Bira Circuit
Location
Pattaya, Chonburi, Thailand
Current Local Time
Current Local Weather
Nearby Tracks
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Bangsaen Street Circuit
43.5 km away
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Track Info
Bira Circuit - Bang Lamung, Chonburi, Thailand
Thailand’s first permanent circuit - clockwise - compact 2.410 km lap with 12 turns, big elevation changes and a fast downhill double-apex signature
First Race
26–27 Apr 1986
Grand Opening weekend as Pattaya Circuit, followed by the Mobil Grand Prix Championship ’86 season.
Circuit Length
2.410 km / 1.498 mi
International Course in continuous use since 1985–86.
Turns
12
Commonly mapped as 12 numbered corners on current track guides.
Lap Records
Formula BMW 1:01.444 - Sam Abay (2006) • AF2000 1:02.440 - Ng Wai Leong (2000) • Super Touring 1:03.090 - Charles Kwan (1998) • TCR 1:04.669 - Jack Lemvard (2016)
Official race laps on the 2.410 km layout.
Capacity
~30,000
Main grandstand opposite pits plus raised spectator banks.
When was the track built?
Constructed in 1985 as Pattaya Circuit, the venue was renamed shortly after to honor Prince Birabongse ‘B. Bira’ Bhanudej, Thailand’s pioneering Grand Prix driver. It became the country’s first permanent circuit and a nucleus for national motorsport from the mid-1980s onward.
When was its first race?
The circuit’s first race weekend was the Grand Opening on 26–27 April 1986, followed by the Mobil Grand Prix Championship ’86 and, later, Asian festival events that established Bira as a regional staple.
What's the circuit like?
- Short, bumpy and busy: A U-shaped lap with short straights, two chicanes and frequent elevation changes keeps cars loaded and drivers on the limit. Heat and humidity add to the challenge.
- Signature section: The fast downhill double-apex right is the heartbeat of Bira, testing commitment and rear-tyre support lap after lap.
- Setup priorities: Platform control over bumps, traction for the hairpins and kerb compliance through the chicanes are key to long-run pace.
- Benchmark pace: Sub 1:02 in junior single-seaters and low 1:04s in TCR underline how quick the compact layout can be.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- Formula BMW - race lap: 1:01.444 - Sam Abay, Mygale FB02, 2006.
- Asian Formula 2000 - race lap: 1:02.440 - Ng Wai Leong, Argo Formula Asia, 2000.
- Super Touring - race lap: 1:03.090 - Charles Kwan, BMW 320, 1998.
- TCR Thailand - race lap: 1:04.669 - Jack Lemvard, SEAT León Cup Racer, 2016.
- Super 2000 - race lap: 1:07.761 - Nattavude Charoensukawattana, Peugeot 306 GTi, 2001.
Why go?
Bira is old-school and up close. You see cars on the edge through the downhill double-apex, feel the bumps from the terraces and watch overtakes compress into tight braking zones. Thailand Super Series, Yamaha bikes and club categories keep the calendar vibrant.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Main straight and T1: Starts, restarts and the heavy stop into the opening complex with pit action opposite.
- Downhill double-apex right: The lap’s most spectacular corner for commitment and pass set-ups.
- Final chicane-hairpin sequence: Mistakes here decide the slingshot to the flag and make for great photos.
Not just one series - headline events at Bira
Thailand Super Series: Regular national headliner with GT and touring classes.
SEATCZC and AF2000 history: Long-running regional touring and single-seater championships that shaped the circuit’s legacy.
Manufacturer and club days: The venue doubles as a test and experience hub year-round.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Bira Circuit - Bang Lamung, Chonburi (near Pattaya)
Best options are driving via Highway 36 to the signed Sirkuit Bira entrance, intercity bus or van to Pattaya then taxi - motorbike taxi, and on site parking near the paddock and perimeter. The circuit sits around 15 km northeast of central Pattaya on Highway 36.
Address - Sat nav
111 Moo 5, Pong, Bang Lamung, Chonburi 20150
Commonly published postal - navigation address used for the venue.
Road access
Thailand Route 36 - “Pattaya - Rayong”
The circuit sits directly off Highway 36, around 15 km from Pattaya city center.
