, more adventurous, and it's a good exercise. Just don't forget to wear sunblock. 

Here's how to get there from Bangkok, and cycle in that famous city.

1. Take a train from Hualamphong Station or any other train stations near your area. In our case, we embarked from Don Muang station as it is the nearest one to my place. The journey takes 45 minutes.

fare: 20 baht for foreigners 
         free for Thai nationals

2. From the train station, cross the street and you can find a shop with lots of bicycle. Bring a photocopy of your passport then rent a bike. They'll give you a map and instructions and is fairly easy to follow it and navigate your way around.

price: 40 baht from the morning until 7pm

optional: You can also rent a motorbike if you don't have the energy to pedal. It costs 200 baht/day.

cycling in Ayutthaya

3. Lots of foods and drinks are being sold in the temples and nearby. Although the price is a little bit higher because it's a tourist area.

one meal: 50 baht-80 baht

4. Some temples have entrance fees ranging from 20 baht to 50 baht. But if you're Thai, (or look like Thai) you don't need to pay.

So when in Bangkok, take the opportunity to visit this UNESCO World Heritage site, and experience one of the greatest kingdoms in Southeast Asia before.

Slow travel is better.
Photo credit: Franz Calipuzan 

P.S. Forget about those overpriced tour agencies in Khaosan road.

My Expenses During That Trip

-train to Ayutthaya: 20 baht (0.64 USD)
-bicycle rental: 40 baht (1.28 USD)
-beverages: 40 baht (1.28 USD)
-lunch: 50 baht (1.60 USD)
-train to Bangkok: free (they thought we were Thais)
-admission fee to the temples: free (they thought we were Thais)

total: 150 baht (4.80 USD)

If you have questions, just leave it in the comment box below.