Weekend Warriors: 5 Weekend Adventures to Get Your Adrenalin Pumping
For the typical Bangkok City dweller, whenever you want to take time off work and explore the world around you, one of the biggest questions before the trip would be “when to go”. Long-weekends are notoriously known for their large crowds, annual leave days are hard to come by, and even when do you get them maybe your boss has a big project that they need you in the office for. What is one to do to make sure the work-life balance stays intact? We recommend you let your adrenalin flow with a 2 days 1 night trip near Bangkok over the weekend to add some color to your life!
Follow us to give yourself and your loved ones an experience like no other – whether it is on land, on the sea, or in the mountains you are surely going to have an awesome weekend.
White Water Rafting at Hin Perng Rapids in Khao Yai National Park, Prachin Buri
If you think about it, white water rafting is just like going on a natural forming rollercoaster. Bounce up and down from stream to rock as the rapids take you on a ride of a lifetime. Within the boundaries of the Khao Yai National Park, the Hin Perng Rapids is classified as a level 3-5 length rapid (medium level). Those who want to brave the journey must take the first trek over 2.5kms by foot to the starting point before they can enjoy the adrenalin rush that is provided.
But it is worth it. Rafting can last anywhere between 30-120 minutes depending on your crews’ skill and mother nature. However, fear not, for safety reasons an experienced rafter will be guiding you along the way and helping you paddle your way to safety. Along the banks, safety guards are also prepared at different points to help you out. An adventure like this is also perfect to go to during the rainy season, making it a good choice for those gloomy weekends.
Suggested Travel Period: July – October
Distance From Bangkok: 202kms / about a 3-hour drive
High Altitude Camping at Kaeng Krachan National Park, Petchaburi
Grab your jackets and comfortable walking shoes, Kaeng Krachan National Park is the natural sanctuary you need that is close to Bangkok. The highlight of this park is being able to go camping amidst all the greenery and wake up with a sea of fog in the early mornings. Experience the cold weather unheard of in Bangkok only a few hours away from the capital while you enjoy some hot chocolate or coffee. But take note, this place fills up! Make sure you reserve a spot early on.
If this kind of experience does not energize you for the weekday, then nothing can. But other than the scenic views, Kaeng Krachan also has a nature trail, a bike route near the dam, and a few waterfalls for you to visit as well! Talk about a complete experience.
Travel Period: November – July
Distance From Bangkok: 189kms / about a 2.30-hour drive
Learn to Sail at Sattahip, Chon Buri
There is definitely a small part in all of us that wonders how it would feel like to captain a boat. And now, you do not have to wonder anymore. Get yourselves ready to sail into the open seas and learn how to man your own sailboats in the vast clear waters in the Gulf of Thailand. Be prepared to bring your game face as the winds in the open waters are tough but it is an adventure you will definitely not want to miss out on with your friends and family.
A new adventure on your own like this can be sought from an area like Sattahip. In the area, you can choose full sailing courses from the Navy Academy or the Sailing Association of Thailand under the Royal Patronage but both places take about 8-12 days to complete a course – obviously too long for a weekend. Therefore, for those looking for a quick thrill you can be a passenger for a day instead at the Sailing Yacht Thailand club! Sit back and play “pretend sailboat captain” for a day!
Travel Period: November - April
Location and Distance From Bangkok: 153kms / about a 2-hour drive
Biking With History at Thailand’s Old Capital, Ayutthaya
Being Thailand’s old capital Ayutthaya is home to a large amount of temple ruins that one can admire. For the history buff or the hipster looking for an Insta-moment, Ayutthaya is a spot worthy of visiting time and time again. However, walking around is overrated and for some might not jolt any excitement. Instead, enjoy the town with pace on bike instead. Feel the breeze as you whisk through the different temples and explore.
For the beginners, a shorter route that will capture the main temples is recommended. You will cover a total of 6kms and pass all the “must-see” places from Wat Mahathat, Wat Ratchaburana, the Ancient Palace, to Wat Phra Sri Sanphet. However, for the seasoned cyclists, another add another 4kms to your trip so you can go over and see the wonders of Wat Chaiwatthanaram as well. Just remember you also have to cycle back!
Suggested Travel Period: All year round
Distance From Bangkok: 77kms / about a 1-hour drive
Go Trekking at The Golden Meadow, Rayong
We understand that for some, an adventure does not always have to involve hard physical activity. Therefore, instead of something that might get your adrenalin rushing how about a walk through the Golden Meadows instead? The Golden Meadows is a mangrove forest conservation area covered in Prong Trees. As a tree without a proper English name, you will surely experience something exotic.
The views on the trekking trail are stunning as the greenery is sprinkled with yellow and golden colors. The trial is only 1km long as you walk through the meadow but that is more than enough to get your heart pumping with joy. Time to snap a photo and take it back to Bangkok with you.
Suggested Travel Period: all year round
Distance From Bangkok: 202kms / about a 2.40-hour drive