Nearest city hub
Pattaya
Allow roughly 25 - 35 minutes by road from central Pattaya in typical traffic.
Airports
U-Tapao UTP • Suvarnabhumi BKK
UTP is the local airport south of Pattaya, with BKK as the main international gateway.
Circuit spec
2.41 km - 12 turns - opened 1985/86
Thailand’s first permanent road course, near the seaside resort of Pattaya.
Public transport - bus or van to Pattaya, then taxi - motorbike taxi
- Bangkok → Pattaya: Frequent buses - minivans run from Ekkamai and other Bangkok terminals to Pattaya throughout the day. In town, hop on a taxi or motorbike taxi for the final leg to the circuit.
- Pattaya local travel: Baht buses (songthaews) cover city corridors, but they do not run direct to Highway 36. For the circuit, a taxi - motorbike taxi is the practical option from your hotel or bus terminal.
Some travel blogs list ad hoc bus stops near Highway 36. These are not dedicated circuit services and usually still require a taxi or a substantial walk. Plan a taxi for the last leg.
Driving - straightforward via Highway 36
- From Pattaya: Head north to Route 36 toward Rayong. Follow signs for Bira Circuit - Sirkuit Bira and the venue access road. The gate is just off the dual carriageway.
- From Bangkok: Use Motorway 7 toward Chonburi and link to Route 36 west of Pattaya, then follow the circuit signs.
Parking - on site lots by the paddock and perimeter
- General parking: On most track days and club events, spectators park on site near the paddock and outer access roads. Availability and any charges vary by event.
- Event note: For larger meetings, arrive early and follow marshal directions to signed P zones off Highway 36.
Taxis - motorbike taxis
- Set destination: Bira Circuit, 111 Moo 5, Pong, Bang Lamung 20150. Drivers in Pattaya know the venue on Highway 36.
- Typical time: Expect around 25 - 35 minutes by road from central Pattaya hotels depending on traffic.
Walking from drop offs - car parks
- From parking areas: Stewarded paths lead from the on site lots to spectator banks and the main grandstand. Walk times vary by P zone - allow 5 - 15 minutes.
Airports and longer trips
- U-Tapao UTP → Bira: regional airport south of Pattaya with road transfer up to the circuit area.
- Bangkok Suvarnabhumi BKK: primary international gateway for Pattaya - connect by motorway shuttle, bus or private transfer, then taxi to the circuit.
About the venue - quick context
- 2.41 km permanent road course: Opened mid 1980s, Thailand’s first permanent circuit, with notable elevation and a tight, technical layout.
Quick guide - what is nearest
- Pattaya base: go by taxi - motorbike taxi straight to the Highway 36 gate.
- Drivers: use Route 36 and follow Bira Circuit signs to on site parking.
- Air arrivals: UTP or BKK then road transfer via Pattaya to the venue.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Bira Circuit - Pattaya - Chonburi Coast (Thailand)
Whether you are here for Thailand Super Series rounds, national touring - GT - one make cups, superbikes, drifting, time attack or a trackday, this classic circuit sits on the hills above Pattaya with gardens, beaches, islands and viewpoints close by for non race days.
Motorsport at Bira
National cars - Bikes - Drift - Time attack - Trackdays
About 2.4 km clockwise layout with 12 turns and elevation changes. Named after Prince Birabongse Bhanudej. On site kart circuit operates on selected dates.
Typical peak window
November - April
Dry season brings the most comfortable track days. May - October is hot - humid with afternoon showers.
Nearby hubs
Pattaya - Jomtien - Si Racha - Bang Saen
Beaches and attractions are 15 - 35 minutes from the paddock depending on traffic.
Event impact
Weekend crowds - beach festivals
National series and drift festivals add evening shows. Pattaya beachfront and viewpoints get busy Friday - Sunday.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit
- Bira Kart Circuit: Arrive and drive sessions for adults and juniors on non event days. Book ahead on race weeks.
- Ramayana Water Park: Large water park near Khao Chi Chan with lazy river and big slides for mixed ages.
- Nong Nooch Tropical Garden: Shaded walkways, themed gardens and elephant - cultural shows. Easy half day with kids.
