RIDE TO THE ANDAMAN - FROM CHIANG MAI TO PHUKET

We start our adventure from Chiang Mai, riding south on quiet rural roads with gentle bends and light traffic — perfect for warming up to the rhythm of Thailand.

The ride offers open countryside views and a taste of local village life along the way.

By afternoon, we reach Sukhothai, the “Dawn of Happiness” and capital of the first Siamese Kingdom.

Explore the Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with ancient temples, Buddha statues, and the ruins of the Royal Palace — a glimpse into Thailand’s golden era.

Enjoy dinner near the park and relax after a rewarding day’s ride.

Overnight in Sukhothai.

We depart Sukhothai and ride toward Kamphaeng Phet, an ancient city rich in heritage and once a key stronghold of the Sukhothai Kingdom.

Known as Cha Kang Rao in the 14th century, it served as a frontier city protecting the kingdom’s heartland.

Today, Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — preserves the remains of Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Phra That, and the city’s ancient defensive walls.

Enjoy lunch at a scenic local restaurant set against forested hills before continuing south toward Uthai Thani.

Here we explore Hub Pa Tad, a hidden valley enclosed by limestone cliffs — often called Thailand’s “prehistoric jungle.”

A short walk through a limestone tunnel reveals towering palm trees, rare plants, and a truly other-worldly atmosphere.

Overnight in Uthai Thani — the quiet countryside of central Thailand.

Enjoy the cool morning air as we depart Uthai Thani, a province known for its natural beauty, cultural depth, and spiritual landmarks.

Nearby lies the Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Southeast Asia’s most vital conservation areas — home to Thailand’s last wild tigers.

Our ride continues west toward Kanchanaburi, a province forever linked to World War II history.

We visit the Allied War Cemetery and the JEATH War Museum, powerful reminders of the lives lost during the construction of the infamous “Death Railway.”

After checking in at the hotel, we’ll take a peaceful evening walk to the Bridge over the River Kwai, a perfect time for photos in the soft light of dusk.

Dinner follows at a riverside restaurant — a relaxed setting to savor local flavors and reflect on the day’s ride.

End the evening your way: enjoy a quiet drink at a local bar or unwind with a traditional Thai massage.

Overnight in Kanchanaburi.

Start the day with a visit to Krasae Cave, one of the most scenic spots along the Death Railway. Perched on a cliffside above the Kwai River, this cave once served as a shelter for prisoners of war during WWII.

You can walk along the old wooden railway track, enjoy panoramic river views, and pay respects to a Buddha statue inside the cave.

Next we  head to Hellfire Pass, a historic and emotional site from World War II.Walk along the peaceful memorial trail once carved by prisoners of war, and visit the Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum, featuring emotional exhibits, photos, and survivor stories.

Then head to Erawan Waterfall, located in Erawan National Park. This stunning 7-tiered waterfall is surrounded by dense jungle and features crystal-clear emerald pools perfect for exploring or swimming.

At midday, enjoy a relaxed Thai-style lunch near the falls, with classic dishes like grilled chicken (gai yang), spicy papaya salad (som tam), sticky rice, and refreshing drinks—all served in a casual outdoor setting with natural views. After lunch, you can continue hiking up the waterfall’s tiers or simply relax by the water. We’ll return to Kanchanaburi town in the late afternoon, full of unforgettable nature and history experiences.

We begin our day riding along a scenic road surrounded by dramatic limestone mountains, where nature unfolds at every turn. Our first stop is the charming town of Suan Phueng, nestled near the Myanmar border.

Thanks to its close proximity to Bangkok, Suan Phueng is a popular weekend retreat for city dwellers seeking peace and fresh air. The town is dotted with family-friendly resorts, picturesque views, and a tranquil atmosphere that makes it perfect for a short escape from urban life.

After enjoying a relaxed lunch in the area, we continue to visit the Chang Hua Man Royal Project, initiated by King Rama IX. This royal agricultural development center has brought numerous benefits to the local community, promoting sustainability, education, and self-sufficiency in the region.

As the afternoon rolls on, we journey toward the coast and head to Hua Hin, one of Thailand’s most beloved seaside towns. With its long beaches, vibrant night markets, and blend of tradition and modern charm, Hua Hin offers the perfect place to end the day by the sea.

Today, we’ll ride through the narrowest part of Thailand, where the distance between the Gulf of Thailand and the Myanmar border is just a few kilometers. It’s a unique stretch of land with stunning views on both sides, marking our transition into Southern Thailand. Along the way, we’ll make a special stop at one of the region’s hidden gems — Phraya Nakhon Cave, a cave inside Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, famous for its sunlit chamber and the iconic royal pavilion built during King Rama V’s reign — a symbol of royal heritage and natural beauty.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit a temple perched on a seaside hill, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean. This large and beautifully designed temple is not only a spiritual landmark but also a perfect spot to pause and take in the coastal scenery. After our visit, we’ll continue our ride to a beachfront hotel in Chumphon Province, where the peaceful sea breeze and relaxing atmosphere await.

Today we cross from the Gulf of Thailand to the stunning Andaman Sea, a true highlight of our journey south.

The route winds through lush mountain scenery and rural landscapes — a dramatic transition between Thailand’s two coastlines.

Midway, we stop at the Isthmus of Kra, the country’s narrowest point, where only 44 km separate the Gulf from the Andaman.

It’s a powerful reminder of Thailand’s unique geography and cultural blend between east and west.

Lunch is enjoyed in Ranong, a quiet border town with classic Chinese-style shophouses and relaxed coastal charm.

In the afternoon, we ride to Ban Nam Khem, a fishing village deeply affected by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.

A visit to the Tsunami Memorial Park offers a moving reflection on resilience and community spirit.

We finish the day at our seaside resort on the Andaman coast — time to relax, unwind, and enjoy the sound of waves under a tropical sunset.

Our final day’s ride is relaxed and full of memorable moments.

We start on quiet inland roads, stopping at a local elephant camp to observe these gentle giants in a natural setting — a peaceful encounter before reaching the coast.

Next, we board a boat to Koh Panyee, a remarkable floating village built entirely on stilts beneath the towering limestone cliffs of Phang Nga Bay.

Home to a close-knit Muslim fishing community, the island is famous for its colorful houses, floating football field, and authentic seafood restaurants.

Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch here while soaking in views of one of Thailand’s most photogenic bays.

After lunch, we return to shore and ride toward Phuket Island, crossing the iconic Sarasin Bridge — the symbolic gateway to Thailand’s largest island.

Our journey concludes at a hotel near Patong Beach, where white sands and vibrant streets mark the perfect ending to this epic Ride to the Andaman.

As the sun sets, celebrate the adventure with a stroll along Patong’s walking street — live music, night markets, and endless energy to close out an unforgettable ride.

This amazing trip ends with transfer to the airport or your holiday extension. 

Enjoy the memories !

Farewell & Thanks from the BTA Team