A night bike ride through Bangkok

By: Andrea Ross

Mom and I came through Bangkok- she needed to see the dentist and I was starting guide training…we had one night together in Bangkok! I decided an adventure was in order so we booked a Night Bike Tour with Grasshopper Adventures. The tour starts in the Old Town area, near Khao San Road. You ride through the streets and along the river and then cross to the far side of the river by ferry. Once there it’s a much easier ride with a lot less traffic and none of the heart stopping moments of riding in town. We rode to Wat Arun, the temple of Dawn. While I know the temple looks beautiful at sunrise it looks absolutely stunning at night. A group of monks was busy decorating the temple walls, but other than them it was empty and we were able to enjoy the temples quietly on our own. From here we rode along the river and over the bridge to visit the amazing flower market. At night this market literally takes over street blocks and the amount of flowers is mind blowing! Last stop was Wat Pho temple where the Reclining Buddha sleeps. We were a little late for him, but saw the temples lit up; it was stunning, the temperature was cool and we were the only people there, a great way to see it!

There were some downsides to the tour…riding on the main Bangkok streets was scary and you definitely had to pay 100% attention, even in the quieter area.  I also didn’t like being in a group tour, I know, I’m antisocial, but I just like to be able to go at my pace and stop when suits me. Journeys Within can book it as a private tour and I think that would make it an amazing experience. It’s certainly not for the faint of heart, but it’s a great way to be on the beaten track all by yourself!