- Underwater World Pattaya: Walk through tunnels and touch pools for a cool indoor hour.
- Art in Paradise - Pattaya: Trick eye museum for playful family photos if a shower rolls in.
- Khao Kheow Open Zoo - Si Racha: Spacious enclosures, tram loops and feeding programs about 40 - 50 minutes away.
Water parks, zoos and karting often use timed entry or peak pricing on weekends and holidays. Morning slots help if you plan to return for afternoon sessions.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Sanctuary of Truth: Hand carved wooden temple by the sea with guided tours and craft workshops.
- Khao Chi Chan - Buddha Mountain: Giant Buddha outline on a limestone cliff paired nicely with Silverlake Vineyard for a relaxed hour.
- Wat Yansangwararam: Peaceful temple complex and lake paths near the vineyard - good just after sunrise.
- Pattaya viewpoints: Phra Tamnak Hill and Bali Hai Pier area for skyline and bay photos at sunset.
- Ripley's Believe It or Not - Royal Garden: Indoor galleries and small rides that work well if storms pass through.
- Burapha University Aquarium - Bang Saen: Compact, educational aquarium if you are heading up the coast.
Eat and drink like a local
- Seafood on the pier: Fresh prawns, squid, crab and steamed fish at Pattaya - Naklua - Jomtien waterfront spots.
- Isan staples: Som tam, gai yang and sticky rice are everywhere and easy to dial spice for kids.
- Market snacks: Grilled skewers, roti pancakes and coconut ice cream around night markets and beach promenades.
- Café - vineyard combo: Silverlake for pastries and grape juice with vineyard - lake views after a temple loop.
- Race week tip: Friday - Saturday dinners on Walking Street, Beach Road and vineyard - Khao Chi Chan area fill quickly on headline weekends. Reserve for groups or dine earlier with kids.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Jomtien - Pattaya beach walks: Flat promenades for sunrise jogs or sunset strolls with sea breeze.
- Koh Larn boat hop: 15 - 30 minute ferry from Bali Hai Pier to small island beaches and clear water coves.
- Bang Phra Reservoir: Shaded loops and birdwatching 30 - 40 minutes inland.
- SUP - kayak: Rentals pop up along Jomtien and Samae Beach on Koh Larn. Calm mornings are best.
- Viewpoint scooter loop: Link Phra Tamnak Hill with small overlooks toward Pratumnak and Wong Amat for quick photo stops.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Koh Larn - 30 to 60 minutes including ferry. Beaches, snorkel hires and café terraces.
- Bang Saen - 45 to 70 minutes. Quieter beach day with university cafés and a small aquarium.
- Ko Si Chang - 80 to 120 minutes including ferry. Hilltop vistas, small beaches and a palace site from Si Racha pier.
- Rayong - Mae Ramphueng - 60 to 100 minutes. Longer sands and seafood shacks if you want more space.
- Chonburi - Ang Sila - 45 to 70 minutes. Stone craft market and fishing pier for a seafood lunch.
Times are approximate and rise on headline weekends. Ferries and attractions may have last entry cutoffs, weather checks or dated tickets.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - National calendars and drift festivals focus on the drier months with events sprinkled year round. Hotels in Pattaya - Jomtien fill Thursday - Sunday on big weekends.
- Weather - Tropical. Expect hot, humid days with quick showers, especially May - October. Sea breezes help on the coast, but grandstands are exposed. Pack breathable layers, sunscreen, a hat and a light rain shell.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site operations: Karting and public experiences may pause or switch to special hours on headline weekends. Check the weekly schedule.
- Heat - hydration: Bring refillable bottles, electrolytes and a compact umbrella for sun or showers. Closed shoes are better for paddock - grandstand stairs.
- Temple etiquette: Shoulders and knees covered for Sanctuary - Wat visits. Carry a light scarf or wrap.
- Cash - cards: Resorts and malls take cards, but many beach vendors and markets prefer cash or QR wallets.
- Family packing list: Ear protection for children, sun protection, light ponchos, swim kit and quick dry footwear for sudden downpours.
Opening hours, seasonal programs, ferry services and event week operations can change - check official circuit and attraction sites for your exact dates.
