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Ayutthaya, a city steeped in history and brimming with ancient wonders, awaits just a short ride from bustling Bangkok. If you’re yearning to immerse yourself in Thailand’s rich heritage, Ayutthaya should be at the top of your travel list.
This article unveils the treasures of Ayutthaya, guiding you through its captivating historical sites, culture, and activities that promise a memorable day trip.
1. Historic City of Ayutthaya
Address: 9H24+7R Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Established in 1350, Ayutthaya, the Historic City, stood as the Siamese Kingdom’s second capital, flourishing remarkably from the 14th to the 18th centuries. During its zenith, it emerged as a thriving metropolis of global significance, renowned for its cosmopolitan character and role in international diplomacy and trade.
Positioned strategically on an island encircled by three rivers that linked it to the sea, Ayutthaya boasted a location that shielded it from potential maritime attacks by foreign naval forces. This safeguard was attributed to its geographical advantage of being beyond the reach of the Gulf of Siam’s tidal bore, as it existed in that era. Furthermore, this location also mitigated the risks posed by seasonal floods.
In a tragic turn of events, Ayutthaya endured devastation in 1767 when Burmese forces invaded and razed the city to the ground, compelling its inhabitants to abandon their homes. The city, never to be resurrected at its original site, now stands as a sprawling archaeological wonder, immortalizing its grandeur of yesteryears.
2. Wat Phra Mahathat
Admission fee: 50 baht
Wat Phra Mahathat once served as the esteemed ceremonial grounds for both sacred and secular events, a role later assumed by Wat Phra Si Sanphet during King Trailoknat’s reign. This revered temple, believed to be the spiritual nucleus during the Early Ayutthaya Period, predates Ayutthaya’s ascendancy as the Siamese capital.
At the heart of Wat Phra Mahathat stands a Khmer-style prang, albeit in a state of collapse, which once enshrined a miniature casket cradling the sacred relics of Buddha. These precious relics now find their home at the Chao Sam Phraya Museum.
Yet, what truly distinguishes Wat Phra Mahathat is its iconic Buddha head, nestled amidst the labyrinthine roots of a towering banyan tree. This captivating image has become an emblem of Ayutthaya’s enigmatic allure. The Buddha head is vigilantly safeguarded day and night, with any form of disrespect, such as taking photographs while towering over it, strictly discouraged.
3. Wat Yai Chaimongkhon
Admission fee: 20 baht
Wat Yai Chaimongkhon, nestled near the eastern gateway to the inner city, stands as one of Ayutthaya’s impeccably preserved ancient royal monasteries. This revered temple is renowned for its colossal reclining Buddha and an impressive 62-meter inverted bell-shaped chedi (pagoda), erected to commemorate King Naresuan’s triumphant victory over the Burmese.
Spanning across expansive landscaped grounds, this temple’s roots trace back to the reign of King U-Thong (1350–1369), when it was established as a forest temple school. What sets it apart are the cloister walls encircling the main chedi, adorned with an array of Buddha images—a distinctive architectural hallmark of the Early Ayutthaya Period.
4. Wat Phra Si Sanphet
Admission fee: 50 baht
For a glimpse into Ayutthaya’s regal history, look no further than Wat Phra Si Sanphet. This sacred temple, which once served as the Royal Monastery from 1350 to 1448, now graces expansive grounds within the remnants of the Royal Palace walls. Among the few structures that have weathered the test of time, the temple’s three iconic chedis stand tall, safeguarding the royal relics of three Ayutthaya Kings.
What might seem like open space today once housed two mandapas, sacred structures designed to safeguard Buddhist scriptures and precious relics. Meander to the east of the chedis, and you’ll discover the remnants of concrete columns that once supported the temple’s main chapel. Your journey northward will lead you to the entrance of the illustrious Royal Palace.
5. Wat Phanan Choeng
Admission fee: 20 baht
Nestled within Wat Phanan Choeng resides a revered Buddha statue, with its origins tracing back to 1324. Adjacent to it stands an intricately adorned Chinese shrine dedicated to an Ayodhya Queen. This area was once a bustling hub for Chinese merchants, who infused it with vibrant commerce, offering treasures from China such as gold, porcelain, and exquisite Chinese silk.
Predating the establishment of the Ayutthaya Kingdom by King U-Thong, this temple shelters an ancient bronze Buddha statue, considered the oldest in Ayutthaya, crafted in 1325. Stroll along the primary chapel towards the riverbank, where you can pay your respects at the Chinese shrine dedicated to the Queen. It is widely believed that the Queen possesses the power to grant the wishes of those seeking a soulmate.
6. Wat Lokayasutharam
Admission fee: FREE
Make your way to the northwest of the island, where the historical essence of Ayutthaya comes to life at Wat Lokayasutharam. Here, you’ll encounter the remarkable Phra Norn (reclining Buddha), a statue that stands without a temple as time has taken its toll on the surrounding structures.
Crafted from resilient bricks and sturdy cement, this Buddha is adorned with an oversized, saffron-colored robe, lending it a rugged and awe-inspiring charm that differs from its more famous counterpart in Bangkok. In front of the statue, you’ll discover a meticulously detailed miniature scale model, lovingly adorned with the golden touch of devoted visitors.
7. Wat Phu Khao Thong
Admission fee: FREE
Wat Phu Khao Thong, situated in the northwest of the Historical Park, offers a serene escape amidst lush rice paddies and a tranquil lake. Its towering white chedi, standing at an impressive height of 50 meters, promises breathtaking vistas of the picturesque countryside.
Originally constructed in 1569, this architectural marvel has seen subtle enhancements over the centuries. Adjacent to the temple, you’ll encounter a statue of King Naresuan and a sacred Buddha footprint from Saraburi. Unlike the bustling central temples of Ayutthaya, Wat Phu Khao Thong is a hidden gem known for its peaceful ambiance and relative seclusion.
Ayutthaya is a historical oasis brimming with tales of power, elegance, and resilience. This quick trip from Bangkok offers a glimpse into Thailand’s storied past, allowing you to walk in the footsteps of ancient kings and explorers. So, embark on this captivating journey and let Ayutthaya’s historical charm enchant you.