Cycling has become a very popular sport in Thailand in the last few years. It can be enjoyed by people of all ages and hence, it can be a great activity for the whole family from young children to older adults. Here are 5 family-friendly cycling routes in Bangkok.
1) Bang Krachao
Bang Krachao, also known as Bangkok’s Green Lung, is a man-made island surrounded by the iconic Chao Phraya River. It is an oasis of nature and serenity in the middle of the bustling city. The best way to explore Bang Krachao is by bicycle. Visitors can travel to Bang Krachao from Bangkok by boat. There are three piers in Khlong Toei, Bangna and Chong Nonsi with boats to the Green Lung. There are a number of bicycle rental shops, even near the pier where you alight from the boat. The island is dotted with places of interest such as the Thai Fighting Fish museum, Bangkok Tree House and Bang Nam Phueng Market, in the midst of nature.
2) Benjakitti Park
Benjakitti Park is a public park located next to the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre. It is within walking distance from Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre MRT station, BTS Skytrain Asok station and Sukhumvit MRT station. It comes with a newly opened extension, the Benjakitti Forest Park, with an expanded bicycle trail. It is possibly the best location for one who wants a quick cycling workout and a breath of fresh air without having to travel far out from the city centre.
3) Siangpure Bike Park
Siangpure Bike Park, previously known as Peppermint Bike Park, an area of over 10 rai of green space, is a green escape from the hustle and bustle of the big city. The park is located in Soi Yothinpatana 3 on Ekkamai Ramintra road, about 25 minutes away from the city centre. The family-friendly park is specially designed for both beginners and advanced riders, featuring a flat track, an adventure track and a pump track.
4) Rama IX Park
Rama IX park is the largest park in Bangkok, and one of the most photogenic, featuring lush green landscapes, beautiful flowers, ponds with fountains, a reservoir and its landmark – Ratchamangkhala Pavilion. There is an area called Sanam Rat with a dedicated 600-metre cycling path in the park. Do note that bicycles are not permitted within the main area of the park and are not available for rent.
5) Happy and Healthy Bike Lane
The Happy and Healthy Bike Lane, previously known as the Sky Lane before its upgrading and expansion, comprises two 23.5 km bike tracks of different colours around Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport. The purple track is for fast cyclists who want to test their speed and endurance limits, while the blue track is for cyclists who prefer to cycle at a comfortable pace. Open from 6am to 9pm, the tracks are equipped with a solar-powered lighting system for night riding. There are three rest areas and a first-aid station along the tracks. There are different types of bicycles available for rent for those who do not have a bicycle. Aside from the main bike tracks, there are also facilities available that promote a healthy and active lifestyle such as a running track, outdoor fitness centre and Kids Bike Park, which is free for kids between the ages of 4 and 12, featuring a pump track and short trail sections.
With all these family-friendly cycling routes to try out, we hope you have been inspired to visit Thailand. For more recommendations on what to do around Thailand, visit https://tourismthailand.sg/ or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.