Hotels & Accommodation
Location
Pattaya, Chonburi, Thailand
Current Local Time
Current Local Weather
Track Info
Bira Circuit - Bang Lamung, Chonburi, Thailand
Thailand’s first permanent circuit - clockwise - compact 2.410 km lap with 12 turns, big elevation changes and a fast downhill double-apex signature
First Race
26–27 Apr 1986
Grand Opening weekend as Pattaya Circuit, followed by the Mobil Grand Prix Championship ’86 season.
Circuit Length
2.410 km / 1.498 mi
International Course in continuous use since 1985–86.
Turns
12
Commonly mapped as 12 numbered corners on current track guides.
Lap Records
Formula BMW 1:01.444 - Sam Abay (2006) • AF2000 1:02.440 - Ng Wai Leong (2000) • Super Touring 1:03.090 - Charles Kwan (1998) • TCR 1:04.669 - Jack Lemvard (2016)
Official race laps on the 2.410 km layout.
Capacity
~30,000
Main grandstand opposite pits plus raised spectator banks.
When was the track built?
Constructed in 1985 as Pattaya Circuit, the venue was renamed shortly after to honor Prince Birabongse ‘B. Bira’ Bhanudej, Thailand’s pioneering Grand Prix driver. It became the country’s first permanent circuit and a nucleus for national motorsport from the mid-1980s onward.
When was its first race?
The circuit’s first race weekend was the Grand Opening on 26–27 April 1986, followed by the Mobil Grand Prix Championship ’86 and, later, Asian festival events that established Bira as a regional staple.
What's the circuit like?
- Short, bumpy and busy: A U-shaped lap with short straights, two chicanes and frequent elevation changes keeps cars loaded and drivers on the limit. Heat and humidity add to the challenge.
- Signature section: The fast downhill double-apex right is the heartbeat of Bira, testing commitment and rear-tyre support lap after lap.
- Setup priorities: Platform control over bumps, traction for the hairpins and kerb compliance through the chicanes are key to long-run pace.
- Benchmark pace: Sub 1:02 in junior single-seaters and low 1:04s in TCR underline how quick the compact layout can be.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- Formula BMW - race lap: 1:01.444 - Sam Abay, Mygale FB02, 2006.
- Asian Formula 2000 - race lap: 1:02.440 - Ng Wai Leong, Argo Formula Asia, 2000.
- Super Touring - race lap: 1:03.090 - Charles Kwan, BMW 320, 1998.
- TCR Thailand - race lap: 1:04.669 - Jack Lemvard, SEAT León Cup Racer, 2016.
- Super 2000 - race lap: 1:07.761 - Nattavude Charoensukawattana, Peugeot 306 GTi, 2001.
Why go?
Bira is old-school and up close. You see cars on the edge through the downhill double-apex, feel the bumps from the terraces and watch overtakes compress into tight braking zones. Thailand Super Series, Yamaha bikes and club categories keep the calendar vibrant.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Main straight and T1: Starts, restarts and the heavy stop into the opening complex with pit action opposite.
- Downhill double-apex right: The lap’s most spectacular corner for commitment and pass set-ups.
- Final chicane-hairpin sequence: Mistakes here decide the slingshot to the flag and make for great photos.
Not just one series - headline events at Bira
Thailand Super Series: Regular national headliner with GT and touring classes.
SEATCZC and AF2000 history: Long-running regional touring and single-seater championships that shaped the circuit’s legacy.
Manufacturer and club days: The venue doubles as a test and experience hub year-round.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Bira Circuit - Bang Lamung, Chonburi (near Pattaya)
Best options are driving via Highway 36 to the signed Sirkuit Bira entrance, intercity bus or van to Pattaya then taxi - motorbike taxi, and on site parking near the paddock and perimeter. The circuit sits around 15 km northeast of central Pattaya on Highway 36.
Address - Sat nav
111 Moo 5, Pong, Bang Lamung, Chonburi 20150
Commonly published postal - navigation address used for the venue.
Road access
Thailand Route 36 - “Pattaya - Rayong”
The circuit sits directly off Highway 36, around 15 km from Pattaya city center.
