Back to HTML view
BANGKOK - KANCHANABURI
The first day starts with a dirty, tough ride out of Bangkok on the major highway toward Kanchanaburi. The ride is long, uninspiring and extremely hot. There is a good shoulder on the road right to Kanchanaburi. I would recommend cutting this section out and taking the train to Kanchanaburi and starting the ride from there. 130 Km is really too much for one day in Thailand. The train can be caught from the station in Nontaburi, not the main station at Hualampong.
Accommodation is plentiful in the town and there are a number of sights which should be visited. The Death Railway Cemeteries, associated museums and the bridge are all major points of interest. There are a number of other places to visit around town, including the Tiger Temple. Stay by the river for the best guest houses.
KANCHANABURI - SAI YOK
The second stage begins with a sweeping road out of Kanchanaburi toward Sai Yok which is
very pleasant. There are a number of good eating stops and the beautiful countryside starts
to show itself. There are hills/mountains on either side of the road but the road itself is
relatively flat. The 60 Km to Sai Yok is a refreshing and fun ride.
At Sai Yok there are 2 choices of accommodation, both cheap. The waterfall by the side of the road is a great cooling off point. The railway also stops here so it gives you another option to start your journey.
SAI YOK - THONG PHA PHUM
The third day becomes a little more challenging with a few gradients to climb, however
nothing stomach churning. The ride is enjoyable, the scenery becomes breathtaking and there
is plenty to see and do in the 100Km stretch to Thong Pa Pum. Fist up there is Hellfire Pass,
with museum, then the Sai Yok Yai waterfall and finally the Hin Dat hot springs. All break up
the day nicely, but it can be a long day.
Thong Pa Pum has some cheap accommodation in town, the town is quite pleasant with some serious mountain biking to be had in the surrounding hills.
THONG PHA PHUM - SANGKHLABURI
Leg 4 is a monster. This leg is a shocker and the toughest days ride I have undertaken
(I did it in April heat). The hills start immediately outside Thong Pa Pum and continue
mercilessly until Sangkhlaburi. The scenery is amazing, and compensates for the tough climbs
that you must endure. I ran out of water before the last climb of the day and really suffered.
Please ensure you fill up everywhere possible! When you reach town you will be filled with that
warm, glowing feeing of achievement. It is worth it.
SANGKHLABURI - 3 PAGODAS PASS
The final leg is to 3 Pagodas Pass, an easy 20 Km of nearly flat roads. It is enjoyable but the
finish line is a welcome sight! You can stay in 3 Pagodas, but it's probably not worth it.
Head back to Sangkhlaburi and take a dip in the creek about 5Km out of the town. The nice food
sold nearby all adds to an enjoyable day out.
The ride overall is tough, but extremely inspiring. This ride is for good/experienced riders
and should really be undertaken during the winter months of December/January. There are a
number of options heading back to Bangkok if you don't want to retrace your steps. Please
contact me for details of alternative routes. -end-
Back to HTML view