Nearest city hub
Pattaya
Allow roughly 25 - 35 minutes by road from central Pattaya in typical traffic.
Airports
U-Tapao UTP • Suvarnabhumi BKK
UTP is the local airport south of Pattaya, with BKK as the main international gateway.
Circuit spec
2.41 km - 12 turns - opened 1985/86
Thailand’s first permanent road course, near the seaside resort of Pattaya.
Public transport - bus or van to Pattaya, then taxi - motorbike taxi
- Bangkok → Pattaya: Frequent buses - minivans run from Ekkamai and other Bangkok terminals to Pattaya throughout the day. In town, hop on a taxi or motorbike taxi for the final leg to the circuit.
- Pattaya local travel: Baht buses (songthaews) cover city corridors, but they do not run direct to Highway 36. For the circuit, a taxi - motorbike taxi is the practical option from your hotel or bus terminal.
Some travel blogs list ad hoc bus stops near Highway 36. These are not dedicated circuit services and usually still require a taxi or a substantial walk. Plan a taxi for the last leg.
Driving - straightforward via Highway 36
- From Pattaya: Head north to Route 36 toward Rayong. Follow signs for Bira Circuit - Sirkuit Bira and the venue access road. The gate is just off the dual carriageway.
- From Bangkok: Use Motorway 7 toward Chonburi and link to Route 36 west of Pattaya, then follow the circuit signs.
Parking - on site lots by the paddock and perimeter
- General parking: On most track days and club events, spectators park on site near the paddock and outer access roads. Availability and any charges vary by event.
- Event note: For larger meetings, arrive early and follow marshal directions to signed P zones off Highway 36.
Taxis - motorbike taxis
- Set destination: Bira Circuit, 111 Moo 5, Pong, Bang Lamung 20150. Drivers in Pattaya know the venue on Highway 36.
- Typical time: Expect around 25 - 35 minutes by road from central Pattaya hotels depending on traffic.
Walking from drop offs - car parks
- From parking areas: Stewarded paths lead from the on site lots to spectator banks and the main grandstand. Walk times vary by P zone - allow 5 - 15 minutes.
Airports and longer trips
- U-Tapao UTP → Bira: regional airport south of Pattaya with road transfer up to the circuit area.
- Bangkok Suvarnabhumi BKK: primary international gateway for Pattaya - connect by motorway shuttle, bus or private transfer, then taxi to the circuit.
About the venue - quick context
- 2.41 km permanent road course: Opened mid 1980s, Thailand’s first permanent circuit, with notable elevation and a tight, technical layout.
Quick guide - what is nearest
- Pattaya base: go by taxi - motorbike taxi straight to the Highway 36 gate.
- Drivers: use Route 36 and follow Bira Circuit signs to on site parking.
- Air arrivals: UTP or BKK then road transfer via Pattaya to the venue.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Bira Circuit - Pattaya - Chonburi Coast (Thailand)
Whether you are here for Thailand Super Series rounds, national touring - GT - one make cups, superbikes, drifting, time attack or a trackday, this classic circuit sits on the hills above Pattaya with gardens, beaches, islands and viewpoints close by for non race days.
Motorsport at Bira
National cars - Bikes - Drift - Time attack - Trackdays
About 2.4 km clockwise layout with 12 turns and elevation changes. Named after Prince Birabongse Bhanudej. On site kart circuit operates on selected dates.
Typical peak window
November - April
Dry season brings the most comfortable track days. May - October is hot - humid with afternoon showers.
Nearby hubs
Pattaya - Jomtien - Si Racha - Bang Saen
Beaches and attractions are 15 - 35 minutes from the paddock depending on traffic.
Event impact
Weekend crowds - beach festivals
National series and drift festivals add evening shows. Pattaya beachfront and viewpoints get busy Friday - Sunday.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit
- Bira Kart Circuit: Arrive and drive sessions for adults and juniors on non event days. Book ahead on race weeks.
- Ramayana Water Park: Large water park near Khao Chi Chan with lazy river and big slides for mixed ages.
- Nong Nooch Tropical Garden: Shaded walkways, themed gardens and elephant - cultural shows. Easy half day with kids.
- Underwater World Pattaya: Walk through tunnels and touch pools for a cool indoor hour.
- Art in Paradise - Pattaya: Trick eye museum for playful family photos if a shower rolls in.
- Khao Kheow Open Zoo - Si Racha: Spacious enclosures, tram loops and feeding programs about 40 - 50 minutes away.
Water parks, zoos and karting often use timed entry or peak pricing on weekends and holidays. Morning slots help if you plan to return for afternoon sessions.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Sanctuary of Truth: Hand carved wooden temple by the sea with guided tours and craft workshops.
- Khao Chi Chan - Buddha Mountain: Giant Buddha outline on a limestone cliff paired nicely with Silverlake Vineyard for a relaxed hour.
- Wat Yansangwararam: Peaceful temple complex and lake paths near the vineyard - good just after sunrise.
- Pattaya viewpoints: Phra Tamnak Hill and Bali Hai Pier area for skyline and bay photos at sunset.
- Ripley's Believe It or Not - Royal Garden: Indoor galleries and small rides that work well if storms pass through.
- Burapha University Aquarium - Bang Saen: Compact, educational aquarium if you are heading up the coast.
Eat and drink like a local
- Seafood on the pier: Fresh prawns, squid, crab and steamed fish at Pattaya - Naklua - Jomtien waterfront spots.
- Isan staples: Som tam, gai yang and sticky rice are everywhere and easy to dial spice for kids.
- Market snacks: Grilled skewers, roti pancakes and coconut ice cream around night markets and beach promenades.
- Café - vineyard combo: Silverlake for pastries and grape juice with vineyard - lake views after a temple loop.
- Race week tip: Friday - Saturday dinners on Walking Street, Beach Road and vineyard - Khao Chi Chan area fill quickly on headline weekends. Reserve for groups or dine earlier with kids.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Jomtien - Pattaya beach walks: Flat promenades for sunrise jogs or sunset strolls with sea breeze.
- Koh Larn boat hop: 15 - 30 minute ferry from Bali Hai Pier to small island beaches and clear water coves.
- Bang Phra Reservoir: Shaded loops and birdwatching 30 - 40 minutes inland.
- SUP - kayak: Rentals pop up along Jomtien and Samae Beach on Koh Larn. Calm mornings are best.
- Viewpoint scooter loop: Link Phra Tamnak Hill with small overlooks toward Pratumnak and Wong Amat for quick photo stops.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Koh Larn - 30 to 60 minutes including ferry. Beaches, snorkel hires and café terraces.
- Bang Saen - 45 to 70 minutes. Quieter beach day with university cafés and a small aquarium.
- Ko Si Chang - 80 to 120 minutes including ferry. Hilltop vistas, small beaches and a palace site from Si Racha pier.
- Rayong - Mae Ramphueng - 60 to 100 minutes. Longer sands and seafood shacks if you want more space.
- Chonburi - Ang Sila - 45 to 70 minutes. Stone craft market and fishing pier for a seafood lunch.
Times are approximate and rise on headline weekends. Ferries and attractions may have last entry cutoffs, weather checks or dated tickets.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - National calendars and drift festivals focus on the drier months with events sprinkled year round. Hotels in Pattaya - Jomtien fill Thursday - Sunday on big weekends.
- Weather - Tropical. Expect hot, humid days with quick showers, especially May - October. Sea breezes help on the coast, but grandstands are exposed. Pack breathable layers, sunscreen, a hat and a light rain shell.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site operations: Karting and public experiences may pause or switch to special hours on headline weekends. Check the weekly schedule.
- Heat - hydration: Bring refillable bottles, electrolytes and a compact umbrella for sun or showers. Closed shoes are better for paddock - grandstand stairs.
- Temple etiquette: Shoulders and knees covered for Sanctuary - Wat visits. Carry a light scarf or wrap.
- Cash - cards: Resorts and malls take cards, but many beach vendors and markets prefer cash or QR wallets.
- Family packing list: Ear protection for children, sun protection, light ponchos, swim kit and quick dry footwear for sudden downpours.
Opening hours, seasonal programs, ferry services and event week operations can change - check official circuit and attraction sites for your exact dates.
